Since arriving in Chennai five days ago, I’ve faced an entirely new set of challenges in my marathon training. Chennai is a city of contrasts-rich in heritage with sprawling beaches and bustling with modern developments. But for a runner, the streets present an entirely different kind of challenge.
The Chaos and the Heat
Chennai’s streets are alive with energy. Cyclists, two-wheeler motorists, cars, and lorries all share the roads in a chaotic symphony of beeping horns. Footpaths, if they exist, are often occupied, making it tough for pedestrians and runners alike. Add to this the intense humidity-33 degrees Celsius might not sound too daunting, but the humidity is something else entirely. It hits you like a wall, making even a short run feel like a marathon.
Ever since I arrived, I’ve been struggling to stick to any sort of training routine. Sunday was a write-off, as I was too jet-lagged to do much of anything. On Monday morning, I managed to drag myself out of bed and run from my hotel to my parents’ house and back, clocking just over three miles. Even then, I was already too late-the sun had risen, and the humidity was oppressive. If you miss the before 6 AM slot here, you’re doomed.
Adapting to the Local Running Culture
Even at 5 AM today, the air was thick and heavy, and I found myself drenched in sweat after just a few miles. It’s going to take some time to acclimatize to these conditions. I have newfound respect for the runners here who make running a part of their daily lives despite these challenges.
In an effort to stay motivated, I gate-crashed a group of local runners stretching in a park. I pleaded with them to let me join their organized weekly runs, and they generously agreed. I’m hoping to make it to their Saturday morning run. It’s comforting to find a running community even halfway across the world, and I’m also looking into scheduling some in-person PT sessions to help me stay on track.
The Small Joys That Make It Worthwhile
Despite the challenges, there are small joys that make it all worthwhile. One of those is the simple pleasure of enjoying a traditional South Indian filter coffee after my so-called morning run. There’s nothing quite like sipping hot, frothy coffee served in a traditional dabara tumbler at a local vegetarian restaurant. The smell of freshly brewed coffee, mixed with the warmth of the morning sun, is a comforting reminder of why I love being here, despite the challenges.
It’s these little pleasures-like the smiling faces at the coffee shop and the taste of that perfect cup-that make life feel rich and fulfilling, even when the training gets tough. Running in Chennai has its challenges, but it also has its rewards. I’m learning to embrace both.
Looking Ahead
As I continue to navigate the chaos of Chennai’s streets and the suffocating humidity, I’m reminded that this journey is about more than just sticking to a training routine. It’s about adapting to new environments, finding joy in small things, and pushing myself in ways I never imagined. Here’s hoping that with a bit more acclimatization and the support of the local running community, I’ll be able to keep moving forward, one humid step at a time.
Stay tuned for more updates as I continue this adventure-both in running and in life.
