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Sid is a Runner’s World+ member. Join him and thousands of others chasing their goals with day-by-day training plans, expert advice from editors and coaches, and unlimited digital access. We regularly feature members online and in print!
It all started in spring of 2017 when I found myself mentally and physically fatigued for most of the time. And although I hit the gym three days a week for weight training, I never paid attention to my endurance. In result, I found myself bulked up and feeling strong, and yet not energetic. My boss at the time was a 2:45 marathoner, and he mentioned to me running helps him think better and feel active. I took my inspiration from him, and decided to give running a shot. I found myself unable to run for more than half a mile without stopping, but decided to gradually build up my mileage over the next few weeks. Six weeks in, I noticed a drastic increase in my energy levels throughout the day, and did not have to keep sipping coffee to stay alert. Since then, running was no longer just an activity–it became my lifestyle. Fast forward almost three years, I have completed a dozen of half marathons, and my first marathon at CIM 2019.
I joined RW+ for a variety of reasons, but most importantly I wanted to gain knowledge about running, and take inspiration from stories about fellow runners. The decision has greatly helped me fix my running form, cadence and nutrition, as well as helped me feel connected to the running community.
To me, running is the equivalent of meditation. It helps me clear my mind and build focus. Additionally, it leaves me feeling oxygenated and energetic for the rest of my day. My day starts at 5:00 a.m., and I do my runs first thing in the morning given that my job keeps me busy for the rest of the day. I usually run once a day, 6 days a week, and put in 50-60 miles weekly if I am training, or 20-30 miles if I am not.
Most of my runs are on Guadalupe River trail which is an 11 mile trail that runs across the banks of Guadalupe river in San Jose. I love this trail due to the fact that it’s fairly flat and allows me to put on most of my easy miles. Added benefit is that access to the trail is a stone’s throw away from my home.
After each run, I am always looking forward to my next, and so I pay special attention to gear that helps me with recovery. I especially love CEP crew cut compression socks since they leave my feet feeling less sore after miles of pounding. Other than that, I like to use my HyperVolt percussion massage device following every run.
My long term goal is to never stop running. Running has greatly helped me transform my lifestyle and my outlook, and it just keeps getting better with every run. My goal for this year is to run a sub-90 minute half marathon.