When start running? What inspired you to run?
I used to play squash and table tennis during my college days but I stopped playing when I started working and ended up putting on a lot of weight.
In April 2009, I decided to get rid of all the excess weight and get back in shape. Initially I started running on the treadmill and then started running on the road. Running was very tough in the initial months but with coaching and practice it started getting better.
How does running help you in your professional life?
Healthy mind and fitness help me stay focused. Also, I started having more confidence, motivation and energy.
How do you balance your fitness regime and work?
I’m finding it difficult to run due to my travel schedule. I am trying to figure out how to continue my exercise regime. I am part of a fitness group ‘BE FIT’ and we practice at Juhu Beach. The training sessions are held 3-4 times a week. The best part of this group is that there are many enthusiasts who are constantly motivating each other. On other days, I swim, cycle and do cardio exercises for fitness and strength training.
Your most memorable running moment
There was one run recently organised by Juhu Gymkhana early this year which I thoroughly enjoyed as I ran along with my school and college friends. The most memorable moment was the selfies after the run.
Narrate your last running experience
I had last run for the Hiranandani Thane Half Marathon. I love this track. It has a few hill inclines and many green patches. The weather was awesome. I ran with my colleague Chandrakant Soni who is a very good runner. We kept motivating each other.
Do you run alone or with a group?
I prefer running alone and I like to run at my pace and comfort.
What are the similarities between running and investing?
Very good question. When you run, the initial few kilometres are tough but as the body warms up, it gets into a rhythm and the rest of journey gets smoother. Similarly, in equities, the initial experience could be very painful but with time volatility reduces and compounding grows your wealth. Both running and investing require focus, determination, patience, belief, confidence and courage.
What would be your advice to someone who wants to start running for fitness?
If you are thinking of running, then start tomorrow (don’t keep thinking). Take coaching (don’t do it yourself), have short term and long term goals. That’s it then, go for it and happy running!
