Training for the Izmir Marathon

Pınar has never run more than five kilometers in her life, but three months ago she decided to sign up for the Izmir Marathon. Since that day, her whole routine has changed completely.

Every morning at six o'clock, Pınar puts on her running shoes and goes to the seaside path along the Kordon. She has followed a strict training plan that her coach has prepared for her. "I have never been so disciplined about anything before," she admits with a tired smile.

In the beginning, Pınar found running extremely difficult. Her legs hurt, and she often wanted to give up. However, she has slowly increased her distance week by week. "I have run ten kilometers without stopping for the first time last week," she says proudly. "Three months ago, that seemed impossible."

Training hasn't been easy for her family either. Pınar's husband has had to take over some household tasks, and her children have learned to make their own breakfast on training days. "They have supported me completely," Pınar says gratefully. "Without them, I wouldn't have continued this far."

Last weekend, Pınar joined her first official practice race, a ten-kilometer event before the real marathon. She finished in just under one hour, faster than she had ever imagined. Her coach has told her that she is ready for the full marathon distance now.

Pınar has also met many new friends through her running group. They have shared difficult training mornings and have celebrated small victories together. "This experience has taught me that I am stronger than I thought," she says.

With only two weeks left before the marathon, Pınar has started feeling both nervous and excited. "I have worked so hard for this moment," she says. "Whatever happens on race day, I have already won something important: I have discovered a new version of myself."