How Running Changed My Life and How You Can Begin
Five years, countless kilometres, and lessons that go beyond the finish line. Here’s why running matters and how you can begin.
Introduction
Five years ago, if you had asked me whether I would be running marathons today, I would have said you were out of your mind. Back then, running long distances felt impossible. Fast forward to now: I’ve completed 26 half marathons, 4 full marathons, and 2 ultra-distance races of 50 km each. What once seemed unthinkable has now become part of who I am.
I first turned to running during the COVID lockdown in 2020. Gyms were closed and since there were only a few options left to stay active, running became my outlet. It was rough at the start, every step felt heavy, every kilometre a challenge. But that struggle was also what encouraged me the most. I’ve always believed in facing weaknesses head-on, and running became the perfect way to do just that.
Most of us know the physiological benefits of running: it strengthens the heart, lowers resting heart rate over time, improves lung capacity, boosts metabolism, and supports fat loss. The list goes on and I will save a deeper dive into the science for another time. The key message here is that we cannot neglect our cardiorespiratory fitness and this is why it is one of the four foundational pillars of the CATALYST system.
In this article, I want to share why running hasn’t just only improved my fitness. It has also shaped how I approach work, life, and challenges.
Discipline and Consistency
One of the biggest lessons running has taught me is the value of discipline and consistency. These qualities can’t be handed down in a lecture or a book. You only develop them by putting one foot in front of the other, day after day. Of course, this can also be achieved not just through running, there are many ways to achieve this. By speaking with personal experience here, running allows me to do so.
Discipline means showing up when it’s raining, when you’re tired, or when your motivation is low. Consistency is what turns those small daily efforts into transformation. It may sound a little cringey, but the combination of Discipline and Consistency is powerful: not only do you get better at running, you get better at handling life in my opinion.
Lessons That Carry Over
Running has taught me that progress is never instant. It demands patience, endurance, and the willingness to trust the process. I’ve carried that mindset into business, where growth is more like a marathon than a sprint. It is always a good reminder to ourselves that results don’t happen overnight. They build gradually and only consistency compounds them into something meaningful.
In today’s world, we’re conditioned to want quick wins. And yes, when you’re a beginner, progress often comes fast. But over time, improvements will stall and that is when patience matters most.
I still remember training for my first full marathon back in 2023. Some runs left me gasping for air, my legs heavy and sore, and the urge to quit stronger than ever. In fact, there were two occasions when I did stop halfway through a training run and when that happened, the marathon felt almost impossible. But here’s the truth: every time I wanted to quit, I reminded myself that it is just one more run, just one more try. That simple mindset shift is what carried me forward, in running and in life.
Interestingly, some of my best business ideas have also come while running. There’s something about the rhythm of movement that clears the mind and creates space for creativity. Some may even find running therapeutic.
How to Get Started with Running
If you’re inspired to start running, here are five simple principles that helped me when I began:
1. Start Small, Just Show Up
Don’t stress about pace or distance at the start. Even 10-15 minutes of running consistently is already a win. In fact, research shows that as little as 60 minutes of running or walking per week can create measurable benefits for your body. Many beginners get caught up in tracking heart-rate zones or overcomplicating things and unless you’re training at a pro level, it doesn’t need to be that technical or complicated. For beginners, run at a pace where you could still hold a conversation, go by how you feel and your perceived effort. That’s the sweet spot to build consistency without burning out.
2. Listen to Your Body
Pain and discomfort are not the same. Discomfort is normal when your body adapts: heavy breathing, tired legs, or side stitches that ease up with rest. Pain, however, is sharp, persistent, or localized and these usually signals that something is wrong. Respect the difference. Push through discomfort, but never push through pain. Instead, focus on recovery and come back stronger.
3. Progress Gradually
Increase your mileage slowly. A simple guideline is the “10% rule”: never add more than 10% to your weekly mileage. It sounds conservative, but it’s a powerful way to stay injury-free. I learned this the hard way back in my early running days - calf strains and plantar fasciitis were frequent setbacks early on when I ignored it. Not fun, and definitely not worth it.
4. Gear Matters
A good pair of shoes makes all the difference. You don’t need 10 different pairs of shoes to begin, but you do need one that feels right for your body and stride. Try them in-store whenever possible. For versatility, I recommend models like the Saucony Endorphin Speed or Adidas Adizero SL.
5. Celebrate the Process
Don’t chase perfection. Focus on progress. Every run counts, yes especially the tough ones. It’s always you versus you, not you versus anyone else. Avoid comparisons, enjoy the process, and let running be something that strengthens not just your body, but also your mindset.
Closing Thought
Running changed my life because it forced me to earn consistency, patience, and resilience. It doesn’t matter whether you’re aiming to complete your first 5K or chase a personal best marathon, the real reward is the person you become along the way.
If you have questions or need guidance, feel free to reach out here. I’m always happy to help!
