In the depths of hopelessness, weighing 90 kilograms, and teetering on the brink of obesity, I was losing more than just my physical health. I was losing my self-confidence. The mirror reflected an image that made social interactions a daunting task, and depression and anxiety became unwelcome companions. But this story isn't about despair. It's about the incredible journey I took from obesity to becoming a Marathon runner.
The journey began with gym classes and boot camps, but the promising path led to a minimal result. No matter how much I sweat, the weight remained stubbornly rooted, refusing to budge. Next, I tried swimming, but again was not able to see the result I wanted. It wasn't until I discovered the joy of running that the transformation truly began.
Just one month into my new running routine, I lost an astounding 10 kilograms. Running was not just an exercise; it became my new hobby, my therapy and my salvation. It was as if I had discovered a secret key to a locked door. The joy of running propelled me to join my local running club Maldives Association of Distance Runners (MAD), where I embraced the sport in earnest, pushing myself harder and further.
2013 marked a significant milestone in my journey. I participated in my first 5K race at the Dhiraagu Road Race, and the excitement of crossing the finish line fueled my passion even more. I decided to take my commitment to the next level and hired a private coach to create a customized workout plan for me. The effort paid off when I completed my first 10K at the TFG Long Run in 2014, with a timing that left me impressed and motivated.
Running became my daily ritual. Every day at 5:00 a.m., after my prayers, I would hit the road, cherishing the solitude and the rhythm of my steps before diving into my workday. Over an incredible decade from 2013 to 2023, my running journey saw me complete 17 half marathons, 9 full marathons, and countless 5K and 10K races. I ran in almost all national tournaments and even travelled to Singapore, Malaysia, Dubai, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Cambodia, and many more countries for running races.
Balancing a demanding job in the hospitality industry with a thorough training schedule was a tough and difficult in terms of time management. As a marathon runner, I needed to clock an average of 80-100 kilometers per week. No matter where I was, no matter the size of the island I worked on, I fulfilled my daily running program, sometimes running twice in a single day for six days a week.
With this newfound discipline also came conscious nutrition choices and a commitment to recovery. The result was a drop from 90 kilograms to a healthy 65 kilograms, a feat that felt nothing short of amazing.
Running did more than just transform my body—it healed my mind. It helped me manage my depression and anxiety, giving me a sense of accomplishment and a community of fantastic people who shared my passion. It gave me an athletic physique and a regenerated self-confidence that radiated through every facet of my life.
My journey taught me that consistency is the key to achieving your goals. Your attitude and your approach can change your life. If I could do it, anyone can. Don't wait for a tomorrow that might never come; take that first step today. Your journey awaits.
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