The early morning air of Marine Drive, tinged with salt and city sounds, has seen thousands of runners fly past over the years — but few have shown up with the kind of consistency, resilience, and quiet joy that Kaushik Panchal brings every time his feet hit the pavement.
In 2004, when the very first Mumbai Marathon was flagged off, Kaushik was there. What he didn’t know then was that this would spark a streak of over two decades of running the same race — year after year, without fail. It wasn’t a trend for him. It was a commitment, a calling.
“Bhag Kaushik Bhag” – The Joy That Fuels the Journey
Kaushik’s running journey began not with a finish line in sight, but with a feeling — a deep-seated love for the movement, the exploration, and the simplicity of putting one foot in front of the other. For him, running wasn’t about medals. It was about moments.
He’s travelled across India chasing this joy — not in search of speed, but of stories, of sunrise trails, of community and connection. “My love for running and exploring the joy of running at different locations across India keeps me going,” he says, his words echoing the soul of a true runner.
A Week in His Shoes
If you thought experience means taking it easy, think again.
Kaushik trains with intention and balance. Four days a week are dedicated to running. Two to strength training. One day is sacred for rest — and even that includes pranayama, the yogic art of breathwork, to keep the body and mind aligned. It's a routine that blends discipline with wisdom, proving that longevity in sport doesn’t come from pushing harder — it comes from training smarter.
From Setback to Comeback
Like any seasoned runner, Kaushik has had his fair share of setbacks. One of the toughest was a right foot fracture caused by a bike accident. It sidelined him for three months — a long pause in a life defined by movement.
“Coming back to my original running form was quite challenging,” he admits. But come back he did — not just physically, but mentally stronger. That kind of return isn’t just about healing bones. It’s about heart. And Kaushik has plenty of that.
The Voice That Doesn’t Let Him Quit
Even on the days when the bed is warm and motivation low, Kaushik laces up. Why?
Because running is part of who he is.
It’s not about being the fastest. It’s about showing up. “Keep running and inspiring more people even after the age of 55+” — that’s his dream. And from the way he’s going, it’s more a promise than a wish.
“Go Slow. Trust Your Coach.”
For beginners, Kaushik offers advice rooted in patience: Go slow. Believe in your coach. Follow a structured way of training. It’s simple, but powerful — and it's what separates short-lived enthusiasm from a lifetime of progress.
He emphasizes rest and recovery as much as workouts. That mindset, often overlooked, is part of what’s kept him running strong for over 20 years.
Sorgen in His Stride
Kaushik first came across Sorgen at the Satara Marathon Expo — and since then, their leg compression sleeves have become a staple in his training and recovery.
For a runner who’s weathered races, injuries, and everything in between, finding tools that support the journey without shouting for attention is key. Sorgen fits right into Kaushik’s world: quiet, effective, built for endurance.
Still Running, Still Rising
If Kaushik’s life were a movie, he’d call it “Bhag Kaushik Bhag” — a nod not just to his running, but to the unshakable joy with which he approaches life.
At 55+, he’s not slowing down. He’s evolving, inspiring, and reminding us all that age is just a number, but attitude is everything.
Follow his journey of joy and endurance on Instagram: @runnersacademy
About Sorgen Spotlight
Each week we shine a light on runners who inspire us to lace up, learn, and live better. Stay tuned for more real stories, real sweat, and the science-backed gear that keeps our community moving.
Comments
I am taking training from Kaushik Sir since march 2020.He is a very good coach n very down to earth person. I never did any kind of run or marathon before but under his proper guidance and training now I am a marathon runner.
Thank you kaushik sir for your guidance, and systematic training 🙏
He is my coach, and truly the best one I could ever ask for. I have been training under him for the last 10 years. I started from zero, and today I am able to run marathons because of his guidance. His motto is: “Run injury-free, start slow, finish strong.”
His systematic and scientific training approach can transform anyone into a marathon runner. Thank you Kaushik sir for everything.