Six months ago, Ulysse could not even run 10K. Today, he is an Amsterdam Marathon finisher. He shares the story of his race and looks back on his RunMotion Coach training journey.
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How did your Amsterdam Marathon go?
For a first marathon, the race went pretty well. I was sharing this goal with my friend Karl, who encouraged me to get a race bib as he was already registered for the event. Our shared target was to complete the marathon in under 4 hours. Unfortunately, he picked up an injury two and a half weeks before race day and could not maintain the pace, so I ran alone from the 10K mark onwards. I managed to stay very consistent with my pacing throughout the effort, even though I experienced muscle pain, especially towards the end of the course. I was able to manage it, and I officially became an Amsterdam Marathon finisher in 3:54:09. Goal achieved.
Beyond the physical performance, this marathon was an incredibly emotional moment for me. Six months ago, I had never run consistently, not even once a week, and the longest distance I had ever covered was just 10K. Running also came as a release for me during a period when I truly needed one, and it helped me grow positively in so many areas of my life. That is why I could not hold back my tears as I crossed the finish line. Realising what I had just achieved brought me an overwhelming sense of joy.
How did you manage your Amsterdam Marathon training?
Of the six months I spent running to prepare for this marathon, three were actually dedicated to rebuilding a solid running fitness base, while the final three were focused specifically on marathon training. That is why I went from two or three workouts per week in the first weeks of training to five weekly sessions in the final months. This structured training developed a discipline in me that I did not have before. It changed many things in my life and gave me real motivation for this marathon goal that I had built up so much in my mind.
I did not really go through periods of doubt during training because I think discipline took over from all the stress and questions I might have had in other parts of everyday life. I was consistent with my training and convinced that I could reach my goal. However, about one month before race day, I developed knee pain that brought all my doubts and stress back. It forced me to cut back my training a few weeks before my taper, which ultimately turned out to be clearly beneficial.
What motivates you to run?
To be honest, I have always loved running since I was very young. I loved it so much that, when I was around 10, I decided to join an athletics club. It completely put me off running. Once I stopped athletics, I very rarely ran again and, above all, I no longer found any enjoyment in it. That is why I am grateful once again to my friend Karl. Without him, I would not be here. Everything changed when he told me about the Amsterdam Marathon. Seeing such a great goal, I thought, “Why not?”
Driven by the Amsterdam Marathon goal, I started enjoying running again. No matter the location or the weather, I fell in love with the sport all over again. I only discovered it last weekend, but I think what will motivate me even more to run from now on is experiencing the extraordinary emotions I felt at the Amsterdam Marathon.
How did you discover the RunMotion Coach app?
I discovered the RunMotion Coach app towards the end of my marathon preparation, while searching online for advice on managing the final weeks of training before a marathon.
One of the things that sparked my interest in RunMotion Coach was being able to speak directly with Romain Adam, one of the app’s co-founders, on Instagram. I could really feel his passion for running, which he strives to bring to the app.
What encouraged you to download and try the app?
The app is comprehensive. It truly provides answers to many questions that a runner, especially someone young and inexperienced like me, may have.
After the Amsterdam Marathon, what is your next sporting challenge?
Honestly, all my friends and family asked me after the Amsterdam Marathon, “So, are you going to do another one?” But for now, I am still enjoying this recent success, which I have not fully taken in yet. One thing I know for sure is that, after taking a little time to reflect, I will be open to plenty of new challenges and races. Who knows, maybe something completely different. I cannot wait to get back out running!
Well done, Ulysse. This is exactly why we love running so much 🥰