RunAddicts- Local Heroes: Inspiration series [Profile 6: Ashwini]

I recollect an incident from our 1st annual run. We were skeptical about achieving the target number for our event registrations. There was one person who single-handedly helped us get 300+ registrations and motivated the volunteers to push hard. The superwoman is Ashwini.

She does this year on year. She runs ultra-marathons, supports in various causes, and inspires many to get fitter. Her husband, Anand on the other hand has supported us in various volunteering activities. Not to mention, their kids are also following their steps. I am sure you are eager to know more about her.

Ashwini, Welcome to RunAddicts- our Local Heroes: Inspiration series. Congrats on being selected as a Local hero for our RunAddicts Inspiration series.

Can you briefly introduce yourself?

I am a home maker and at times, support my husband in his business.

What are your children sports interests?

Janya enjoys swimming, Daiwik enjoys football and swimming.

Reason for taking up running?

I enjoy the challenges which running gives and initially, I started running for a cause.

How long have you been running, and which are the events you have participated?

I have been running for around 3+yrs. Bengaluru Marathon, Bengaluru 10k, Malnad ultra, Bengaluru ultra,celebration Mysore run etc are some of the events I have participated.

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

10k-1hr, HM-2:22mins, FM-5:24mins

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

We put on weekly mileage depending on the event registered, varies around 20km for HM and close to 40km for FM.  we concentrate on the diet part to stay fit and it provides the required energy to run, and finally strength training to build our muscles and reduce fatigue, muscle loss.

You and Savitha were instrumental in helping many RunAddicts do strength training/ yoga during lockdown through virtual meeting, how was the experience?

Initially we started it just for fun and to keep us fit, as we were not supposed to go out of the house. But later, many of them showed interest and this became a challenge for both of us. We were around 8 to 10. We learnt many things and tried to get better at each exercise.

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

Bengaluru ultra as that was my first ultra-marathon. After 25km, we had to push every km to reach 50K, this was very special and memorable.

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

We plan the day, a day before to make sure everything is organized including running.

How has RunAddicts helped you?

RunAddicts has become very important part of our life, it is as equal as our family.

For every annual run, you help us get the maximum registrations. What is the secret behind this?

I do not hesitate to ask anyone as our cause is good. I am sure that whatever the money we gather is in safe hands and utilized for a noble cause. My nature is to make friends wherever I go, that is an advantage. My family and friends circle always trusts and supports me. There are people who will have negative answers and demotivate you. I believe when our thoughts are positive, we will get a positive reply.

That is a better perspective to look at.

Many women and of course a lot of men feel that they are too old to start running. What is your advice for them?

When you are young by heart and have a good spirit to do what you love; Age is just a number.

There was no better way to put it. Any running specific goals?

To be a better and an injury free runner.

What is your favourite running quote?

I do not run to add days in my life i run to add life to my days.

What is your advice for beginners?

Make friends when you run so you will never stop running. Even if you do not run, your friends will pull you out. Do not think too much about whether you can, just show up and rest will be taken care by the group.

Thank you, Ashwini, it was a meaningful discussion, I am sure this will inspire people across various age groups to take up running and experience the healthy lifestyle. I wish you a lot of success in all your endeavours.