A CTPT client has completed his first marathon in under five hours despite suffering a knee injury.

David Child, 26 from Leeds, crossed the finish line in Central Park, New York in 4 hours 49 minutes 53 seconds – even though he had not been able to run for six weeks due to “runners’ knee”.

David had weekly intensive sessions with personal trainer Chris Thompson – incorporating boxing and circuit training – as well as taking spin classes and swimming to build fitness. His regular visits to a specialist physiotherapist and sports massage therapist helped David’s knee injury to recover.

David said: “Training for a marathon is tough. It requires discipline and a solid focus. Chris’ diverse and challenging sessions coupled with his ongoing mentoring, support and encouragement ensured I stayed on track despite the injury setback.

Chris’ commitment and dedication to my performance was superb and I’m positive that without him my marathon experience would not have been as successful – or as enjoyable.”

Chris added: “Running a marathon is a fantastic achievement. Doing it when you haven't run for six weeks and whilst recovering from a condition like runners’ knee is a bit special.

Well done David!”