Do you you run or do another sport or extra activity? Many scientists do. On the surface, science and running may seem like two completely different worlds—one grounded in hypotheses and data, the other in motion and breath. But anyone who has trained for a half/marathon (or whatever distance is a challenge to you) while navigating the demands of a scientific career knows the two are more closely linked than they appear.

Both require discipline over drama. There’s no shortcut to getting faster or becoming a better scientist — progress comes from showing up consistently, doing the hard work, and trusting the process. Whether it’s an early morning run in the rain or another round of troubleshooting in the lab, success is built on repetition and resilience.

Preparation is key in both arenas. Just as a training plan helps a runner peak at the right time, a well-designed experiment or research timeline ensures scientific goals stay on track. Both also teach patience — endurance doesn’t come overnight, nor does a publication. But each long run and each failed experiment builds something essential: mental stamina.

Most importantly, both pursuits train you to stay focused when things get tough. The final miles of a race, like the final stages of a project, test your resolve. But crossing the finish line — whether literal or metaphorical — reminds you why you started.

In the end, running and science both demand curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to keep moving forward. One makes your body stronger, the other sharpens your mind—but both make you tougher than you were yesterday. So keep showing up. Keep moving. You can do it. 💪🏻