Meet the new hardcore athletes: Pushing limits, living the lifestyle!

Endurance sports like triathlons and marathons are often seen as challenges only for elite athletes with years of training. Yet, a growing number of Indians are taking on these extreme events, pushing their personal limits and embracing a lifestyle centered around discipline and resilience. These athletes, from first-time Ironman participants to marathoners overcoming physical barriers, share inspiring stories of grit and determination. Here are four individuals who have made pushing limits their way of life.

Diya Nayar, 41, completed her first Ironman 70.3 race in Turkey this year, representing India in the 41-44 age category. Remarkably, she learned to cycle in 2020 and mastered long-distance swimming in 2022. Despite a full-time job, she dedicated six months to intense training, waking up at 4 AM to train five to six times a week.

The Ironman 70.3 triathlon consists of 1.9 km of swimming, 90 km of cycling, and 21.1 km of running within 8.5 hours. Nayar focused on balanced home-cooked meals, hydration, and maintaining electrolyte levels, especially during peak summer. “I think I’ve always been an adrenaline junkie. I embrace the unknown. Where’s the fun if you know how your story ends?” she said.

Shanay Shah, 34, an advocate at the Bombay High Court, also defied the odds. Despite his demanding job, he completed three Olympic-distance triathlons and two full marathons. An asthmatic, Shah drew strength from the doubters. “Asthma became my driving force. People said it was dangerous, but that only fueled my determination,” he said.

His preparation included strict, coach-curated training and a diet of home-cooked meals, juices, and protein. His typical week included two runs, two bike rides, two swims, and a strength session. “Endurance events test your mental strength,” Shah said. “You have to understand the science behind the sport, stay patient, and replicate training sessions on race day.”

For Akshay Aiyar, 32, running is all about consistency. He has participated in events like VDHM Delhi, TCSW10 Bangalore, and TMM Mumbai. Aiyar focuses on a 10–16-week training block, running four to five times a week, and prioritizes protein intake. He trains early in the morning to beat Mumbai’s heat and traffic. “Showing up every day is the most important thing,” he said.

Dalip Singh Sabharwal, Bicycle Mayor, began running at 32 in 2017. Inspired by senior citizens completing the Delhi Half Marathon, he trained creatively, running 21.1 km in just 40 days. “I walked to work every morning, alternating between walking, jogging, and running. Evenings were dedicated to running for one to two hours,” Sabharwal said. His advice for beginners? “Resist peer pressure, focus on your individual goals, and listen to your body. Fitness is not just physical but mental too.”

These athletes are not just competing—they are redefining what it means to push limits, inspiring others to take on their own challenges.