“Running has taught me that I’m capable of so much more than I ever imagined”
I started running in 2015 and slowly it became my passion. In the world of exercise, running is a new buzzword for all the fitness enthusiasts as running gives an instant boost of endorphins to our body that gives us a high. However, running for me has been much more than an exercise routine or a way to achieve a certain level of fitness. The act running itself gives me a high and is a great source of joy for me. I have done more than 10 half marathons and I have participated in the previous three editions of the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon. I recently ran the 4th Airtel Delhi Half Marathon and in this post, I will share my experiences of running the marathon and the valuable lessons I have learnt.
Why running matters to me?
Before I get into the experience of this half marathon, I want to share what running means for me. I look at running as one of the greatest ways to give my body some valuable me-time and indulge in self care. Running allows me to take care of my mind as well as my body at the same time. The biggest takeaway from a running session is the way in which I can objectively examine my thoughts. It shifts my focus from what my body looks like to what I can do to help my body achieve a lot more. If you are a regular runner, you will agree that running makes your believe that you have the power to fulfil even what appears to be impossible.
When I am running, my thoughts flow in very freely and this helps me to combat stress levels. Running gives me a mental agility and discipline that is helpful for managing my schedule and several commitments. It instils a faith in me that I am completely ready to achieve my full potential and there is virtually nothing that can stop me. Running alters my state of experience and transports me to a place of peace, tranquillity, and loads of confidence.
I feel that every marathon experience helps you be conscious of who you are. No two runners have the same experience while running and that’s what makes running so special.
Lessons from the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon
I was able to successfully complete the half marathon within a good time. However, I did not train as much as I would have liked due to prior work commitments. Having said that, I did enjoy my run thoroughly. My previous experiences gave me the mental endurance to display unbridled resilience and keep working towards my goal. Once I completed the marathon, I realized that the first 11 km tests your physical fitness and the last 10 km tests your mental fitness. It is not enough to run for brandishing your fitness levels. Running long distances require a certain mindset and when you regularly practice running, it is easier to transport yourself into that state.
I would also like to highlight the importance of training when you are preparing for a marathon which is going to be a valuable lesson for the future. You cannot expect to wing it on the stage if you do not follow a regular training program for marathons. Starting your training on time and for the right duration is fundamental for building the mental strength needed to finish a marathon. But it is also important to listen to your body. Training against the capacity of your body is not helpful. It ends up causing more harm than good as you become more prone to injuries. Chalking out a training plan which takes into account your work commitment, endurance levels, and other demands of life is vital. I also need to remember that respecting and appreciating your body is very helpful for boosting your morale for running.
Nutrition and hydration are equally important tools in the arsenal of a successful runner. It is critical to work out the right diet plan if you run regularly. Running uses up a lot of energy and therefore it is important to replenish the body for the nutrient losses. Running for longer durations results in sweat and consequently leaves you dehydrated. One should always stay hydrated during running marathons. It is equally important to get ample amount of rest and sleep while training to help with the recovery time.
This marathon made me realize that you need to appreciate bad runs in order to enjoy the glory of a good one. This is going to be my guiding principle as I start training for my future marathons.