On an Inspiring Journey of Fitness and Health at 68

An inspiring story of S.P. Eshwar (Khyaal Community Member)

“My name is S.P. Eshwar, and I am 68 years old. I was born in Mumbai and brought up in Kolkata. I completed B.Com. from Kolkata University. In 1981, after graduation, I got a job in the shipping industry and moved back to Bombay. Since then, I have been working in the shipping field in different departments. Over the years, I worked for three companies, and in 2012, I started my own logistics and shipping business. I continue to run this business till date and go to office thrice a week.

In 2005, there was a turning point in in my life when I was around 48 years old. I suffered from two heart blockages and had to get stents placed. This incident made me take my health seriously. In 2007, I joined a rehabilitation program at Asian Heart Institute. That is when I started going to the rehab gym and doing regular exercises.

Later, I was introduced to the Dream Run, a 5-7 km walk organized with marathon events. Slowly, I graduated to half marathons, starting around 2012. But due to a knee injury, I had to take a break for a few years. In 2016, I joined a group called "You Too Can Run" based in Bandra, Mumbai, formed mostly by people with heart issues. Our trainer is also a heart patient who has run more than 160 half marathons. Since then, I have been fully committed to fitness.

Now, I run three days a week - Tuesdays (6 km), Thursdays (8 km), and Saturdays (10+ km), along with stretching exercises. I had even set a goal of doing one half marathon every month, but again due to leg injuries, I had to reduce running for about 6 months. Thankfully, I resumed in the past year, though my timing has increased from 2.5 hours to over 3 hours. I am now working to improve it slowly. Just recently, I took part in a stair climbing challenge where I climbed around 1750 steps which is almost like going to the top of Burj Khalifa.

Diet-wise, I have made many changes. I avoid sugar and excess salt. Fried foods are almost gone from my plate. I have a simple diet now. I also practice intermittent fasting. I used to be 80 kg when my heart problem was discovered at age 45. Now I hover between 72 and 75 kg. I feel lighter and stronger.

I lost my wife in 2019. Despite personal loss and health challenges, I have found strength in routine and fitness. Apart from health benefits, this new lifestyle has given me immense joy and peace. Running gives me purpose. It helps clear my mind, keeps me energized, and boosts my emotional well-being. I never thought I would become a marathon runner after having heart blockages, but life surprises you if you stay committed.

Apart from running, I also focus on keeping my mind active. I regularly attend Khyaal’s Sudoku sessions, which keep my brain engaged and sharp. It is an excellent platform for seniors to stay busy, connected, and engaged in meaningful activities.

What keeps me going is not just personal satisfaction — it is the inspiration I offer to others. Over time, many people have come to me for advice. Some started running, some took up walking, and others began doing simple exercises. Some even laughed and said, “Now I’m running like you!” That makes me happy. I always tell people, “Don’t compete with anyone. Just complete your goal without injury.” That’s my motto. At 68, I am full of life and believe that it is still, full of possibilities.

One advice to fellow seniors is: Health is truly wealth, and it is never too late to start.” - S.P. Eshwar (Khyaal Community Member)