Finishing at least one full marathon, of 42.2 km, is considered a mean feat even by youngsters. But for this 74-year-old doctor from Haryana’s Kurukshetra, it’s just a regular activity! For Dr Som Nath Sethi, who recently secured third place in the 70-plus age group at the New Delhi Marathon on February 22, it was his 340th marathon. Though he finished third, the doctor doesn’t seem as thrilled about it as he is about completing the run with discipline. According to him, if a person is mentally strong, age is definitely just a number.
A serious accident
In 2011, during a run, he suffered a serious accident in which he fractured the bones of his left leg, left knee and six ribs. There were around 20 fractures on his body. It also forced him to be bedridden for three months, and doctors advised him to only walk, thereafter. However, Dr Sethi was determined to get back to running. According to him, what helped him win his health back was his consistency.
A full marathon is a 42.19 kilometre (26.2 miles) run. Photo: iStock/okjuy
Dr Sethi’s simple fitnss mantra
The doctor’s fitness regime, comprising simple, impactful measures, can be followed by anyone looking to get fit. Here are his tips:
1) Ensuring 7 to 9 hours of sleep daily
2) Staying away from alcohol and junk food
3) Following a vegetarian diet
In his earlier interview with the national media, the doctor also mentioned that he often advises his patients to stay physically active rather than taking medicines. Interestingly, even after his accident, it was slow and steady exercises that helped him get back to running. Apparently, he began using a walker to gradually regain control of his movements and eventually began participating in walking races. By 2015, he was back to running marathons, within four years of his injury. The doctor, who considers marathons a holistic health experience, also recommends them as an effective form of physical activity for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a marathon?
A full marathon is a 42.19-kilometre (26.2 miles) run. A half-marathon is a 21-kilometre run. Runs longer than 42.19 are called ultramarathons. Runs of less than 21 kilometres aren’t considered marathons.
2. How long does it take to train for a marathon?
It depends on a person’s fitness levels and goals, but generally, experts advise training for at least 20 weeks to prep for the distance. If you are new to long-distance running, it is better to start with shorter distances, such as 3K or 5K, to gauge your endurance before venturing into longer distances.
If you have any health issues or have doubts about your endurance, do a comprehensive health check-up before starting with your marathon training. Photo: iStock/Pavel1964
3. How to ensure marathon running will benefit me?
If you have any health issues or are unsure about your endurance, have a comprehensive health check-up before starting your marathon training. Discuss your fitness levels with your doctor to see if there is anything you need to address before starting the training.
4. What does a marathon runner eat?
It depends on your goals, fitness and training schedule. However, it’s important to ensure a nutrient-dense diet, complete with carbohydrates, fats and protein. Moreover, runners should ensure they hydrate regularly and well. Your trainer and doctor can chart out a diet plan that suits your requirements.
5. Will marathons cause injuries?
Just like any other physical activity, attempting a marathon without proper stretching, warm-up regimen, training and medical assessment can be risky. A marathon runner should also ensure that they are comfortable with their running gear – shoes, jerseys, watches and more, as the wrong gear can cause friction burns or discomfort. Even after the run, it is important to cool down and stretch for about 5 minutes to help your body recover.
(With PTI inputs)
