I started running five years ago when the COVID-19 pandemic hit and gyms shut down. As someone who was always passionate about fitness, I needed an outlet to stay active. Running was the most accessible option, and I quickly fell in love with it. The moment I completed my first 10K and felt the rush of accomplishment, I knew I was hooked. When I crossed the finish line of my first full marathon, I realized this wasn't just a phase—it had become a core part of who I am.

The early days were all about experimentation—figuring out pacing, stamina, hydration, and how to avoid shin splints! I used to think running meant just putting on shoes and heading out. Over time, I learned how important structured training plans, cross-training, proper rest, and nutrition are. My approach is now much more strategic. I focus on periodization, strength training, and recovery, which has helped me perform better and stay injury-free.

Bangalore has become a vibrant hub for runners. From weekend community runs to full-scale races like the TCS 10K and Bengaluru Marathon, the city offers a wide range of opportunities. The climate is fairly runner-friendly, and there’s a strong culture of support through local running groups and clubs. This ecosystem has not only helped me stay consistent but also pushed me to aim higher, thanks to the positive peer pressure and camaraderie.

There’s increasing access to training resources, expert coaches, and gear through local brands and apps. Nutrition and physiotherapy awareness is also improving. However, affordable access to professional support like personalized coaching, sports nutritionists, and mental health experts is still limited for many amateur runners. Grassroots-level infrastructure and sponsorship opportunities, especially for women, are areas that need significant growth.

Being part of a running community has been a game-changer. It transforms a solo sport into a shared journey. Whether it’s cheering each other on during early morning runs or sharing tips on nutrition and gear, the community has kept me motivated and accountable. There’s also a deep sense of belonging—you realize you’re not alone in the highs and lows of training.

Yes, during my full marathon training last year, I faced a major setback just three weeks before race day—I got injured and had to pause training. I stayed positive and focused on rehab, thinking I could still make it. But then, just a week before the marathon, I met with an accident and fell from my scooty, injuring my left ankle. I was devastated. It felt like all my months of hard work had gone to waste, and I truly believed I wouldn’t be able to run. But with the incredible support and guidance of my physiotherapist, I managed to recover just enough to make it to the start line—and finish the race strong. It was the toughest time in my running journey, but it taught me so much about resilience, mental strength, and trusting the process.