Leeds business boss James set for record-breaking treadmill challenge

James Hesling, the 28-year-old managing director of city-based health and fitness firm AllShapeUp, has set himself a target of breaking the world record for the most miles run on a treadmill in the space of 12 hours.

His crack at the record – which currently stands at 89.38 miles – will take place at the Trinity Leeds centre on May 31.

He will be raising money for the Youth Sport Trust, which works with schools to promote movement, exercise and fitness.

James, who has run more than 15 marathons, said: “I am incredibly excited for this opportunity. I’m always on the lookout for my next challenge and I think this will be the most difficult yet.

“At AllShapeUp we’re passionate about helping people to become fitter and healthier.

“It was important to us to choose a charity that we felt could have the most impact.

“Child obesity is at its highest and the work Youth Sport Trust conducts is critical in combating this issue.

“The day itself is going to be a lot of fun and I can’t wait to celebrate with the AllShapeUp team.

“I’m now counting down the days until I step on that treadmill!”

Vicky Gutteridge, fundraising manager at the Youth Sport Trust, said: “We are all inspired by James and his tough world record challenge.

“We are very grateful to James for not only raising funds, but for raising the awareness of the growing problems associated with childhood obesity.

“This will enable us to reach more children and families with initiatives like our Healthy Movers programme.”

Based at the Entrepreneurial Spark hub off The Headrow in the city centre, AllShapeUp is a digital platform offering workout programmes and recipes for people who want to improve their fitness.

To support James’s fundraising, go to uk.virginmoneygiving.com/allshapeup.

The current record for miles run on a treadmill in 12 hours was set in Texas in 2016 by endurance athlete Ronnie Delzer.