Main Menu

Running into joy, reflection, and pride.

Last night I went to bed early for me, though it still took a while to fall asleep. I felt a mix of anticipation and excitement about today’s long run, I wanted to be rested and ready. This morning, I woke up with that same joy: the weather was mild after the rain, my water tank was filled, gel packed, and I set off with the simple plan of starting slow.

I breathed in the fresh air and felt at peace as I moved along my familiar route.

Early on, I fueled with my gel and kept sipping water regularly. By the one-hour mark, I made a decision: instead of turning back at halfway, I’d follow my marathon loop.

That choice changed everything. At first, I felt a moment of doubt, could I handle the loop? But soon it became pure enjoyment.

A wave of emotion hit me as I reflected not just on today’s training, but on my marathon journey and even life itself. I realized that while finishing my marathon had brought exhaustion, pride, and relief, I hadn’t felt an overwhelming high after the run. But today, as I ran and looked back, all the emotions rose to the surface. Tears of joy came, not from exhaustion, but from gratitude and pride:

Phases of the run, phase 1: slow, easy running, settling in. Phase 2, comfortable intervals between slower and steady paces, which felt strong and enjoyable. Finally, phase 3: faster intervals toward the end, pushing myself and reminding me what running truly means for me: time for my body, space for my mind, and no pressure to run any “race speed”, only at my speed.

On the last climb, I felt the same fatigue I had during my marathon, but this time I embraced it, adjusted my pace, and let the joy wash over me. Running became a celebration of resilience, growth, and freedom.

And then the surprise: on the way back, I added a small cooldown loop, checked my watch, and realized I had completed a half marathon (21.24 km), just like that! A spontaneous tribute to my first marathon distance, and a thank you to myself for being mentally strong enough to do it.

Today’s run was more than training, it was a recap of past achievements, a release of emotions, and an affirmation that pride and respect for one’s journey are not only allowed, but essential. After writing and reading this reflection, I found myself crying again, in the best possible way. This run turned into something special.