It didn’t begin with a finish line. Or a stopwatch. Or a coach shouting split times across a track.
It began, quite unexpectedly, in Taru Mateti’s 50th year — with a simple 10K.
But something happened during that run. A switch flipped. And what started as a chance challenge turned into a lifelong passion.
Today, Taru isn’t just a runner. She’s a force — one that moves with discipline, intention, and joy, navigating roads, trails, and treacherous mountain passes, all on her own terms.
“Start slow. And stay steady.”
That’s not just the advice she gives to new runners. It’s the principle that guides her every stride.
In a typical week, you’ll find Taru running four times — sometimes more if she’s preparing for a major event. Her schedule includes easy runs and one long run, peppered occasionally with hill repeats or long intervals. But it’s not about speed for her. It’s about presence. Process. The slow build of strength, one step at a time.
And even when her calendar is packed or the weather unforgiving, her shoes still find the road. “Discipline and the intent to stay on track with my training plan — that’s what keeps me lacing up even when I’d rather stay in bed,” she says.
From fast starts to high-altitude hurdles
Taru’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. “During marathons, I sometimes start too fast and burn out later,” she admits. Her solution? A conscious effort to slow down in the early kilometers — even starting at the back of the pack to let pace settle naturally.
But it's during ultra runs, especially at high altitudes, that her body is truly tested. “On the mountains, with low oxygen levels, I find my body starts to bend to one side,” she explains. It’s an issue she’s still learning to navigate. For now, walking instead of running helps ease the pressure.
Every obstacle becomes a lesson. Every struggle, a reason to adapt.
Dreams with altitude
Taru’s milestones aren’t measured by medals. They’re measured by meaning.
She recently completed the legendary High 5s: five full marathons over five consecutive days, crossing five passes between Manali and Leh. It’s the kind of feat that requires not just physical grit, but mental and emotional resolve. And yet, for Taru, it’s only the beginning.
“My dream moves from one major run to another,” she says. “I’m just waiting for the next one to come to me.”
Her advice to new runners? Stop comparing. Start enjoying.
“Start slow, don’t compare yourself to others. Pay attention to strength training, warmups, stretches, nutrition, recovery, and sleep. Follow a proper plan — and above all, enjoy your runs.”
In a world that glorifies finish times and fitness trackers, Taru’s voice is a refreshing reminder to run not for numbers, but for joy. For strength. For self.
Bright sleeves, brighter spirit
Taru first came across Sorgen online, and later received a trial sleeve — a moment she remembers with warmth. “I love the Sorgen compression sleeves,” she says. “They help prevent cramps during my long runs and support quick recovery. Plus, they come in such lovely, bright colors.”
It’s a small detail — but one that brings brightness to her journey, both literally and emotionally. (Although, as she cheekily points out, “I still don’t have the orange one!”)
Age no bar. Passion, limitless.
If Taru’s life were a movie, she says it would be titled “Age No Bar.”
Because that’s exactly what she lives by — a belief that no number should hold you back from trying something new, from chasing something wild, from discovering what you’re truly capable of.
“Just because one is a specific age,” she says, “one shouldn’t hesitate to learn new things… cautiously.”
Taru Mateti is more than a runner. She’s a reminder that it’s never too late to begin, never too early to dream, and always the right time to keep moving forward.
Follow her runs, reflections, and relentless spirit: @tarumateti
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.
