Running Marathons, Onco-surgery and Me

As an Oncosurgeon and avid marathon runner, I’ve spent over 20 years developing my skills in both fields. While I began my surgical training at 22, I didn’t take up running until the age of 35. Over time, I’ve realized how many lessons from running have directly influenced my approach to surgery.

Running a marathon requires discipline, resilience, and the ability to stay focused on a long-term goal—skills that are equally essential in surgery. Marathon training teaches you to persevere through discomfort, to push through mental and physical barriers, and to keep going even when faced with difficult conditions like harsh weather or tough terrains. These same qualities—grit, focus, and determination—are crucial in surgery, where precision and composure are vital, no matter the challenge.

The ability to plan, anticipate problems, and adapt is another key lesson from running that has shaped my surgical approach. In a marathon, you must plan your pacing, adapt to changing conditions, and anticipate obstacles along the way. Similarly, in surgery, I must carefully plan each procedure, foresee potential complications, and remain adaptable in the moment to ensure the best outcome for my patients.

Both running and surgery require relentless repetition, resilience under pressure, and the ability to remain calm when things don’t go as planned. The lessons I’ve learned from running—discipline, focus, and the ability to adapt—have been invaluable in my surgical practice.

With over 20 years of experience in both fields, I can confidently say the parallels between running and surgery are powerful and transformative. I encourage others to explore how endurance, perseverance, and mental fortitude can enhance not just athletic performance, but professional expertise as well.

Dr Satish Rao
Oncosurgeon