“As we run, we become.” – Amby Burfoot.
Running is certainly one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to embrace fitness. It doesn’t require you to get a gym membership or state-of-the-art equipment—just a willingness to run and the open road is enough. With every step, you not only move closer to your goals but also discover a stronger, more determined version of yourself.
If you have been following our running series, then you are already aware of the importance of running in your daily routine and the remarkable benefits of slow running. In this article, we decided to shift the narrative and shine a light on the reality of running instead. This article will, therefore, not focus on the how and why but dive into the who.
To fulfil this, we at HFM took the opportunity to talk with people around us, individuals who took up running to the end and found it transforming their lives. Their journeys are not just inspiration but a reminder that anyone—irrespective of the stage of life they are in —can take up running and fall in love with it.
Everyone has a story
It doesn’t matter why you start and how much ground you cover in your first run. What really counts is that you make that firm decision to get out of your comfort zone and just run.
You don’t necessarily need a particular reason to become a marathoner—in fact, most marathoners take up this habit for reasons other than enjoying a good run. However, such is the power of this one exercise that it turns atheists into believers.
There are several examples of people who took up running because they were struggling with other aspects of their lives. One such example is Alok Chopra, who took his valuable time to answer some of our questions.
During this conversation, we learned that Alok took up running for the sheer pleasure of enjoying the runner’s high. He admits, “I started my running journey back in 2013 with the sole purpose of adding some cardio activities to my regime. I was introduced to this world by my personal trainer and some mates at the gym who were into running.” Ever since, the activity has become a huge part of his life, helping him not just shed some weight but also strengthen his mental resolve.
Inspiration doesn’t necessarily have to come from people around you. Sometimes, it can be a chance to meet with a person who drives you in a direction you had never thought to wander. Something similar happened with Riday Sopariwala, who told us, “I met some athletes training for Ironman, which sparked my interest in endurance racing.” This chance meeting resulted in Riday completing an Ironman 70.3 race in Goa, an experience he will savour for life.
Or sometimes some people take up running just to challenge themselves. That is what Dr. Keta Shah did. She says, “I was looking for something that would push my physical limits and test my endurance. Over the years, that motivation has evolved. The desire to explore my own boundaries has transformed into a passion for the process itself, not just the finish line.”
These stories are the perfect example of how, though the reasons might vary, the journey will eventually lead to transformation. All you need to do is take the first step in the right direction.
Running makes you better
Once you give your heart to running, it won’t let you down—instead, it will help you thrive in every corner of your life. This activity is not just about tying your shoes and hitting the ground running. It’s about consistency, strength, and the mental fortitude to get out of bed every day. Once you champion this, you will see a difference in every other aspect of your life as well.
Take Alok Chopra for example. He credits running for transforming not just his fitness but also his eating habits. Along with that running instilled in him a sense of routine that extends far beyond the track. “Marathons make you more disciplined in life. You learn to stick to a path, overcome hurdles, and stay focused on your goals,” he explains. This mindset has helped him tackle challenges both on and off the running track.
Even Riday Sopariwala is no stranger to the good values delivered by running in his life. Even he believes that the structure of training for the Ironman event has shaped his lifestyle immensely. “It’s about consistency and a steady regimen,” he notes.
Meanwhile for Dr. Keta Shah, “Running has become a cornerstone of daily routine.” It helps her maintain a healthy balance between her work, family, and personal time. Furthermore, running has also instilled discipline, resilience, and patience in her that often is reflected in her personal and professional life.
Pushing past your limit
Another important attribute of regular running is the courage to push past your limits. Once you become a regular runner who runs around 2 km every day, you feel the urge to go beyond that. Suddenly, a spring in your steps makes you go the extra kilometre.
Our marathoners felt something similar. Alok Chopra calls the Khardungla Challenge- the highest ultra marathon in the world- his toughest marathon journey. It is a 72 km race in Leh and Ladakh that tests the best in the business.
Alok remembered, “The Run started in the morning around 3 a.m., and the temperature was 0 degrees Celsius. On route, when we reached the height around 17750 towards Khardungla, the temperature turned around—18 c, along with snowfall on the road.” By the time they reached Leh, the final 40km were run on a 28-degree hot and bright sunny day.
Similarly, Ridoy found himself completing the Ironman 70.3 in Goa, one of his life's best moments. He said, “It was my first race, and while it tested my limits, crossing that finish line was an incredibly rewarding experience.” Remember, an Ironman race is a triathlon that covers a total distance of 113 kilometres, which is made up of a 1.9-kilometre swim, a 90-kilometre bike ride, and a 21.1-kilometre run.
Dr. Keta Shah also shares her experience from running regular marathons. She explains, “I usually hit “the wall” around 18-20km, where fatigue sets in. Breaking through this phase is challenging & also deeply rewarding.” And obviously, crossing the finishing line for her is “a mix of relief, triumph, and other emotions. Whether it’s your first marathon or your tenth, this moment often brings tears of joy.”
The Journey Awaits
Running is more than a physical activity; it’s a catalyst for change, a silent companion that empowers you to rewrite your story. Each step you take is a commitment to growth—both on the track and in life. Whether your goal is to conquer marathons, find solace, or simply chase a healthier version of yourself, running welcomes you with open arms and endless possibilities.
But the magic of running isn’t just in the journey—it’s in the culmination of that effort: crossing the finish line. There’s no feeling quite like it. It’s not just about completing a race; it’s about triumphing over a challenge you mentally set for yourself. That finish line becomes a symbol of strength, proof that you pushed through obstacles, pain, and self-doubt. It’s the ultimate reward for your discipline, resilience, and determination.
This feeling is why so many runners lace up again and again. For Alok Chopra, the discipline of running shaped his mindset, helping him overcome challenges both on and off the track. Even Riday Sopariwala credits running for instilling consistency and structure in his life, lessons that extend far beyond the races he trains for.
The truth is, the finish line isn’t just the end of a race; it’s a milestone in your journey, a reminder of how far you’ve come and the strength you’ve discovered within yourself. But to get there, it all begins with one simple decision: the choice to start. The choice to step outside, tie your laces, and embrace the unknown. Take that first step—the finish line awaits, and it’s worth every stride.
Be inspired by these marathon journeys and redefine your limits! Connect with us for more fitness stories: Instagram | Contact Us.
