Eleven years ago, the idea of running a marathon was very far-fetched. Back then, a 10k run was already a daunting challenge. But something about pushing my limits, that feeling of accomplishment after a tough run, really hooked me. It became more than just exercise; it was a metaphor for life – overcoming obstacles, building endurance, and achieving goals that once seemed impossible.
The road to marathons wasn't smooth. There were plenty of bumps along the way. Injuries and pain became a familiar foe, sidelining me for weeks at a time. Self-doubt became a nagging voice, whispering that maybe marathons were just too much for me. Even managing my time to fit in training runs felt like a constant battle.
But I wasn't about to let these challenges hold me back. Here's where my amazing friends came in. They weren't just running buddies; they were my support system, my cheerleaders, and sometimes even my personal trainers. We'd drag each other out of bed for early morning runs, share post-run stretches, and celebrate every milestone, big or small. Their belief in me was a constant source of motivation, especially on those days when doubt threatened to derail my progress.
Slowly but surely, things started to click. I learned to listen to my body, to take rest days when needed, and to fuel myself with the right foods to keep my energy levels up. Every conquered mile became a little victory, a testament to my dedication, the lessons I was learning, and the incredible bonds I had built with my friends.
Today, with eight marathons and countless half-marathons under my belt, I can confidently say that running has transformed me. It's not just about the physical accomplishment of finishing a marathon, but the mental strength, resilience, and the deep friendships I've built along the way. It's a constant reminder that with hard work, perseverance, a little bit of research, and the support of amazing friends, anything is possible.
Mr Ling's favourite running shoes is the Nike Flyknit!