Ladakh Full Marathon- I did it

A year ago, if you’d asked me to define progress, I might have found it difficult to articulate. On September 8 last year, I completed the Ladakh Half Marathon, running 21.1 km in one of the most stunning yet challenging environments. This September 8, I’m thrilled to share that I’ve fulfilled a dream I’ve held close to my heart: finishing my First Full marathon at the Ladakh Marathon—42.195 km at an incredible altitude of 11,555 ft. ??? i.e. 3521m Altitude.

So, what does progress mean to me now? It’s about reflecting on my journey with pride and recognizing that sometimes, the greatest barriers are those we set for ourselves. This marathon wasn’t just about physical endurance; it was about breaking through self-imposed limits and proving that the seemingly impossible is within reach.

Why the Ladakh Marathon is One of the Toughest

The Ladakh Marathon is not just a test of physical strength but also of mental resilience. With its high altitude of 11,500 ft, it is one of the highest marathons in the world, presenting unique challenges that set it apart from other races. The thin air and reduced oxygen levels make every breath a struggle, and the rugged, mountainous terrain adds an additional layer of difficulty. The strict cut-off times, more demanding than those in other marathons, further intensify the challenge, pushing runners to their limits.

The Challenge of Running Solo

Training & Running a marathon solo, especially in such a demanding environment, added another layer of difficulty. Without a coach or team, I faced the full brunt of the challenges on my own. The mental and physical strain is magnified when you're alone, as there’s no immediate support for motivation or guidance. Every aspect of my training, from pacing to nutrition and injury management, relies solely on my personal judgment and resilience. For a race like Ladakh, where every step is a battle against altitude and terrain, running solo requires immense self-discipline and mental fortitude. This included over a year of training and planning and hardwork. The final medal pictures doesn't do justice the the year long training efforts.

My background

Coming from a family with no athletes, this achievement carries profound significance to me. Growing up, the idea of running a marathon felt far removed from my reality. There were no athletic role models or sporting traditions in my family—just a dream and a lot of determination. Achieving this goal has shown me that with focus and perseverance, even those of us who start from an nonathletic background can push the boundaries and achieve remarkable feats.

Why I Trained Without a Coach or Nutritionist

1. Embracing Self-Reliance: I chose to train without a coach or nutritionist because I wanted to cultivate self-reliance and independence. Navigating this journey on my own allowed me to deeply understand my body, adapt my training based on my personal needs, and develop a sense of ownership over my progress. This self-reliance was key in building my confidence and resilience, proving to myself that I could achieve my goals through sheer determination and self-discipline.

2. Customization and Flexibility: Without a coach, I had the flexibility to tailor my training plan to fit my specific needs and schedule. I crafted a plan based on my research and adjusted it as I progressed. This customization was crucial in ensuring that my training was aligned with my goals and that I could adapt quickly to any challenges or changes.

3. Learning and Growth: Training solo provided a valuable learning experience. I had to educate myself on various aspects of training, from building endurance to managing nutrition and recovery. This process of self-education was not only empowering but also integral to my personal growth.

How I Trained

1. Self-Guided Training: Crafting my own training plan and adjusting it based on my progress required substantial self-discipline and commitment. While challenging, it was incredibly rewarding to see the results of my efforts.

2. Early Mornings and Consistency: To fit training into my busy schedule, I woke up every day at 4 am. Managing work and personal life alongside intense training was tough, but the early mornings allowed me to stay consistent. Even when traveling for work, my running shoes were always packed to keep up with my training.

3. Incorporating Cross-Training: To build strength and prevent injuries, I included swimming in my routine. Swimming provided excellent cross-training, improving endurance while offering a low-impact alternative to running.

4. Acclimatization: I arrived in Ladakh weeks before the marathon to acclimatize. This early arrival allowed me to adapt to the high altitude and challenging terrain, which was crucial for race day.

5. Simplifying Daily Choices by Minimalism: To avoid decision fatigue, I embraced minimalism. From my workout gear to my daily meals, simplifying choices helped me stay focused and maintain a steady routine. For the last year I have cooked the same meal everyday, ordered the same vegetables and fruits, haven't really shopped for any new clothes except running gear. Basically only what i need became the focus.

6. Overcoming Self-Imposed Barriers: The marathon tested me in unexpected ways—Moments when i wanted to quit, faint, nausea, chest congestion and sheer exhaustion- every ounce of my body wanted to quit , moments when i would be so overwhelmed and would self-doubt the process. There were moments of doubt, but perseverance was key. This experience has shown me that even without a coach, breaking through self-imposed barriers is possible with dedication and grit.

Demonstrating Resilience

Throughout this journey, resilience was my constant companion. The challenges I faced—from the physical strain of high-altitude running to the mental battles during training—were immense. I encountered moments of doubt and exhaustion, but I pushed through, driven by the belief that perseverance could overcome any obstacle. This resilience has not only helped me achieve this goal but also demonstrated that with determination and grit, others can reach their own dreams too. When I finally crossed the finish line, I broke down in tears. Those tears carried all the sacrifices, self-doubt, and grit it took to turn a dream into reality. This resilience has not only helped me achieve this goal but also demonstrated that with determination and grit, others can reach their own dreams too.

Choosing Ladakh for my maiden full marathon was intentional. The breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills and elevation and high altitudes, extreme challenging weather and pushing beyond my comfort zone was key. Running in such an environment required not just physical preparation but also immense mental fortitude.

But this is just the beginning. I have a lifetime of dreams and goals ahead, and this marathon is only the start of what I aim to achieve. It’s about pushing limits, breaking barriers, and proving that no matter where you start, you can reach new heights. That I can belong in places and space I once felt I didn't belong.

Completing this marathon is more than a personal milestone for me; it’s a testament to breaking through barriers and achieving something extraordinary against the odds. It’s about proving to myself that even without a background in athletics, with self-reliance and resilience, we can achieve what once seemed unattainable.

Currently, I’m recovering & I’m savoring every moment of this journey. ?

To everyone with big dreams, remember: while a coach can be invaluable, self-guided training and relentless determination are powerful tools. Simplify where you can, stay disciplined, and push through. The barriers you face are often only the ones you set for yourself. ????

Now i know what awaits me next year. I am soaking in this moment for now before i decide on taking on the Khardongla Challenge 72km.

A heartfelt thank you to @ladakhmarathon for organizing such an extraordinary event and making this dream a reality.

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