Transform Your Life: How Running Empower Women to Embrace a Healthier Lifestyle

Hyderabad: A new trend is emerging among women in the city: running. What began with simple curiosity has now grown into a movement where women embrace running not just for fitness, but as a joyful lifestyle. Women from various backgrounds and ages are putting on their shoes, running in parks, and forming new friendships along the way.

Srilatha Narsin, a 48-year-old homemaker, experienced her calling during a reunion in early 2023. A friend mentioned her success with half marathons, sparking Srilatha’s long-held desire to run. She started the Hyderabad Runners group and joined the LB Nagar Runners. Through the ‘Couch to 5K’ program, she completed her first 5K race in February. Since then, she has achieved impressive milestones, even tackling a 35-km run at the Tata Luna Run.

Srilatha believes that running is vital for women over 45. She pointed out how running can help manage the challenges of perimenopause and menopause. “Running brings balance. It improves time management and boosts mental strength,” she noted.

Another inspiring runner is Vinoda Reddy, a yoga instructor who found running to be a game-changer for her thyroid issues. After her diagnosis in 2019, she shifted her lifestyle and decided against solely relying on medication. Initially, she joined a gym, but motivation was tough to maintain. Then, she set a personal goal for a year of daily workouts.

“What began as a five-day challenge turned into a year-long commitment,” Vinoda shared proudly. She started running indoors during the pandemic, gradually improving from barely running for a minute to completing her first 5K in the fields near her home. Now, she has lofty goals like finishing the Delhi Full Marathon and the Tata Mumbai Full Marathon. “Running transformed my life,” she declared.

Vasundhara Koppula, 37, is also making waves. A wheelchair user due to polio, she is a passionate entrepreneur and disability rights activist. She participates in marathons and walkathons to promote inclusivity. Since 2014, she has dedicated herself to community development.

Vasundhara also joined the India Saree Run, an event celebrating traditional attire. “I love wearing sarees, but there aren’t many adaptive clothing options for wheelchair users,” she explained. Her participation helps raise awareness about the need for fashionable and functional clothing for all.