RunAddicts- Local Heroes: Inspiration series [Profile 1: Dr Girish H]

RunAddicts- Local heroes

All of us grew up emulating our heroes. I was an ardent fan of cricket. I remember my younger days, shadow batting like Sachin or trying to bowl like McGrath. We have many greats in running however it is quite difficult to emulate them or their trainings. It is good to understand their techniques, we can learn a few things and improve the way we train and move towards our running goals.

However, there is a void which is hard to fill. We run to keep ourselves fit. We are amateur athletes; it is quite hard for us to either match their training or their speed. We want to improve, maybe we want to get better and be among the best in our vicinity.

We see the before/ after weight reductions advertisement photos often, is it possible to reduce weight or is it just another money-making fraud? If somebody you know has accomplished it, you trust and give credence to him/her.

If someone you know/you see every day can achieve their goals, it boosts our confidence to dream big. From today, I want to introduce to you our local heroes. They have realized their first goal in running and thriving hard to become better every day. This is also a token of appreciation to their dedication, hard work and for who they are today.

We will be covering a series of personalities (in no particular order) who have made a difference to the community through fitness, wellbeing, social activities, societal development etc.

I am sure you will get inspired by these Heroes, RunAddicts- Local Heroes.

DISCLAIMER: RunAddicts is what it is today because of each and every member, this is just a motivational series and in no way to differentiate. I request your understanding this regard.

Running Profile 1: Dr Girish H

I have known Dr Girish over many years. I love his dedication towards staying fit. His profession keeps him busy, yet I have never seen him miss his training. A fit and happy doctor can make the world a healthier place to live. I am glad to interview him as our First RunAddicts: Local Hero

Dr Girish, Welcome to RunAddicts- our Local Heroes: Inspiration series. Congrats on being selected as a Local hero for our RunAddicts Inspiration series. I’m sure your running journey is a exciting one. We would love to know more. Thanks for being a part of the fitness revolution.

Sai: Can you briefly introduce yourself, to give a background about you to our readers?

Dr Girish (Dr G): I am a urologist by profession, working at Apollo hospitals BG road branch as consultant urologist. My wife is also a doctor. I have an 8-year-old son who is also passionate about running and cycling.

 Sai: Were you into fitness since early age? What made you take up running?

Dr G: I loved sports since my childhood. I was a basketball player during my high school and Pre university college days. I was very good in field events like discus, shotput javelin throw, took up long distance running (800m/1500m) at that time to get individual championship. I could not get it but running became passion from then on. During my MBBS, MS and during urology training time, I used to run whenever I got a chance. But serious training started only after 2014. Running was the easiest way to stay fit for me.

Sai: How long have you been running and what are some of the running events you have participated?

Dr G: It has been 8 years into competitive running. Have participated in TCS 10 k all events since 2013, Bengaluru marathon all events since 2014, TROT, Mumbai marathon, Bengaluru 10 k challenge, Bengaluru ultra, Kaveri trail marathon, Stadium run, Malnad Ultra and many other runs.

Sai: What are your 10K, HM and FM personal best timings?

Dr G: 10 k- 44.57, HM – 1hr 44 min 2 sec. FM – 4 hr 11 min.

Sai: How do you train for an event; can you share a few insights?

Dr G: I divide my entire year training into 2 parts. First half of the year I train for 10 km race, second half of the year for marathons. During first half I do aerobic runs, speed workouts, hill repeats, tempo runs and try to improve my 10 km timing. Second half of the year I include long runs, increase aerobic runs, and speed workouts close to the races. First half of the year the weekly mileage will be around 60 km. Second half of the year it will be around 80 km.

Sai: Which one is your most memorable running event and what makes it so special about it?

Dr G: Tata Mumbai marathon for its race route and amazing crowd support.

Sai: How do you balance fitness, work, and personal life?

Dr G: I dedicate 1 hr in a day for fitness. It can be running, cycling or strength training. During unavoidable circumstances I postpone it to following day and I see that I complete my monthly quota of running. Rest of the day I have for my work and for my family.

Sai: I have also observed that you have shed a great deal of weight, can you let me know your improvement?

Dr G: I have reduced by 11 Kgs (97 to 86).

                         Dec 2018                                                                                                                                                    Jan 2021

Sai: How do you feel being part of RunAddicts?

Dr G: I must thank RunAddicts for whatever I am now. This group has motivated so many people to take up fitness and made them to excel in sports.

Sai: What are your running goals?

Dr G: Long term goal is to qualify for Boston marathon. Main goal is to run as long as I can without any injuries.

Sai: What is your favourite running quote?

Dr G: The body achieves what the mind believes.

Sai: What is your advice for beginners?

Dr G: Running is a safe sport. If you start slowly and gradually progress, there is no risk of injuries. Do not worry about speed or distance just keep running as much as you can. You will notice the difference after few days. Running will keep you active the entire day. Set your targets and try to achieve them.

Thank you, Dr Girish, I enjoyed interviewing you. I wish you health and happiness, good luck to your running goals.Thanks again for your time 😄.