Marina
Ex-college athlete sheds 175 lbs, completes half-marathon – a story that continues to inspire fitness enthusiasts across the nation.
Dr. Jonathan Solomon, a former college football player from St. Louis, has not only reclaimed his health but is now conquering races he once thought were impossible.
Dr. Jonathan Solomon’s Journey: From Struggle to Triumph
At his heaviest, Jonathan Solomon tipped the scales at 421 pounds. Running was not just difficult—it was unimaginable.
However, driven by determination and a renewed focus on wellness, he embraced a disciplined diet and exercise regimen that ultimately led to an astonishing 175-pound weight loss.
Initially, Solomon could only manage 14-minute miles, which were barely faster than a brisk walk. Despite this slow start, he never gave up.
Over time, the continuous commitment to running and healthier living transformed both his body and mindset.
Community Support: A Key Role in Jonathan’s Success
One major turning point in Solomon’s journey was joining the STL Run Crew, a vibrant and welcoming group of runners and walkers in St. Louis.
Being part of a supportive running community encouraged him to persist and push beyond his comfort zones. His milestones included successfully completing 5K races and later signing up for his first 10K event.
Jonathan Solomon credits much of his progress to the motivation and camaraderie found within the run crew.
The environment helped him transition from someone struggling to complete a few miles to someone embracing endurance running as a lifestyle.
Achieving a Major Milestone: Completing the Greater St. Louis Half-Marathon
This Saturday, Dr. Jonathan Solomon achieved a major goal: running 13.1 miles in the Greater St. Louis Marathon’s half-marathon event.
For Solomon, crossing the finish line symbolizes more than physical achievement—it represents reclaiming his life, health, and dreams.
Speaking about the experience, Solomon said, “I knew that I wanted to run a 5K. For me, that was a marker of being in a healthy place.” His half-marathon success stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and self-belief.
What’s Next: Eyeing the Los Angeles Marathon
Not content to stop at a half-marathon, Jonathan Solomon has already set his sights on a new goal: completing the Los Angeles Marathon next year.
As a Los Angeles native, running in his hometown adds a deeply personal layer to the challenge. “I wanted to make sure that there was meaning in that race, with it being my first marathon and it being in a place that was really meaningful for me,” Solomon shared.
Dr. Jonathan Solomon’s Transformation Journey
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting Weight | 421 pounds |
| Weight Lost | 175 pounds |
| Initial Pace | 14-minute miles |
| Support Group | STL Run Crew |
| Recent Achievement | Completed Greater St. Louis Half-Marathon (13.1 miles) |
| Future Goal | Los Angeles Marathon 2026 |
Dr. Jonathan Solomon’s inspiring journey from 421 pounds to half-marathon finisher serves as a reminder that transformation is possible at any stage of life.
His dedication to consistent exercise, healthier living, and the support of a strong community helped him redefine what success looks like.
With his sights now set on the Los Angeles Marathon, Solomon’s story continues to motivate countless others to believe in themselves and chase their goals—one step at a time.