Budget vs. Premium: Best Running Shoes for Your First Half-Marathon

Comparison of budget vs premium running shoes on a marathon track for fatmarathoner.com

I remember my first attempt at a long distance run through the humid streets of Gurgaon. I wore a pair of “walking shoes” I’d bought on sale, thinking a shoe is a shoe. By kilometer eight, my arches felt like they were on fire and my knees were already planning their retirement. If you are … Read more

Best Running Tracks & Promenades in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Running on the Jumeirah Beach track in Dubai at sunset

If you are traveling to the UAE for the Dubai Marathon or just a fitness-focused holiday, you will quickly realize that running here isn’t just about the treadmills in luxury hotels. The real magic happens on the “spongy” tracks and wide-open promenades that hug the coastline. Whether you need a 5K shakeout run or a … Read more

How to Register for Dubai Marathon from India, UK or Europe

Runner training on Dubai roads with skyline in the background

The Dubai Marathon is one of the most popular international road races in the Middle East. Known for its flat course, strong race organisation and pleasant winter conditions, it attracts runners from India, the UK and across Europe every year. If you are planning to participate as an international runner, this guide explains the complete … Read more

Best High-End Running Watches 2026: Garmin Fenix 8 Pro vs. Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. Coros Vertix 2S

Comparison of Garmin Fenix 8 Pro, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and Coros Vertix 2S running watches.

When you’re spending ₹70,000 to ₹1,00,000 on a watch, you aren’t just buying a timer; you’re buying a training partner. I’ve looked at the three heavy hitters for 2026 to see which one actually deserves a spot on your sweaty wrist. 1. The Tech Marvel: Garmin Fenix 8 Pro (MicroLED)1 Garmin finally did it. They … Read more

Best Running Shoes for Indian Roads & Weather (2026 Guide)

Best running shoes for Indian roads and weather in 2026

Running on Indian roads comes with its own challenges. Uneven pavements, hard concrete surfaces, heat, humidity, and sudden weather changes can take a toll on your feet if you are not wearing the right shoes. The good news is that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get reliable running shoes suited for Indian … Read more

The 10,000 Step Lie: Why Indians are switching to Japanese Walking in 2026

Japanese walking exercise for weight loss in India

We’ve spent years obsessed with the number on our wrists. If we don’t hit 10,000 steps, we feel like we’ve failed the day. But let’s be honest: mindlessly pacing around the living room at 11:00 PM just to hit a goal isn’t fitness. It’s a chore. As we look toward a fresh start tomorrow, we … Read more

When Is the Best Time to Run a Marathon in the Middle East? A Month-by-Month Guide

The Middle East has quietly become one of the most attractive marathon destinations for runners from India, Europe, and Africa. Flat courses, excellent organisation, international fields, and easy travel connections make the region ideal for both first-time marathoners and seasoned runners chasing personal bests. But timing matters more here than anywhere else. Weather conditions in … Read more

The Rise of the “Mallathon”: Best Indoor Running Spots in the UAE

Let’s be honest: training for a marathon in the Middle East is a lesson in atmospheric endurance. By the time June rolls around, even a 5K at 5:00 AM feels like running through a hairdryer. While we all love the grit of an outdoor trail, there comes a point where “pushing through” becomes a health … Read more