Runner’s World+ Member: Nick Fung
Nick is a Runner’s World+ member. Join him and thousands of others chasing their goals with day-by-day training plans, expert advice from editors and coaches, and unlimited digital access. We regularly feature members online and in print!
Running was never a big part of my fitness journey but more so a leisurely hobby. The first few marathons I ran, I didn’t train and looked at it from a sole purpose of completion. Qualifying for Boston was never a realistic goal of mine until I ran a 3:09 in Paris. I thought if I put myself through a training program dedicated to a goal in mind, maybe it’ll be feasible. 18 training weeks later and missing one day due to illness (don’t drink Mexico City tap water), I clocked a 2:55 in Berlin. That was the turning point for me as a runner. I know this sport will follow me for as long as my body allows me to. Running has become a lifestyle more than it is exercise. It’s my meditation, my natural boost of endorphins, my alone time after a long work day. I love the metrics that come with running and being able to see gradual improvement is highly motivating. Running is such a privilege and I’m grateful for what it’s brought to my life, so much that I’ve become certified as a RRCA coach in order to share my love of running with others willing to learn.
I had so many questions when it came to running when I took part in my first marathon training program. Every question I googled led me to a RW article with answers that resulted in educating myself into an overall better runner.
I learned so much about myself and my personality through my experiences of running. Running tests your limits, mental capacity, willpower, and self discipline. A question I like to ask myself is, what is it that you’re capable of doing when no one’s watching? Running is an individual battle more than anything. In addition, the runner’s high is wildly underrated. There’s something about getting lost in your thoughts and being able to run miles on miles at ease that is so addicting. Also, eating guilt-free carbs.
My go-to route is running along the East River in Manhattan wrapping under the Financial District up the West Side Highway into Central Park. If I’m feeling good up until then, the infamous rolling hills in Central Park. Running along the water in Manhattan with the coastal breeze is an experience and views of different neighborhoods, bridges, people, and dogs allows my mind to chill and observe.
NormaTec compression sleeves. Recovery first; I’m not getting any younger.
Although I’m allergic to avocados, my typical pre-run meal is avocado toast. The pain of running typically masks the pain that comes with allergies.
Currently it’s a 2:45 marathon, but completing an ultra and the six world majors (halfway there) would be a dope accomplishment.
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