Kiplagat Chebii: Why 57-Year-Old Kenyan Fitness Enthusiast Has to Run 3000 Kilometres by December

• Kiplagat Chebii runs thousands of kilometres every year to stay healthy
• The 57-year-old enthusiast is motivated by having been obese in the past
• He aims to complete 3,00km in and around Nairobi by the end of the year

In the heart of Nairobi, amidst the bustling streets and urban landscapes, there exists a man whose daily routine defies the norms of age and expectation.

Kiplagat Chebii, at 57 years young, has made running not just a pastime but a profound commitment to his well-being and vitality.

As of March 17, he had already logged an impressive 364km, with a goal of reaching 3,600km by year's end, complemented by a walking target of 800 km.

His journey is not merely about physical exertion, but an inspiring story of overcoming adversity while committing to a healthier lifestyle.

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Sports Brief exclusively caught up with Chebii after one of his daily routines and had a chat about life, including what motivates him to keep his consistency.

In September 2023, a series of unfortunate events, including a collision with goats while riding a boda boda, left him sidelined with injuries. Forced to confront his fears and limitations head-on, he drew strength from his resilience, reminding himself that setbacks are temporary obstacles on the road to success.

“I developed a positive attitude to overcome the challenges of the injuries by convincing my mind that the challenges were part of the risks associated with running fitness and that I was not the first one to fall in life. Most heroes have tasted injuries and challenges at some point, and they have bounced back,” said Chebii.

Motivation amidst challenges

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What drives a man to push the boundaries of his physical limit's day after day? For Chebii, the holistic benefits of fitness serve as his guiding light. As reported by Better Health, improved cardiovascular health, joint mobility, and weight management are some of the rewards reaped just from running.

Beyond the physical, he finds fulfilment in overcoming obstacles, staying humble, and giving back to his community.

“Everything worthwhile requires long periods hard work to deal with all the hurdles and challenges of life. Shortcuts do not achieve any positive beneficial effects,” he explained.

Chebii's journey with obesity is a poignant reminder of the transformative power of choice. Faced with a future marred by health complications and societal stigma, he made the courageous decision to reclaim control of his life through exercise and healthy living, as reported by The Standard in 2020. Shedding nearly 30kgs, he defied the odds and embraced a new chapter defined by vitality and self-respect.

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“About 24 years ago my weight was 98kgs and my height was 5’4’. I was literally what is comically referred to by the hilarious phrase 'mutu fupi roound' or 'Mulmulwas',” joked Chebii.

Fuelling the body and mind

Maintaining a balanced diet is essential for his success on and off the track. By prioritizing nutrient-rich foods and hydrating diligently, he ensures that his body remains primed for peak performance. Reducing sugar and incorporating herbal detox regimens further support his overall well-being.

Behind every successful journey lies a supportive network of allies and mentors. For him, this circle of influence extends beyond mere acquaintances; it comprises individuals who share his passion for health and fitness. From dieticians to fellow runners on the Adidas Runners App, each connection is a source of motivation and inspiration.

“My principle for friendship is to go for quality instead of quantity. I keep a small number of value addition friends that religiously exchange experiences/challenges over 5 years,” he disclosed.

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As Chebii sets his sights on the future, he remains steadfast in his commitment to embracing change and confronting challenges head-on. He refuses to be confined by societal expectations or the limitations of age. With aspirations to promote inclusivity in athletics and even share a run with Kenya's President, Dr William Samoei Ruto, his journey is far from over.

Top 5 greatest Kenyan athletes

Sports Brief ranked the top 5 greatest Kenyan athletes last year.

Since the late Wilson Kiprugut won Kenya and Africa's first Olympic medal at the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan, Kenya has become a powerhouse in athletics, winning medals and breaking long-standing records.

He paved the way for Naftali Temu, the first Kenyan to win an Olympic gold medal in the 1968 Mexico City games.