Introduction

Running has always intrigued me since my teenage years. I fondly recall jogging through the countryside near my summer house during holiday breaks, and along the shores of beaches. More than a decade ago, while on a quest to shed some weight, I found myself navigating the parks of Dubai. It’s fair to say, those runs, amidst challenging weather conditions, even during the cooler months, were less than ideal yet memorable.

Over the last ten years, my fitness endeavors have included gyms, personal training sessions, and HIIT routines, among others. However, none of these activities solidified into a consistent routine. Unbeknownst to me, a yearning for running lay dormant within, a silent desire awaiting recognition. On occasion, I ventured out for solo runs, earbuds in place, as a sanctuary from the day’s stresses, yet never fully embraced running as a core component of my lifestyle.

In May 2023, a serendipitous encounter with Ilyas, whose child shares a class with my son, led to an invitation to join him and Halil for their regular runs in the local park on Saturdays. This had become their ritual, engaging in early morning jogs each week. Ilyas, a seasoned amateur in the running community, had participated in numerous events over the years.

I vividly remember our initial run together; Ilyas shared tales of his running endeavors—marathons, half marathons, and 10k runs—with infectious enthusiasm and support. He proposed the idea of registering for events from the get-go, suggesting a half marathon while I pondered the feasibility of completing a mere 5k run injury-free.

This led to the establishment of our Saturday morning tradition in the park, during which I progressively found myself comfortably completing 10k runs weekly. Our camaraderie even saw us tackling our first 20k run together in early July.

The catalyst and mentor of this journey, Ilyas, deserves my heartfelt gratitude. Reflecting on the strides I’ve made over the past nine months, I realize the invaluable role he has played in this transformative phase of my life.

Finsbury Park – Half Marathon

Registration

As January 2024 approached, my running routine experienced a noticeable slowdown due to personal commitments, the chill of winter, and the festive season’s hiatus. In line with the perennial New Year’s drive for self-improvement, I felt a renewed urge to reengage with my running endeavors at the earliest opportunity. During a conversation with Ilyas, he introduced a calendar of upcoming running events, sparking the idea of setting a formal, tangible goal for myself. I was drawn to an event organized by Runthrough UK scheduled for January 28th, 2024. Following a successful and vigorous 10k run in the park, which served as a personal litmus test, I made the decision to register, promptly informing Ilyas of my commitment.

The decision between participating in a Half Marathon or a 10k run was a point of contemplation. Despite leaning towards a more cautious start, Ilyas’s encouragement and influence swayed me towards opting for the Half Marathon.

This commitment marked my inaugural venture into an official running event—a modest yet significant stride beyond the confines of my solitary runs. Engaging with a broader community in this way not only solidifies one’s commitment to their fitness routine but also fosters a sense of belonging and persistence. This, in turn, enhances the likelihood of achieving and maintaining optimal health. This step represented not just a leap towards communal involvement in my running journey but also a strategic move towards sustaining health and wellness goals through shared experiences and collective encouragement.

Preparations

With my commitment to the upcoming official half marathon firmly in place, the necessity for thorough preparation became apparent. This commitment catalyzed a comprehensive approach to scheduling my days, attentively managing my diet, and prioritizing rest and sleep. Over the course of two weeks, as part of my preparation, I managed to complete the equivalent of 1.5 marathons (over 60km) during my individual training sessions. This experience served as a powerful testament to the significance of dedicating oneself fully to instigate meaningful change and push beyond established boundaries for personal growth.

This dedication also initiated a mental process, subtly operating in the background of my thoughts, constantly reminding me of the impending half marathon. This mental engagement naturally conditioned my body and mind, seamlessly integrating the upcoming challenge into my daily consciousness and ensuring I was holistically prepared, both physically and mentally, for the event ahead.

Run

The day of the race was cold yet mercifully dry. Opting for public transport to Finsbury Park proved wise, given the bustling atmosphere and dense crowds. With over 600 runners registered, the turnout was impressive. Upon arrival, we quickly checked in, collecting our numbers and timing chips, then explored the event village. Though I had hoped for more vibrancy in terms of music and festivities, I reminded myself that this was my inaugural event, setting a baseline for future comparisons.

After stowing our bags and consuming an energy gel, we warmed up, readying ourselves for the start at 9:30 AM. Positioning ourselves mid-pack, we aimed for a finish time between 2 hours and 10 minutes to 2 hours and 20 minutes. Given my recent best of 56 minutes for a 10k, I felt optimistic about achieving 2 hours and 10 minutes for the half marathon. However, the reality of the race’s demands—factoring in the track’s unique challenges and the endurance required—quickly set in. Despite our mantra that the race was more about completion and enjoyment than time, the competitive edge within us sought a commendable result. The initial laps passed swiftly, barely registering fatigue, which buoyed my spirits for the subsequent stages. Yet, by the sixth lap, the true test commenced, markedly shifting from my usual 10k comfort zone.

It’s fascinating how our minds and muscles archive experiences, setting benchmarks that only persistent, challenging efforts can recalibrate. Post-lap 5, my body anticipated rest, accustomed to the distances I’d trained for. The ensuing discomfort and doubt were palpable, underscoring the mental and physical barriers that had yet to be overcome.

This juncture called for mental strategies to divert from the looming fatigue and anxiety. Previous training had taught me that our perceived limits often understate our true potential. The encouragement of a friend or the collective energy of fellow runners can significantly amplify one’s resolve.

The prohibition against earphones was a slight setback; their use during solo training sessions had always been a source of motivation and distraction. Nonetheless, setting mental checkpoints, particularly before challenging sections of the course, facilitated a focused approach to managing the race’s demands. Each small victory along the way bolstered my confidence, culminating in the belief that the finish line was not just attainable but a significant achievement made up of many smaller triumphs.

Finish Line

The culmination of the race was a moment ripe for celebration and profound satisfaction, with the finish line not just a mark on the path but a testament to achievement. The swell of pride and fulfillment upon realizing “I did it!” is a sensation that defies easy description. It’s an intensely personal victory, varying from one runner to the next, yet universally exhilarating. This is precisely why I advocate for setting a personal goal and relentlessly pursuing it until you cross that finish line. Whether it’s a 5k, 10k, half marathon, or a full marathon, the essence lies in challenging yourself, aiming for a goal, and ultimately, experiencing the joy of achievement.

It may seem to some that I’m overstating the significance of what might appear as a modest accomplishment. However, the crux of my message transcends the magnitude of the achievement. Engaging in this journey has immensely enriched my personal well-being and imparted valuable insights into enhancing productivity through such life experiences. I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to embark on a similar path, for the rewards, both tangible and intangible, are truly transformative.

Moments

To conclude this post, I’d like to highlight two memorable observations that will stay with me as enduring lessons.

The first revolves around the virtue of persistence. On the seventh lap, as my pace began to wane, an elderly couple, likely in their 60s or even 70s, overtook me with a vigor that belied their years. They sped past, embodying strength and speed, a vivid reminder that age is but a number when contrasted with the power of persistence and determination.

The second observation involved a younger couple, probably in their 30s. The scene of the woman leading the way, with the man following and pushing a buggy, struck a chord. There they were, participating in a race at 9 am on a chilly Sunday, navigating the course with an infant in tow. This moment underscored a profound truth: for those truly committed to their goals, excuses become irrelevant.

Closing

I eagerly anticipate my next running adventure and the opportunity to share yet another triumphant experience. Perhaps, you might decide to join me for this journey. If you found inspiration or enjoyment in this recount, I invite you to like, share, and leave your thoughts in the comments. Your feedback is highly valued. Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey!