Why do I walk and run?

Let me start with the fact that I was only an average walker and small-distance runner until I joined Running Genes in 2020. Today, as June ends, I completed 500 km in advance and the overall completion of 1000 km for the year 2024 is made an easy affair. Thank you once again to Running Genes and the lead Dr. Kirthana Sindhe.

My Fitness Journey: A Story of Transformation and Persistence

In 2018, I took a significant step in my career by joining MBB Labs as an Assistant Vice President. Little did I know, this move would mark the beginning of my fitness journey as well. Mrs. Meenakshy Iyer, the director at MBB Labs, inspired a group of us to embark on weekend walks spanning 50 to 100 km. These walks were not just physically challenging but also mentally rejuvenating. They offered a perfect blend of health benefits and camaraderie, turning mundane weekends into delightful adventures.

The turning point came in December 2019. The excitement was palpable as I prepared for my first midnight marathon at Whitefield, Bangalore. Despite having several 50k walks under my belt, this 10k run was a new challenge. Running alongside Meenakshy ma'am, I pushed through the night and proudly crossed the finish line, earning my first medal. This accomplishment ignited a passion for running that I never knew existed.

Joining Running Genes and Transforming into a Pro Athlete

In 2020, I joined Running Genes, a community that has been instrumental in shaping my running journey. Dr. Kirthana Sindhe and the support of this group propelled me to new heights. Alongside, I began working with a health coach who devised a comprehensive running and workout plan tailored to my needs. Joining Cult-fit added another dimension to my fitness regime, providing the structure and motivation needed to stay consistent.

Within a year, my transformation was remarkable. I completed up to 8 half marathons, consistently achieved a sub 6 min/km pace on 5k and longer runs, and transitioned from an average athlete to a pro. I also completed more than 100 fitness dance classes. The discipline and perseverance paid off, and today, as a diabetic, I manage my condition predominantly through regular walking and running, often avoiding medication.

Why I Run: The Benefits of a Running Lifestyle

Running has become an integral part of my life, offering numerous benefits:

1.??? A Wonderful Routine: Running gives me a structured and invigorating start to my mornings and a peaceful end to my evenings.

2.??? Heart Health: It significantly reduces the risk of heart disease, ensuring my cardiovascular system remains robust.

3.??? Sugar Level Maintenance: Running helps me keep my blood sugar levels in check, which is crucial for managing diabetes.

4.??? Calorie Burn and Fat Reduction: It's an effective way to burn calories and eliminate unwanted fat, keeping me lean and fit.

5.??? Social Connections: Through running, I've met health-conscious friends who prefer Strava over Instagram, creating a supportive community.

6.??? Illness Prevention: Running has boosted my immune system; I've fallen ill only once in the last five years.

Advice to My Connections: Embrace Running for a Healthier Life

Here's my overall statistics and how it helped me in the last 4 years. I completed 502 km in 2024 alone.

To all my connections on LinkedIn and beyond, I strongly advocate making running or jogging a permanent habit. Complement it with fitness exercises or dance routines that suit your preferences. Finding a fitness guru can provide the guidance and inspiration needed to keep shining on your fitness journey.

Running has transformed my life, offering a blend of physical health, mental well-being, and social fulfillment. As I continue to chase my goal of completing a full marathon, I am reminded daily of the profound impact this journey has had on my life. Embrace running, stay committed, and watch as it transforms your life too.

Author: Prabhat Kumar

#Running #Walking #HealthCoach #Prosperity

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