Man shares his transformation from ‘skinny’ to personal trainer after discovering the incredible power of a Spartan mentality

Owain Gruffudd, 33, who lives in Caerphilly and grew up in Pontypridd, South Wales, completely turned his life around with the help of Spartan Race. From a pale, skinny and unathletic schoolboy to a qualified personal trainer, Owain’s transformation is admirable and proves that anyone can change their life with the right guidance and willpower.

Owain comments upon the life changing aspects of Spartan noting, “It’s taught me time and time again, since that very first race in October 2011, that I am always capable of more than I previously thought possible. Crossing that finish line showed me that regardless of your background, age, gender, or how athletic you think you are; nobody is ordinary. I have poured my heart, soul, and life savings into becoming a personal trainer so that I can help others realise their potential and change their lives for the better.”

While at school, Owain chose to spend most of his time playing video games instead of venturing outdoors. “This was a trend that followed me to university, where alcohol and junk food consumption greatly increased, and none of my extra-curricular activities were particularly active. I went from skinny to ‘skinny-fat’ in three years, and during that time I didn’t particularly notice or care!”

Despite never having thought that he possessed a competitive spirit, Owain went on to discover that he is his own biggest rival. “I love trying to beat my previous bests, whether it’s a coherent number on a barbell or stopwatch or pushing my mental barriers to new heights. I only wish I’d realised my love of the Spartan spirit earlier in life!”

Owain’s Spartan journey began in 2011 when his brother showed him a promotional video, which, in his own words, “showed some very muddy, very sweaty, ordinary-looking people who appeared to be going through hell – it looked terrifying but exciting as hell!”

Despite the initial excitement, Owain did not enjoy his first race at all. “I felt uncomfortable and unfit. My mouth felt dry, my feet ached, and it felt like my ribs were trying to emigrate from my body with every laboured breath. It got worse when a guy in his late 40s, beer belly bouncing with each stride, overtook me carrying a cinderblock then slowed down to ask if I was okay. I hated this race with a passion.

“Somehow, that all changed at the finish line. I couldn’t put my finger on what exactly had changed, and I still can’t, but the version of me that crossed the finish line wasn’t the same one who’d started the race. I felt renewed and hungry for more, so I went home and signed up to every Spartan event 2012 had to offer.”

Since then Owain has participated in over 30 Spartan events in the UK, including six Trifectas, a Spartan Ultra, the inaugural Hurricane Heat, Spartan Training days and most recently the Spartan H3X. Participating in so many events has meant that Owain has made many friends along the way, and he admits that “some of my closest friends are people I’ve met through Spartan, and others are people I’ve introduced to Spartan myself.”

“The friends I’ve made along the way are a big reason why I keep coming back, and I always regret not being able to attend an event because that means one less opportunity to catch up and share laughs and stories. It’s amazing how complete strangers can bond so strongly after such a short time, and it’s all down to our love of the sport and shared participation.”

With his busy schedule as a personal trainer, Owain is finding it increasingly difficult to fit training in, but he manages to squeeze time in between clients as, “a day never feels complete unless I’ve managed to get at least a quick session in.” Owain’s main goals within his training are to increase strength and fitness, but he occasionally likes to prioritise workouts that produce aesthetic results. “I find that a combination of strength training, high-intensity functional training, endurance training and some bodybuilding helps me reached my desired goals.”

Owain offers some advice for those who may be training for their first Spartan event, saying that it is important not to neglect the basics. “Learn to engage your core and strengthen your posterior chain. Find yourself a good coach who can teach you to squat and deadlift safely and help you programme them into a progressive routine.” He also encourages running every day, including outdoor running so that you can adapt to all sorts of weather, and running while carrying an awkward object.

Additionally, Owain notes that a good warmup routine including mobility and flexibility is key, and that you mustn’t forget to also train your mind. He recommends reading about obstacle course races, weightlifting, ultra-marathons, martial arts or military experiences. “Start with something that intrigues you and you’ll be sure to enjoy it.”

Owain knows that signing up for your first event can seem daunting at first, but he says that “if you go in with your eyes open and prepare yourself as best you can, then you’ll experience something that will change the way you look at life. If you’re still in two minds, sign up with a friend or team so that you can share this incredible experience together.”

Talking of signing up for his most recent venture, the 24 hour Spartan Extreme Endurance event, Owain said, “My veins were filled with adrenaline and a sense of panic set it. This was exactly the feeling I had eight years ago when I was signing up for my very first Spartan Race. Just like the first time, I was sure that this event would change me.

“I was correct as once again it has taught me the necessity of teamwork and the value of camaraderie. It’s taught me that no matter how far I am pushed, I won’t break. No matter how tried I feel, I can still push on.”

When it comes to lining up his challenges for next year, Owain has his eyes set on the Spartan World Trifecta Championships in Greece, volunteering at several UK Spartan events, and completing a 12 Hour Hurricane Heat. “One day I might even be able to compete in the pinnacle of Spartan Endurance events, the infamous Death Race.”

Inspired by Owain’s story?  Sign up to take part in a Spartan obstacle event here: https://www.spartanrace.uk/en