On a warm Mumbai morning, before the city had truly woken up, Santosh Kanojia was already on his third kilometer. The streets were still sleepy, but his stride was steady, rhythmic — powered not just by training, but by something deeper: purpose. What began as short sprints on his school field had, over the years, evolved into 50-kilometer ultra runs and a life built around coaching and inspiring others. Santosh didn’t just choose running — running, in a way, chose him.
“Destiny Chooses You”
That’s how Santosh describes it. A lifelong athlete, his early years were filled with 100m, 400m, and 800m sprints, along with long jump events through school and college. But it wasn’t until his time in the NCC that his running transformed. It began with 5K runs in 2012, then 10Ks by 2014. Each year, the distance crept further. By 2016, the road had led him into the world of marathons, and soon after, ultra-distances.
But Santosh wasn’t content just running — he wanted to bring others with him on the journey.
Building a Community, One Runner at a Time
In 2018, Santosh founded STAR RUNNERS & FITNESS GROUP, based in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, where he stepped into the role of coach and mentor. Since then, he has trained over 1,000 runners — shaping their journeys with patience, passion, and science-backed knowledge.
His mission is clear: make runners out of anyone willing to try. And not just runners, but smart, injury-free runners. He emphasizes the fundamentals — training under certified coaches, understanding posture, pronation, foot landing, hydration, nutrition, and customized running plans.
“Take time to learn slowly,” he says. “That’s how you avoid injuries and keep going.”
Academic & Coaching Credentials
Santosh’s foundation in fitness is not just built on experience — it’s built on education:
🎓 B.Sc. (Bachelor of Science)
🎓 B.P.Ed. (Bachelor of Physical Education)
This dual academic background allows him to blend scientific training principles with practical, real-world coaching.
“My First Marathon Changed Everything”
His personal milestones speak for themselves:
🏁 5K – 18 minutes
🏁 10K – 40 minutes
🏁 21K (Half Marathon) – 1:40
🏁 42K (Full Marathon) – 3:57
🏁 50K Ultra – 5:19
His breakthrough race? The Navy Half Marathon in 2017, where he clocked 1:40 in his first official timed event. From there, his journey accelerated:
✅ Tata Mumbai Marathon (Full) – 3:57
✅ Tata Ultra 35K & 50K
✅ Nature Trail Run – 35K
✅ Procam Slam finisher
Pushing Through Pain, One Step at a Time
Even elite runners face setbacks — and Santosh is no exception. Muscle fatigue, mental slumps, injury niggles — he’s battled them all. But what keeps him moving?
“Watching runners at marathons keeps me going,” he shares. “That energy is everything.”
His passion for the sport is matched only by his commitment to helping others succeed.
What’s in a Week?
Santosh’s weekly routine is a smart blend of:
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Endurance runs
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Tempo sessions
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Fartlek workouts
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Strength training & recovery
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Hydration, rest, and mobility work
And when it comes to gear, he’s very specific.
Enter: Sorgen Compression
Santosh was introduced to Sorgen Compression Socks through the running community — and they’ve since become an essential part of his training toolkit. Whether during intense intervals or long post-run recovery sessions, he trusts Sorgen for the support, comfort, and injury prevention they provide.
“I always recommend proper socks and hydration — it makes all the difference,” he says.
With over a thousand athletes relying on his guidance, that recommendation carries serious weight.
Eyes on the Horizon
Santosh’s dream is as ambitious as his training:
To take on the Comrades Marathon, the Hell Ultra, and even an Ironman someday. These aren’t just races — they’re tests of endurance, character, and heart.
And for every new runner just starting out, his message is clear:
“Keep smiling and run. Start small. Learn everything slowly. Injuries are avoidable if you do it right.”
Recognitions & Awards
🏆 Feb 2023 – Vocational Award by the District Governor of Navi Mumbai
🏆 2024 – Inspirational Icon: Male of the Year Award
These honors are a testament to not just his athletic success, but his impact as a mentor, motivator, and community builder.
If His Life Were a Movie...
It would be called:
“You Never Choose Your Destiny — Destiny Chooses You.”
Because Santosh didn’t chase this life. He grew into it — and now, he’s helping others do the same.
Follow His Journey:
📍 Instagram: @coach_santosh1704
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.
