Kerala doctor turns 'Ironman,' training amid long-haul work shifts; shares his approach

Who in their right mind would go for a long-distance run? Many of us wonder upon noticing people who attempt marathons or similar endurance events. However, times are such that more and more amateur athletes around us are signing up for such races. The Ironman 70.3 triathlon held recently in Goa is a perfect example. From layman runners to politicians and doctors, many in the country took part in the race. Dr Manoop B, an assistant professor at the Government Medical College, Kottayam, was one among them. The 39-year-old completed the race in 8 hours and 30 minutes. Interestingly, he trained for and participated in the event while working extended shifts in his demanding career. We quiz the doctor on his experiences, why he attempts triathlons and who can give it a try.

Why is a triathlon worth it?
While swimming, cycling, and running are fitness routines that offer different health benefits, triathlons offer them all in one, says Dr Manoop. He explains, "Training for such events can also improve our core strength. In my case, as a surgeon, it's a critical trait as we have to be on our feet for hours." It also helps balance our calorie intake, particularly in states like Kerala, where the diet is primarily carb-intensive, the doctor says.

Interestingly, he began training for the event to cope with work stress. "Endurance events like triathlon also improve mental health and demand discipline, which is bound to reflect positively in other facets of our life," he observes.

Who can attempt Ironman?
There is no universal guideline on who can attempt an Ironman, says Dr Manoop. "However, those interested in participating must take the initiative to have their health evaluated, especially if they have conditions such as diabetes, heart conditions, asthma, or high cholesterol," he says. According to him, those over 40 should also consult their physician, as they may be more vulnerable to these risks. He points out that two participants passed away at the Ironman 70.3 in South Africa, cautioning against overestimating one's own capacity. He recommends that first-timers start slow and gradually build strength as the event approaches.

How did he prepare?
In preparation for the event, Dr Manoop says he adjusted his diet to tune his body for it. "In the first stage of the preparation, I reduced my calorie intake and focused on a protein-rich diet to build muscle. To support muscle recovery, I also took Magnesium Glycinate, branched-chain amino acids, and protein supplements," he explains. However, as the event approached, he began carb-loading, since the energy-intensive activity requires the intake of muscle and liver glycogen supplements. "The shift in diet was to train my body to the carb-heavy supplements that I would take during the event," he says.

His physical preparation also included training for about an hour every day and nine hours a week, switching between running and swimming as per his convenience. For swimming, he was trained by coach Mathew at the swimming pool of St Thomas School, Pala. "As for running, I am part of the Kottayam Runners club, a community that provided continuous support during my training. I trained in cycling at Lap One Sports Kochi, under the guidance of Solwin Tom," he says. The doctor also trained under Jibin at WeCare gym to build his core strength in preparation for the event. He stresses the importance of setting aside one day a week for recovery, citing the significant role of rest and sleep.

Training amid long shifts
As a surgeon, Dr Manoop confesses that squeezing in time for training amid demanding shifts was a challenge. "I used to train after work to avoid being tired during the day. At times, I used to leave after work only by 10 pm or 12 midnight. Regardless, I managed to find time for training whenever possible. More than the physical strain, it's the mental commitment that challenges you," Dr Manoop explains.

The support system
Dr Manoop underscores the importance of adequate support for such physically intensive activities, stating that there is no 'Ironman' without a family or a community supporting you. Further, he also highlighted the ample support extended by his superiors at the Kottayam Medical College - Dr Binny John, the HOD of General Surgery and Dr Santhosh Kumar R, his Unit Chief.

Dr Manoop hopes to continue his journey in triathlons, with his sights set on the Ironman 140.6, which entails a swim, bike, and run over 140.6 miles. "I hope to cross it off my wishlist by 2027," he says, signing off.