Tomorrow I am very excited to be running the Kyoto Marathon! :-)

Although I have ran many Ultra-Marathons (100km - 161km) I have actually only ran 3 marathons. I find that my body and training is well suited for very long distance running events in nature, and I tend to just enjoy exploring the cities and meeting people during marathons.

Kyoto Marathon in particular will be very special for me as this is the first city we ever visited in Japan many years ago, and is our favourite place in Japan (along with Okinawa!). You could call this our 'spiritual home', and the chance to explore it with 16,000 other running enthusiasts is exciting to say the least!

Yesteday was the day of the marathon exhibition, and in true Japanese spirit, there was so much to do and see, as well as so many free gifts! I get regularly asked why I feel so drawn to Japan and Asian culture in general and it is this Japanese hospitality which is a huge factor for me. I always feel so welcome and special here, and we have found that the Japanese people take care of each individual, ensuring their happiness and joy.

Whilst I am not trying (or expecting!) to win this marathon or break any records, I know for a fact that I will thoroughly enjoy the experience. Being able to enjoy my two favourite things in life - movement and exploration, whilst being in my favourite city on the planet is a blessing. 

Even though I have ran 161km races before, a marathon is still a very difficult event for me! Despite how often you compete, it never gets any easier! I have the utmost respect for anyone who trains hard and puts themselves through events such as sporting events, degrees/masters/PHD studies and other such things. 

These experiences require determination and hardwork to achieve a goal and a sense of satisfaction that is simply unobtainable by sitting on the couch and watching TV.

'The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step' - Lao Tzu

Have a lovely weekend everyone, and enjoy the fruits of your hard work!

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I am a highly experienced professional English teacher, Yoga Instructor, Tai Chi teacher, Nutrition Consultant and Personal Trainer from London, UK. I recently left London to work and travel around Japan on a Working Holiday Visa with my best friend and longtime girlfriend Ashley (who is also a teacher on Cafetalk : https://cafetalk.com/tutors/profile/?id=54542&lang=en ). We love sharing adventures travelling, teaching, exploring and understanding new cultures. We hope to speak with you soon!

Feel free to send me a message if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule a lesson at a time in which my schedule is not open. I will always do my best to accomodate every student.