World Health Day is a time to reflect on our well-being and celebrate the efforts we make to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Among the many inspiring stories, one stands out—the journey of a dedicated marathon runner who started his running adventure later in life but has since achieved remarkable milestones. Meet Sujit, Sensia’s Shared Service Global Real Estate Manager, as we explore his motivations, experiences, and the profound impact of marathons on his life.



Starting the Marathon Journey
The decision to start running marathons came at a pivotal moment. "I started my running journey very late! Yes, I began running after reaching 40 in 2014. Today, I am 50+". This late start did not deter him; instead, it became a driving force to prove that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing one's passions and maintaining good health.

Motivation and Benefits
Motivation is a crucial element in any endeavor, and for our marathon runner, it was a combination of health consciousness and the desire for self-improvement. "Even though I have been on the slim side my entire life, after turning 40, I felt the need to consciously maintain good health. I also discovered the side benefits of running marathons—discipline, endurance, mental toughness, challenging my own records, looking forward to future goals, time management, keeping commitments, and so on."

Running marathons provided more than just physical fitness; it instilled valuable life skills and a sense of purpose. The discipline required in training and competing translated into other areas of life, fostering a holistic approach to well-being.

Memorable Marathon Experiences
Among the many marathons participated in, one particularly stands out. "The most memorable marathon for me was the Tata Ultra Marathon near Lonavala, India. It was a 50 km run with tough conditions like elevation changes, starting the run at night and finishing in the sun, temperature variations, steep inclines and declines, and a time limit for completing the run. After 30 km, my body wanted to give up, but mentally, I kept pushing until I crossed the finish line in style."

This marathon was a true test of endurance and mental fortitude. The challenging conditions and the sheer distance pushed Sujit’s limits, but the sense of accomplishment upon crossing the finish line was unparalleled.

Preparation and Challenges
Preparing for a marathon is a meticulous process that requires dedication and planning. "The first step is registering for future marathons to have a goal— then the time clock starts ticking. Next, I prepare a training plan for running and strength, starting four months before the race. The plan includes Sunday long runs, weekday short interval runs, and tempo runs—3-4 runs a week and 3 strength training workouts per week. My running mileage per month increases, peaking at 200-250 km per month."

Despite the rigorous training, challenges are inevitable. From physical fatigue to mental barriers, each marathon presents unique obstacles. However, overcoming these challenges is part of the journey, and it builds resilience and determination.

Life Changes and Perspectives
Running marathons has had a profound impact on Sujit's life and perspective. "Running marathons builds discipline in food, sleep, time management, and schedules. It builds physical endurance and mental toughness, as the body wants to give up after 25 km when the race distance is 42 km or 50 km. My daily running routine gives me exposure to nature and outdoor time, allowing me to pursue my passion, which is key. It also improves my commitment levels, as I have to run in all seasons—rainy, summer, or winter—to meet my goals."
The discipline and mental toughness gained from marathon training permeates other aspects of life, fostering a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. The exposure to nature and the joy of running outdoors have become integral to our runner's daily routine.

Future Goals
Looking ahead, Sujit has set ambitious goals. "My dream is to participate in the Comrades Marathon (88 km run) in 2026. Until then, I will keep practicing in regular marathons. So far, I have run 9057 km. Crossing 10,000 km will be a major milestone for me."

The journey continues, with new challenges and milestones on the horizon. The commitment to running and the pursuit of personal goals remain strong, exemplifying the spirit of perseverance and dedication.

Conclusion
This World Health Day, we celebrate the incredible journey of Sujit, and everyone who’s pursuing their transformational journey, great and small. Sujit’s story reminds us that it's never too late to start, and the benefits of running extend far beyond physical health. It's about discipline, mental toughness, and the joy of challenging oneself. All of us at Sensia are proud to support Sujit’s endeavor. Here's to many more miles and milestones ahead!