My Live Active Misogi: The Journey to My First Marathon
My name is Aiden, and I work at Live Active Leisure. 2026 is the year I decided to push myself further than I ever have before. I wanted one defining achievement, something that would challenge me, change me, and set the tone for the year ahead. That idea led me to the Japanese concept of misogi: choosing one incredibly difficult physical or mental challenge to break out of your comfort zone and build resilience. For me, that challenge became the London Marathon.
Why I Signed Up
Before this, I wasn’t a runner. I enjoy using the facilities at Dewars Centre had completed the occasional 5K, but a marathon felt like something other people did, people who were faster, fitter, or more experienced. That was exactly why I chose it. I wanted to prove to myself that I could take on something big, something that pushed me, and grow through the process.
My Training Journey So Far
Training has been a mix of excitement, learning, and steady progress. Joining a local run club has made a huge difference. Running with others helps me maintain a good pace, and it has become a great way to meet new people and stay motivated. Being part of a group brings a sense of community that makes even the tougher sessions feel worthwhile.
Why I Chose Live Active
As a member of staff, Dewars Centre has become a key part of my routine. Having access to treadmills means I can stay consistent with my training on days when I want a change of scenery or want to focus on specific aspects of my running, such as pacing or incline work.
The strength and conditioning facilities have also been essential. Building strength is a crucial part of marathon preparation, and having a wide range of equipment in one place makes it easy to support my running with the right training. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and always happy to chat about running, which is incredibly helpful when I need advice or reassurance.
Looking Ahead to April 2026
With the London Marathon set for the 26th of April, my focus now is on gradually increasing my distance and staying consistent. Every week brings a new milestone, and every run, even the challenging ones, is a step closer to the start line.
This journey is my misogi: a challenge that is pushing me physically and mentally, helping me grow, and giving me a sense of purpose for the year. With the support of Live Active, my run club, and a lot of determination, I am excited to see how far I can go.
