It’s 5 a.m., and while most of the city sleeps, Manoj Yadav is already lacing up. The streets are silent, save for the steady rhythm of his breath and footfalls—a tempo honed over two decades of grit, service, and running shoes worn thin by purpose. For Manoj, every run is more than a workout—it’s a continuation of a life built on discipline, resilience, and silent determination.
Long before medals and marathons, Manoj was just a schoolboy in Uttar Pradesh chasing something more than podiums. “I started running in 2004, back in school, to join the defence services,” he recalls. “I didn’t have any fancy shoes or gear—just a goal and a ground to train on.”
The Road to the Army Was Paved with Miles
From district school events to state-level championships, Manoj’s dedication didn’t go unnoticed. After earning medals for Uttar Pradesh, his perseverance earned him a spot in the Indian Army in 2013, joining through the coveted sports quota.
“The army taught me how to endure, to manage training even with duties pulling you in all directions,” he shares. “Somehow, I made it work.”
Even while serving, Manoj never let go of his running dream. He kept showing up—on duty, on the track, and eventually, on national stages. Most recently, in April 2024, he clinched a silver in the 10,000 meters and a bronze in the 5,000 meters at the 43rd National Games held in Mumbai—representing Karnataka in the Masters category.
“Every Run Is a Message to Myself That I Can”
For Manoj, running isn’t just physical—it’s deeply emotional. “There were times when it was hard to even afford shoes. But I still ran. I wanted to prove something—not to the world, but to myself.”
These early challenges shaped his unshakable mindset. Even now, on the days when fatigue whispers its tempting call, Manoj finds a reason. “To stay fit, to inspire others, to honor the discipline I learned in the Army. That’s what keeps me going.”
Weekly Miles, Strong Will
His current routine is a testament to that resolve. Manoj trains five days a week, with long runs on Sundays and two dedicated strength and core sessions. Clocking over 100 kilometers each week, he prepares for ultramarathons like most people prepare for weekend chores.
He’s already completed 77 races, from 5Ks to full marathons, and ultra distances like 100 km, 65 km, and 50 km. His upcoming goals? A 100 km journey from Pune to Baramati, and the high-altitude 72 km Spiti Valley run in Himachal Pradesh.
“Start Slow. Be Consistent. And Never Skip Recovery.”
Ask him what advice he’d give to a beginner, and his tone softens—like a mentor guiding a younger version of himself.
“Start slowly and at a comfortable pace. Increase your mileage gradually. Hydrate well. And more than anything, stay consistent and disciplined. Make time for recovery. And don’t skip strength and core training.”
A Moment with Sorgen
Manoj’s path first crossed with Sorgen at the Thane Creek Marathon in September 2024, where he was pacing the 10K bus. “At the expo, the team gave me a pair of calf sleeves. That was my first experience—and since then, I haven’t looked back.”
Now, he uses Sorgen gear at almost every race and long run. “It’s become a part of my journey. I recommend it to many people. It’s not just comfort—it’s support that stays with you, kilometer after kilometer.”
“Running Is My Way of Giving Back”
To Manoj, running is more than medals. “I want to win for my nation, yes. But I also want to inspire people who’ve never run, never believed they could.”
And he means it. Whether it’s leading pace groups, mentoring young runners, or showing up at events with the calm confidence of someone who’s endured much—Manoj runs with purpose.
If His Life Were a Movie?
He smiles at the question. “Miles with Manoj,” he says with a quiet laugh. “Because every mile has shaped me.”
Follow his discipline, determination, and daily miles: @fitistan_captain_yadav3386
About Sorgen Spotlight
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.
