She's conquered a World Marathon Major 10 months postpartum and now, the mother of two is set to run the streets of Sydney in this year's Sydney Marathon next
Balancing the relentless demands of motherhood with the grueling discipline required to train for marathons might seem like an insurmountable challenge to many, but for Ying Tian, it's a way of life.
Ying Tian is eagerly anticipating the upcoming Sydney Marathon and the potential of Sydney becoming the seventh World Major. "With iconic water views to architectural beauty, why not if there’s good crowd support! Hearing all the positive reviews from my friends who have done races in Sydney, I’m positive that it will be possible!"
When asked about how it has been like juggling motherhood as well as training for marathons, Ying Tian reflects, “Nine years into motherhood and two kids later, it doesn’t get easier! Yet the process is so incredibly rewarding and I would do it again and again. It has taught me better time management. An example is running with any extra block of time, including run-commuting.”
She adds, “Kids and work remain my top priority. After every training session I come back happier to do my mama duties and housework! It's all possible with the best tag-team between me and my husband. We take turns to run so someone's always taking care of the kids."
To Ying Tian, the training leading up to the 42.2km race is the actual marathon itself. And the race? It’s the reward for all the hard work she had put in. Having completed 15 marathons since becoming a mother, she views each starting line as both a privilege and testament to her dedication.
Looking ahead to her next big race, the Sydney Marathon, it’s hard not to reflect on the struggles that have led her to become the runner she is today. Competing in marathons 10 months postpartum was particularly challenging for her.
“The biggest hurdle would have to be restarting my fitness from scratch after a relatively difficult pregnancy in my 30s two years ago. I had to resolve my Diastasis Recti via body treatments, slow walks and lots of patience,” Ying Tian recalls.
Though it was a tough one, the recovery process taught her the importance of listening to her own body and not comparing her own journey with that of others.
“My fitness now is not the same as before and thus I try to celebrate every small step I take,” she reflects.
Another challenge she faced was juggling nursing with running, having to schedule the feeds for her children and wake up earlier to pump in order to prevent engorgement.
“There were lots of logistics involved but I don’t regret it a single bit!” she smiles.
Despite all these challenges, Ying Tian managed to pull through and complete another marathon in New York just 10 months postpartum — a dream come true for her as it had been her dream race to partake in.
In facing adversity, the key for Ying Tian is maintaining motivation. “The truth is, I don’t love running all the time, but always feel so energised to take on the day thereafter. As an introvert, long distance running gives me that me-time I crave and don’t get with work and motherhood. It clears my mind after a long day. To me, it’s the perfect balance in life.”
She also credits her running friends for driving her forward, be it through their morale or their physical support.
As she prepares for her first trip to Sydney, she shares, "I love going with no expectations so you get to enjoy what the race truly offers. No marathon is ever the same, and I'm sure Sydney will not disappoint!"
Ying Tian is no stranger to completing World Marathon Majors and it didn’t stop at just the New York City Marathon. Having completed five in total, with three done post-COVID 19, Ying Tian boasts a wealth of experiences to share.
“My favourites are my first World Marathon Major, the Tokyo Marathon and the recent London Marathon for their routes and electrifying vibes! The endless cheering and support were throughout the entire course which kept me going when I felt tired. I love how the entire city comes alive,” Ying Tian recollects.
She mentioned feeling a mixture of sadness yet happiness towards the final 5km, touring the city via foot and knowing her training had paid off.
“These are races I do not mind repeating again if the ballot god is on my side,” she says.
Ying Tian’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, the importance of family support, and the bliss found in pursuing one's passions amidst the demands and joys of motherhood.
Her story inspires us all to find our balance and chase our dreams, no matter the challenges.
Signed up for this year's Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS ? Singapore based Sydney Marathon participants can enjoy exclusive partner discounts - find out more here.
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