Meet Martinus Evans
Your Coach to Becoming Unstoppable
From growing up in the rough streets of Detroit to crossing the finish line of the Boston Marathon, all the way to the world’s stage–Martinus Evan’s story is one of transforming adversity into success. His journey has made him a relentless advocate for transforming challenges into meaningful change.
Good Morning, Good Evening, Good Afternoon!
What up doe? Welcome! Salutations!
I’m Martinus Evans: award-winning motivational speaker, eight-time marathoner, bestselling author, and founder of the Slow AF Run Club. It’s my life’s mission to share my story, from the streets of Detroit to the finish lines of the world’s most prestigious marathons, to spread resilience and hope.
Through my speaking engagements, consulting services, and community advocacy, I want to inspire individuals and organizations to transform adversity into power.
As Seen In...
Personal Mission Statement
Not to sound like a talking resume, but I’m deeply driven by a passion for personal growth, promoting health, and inclusivity. In fact, I’ve dedicated my life to empowering others to overcome their obstacles and embrace their unique journeys.
Want to inspire a crowd? Enhance your organization’s culture? Boost your digital engagement? I’ve got you. I bring a wealth of experience and a heart full of stories to help you succeed.
A Timeline of Resilience and Triumph
Grew up in Detroit next to a crack house
Born and raised next to a drug den in a challenging neighborhood of Detroit, Michigan. I experienced the tragic loss of my two brothers and witnessed daily violence and drug deals. I like to think these early years laid the foundation for my resilience.
1986-2002
I started playing football in junior year of high school with eyes on a scholarship to find new opportunities and move forward in life. When I graduated it was with a scholarship at Lane College.
2002-2004
A series of events led me to losing my scholarships, transferring to Central Michigan University and getting kicked out of college with a 1.2 GPA. A low point, but a turning point.
I returned to school with renewed focus and determination, earning a BS in Exercise Science from Central Michigan University. (Spoiler: I also will earn an MS in Health Promotion Sciences in 2015 and an MA in Digital Media and Design in 2018 but that’s jumping ahead.)
Hip pain from being on my feet 10-12 hours a day working at The Men’s Wearhouse sends me to a doctor's office. The doctor says “lose weight or die.” I decide to run a marathon, bought new running shoes, and started my blog “300 Pounds and Running.”
2012
I ran my first marathon–The Detroit Marathon. Although life takes me away from it, I come back to running and blogging over and over again. I keep running and building a following over several years.
2013
I found the Slow AF Run Club, promoting inclusivity in running and challenging conventional fitness norms. (That’s my JAM.)
2019
I published my first book Slow AF Run Club: The Ultimate Guide for Anyone Who Wants to Run, selling over 20,000 copies in six months.
2022
Named the “2023 Changemaker” by Well+Good and the “2023 Outsider of the Year” by Outside Magazine.
2023
I live in Brooklyn, NY, with my wife Char and rescue dog Mabel. I continue to speak globally, inspiring others to embrace their journeys and challenges. I also collaborate with health and fitness organizations as a board member for Council of Black Health and November Project.
Today