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My Fitness Journey: Embracing Progress Over Perfection

byShanthi KrishnanSessions at HSR, Koramangala & Cubbon Park; Travels across BengaluruStarts from1,500 per sessionView full gallery

Fitness isn't just a highlight reel. I have navigated fractures, asthma, and the messy parts of being a mom and athlete. Here is my real story of what it actually takes to build lasting strength.

This is the real story of my running journey. From the high of a saree run to the low of a snapped metatarsal, and then another accident injuring my hand. The struggle is real, but so is the hope and the passion that drives me to come back stronger.

A simple before and after of a 6km run. It starts at 6:00 a.m. with zero kilometers, and ends with a smile and a sense of accomplishment. It is about showing up and putting in the work.

People say I am lucky, but this is the "luck". It is the daily grind, the consistent effort, and the hard work you put in when no one is watching. Stay consistent for yourself.

A clip from an interview where I talk about my journey. I saw myself getting better and better, and I realized I had to make a choice to follow my passion. I am so grateful for the support of my family who understood my dream.

Then and now. 2011 to 2024. Confidence comes with age, and looking beautiful comes from the confidence someone has in themselves. It is a journey of self-discovery and growth.

We only live one life, so live it to the fullest. Enjoy the sunrise, watch that silly movie, go on that trek, and most importantly, love and take care of yourself. Age is just a number.

It has been 14 years of running. This sport has given me my identity, countless friends, and incredible experiences. I am grateful for every step of this journey and still look forward to every run.

Running has its highs and lows. After injuries and health struggles, the fight to get back has been real. But I show up every training day and give my best, because this too shall pass.

A screenshot of how my year began: with a strength session and a run. This is my commitment to myself, starting the year strong and setting the tone for what is to come.

My year of running in 2024. A collage of races, podiums, and training runs. It was a year of ups and downs, but every run taught me something.

About My Journey: Progress Over Perfection

People often think I wake up ready to run, but that is rarely the reality. My journey is filled with real struggles like foot fractures, asthma, and days when I just want to skip it. I share this because it is vital to see the messy middle. When we train together, we are not chasing a perfect aesthetic. We are building the kind of strength that helps you recover from injuries, keeps your joints healthy, and actually lets you enjoy the sport for the long haul.

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