It was August 2015 when I decided that I wanted to run my first marathon.
I needed a new challenge, pushing myself outside my comfort zone once more.
28/5/2018 - Goal accomplished
My chemical engineering degree was going well and I had plenty of spare time to train properly. But when I look back now, what did I actually learn from this achievement?
- Anything is possible.
The biggest constraint in our development or performance is our own imagination. I grew up as a sprinter, running short distances in youth athletic competitions up until the age of 18. Then I tore my ACL and after a knee surgery, I accepted that my sports days were pretty much over. Thankfully, a few years later my persistence on running long distances proved me wrong. I wasn't the same anymore, but I've transformed into a different type of runner.
- A plan is half of the success.
I was never a fan of marathons. However, with the help of a training plan, I managed to pull it off, self-coaching and tracking my progress along the way. Being consistent in this healthy habit was mandatory to stick to my initial target.
- Sheer willpower is the other secret half.
Finding a cause to run, changed my perception. All of a sudden, I was paying attention to how well I rested and how I let my body recover after long runs. Nutrition and even breathing had to change as a result of my training. I was finally treating myself as my home, caring for every little detail that could influence my well being, both physically and mentally.
- Balance is the key
There were times that I wasn't feeling ready to run and I had to be flexible with my schedule. But I wasn't planning on giving up. The same is true with my every day life. It's not always great, but it flows like a river, and it changes all the time.
- Happiness is primarily internal.
The satisfaction of crossing the finish line, knowing that my efforts were linked to a good cause for donation, was unparalleled. I was tired and at the same time proud of my run around Edinburgh.
I made a promise to run official long distance events every time I move to a new city. In this way, I appreciate nature and discover new paths that are hidden from our modern civilisations.
