Irianto-Journeyman

From Couch to Full Marathon

I was a couch guy who never dream of running a marathon in my life. I believe that running Marathon is only for well trained athletes. Not for me in my late forty’s. Not at all. However, it proof that I was wrong.

When I was 45 years old, I started to run with friends for fun. I joined the local 5 Km road race. It was a horrible run, since I did not prepare mysef well in getting a proper training. Luckily, I was able to complete my first race.

Running become a new habit

Learning from my previous mistake, later I started to train myself by following a running programs. I had completed dozens of 10 KM and couple of Half Marathon road races during my first two years of running.

It was so interesting to see a lot of people like myself who enjoy running. I wish I had learned about running when I was much younger. Nevertheless, it’s better late than never. With proper training, I now have a better management in running and not gasping for air in the middle of the race.

During my first year of running, I was able to loose 8 Kg (17,6 lbs). My blood pressure has been stabilized. I became more positive and of course better fitness level than before. Running become my new routine that I enjoy until this moment.

Doing the impossible

Each achievement has built my self confidence. These experiences made me think of doing the impossible thing which is running my first Marathon.

Prior to the marathon training, I followed a building base running training. It is a necessity for every marathoner. Basically is just another 8 weeks of consistent running to get my body adjusted; gradually build my long run for endurance and improve my fitness level.

Marathon training is tough but challenging. I dedicated so many hours and energy to complete the training program. During those period, my spirit was high. I ran 4 to 5 times a week constantly. My longest long run in my training program was 32 KM.

I was so suprised on how our body easily adapt to a daily new routine. We only need to commit to ourselves and make us belief on what our body could do.

I was not a professional nor a fast runner. My main goal was able to finish a Marathon and proof to myself regardless my age, that I can do it with proper training.

My first marathon was at Standard Chartered, Singapore in December 2018.

I was proud of myself and happy that I had a courage to make a big change in my life and became a marathoner now. From what it seemed impossible, now became possible.

I became a compulsive runner and wanted to run more. I had completed 4 Marathons within a year. It was way to many. I should not do that again. I should consider to take some good rest before running my next marathon.

My last three Marathon I ran for a Charity. It was a Fundraising for “Save the Children of Indonesia”. I personally thank you for many of my friends and family who had supported me and had donated money to this fundraising.

Reaching the finish line gave me a feeling of self satisfaction and victory after all the hard work and hours I spent during the marathon training.

Again, Something magical feeling made me want to run for another marathon in different cities or countries in near future. I always have in my mind to challenge and improving my marathon time. However, far more important is to run happily.

After the corona pandemic is over, I would like to run a marathon at Halong Bay, Vietnam. Follow by a bike touring from Hanoi to Ho chi Min City. Looking forward for these two events.

I hope my running journey will inspire others to run. By running, I could put all the anxiety away and live in happier and healthier life.

Running became a part of my new lifestyle now and I am happy with it.