Chasing Dreams, Crossing Finish Lines: GetSetUp Learners' Tata Marathon Journey

hen a GetSetUp Learner recently enquired about my marathon journey, it took me back to the roots of my motivation—addressing weight issues and transforming my lifestyle. Guided by a doctor's counsel advocating weight loss and improved nutrition, my initial goal was to conquer a half marathon. Starting with a humble 500 meters, I gradually surpassed medical challenges, including persistent back problems. Today, having crossed the finish lines of several half-marathons, running has become beyond a health routine; it is now also a social activity, making new running buddies, a source of joy and accomplishment,  a constant pursuit that pushes my limits, keeps me on the path of life long learning and guides me towards an active aging lifestyle.

Also, in a world where the older adult population is steadily growing, it is more important than ever to contemplate our lifestyle choices and prioritize staying active. As I now dive into the inspiring stories of GetSetUp Learners participating in the Tata Marathon, you can see through their reflections how the significance of running transcends mere physical activity. It becomes a transformative journey marked by self-discovery, resilience, and empowerment, leading us to embrace and embody lifelong learning and active aging. 

Maryam G.: Maryam joined the marathon to challenge herself and step out of her comfort zone. She has been walking daily to prepare and plans to continue prioritizing her health post-marathon. 

“I joined the marathon to challenge myself, stepping out of my comfort zone at 62. My aim is simple– to prove that age is just a number and that it's never too late to embrace new beginnings. After completing the Dream Run walk, I plan to prioritize my health through daily walks and exercises to follow a healthy lifestyle. If a person like me, who is very shy, can participate in such an event, then I believe everyone can. Where there is a will, there is always a way."

Vivek H.:  A veteran banker with more than four decades of Service in the Public and Private Sector. Vivek retired as a Senior Vice President at 60 from the largest Private Sector Bank. He sees the marathon as a journey to self-accomplishment. His training includes increasing daily steps and a balanced diet. Post-marathon, he plans to maintain his routine.

"Participating in marathons isn't just a physical feat; it's a journey to self-accomplishment and self-confidence. In any sport, you either win or lose, but in a Marathon, the moment you cross the finish line, you get a sense of accomplishment, irrespective of your ranking. A healthy body leads to a healthy mind, and every step taken is a stride towards a better self and society.”

Chanda S: Chanda, with Sjogren's syndrome, joined the marathon as an assessment of her health. Her training includes walking, yoga, and healthy eating.
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"As I step into the Tata Mumbai Marathon, it's not just a run for me; it's a journey to gauge my fitness and well-being. At 63 with Sjogren's syndrome, this run becomes a vital assessment of my health parameters. Inspired by the ambition to complete the run and encouraged by my friend Neeta, a cancer survivor, I've transitioned from a walker to a confident participant. Beyond the ordinary tools of walking, yoga, and healthy eating, my message to first-time participants is simple: Keep going, never lose hope! No one can stop you from achieving what you believe you can. God Bless.”

Mitindar S.: Battling diabetes, Mitindar started his marathon journey in Sydney. He emphasizes a healthy diet and shares that post-marathon, he plans to continue walking and running.

“As a 74-year-old retiree battling diabetes, my Tata marathon participation was inspired by Pichumani Venkatraman and my wife's participation. I am committed to continuing my walking and running routine with the hope of shedding that stubborn belly. My advice to anyone looking to start their stay active journey is straightforward: Do your best, and let results follow naturally.”

Binda K: A retired HR professional and wellness consultant who enjoys outdoor activities and values fitness. Her marathon training involves morning walks, yoga, and a simple diet.

“ I first participated in the Tata Marathon in  2013 and wanted to do it yearly, more for myself than for records. It’s more fun if we join a group. With GetSetUp learners and all the guidance and encouragement on this platform, I decided to enroll after a gap of 5 years.: Marathon is not only about running. If you’re in the habit of walking daily, you can go for a marathon. Brisk walking, walking, and running are what I do. Just enjoy the experience; it’s for your happiness and joy.”

Anita R.: Community Manager at GetSetUp, shares how the excitement of GetSetUp community members inspired her to sign up for the Tata event.

"I was motivated to participate in the Dream Run because of the enthusiasm of the GetSetUp community, and I knew running or walking alongside them would make this event a fun one to remember. Also, I joined the 45-day GetSetUp Fitness Challenge to prepare, and it helped me partake in some daily physical activity. Also, having a community by your side throughout the challenge was like the cherry on the cake! The marathon is not just a finish line but a starting point for a commitment to continue walking and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. “

Mehboob G.: At 73, Mehboob is a retired procurement manager who walks daily as a routine and eats healthily to maintain an active lifestyle.

"At 73, I joined the Tata Marathon inspired by my GetSetUp companions and the encouragement of my daughter. Walking has been my daily ritual for years, and I look forward to the Marathon. Post-marathon, my plan is simple: to continue my healthy living routine, exercise daily, and maintain a positive outlook. Age should never limit one's pursuit of a healthy and fulfilling life. The key lies in consistency, positivity, and a commitment to physical and mental well-being."

‍Meena T.: Recently retired, Meena is now following her passions and is looking to develop new interests. When she learned about the Marathon, she was inspired to sign up for the Dream Run out of curiosity and the desire to explore something new. She was intrigued to learn what it feels like to be part of a significant social event.

"Participating in the Senior Run was not just about the run itself; it was a journey of challenging myself, exploring my capabilities, and adapting a healthy, active lifestyle. While I may not have had a specific cause to run for, the indirect support for fitness and overall wellness is a cause worth advocating for. The entire process, supported by GetSetUp and a determined mindset, has transformed my physical and mental stamina, and I plan to continue these daily exercise routines even after the marathon. Remember, it's not just about the race day; it's about the entire process of preparation and the rewarding feeling of having a healthy body and mind. "

Rita V.: An investment consultant and advisor for the past 30 years, Rita, now retired at 67, saw the marathon as an opportunity to participate in a sports event she had desired to engage in since childhood. Upon learning about the TATA marathon through GetSetUp, she decided to register and opted for the Senior Run, with the least distance as her initial challenge.

"I wanted to prove to myself that I can do what I like and want to do. The TATA Marathon provided me with the opportunity to challenge myself, and with the support of GetSetUp, I embraced a comprehensive training routine. My success is my motivation, and I aim to continue this as a lifestyle, taking care of both my physical and mental well-being." 

Indira R.:  Having retired from Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd, Indira R., at 64, is now pursuing her passions through various activities. While overcoming her back and knee issues with regular physical activity, Indira participated in the Dream Run to check her fitness level after a hiatus.

“Slowly but surely, I am overcoming back and knee issues, and I decided to participate in the Dream Run to check my fitness level after a hiatus. I have participated in many marathons in the past, specifically 10 km. Since it has been a while, and I wanted to check my fitness level, I decided to go for the Dream Run. Slowly, I want to train for the 10 km in the future. When deciding to partake in any physical sport, consistency is the key - whether it's the diet or exercise. Keep at it, and you will get there.”

These stories illustrate, as the cliche goes,  that age is merely a number and underscores the power of determination, the importance of health and fitness, and the strength of community support. For living an active and healthy aging life, some form of physical activity, strength training to counter aging muscles, and good nutrition are immensely important. Make a beginning, it's never too late. 

Article written by Ashwini Kapila, at GetSetUp. Onto his second career, after being a banker who served in the financial services sector for over 28 years. If you are interested in partnering and learning more about our upskilling opportunities for older adults with GetSetUp, drop us an email at ashwini@getsetup.io. Our interactive learning and socializing ecosystem empowers partners to engage their current members with a digital-first platform.