Ready for an adrenalin rush this Sunday? One of the biggest marathons in the city is set to take place bright and early this weekend. And for a section of Mumbai’s celebrities, it’s an event they’ve been looking forward to all year.
STARS AND STRIDES
Actor Tara Sharma, who has been participating in the marathon since its inception, can’t wait to get into her running gear for this year’s edition. “The marathon gives you an absolute high; it’s an amazing experience as most of Mumbai will be on the streets — I call it The Great Leveller,” she smiles, adding, “Like every year, I will be in the race with Anand Mahindra and Rahul Bose, as we run for charity.”
Another perennial participant, Milind Soman, is raring to go too. Actor Gul Panag for whom it will be the ninth Mumbai marathon, is also gung-ho about it. “It’s an incredible high running the marathon for two reasons — I’m doing some of my best time and really enjoying the feeling of being fitter than ever! Also the idea of being part of so much positivity, that collective high that comes from running with people who are so filled with positive energy — it’s incredible,” she smiles.
EXPERT ADVICE
For those who are ready with their bibs and chest numbers but haven’t had much of a chance to train for the event, here’s some advice. While Tara advocates not shocking the body and going at the pace one is used to, Gul suggests going slow and steady. “Don’t make the mistake of running really fast in the beginning because you’ll lose steam eventually. Keep a pace that’s comfortable and allows you to run the distance. Also make sure you stay hydrated,” she adds.
Dr Hasmukh Ravat, interventional cardiologist, has a warning. “Marathon runners do not constitute solely persons with excellent cardiovascular health. Those with a family history of heart disease and other coronary risk factors are not immune to either sudden death or heart disease and should seek medical advice immediately if they develop any symptoms suggestive of ischemic heart disease. It’s thus important that you do a stress test prior to participating in the marathon.”
Source: Bombay Times
