Running to beat the blues

Running to beat the blues

By Maryke Penman 

The formula to happiness is simple for Ben Marino.

‘‘The fitter I am, the happier I am.’’

Depression has plagued the Mairangi Bay resident since he was a teenager.

But in the past three years Mr Marino, 35, has transformed his life through exercise.

He now trains six days a week including morning bootcamps and personal training sessions in the evenings.

‘‘People think I’m mad to train as much as I do, but it has become a way of life for me. It sets me up for the day and gives me an outlet to clear my head.’’

Mr Marino will line up on November 3 alongside thousands of runners at the start of the Auckland Half Marathon. It is the second time he has entered the 21km distance, but the first time he has run for charity.

He aims to raise $1500 for the Mental Health Foundation.

‘‘New Zealand has a silent epidemic. Depression is robbing people of their lives.

‘‘In my teenage years I had a really hard time and battled my way through high school. I built up the courage to talk to my parents and was lucky to have their support to confront my problems.’’

It is important people talk about their struggles, he says.

‘‘When you’re in that space you’re less likely to seek help, but that is when you need it most.’’

He says Kiwis need to learn to seek help when they need it.

‘‘Just by talking to someone you get things off your chest and you might be surprised at how many people feel the same way.’’

The IT worker says breaking out of his daily office routine was a challenge, but one that has made all the difference to his wellbeing.

‘‘I have a nice office job, it’s safe and comfortable. Exercising in a big group was confronting to start with, but it has opened up a lot of opportunities to build friendships and just be more confident.

‘‘It helps me not take things too seriously and to have a laugh.’’

Supporters can donate at www.fundraiseonline.co.nz/BenMarino/

ENDS

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