Kabelo Mabalane, South Africa’s number one self-proclaimed ‘pantsula for life’ shares his journey and insights, from being a multi-platinum-selling musician, through the highs and lows of drug addiction, to finding hope and life again through running (eight Comrades marathons and counting) and his faith.

In I Ran for My Life, this ten-time SAMA award-winner, TV presenter, athlete and entrepreneur talks about growing between Soweto and the suburbs, the back story behind his phenomenal music career, and how getting into running literally saved his life. Along with his lessons for life, Kabelo shares his thoughts and advice on staying in shape, being prepared for anything and how to build a spirit of endurance in everything you do.

‘I had checked out of rehab at the end of 2002. Between the launches of my second and my fourth solo albums, I was busy staying clean, I was touring and performing. I put on weight so gradually that I didn’t really notice it until one morning in 2004. I sat down on my bed and I literally couldn’t tie my shoelaces. Usually I could just take a deep breath, I would suck in my gut, and then I would just manage to get down. And suddenly I couldn’t.’ – Kabelo on how his running journey began

Includes training programmes and advice for 10-kilometre to ultramarathon runners.

About the author

Kabelo Mabalane, also known by his stage name ‘Bouga Luv’, is a kwaito musician, songwriter and actor. He is a member of the kwaito trio TKZee. Kabelo owns Faith Records, a South African independent music company, and is the co-founder of ShoutSA. He was the host of the popular television show Kabelo’s Boot Camp and has also been a judge on SA’s Got Talent. He lives in Johannesburg with his wife and baby daughter.

I Ran For My Life is published by Pan Macmillan