Two decades ago, a car crash turned my world upside down. In its aftermath, running emerged as the guiding light, offering hope and paving the way for my journey to rediscovery. It started very small. So small that it might be a little embarrassing for a hardened runner to admit, but also so small that it will make you believe ‘anybody can run.’ It was late 2003. I had just been through a harrowing accident that had left me and my family deeply traumatised. So, when my wife called me from her office one day, asking if we should participate in the Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon (as it was called then), I agreed, not wanting to disappoint her. I was curious about the idea. I had been a believer in healthy living for a long time, but I was not too sure if I would be able to complete the 7-km run. However, after the traumatic last few months, I wanted to focus on something positive. So, we enrolled, and we ran. The memory of that February morning is still fresh!
Today, when I reflect on my 20-year running journey, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the transformative power that seemingly simple act has had on my life. That February morning, little did I know that this one event would mark the beginning of a lifelong relationship with running. I ran the next year, and the ones after that. At first, running was a means to rebuild my confidence, but it quickly became a source of discipline, focus, and self-respect.
Running is not just about the physical act of putting one foot in front of the other. It’s about discipline – practising regularly, completing another kilometre when I thought I couldn’t take another step, and pushing my physical limits to discover my inner strength. Running, for me, has become a spiritual journey intertwined with a profound understanding of challenges and triumphs.
My journey as a runner has been marked by continuous learning and adaptation. Training for marathons goes beyond the act of running; it involves a holistic approach to fitness. The first year, I did not practice at all and finished seven km seamlessly. So, the next year, I enrolled for the half marathon and practised for a few months. I have come a long way since that first run. From running on natural terrain to cross-training, weight training, yoga, and swimming, a long-distance runner’s regimen encompasses a variety of activities to ensure a well-rounded fitness routine, as I now know.
I have never been a foodie, as my family would vouch. Before I started running, I would eat anything and everything. The last two decades have taught me the value of nutrition. The balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats is essential for sustaining energy levels and promoting muscle repair. For over a decade now, my diet has included a variety of nutrient-rich foods.
A few years into running, I realised the sport did not just enhance my physical fitness, but also had a profound impact on my mental well-being. Running is a powerful stress reliever and mood enhancer. The sense of accomplishment that came with setting and achieving running goals has translated into a more focused and resilient approach to my professional life.
As I celebrate two decades of running this year, I realise I am not just a marathoner; I am someone who has found joy, discipline, and self-discovery through the simple act of putting on running shoes. My mantra has evolved from ‘All is Well’ to ‘All is Possible.’ Running is not just about the miles covered; it’s about the person you become along the way. To those contemplating the journey of running, I offer these words of advice:
1. Set a Running Goal: whether it’s a 5K, half marathon, or full marathon, having a goal gives purpose to your runs.
2. Learn Proper Techniques: research and adopt proper running techniques to avoid injuries and maximize efficiency.
3. Incorporate Weight Training: strengthening your muscles through weight training complements your running routine and reduces the risk of injuries.
4. Follow a Runner’s Diet: balance your intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats based on your training intensity.
5. Hydrate Well: staying hydrated is essential for peak performance and recovery.
6. Build a Support Group: surround yourself with fellow runners who share your passion.
On the 21st of this month, I ran the full marathon at the Tata Mumbai Marathon – continuing my enduring love affair with running.
