Deepak Shukla on Running, Ultra-Marathons, and Life Goals | Running Tales

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Running Tales Podcast hosted by Craig Lewis, where we explore the lives, ambitions, and journeys of everyday athletes who go the distance to achieve their dreams. In this episode, we meet Deepak Shukla, a British-born Indian residing in Italy, who embodies the spirit of endurance and commitment. From his beginnings in the world of running to his achievements in ultra-marathons, Deepak’s story is one of passion, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of growth. Deepak’s Running Beginnings Deepak’s running story began when he was just 15 years old, discovering a passion for running in Black Park, Hillingdon. Over time, this passion led him to take on the renowned Chicago Marathon on an impulse—a decision that would change his life. With each race, he’s learned more about himself, the sport, and the power of persistence. A turning point in Deepak’s journey came when he started working with a running coach, a decision that has greatly improved his technique and endurance over the past 14 months. Through his experience, Deepak emphasizes the benefits of coaching, especially in balancing a busy life as a business owner and an athlete. Ultra-Running Adventures Not one to shy away from challenges, Deepak has embraced ultra-running with a particular focus on mountain running. He shares the raw reality of facing these grueling races, where terrain, gear, and weather all play critical roles. From a memorable moment of face-planting on a challenging trail to learning about essential gear, Deepak opens up about the ups and downs of ultra-running. These intense experiences have taught him the value of preparation and mental resilience, crucial aspects for anyone training for similar events. Race Day Strategies When it comes to tackling long-distance races, Deepak discusses the unique strategies that keep him motivated and focused, including the power of music. He shares how he integrates music, podcasts, and even prayer into his running routines. From playing curated playlists to listening to inspiring voices, these tools allow him to stay centered, pace himself, and push forward. His story highlights how every runner finds their rhythm differently, adding a personal touch to each run. Nutrition and Training Approaches Nutrition is a vital part of Deepak’s training. His approach is dynamic, experimenting with various strategies from minimal nutrition to strategically timed gels and solid foods during ultra-marathons. Deepak reflects on advice from elite athletes, stressing the importance of listening to one’s body and fine-tuning nutrition for endurance events. His experience reveals how nutrition impacts performance and serves as a reminder to aspiring athletes to customize their fueling strategies for maximum efficiency. Personal Growth and Future Aspirations Running has not only shaped Deepak’s physical strength but has been a catalyst for personal growth. As an athlete, entrepreneur, and Indian role model in ultra-running, he’s breaking boundaries and inspiring others to pursue their dreams. Looking forward, Deepak has big plans: conquering a 200-mile race and achieving a sub-3-hour marathon. Beyond the athletic goals, he shares his thoughts on family aspirations and how he envisions balancing his personal life with his endurance ambitions. Join us in this conversation with Deepak Shukla, where every mile tells a story, and each challenge pushes the boundaries of what’s possible. His journey is a testament to the everyday athlete's spirit, and his insights offer motivation for all who dare to dream big. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with fellow endurance athletes and stay tuned for more inspiring stories on the Running Tales Podcast.Run Tri Mag