From the Author - "I had been thinking of covering her journey under my “Run Chronicles” blog for a while, but I kept putting it off. She’s already been invited to so many talks and interviews—what more could I add?
Still unsure, I finally dropped her a message sometime in December, thinking, What’s the worst that could happen? At most, she’d say no. 😊 So instead of debating whether I should do this or not, I just went ahead and asked her. That would have been the end of it if she had said no. But since I’m writing this now, you already know her answer! 😊
As sharp as she is on the running tracks, she’s equally humble and kind in person. We had a long, heartfelt conversation about her incredible running journey.
Taru Mateti: hardly needs an introduction, but it wouldn’t be fair to start without acknowledging the massive impact she has made in the world of running. She began her journey in her 50th year, and in the past 11 years, she has secured podium finishes in over 80 events! Incredible, right?"
Here’s a glimpse of what Taru Mateti has conquered:
161 km (100-miler Border Hell Race) – 1
100K Ultramarathons – 2
12-hour stadium runs – 3
Comrades Marathon – 2 (back-to-back)
80K Ultras – 2
75K Ultras – 1
65K Ultras – 1
60K Ultras – 1
50K Ultras – 10
12-hour road runs – 1
Full Marathons – 19
150+ races in the 25K/21K/10K category
Her transition from a 10K to a full marathon (FM) within a year was nothing short of remarkable! And she didn’t pick easy ones—she debuted at the Airtel Hyderabad Marathon and Tata Mumbai Marathon, both known for their tough inclines and challenging weather conditions.
A strong advocate for women’s safety and accessibility at running events, she actively pushes for better washroom and changing room facilities for women participants."
Awards & Recognitions
🏆 Featured in the Women’s Glory coffee table book (Pune edition) as one of 50 women achievers
🏆 V-Awards – Sports category
🏆 Inspiring Womanhood Awards – Champion category
🏆 Pune Women Leader Award
You can imagine what lies ahead if one page is dedicated just to the introduction. So, sit back, relax, keep your bottle of water with you, some munchies, and enjoy the read! 😊
How and when did you get into running?
Growing up, academics were my only focus—getting good marks and securing scholarships were everything besides participating in elocution and debate competitions. Coming from a humble background, education was everything for us. I hated physical training (PT) in school! I would always find an excuse to skip class and head to the library instead.
After marrying an Army officer, I started exploring different activities since he was away most of the time. I tried badminton, and walking, and later in my late 40s, I took up aerobics—but running was nowhere on my radar.
In the small gym that I worked out in my mid-forties, we often had internal competitions. In one such event, I didn’t perform well. So I kind of challenged myself that I will train and participate in a 10K run. This was in January 2013, and I told myself that by December 2013, I would run a 10K at PIM.
To be honest, I was never an outdoor person. I had tried basketball in school, but when they told me I had to trim my nails, I never went back. 😆 I never imagined I would run this much!
Then, in May 2013, I ran my first Half Marathon (HM) at the Hyderabad Marathon and clocked 2:05—securing a podium in my age category! I thought, “Wow, this is great! I didn’t even put in that much effort, and I’m getting so much in return. This is amazing!”
That’s when I learned about the Sub-2 Half Marathon. Determined, I ran another HM at PRBM (Pune Running Beyond Myself) after about a month and not only achieved my first Sub-2 finish but also secured 2nd place in my age category.
Winning podiums was exhilarating! It gave me a huge confidence boost and, surprisingly, I started enjoying the outdoors.
In 2013, I joined the Pune Marathoners Club, where Coach Michael trained us for free. When I approached him to join, he had one condition:
"If you want to train with the group, you have to do a Full Marathon."
I naively asked, "How much distance is a Full Marathon?" 😊
He casually replied, "42.2 km."
I was shocked! 42.2 km?! I couldn’t even wrap my head around running that distance. But he reassured me:
"Don’t worry, first we’ll do the Hyderabad HM. Then we’ll think about the FM."
One thing led to another, and before I knew it, my running journey had truly begun.
Looking back, if running had come to me earlier in life, I might not have done it or enjoyed it as much as I do now.
What led you to Ultra-running?
Two things I believe led me to ultra-running
First—I was running too fast, probably beyond my natural capability. Maybe my muscles weren’t developed enough, or perhaps the lack of proper strength training caught up with me. As a result, I kept getting injured. This meant I had to take frequent breaks—I'd run for 7-8 months in a year and spend the remaining staggered 4-5 months recovering.
My mentors advised me to slow down and I realized it helped me.
Second—In 2014, I first heard about ultrarunning and got intrigued. Back then, not many people in Pune were into ultras. When the first ultra event was announced, I asked my mentor if I could do it. His response? "Yes, you’ll enjoy it!" And he was right—I loved it!
It felt like a win-win. I liked the idea of running long distances with some walking in between. In a Full Marathon (FM), the thrill often comes from chasing Personal Bests (PBs). Otherwise, it’s mostly about running 42.2 km on roads, from one place to another.
Ultras, on the other hand, offer so much variety—different terrains, distances, and challenges. That’s what truly drew me in.
Having completed a 160 km race, are you considering even longer distances in the future?
Age is a factor, but the running community in India is evolving rapidly. Organizers are introducing longer distances, making the sport even more exciting and challenging.
After finishing the Hell Race 100 Miler, my immediate thought was—"What’s next? Maybe a 135-miler!" I was really hoping Hell Race would introduce it because I absolutely love that route. Though that hasn’t materialized yet, the good news is that White Sand Ultra is introducing a 135-mile race this March!
So, to answer your question in one word—Yes! 😊
What does your typical training cycle look like for ultramarathons?
For distances up to 100k, I’ve mostly followed my training plans. For instance, I trained independently for Pune Ultra. However, when preparing for my 100-miler, I realized it was a completely different ballgame. That’s when I consulted my good friend, Subham, fondly and reverently referred to as “guruji” from Hyderabad, who guided me with a structured plan.
My own training plan earlier for 100k was built upon my Comrades Marathon plan, which I had followed under Atul Godbole.
The approach was progressive overload, with: Three iterations over four weeks – gradually increasing mileage, peaking, and then pulling back.
Peak weekly mileage exceeding 100 km.
Every fourth week was a high-volume weekend – Saturday 10-20 km, Sunday 50-60 km.
Training terrain always depends on the race route.
For instance: In preparing for the Rohtang Epic run, I trained at Ooty Ultra. Regular hill training was key—Bopdev Ghats, Sinhagad, and multiple hill repeats.
I love hill training—it’s the perfect excuse to take walk breaks while climbing! 😆
How do you plan your annual running calendar? How many races do you typically participate in across different distances?
This is a tough one because, honestly, I don’t think I race anymore. In ultrarunning, I prefer calling them target runs rather than races. For example, while preparing for a 161 km run, my training cycle required a 75-85 km long run. Instead of doing it solo, I looked for an event that could serve as a supported training run—this is where races become part of my training plan rather than competition.
That’s how I found Khadakwasla Ultra—perfectly timed to fit into my training block for other ultra events. While I did 53 km at KU and even got a podium, I wasn’t racing. I just needed a long run under race-day conditions. Similarly, when I needed something longer, I opted for a 12-hour stadium run in Hyderabad.
So, I don’t plan “races” per se. Instead, I pick my longest and toughest run of the year, and then structure my training around supported events. A few years ago, I used to do a lot of solo long runs, but I’ve realized supported ultras are way better. They take away the logistical hassles so I can focus purely on my run!
What does your post-race recovery process look like? How long does it take you to bounce back after an ultra?
After a really long ultra, I make sure to combine it with a vacation. All the walking, sightseeing, and even climbing up forts—like Jaisalmer Fort—serve as active recovery.
Here’s my usual post-ultra-recovery timeline:
3 days post-race – Brisk walk to loosen up
5 days post-race – A short run to test recovery
Yoga & stretches – To aid mobility and prevent stiffness
But recovery also depends on what’s next on the calendar.
For example, in one year, I ran at Tata Mumbai Marathon (42.2 km), and just a week later, ran 80 km at the Kundalika Ultra. Since another ultra was planned soon after these, I had to keep training rather than fully resting.
So, the recovery process is always a balance between rest and prepping for the next challenge!
How do strength training and yoga complement your running performance?
If I could advise my younger self, it would be to start strength training much earlier!
I always had tight hips and shoulders, which affected my running form. Strength training changed that—it gave me power, improved my posture, and helped prevent injuries. Once I saw my form improving, I fell in love with the process.
Yoga has been equally important. It keeps me flexible, helps with mobility, and aids recovery after intense training. These days, I practice yoga 3-4 times a week and ST 1-2 times. Even runners who say they don’t do yoga perform yoga-based stretches after runs!
I’ve always loved learning new things. Earlier, it was academics—now, it’s all about running and fitness. In a way, I feel like I’m living my second childhood! 😊
If you had just 10 minutes a day for a workout, what two or three exercises would be your go-to choices?
If I had just 10 minutes a day for a workout, I'd break it into three sessions throughout the day to stay active. Here’s what I would do:
Legs & Core (Morning):
Squats, lunges, and deadlifts for hamstrings.
Lying Single-leg raises or oblique crunches for the core.
Core & Push-ups (Midday):
For the core: simple squats or other exercises like lying leg raises.
For the upper body: Push-ups or burpees (I have a love-hate relationship with push-ups 😅). If I do weights, I’d switch to rows, chest presses or triceps extensions.
Upper Body (Evening):
I’d finish with push-ups, or if I’m feeling more weight-focused, I’d do chest flys or triceps extensions.
I also like to hang from my bar handle for 30-40 seconds and do some crunches while hanging.
It’s not about doing extraordinary things—it’s about making these small moments count. You can do them anytime, you just need the willpower to make it a normal part of your day!
Ultra running is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. What mental strategies do you use to prepare for long-distance races?
For me, it all comes down to training. During my training, I keep talking to myself, reminding myself that what I practice will translate into the race. One mental trick I use is counting my steps, which helps take my mind off the race itself. In ultra running, you often do a run-walk strategy, so I run 800 steps and walk 100. It’s helpful during the latter part of the race when fatigue sets in, and I tend to take longer walk breaks. Counting helps me break it down—counting to 100 eight times, with two steps as one. When I hit 800 steps, I know it's time for a walk break, and that keeps me going.
I also like to sing to myself; my favorite ones are "Yahan Ke Hum Sikandar" and "Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke." It boosts my spirit, and I remind myself, “I’ve trained for this,” or “I can do this.” If I face a tough climb or a challenging moment, I remind myself that I’ve done something similar before. Sometimes, when I’m pushing through tough parts, I even say, "Look, I’ve told everyone I’ll do this, so I have to!" When I went to Vaishno Devi, I heard people chanting "Pauri Pauri Chadhde Jao, Jai Mata Di Karde Jao" as they walked, and that chant stuck with me. During a run, surprisingly I found myself chanting the same thing, and it helped me keep moving forward.
Since you are quite popular runners, others would come and strike up a conversation. Does that help to distract?
For a very short time it does, but I am a solo runner. I’m not used to talking while running. I remember during the recent Federal Bank Pune Run, two youngsters joined me and started asking a lot of questions. They insisted on running with me, and surprisingly, I was able to keep up with them happily chatting away. Normally, if someone tries to run with me, I tell them to go ahead because I prefer running at my own pace.
I’ve never really enjoyed running with others while chatting, but I think over time, I’ve become a better runner, and I’m starting to feel more comfortable with it.
Injuries are common in ultrarunning. How do you handle them, and what are some of the most frequent injuries ultrarunners face?
Injuries are part of ultrarunning, but thankfully, I’ve been lucky with not having many while training for ultras, unlike when I used to train fast for shorter runs. During events, though, I do experience some minor discomfort like toe blisters, which I still get even now. I also have a dropped arch on my left foot, so I wear insoles, but it still hurts. When it gets uncomfortable, I try acupressure, and if it’s too painful, I rest. Otherwise, I usually run through the pain. It actually started during my Comrades training, but surprisingly, it didn’t hurt during the event itself.
Last year, after the Sayadri 80K, I developed tendonitis in my left internal and external obliques, which I suspect was caused by a combination of yoga and running overuse, forcing me to take a two-month break. But overall, I feel like I have fewer injuries in ultrarunning.
Is swimming part of your recovery?
Don’t laugh at me but I am scared of cold water. I prefer cycling as part of my recovery when dealing with injuries.
If not running, what other passion do you think you would have pursued?
If not running, I would have definitely continued with aerobics and badminton. I started playing badminton a bit late, but I got really into it, especially within the army circle, where I used to participate in internal tournaments and win. I’ve even played in corporate championships, and for many years, I was the women’s champion at Cybage. Badminton and aerobics are both passions of mine, and I also love spinning. So, if I weren’t running, it wouldn’t be just one thing—I’d be pursuing multiple activities like these.
What are some must-have running gear and accessories for ultra runners? Any favorites that you swear by?
For ultra running, there are a few must-have pieces of gear that I swear by. First, a hydration pack is absolutely essential—without it, running long distances just isn’t possible. I also rely on my Garmin watch, not necessarily to monitor pace or speed, but mainly to track time and assess how I’m doing post-run.
Compression socks are another must-have, and one of my unique gear choices is cutting the toe part of my shoes. I do this because I get blisters, and with my bunions, it’s the only way I can run long distances without pain. I swear by these modified shoes; without this adjustment, I wouldn’t be able to run ultra distances at all.
Nutrition is critical for endurance athletes. What does your nutrition plan before, during, and after run look like?
Before the run:
For runs up to 15k, I don’t eat anything special.
For a 21k, I’ll have a small banana.
For distances 42k and beyond, I prefer a small banana along with bread and peanut butter, or sometimes pieces of sweet potato.
During the run:
I rely on gels and dates for energy. After the first 7k, I have 2 dates.
After the next 7k, I switch to gels. I alternate between dates and gels to keep my energy steady.
Every 12k, I take a salt tablet to prevent cramping.
For hydration, I rely on water and electrolytes from aid stations.
After the Sahyadri Hill Ultra, I realized I needed to drink more water. My urine was red, which scared me, and it was the first and last time that happened. Since then, I have made sure to drink more frequently and increase my water intake during the run.
Post-run:
If my run is over 30k, I’ll have a protein shake in water right after mixed with BCAA. Then, I’ll eat some carbs—usually bread with an omelet or idli in addition to the protein.
What advice would you give to someone looking to transition from marathons to ultras?
Know your goals: If you’re someone who loves speed and is young enough to focus on that, then sticking to marathons might be a better choice. But, if you’re interested in ultrarunning, then be prepared for a slower pace. Unless you’re a professional or elite runner, ultras require you to embrace slower, steady progress. Again, this is totally my belief.
Manage your time: Training for ultras requires a big-time commitment. You’ll need to dedicate approximately 6-7 hours on weekends for your long runs.
Strength training: A key component of ultrarunning is strength training. Make sure you’re not just focusing on running but also building your muscles besides yoga or regular stretching and foam rolling.
What’s one myth about ultra running that you’d like to debunk?
One common myth about ultrarunning is that ultrarunners only walk. While it's true that walking is a part of ultrarunning, especially during longer distances or challenging terrains, ultrarunners run a lot too.
Family Support and Managing Time While Working in a Corporate
I’ve been able to balance ultrarunning while working at Cybage, and I believe it's all about proper time management and time boxing. When you're doing one activity, focus entirely on it. Plan your activities with time slots, and stick to them. One thing I love about running is that it provides clarity and time to think. Often, during long runs, I'll find myself thinking about emails or tasks I need to get back to, and I use that time effectively.
My colleagues and team members were incredibly supportive, often hyping me up and celebrating my running achievements. They would publish articles about my journey and the organization even put up a large hoarding about work-life balance with my picture. Their encouragement made all the difference.
But it’s also about getting help. In the beginning, I did everything myself, including all the cooking. But after long workdays and intense training, I realized I just didn't have the time or energy left. So, I hired a cook, which allowed me to focus more on my running and work.
Ultimately, family support is key. It makes the journey much smoother, and the pride they feel in your accomplishments is priceless. My daughter, while not particularly inclined towards running, shows her support in her own way when I’m with her in Melbourne. My mother-in-law is incredibly proud and loves to share my running stories with her friends. My mom knows about my history of falling in my runs and always remembers to bless and caution me the night before every event and sends up a prayer while I am running! And Chandan is my solemate! Having that support system behind you is invaluable and truly makes all the hard work worth it.
One-word answers –
1) What’s your superfood? – Sweet Potato
2) What’s your ultimate comfort food after a long run? -Khichadi before the run and Bread Omelet after the run
3) Morning run or night run? - Night run
4) One race you’d run again and again? The Hell Race
5) Toughest race you’ve ever done? The Malnad Ultra. The route markers were not done properly that year due to which many runners were getting lost and aid stations were missing after the 65km. It rained too the previous days so the trail was all slushy.
6) One word to describe the feeling at the start line? Anticipation
7) One word to describe the feeling at the finish line? Exhilaration, feeling on top of the world
8) Pre-race ritual you can’t skip? Going to the washroom.
9) Your worst race-day mistake? At the India Backyard Ultra – Since it was a new format, I didn’t plan my nutrition well.
10) Favorite running gear you can’t live without? Hand-held bottle hydration bag
11) What’s your guilty pleasure snack? Chaat and street foods.
12) Best running advice you’ve ever received? – one of my mentors had said – “If you are going for an event, you must train for it. Don’t go without training. if you want to run fast, you have to train fast.”
Runner - Taru Mateti
Insta Handle - @tarumateti
Pune
Beautifully crafted article - really captures the essence of what Taru is 😍👌