Run, swim or walk for a future free from arthritis
At Arthritis UK, we’ve had a busy spring supporting the incredible team of runners who took on two of London’s biggest sporting events, raising money for a future free from arthritis.
Over 120 people ran for Arthritis UK in the TCS London Marathon and London Landmarks Half Marathon, collectively raising over £200,000!
This incredible amount will go towards funding our breakthrough research, campaign to raise awareness of arthritis and its effects, provide free support to everyone living with arthritis, and to upskill and work with healthcare professionals, like you.
Amongst them was James, a physiotherapist from Kent who took on the London Marathon:
I fundraised for Arthritis UK because I see how much arthritis affects individuals through my work as a physiotherapist. Physiotherapy can be an excellent tool to help manage arthritic conditions and I hope that with my fundraising I can spread positive awareness.
James was joined by hundreds of others who wanted to raise awareness of arthritis, including people who live with arthritis themselves and those who care for loved ones, making the day especially poignant (and emotional!).
Find out why others took on the marathon in our short video.
Chris, 62, a retired physician living with arthritis ran the London Marathon in 2025 (his 13th one!) and is taking on a different kind of challenge at Swim Serpentine this year:
“Since I was diagnosed with bad arthritis at 23 years of age, again at 27 and in my 40s, with care and support, I have still managed to run and even though it is not straight forward I am still running at 62 (or limping with attitude).
I know first-hand the burden and hidden disability of long term illnesses like rheumatoid disease or osteoarthritis and have seen the positive impact of better drugs and specialist nurses but there is still a lot to do.
The money I raised goes to fund research and support for arthritis sufferers. This research helps develop the amazing new treatments that are transforming care. More is needed though so the work continues.”
If you’re feeling inspired by James, Chris and our other amazing fundraisers, and fancy taking on a challenge yourself, there are lots to choose from.
With events across the UK, we have spaces available in marathons, triathlons, 10ks, swims, treks and even skydives!
Whatever you choose, our fundraising team will be with you all the way. Find out more about the events available on our website, or email the us at fundraising@arthritis-uk.org.