Running Through Faces: Konstantin Bozhko
Discover the inspiring journey of Konstantin Bozhko, head coach of the Kyiv Marathon Running Club, as he shares his passion for running and expert tips.
First, I want to assure you that I haven't given up running; surprisingly, my enthusiasm hasn't faded. In fact, my desire to achieve more has only grown. However, I recently suffered a severe blister on my foot, making walking uncomfortable and running seem daunting. Taking this break from running, I'd like to introduce you to Konstantin Bozhko, the head coach of the Kyiv Marathon Running Club.
Konstantin answered several questions about how long he has been running, whether he uses mobile gadgets or specialized running apps, and addressed a question that has personally intrigued me—when exactly did he realize he loved running and what emotions did he experience?
Q: How long have you been running?
A: I started running on April 4, 2008. I remember that date clearly—it was my first run, covering 10 kilometers. After that, I walked like a robot for three days.
Q: When and how did you realize that running is your sport (when did your passion ignite)? This question fascinates me, especially since the main theme of this project is not just running but whether a strong passion can develop by the fifth attempt.
A: I'm still not 100% certain that running will be my lifelong sport; who knows what the next five years will bring? Before running, I engaged in various sports, including team sports like volleyball and soccer. However, my greatest achievements are linked to running. I really got hooked after my third run when I started enjoying the sensation of flight and speed.
Q: Do you use any mobile gadgets or apps during your training?
A: The only gadget I use is a Casio wristwatch with a stopwatch. I strongly advise beginners not to run with music in their ears—it’s at least unsafe.
Q: What competitions have you participated in?
A: Over three years, I took part in many events, including eight marathons and the World Mountain Running Championships. But the most thrilling was the ultramarathon “Des Sables”—a grueling 260 km race across the Sahara Desert sands.
Q: What do you think about when running a marathon?
A: I mainly focus on my split times for each kilometer. Occasionally, I shift my attention to the surrounding landscapes, the crowd's reactions, and my competitors.
Q: What advice would you give to beginners?
A: To beginners: as the ancients said, “Make haste slowly,” and remember that running is not just a goal for today or tomorrow—it’s a lifelong journey.
I plan to ask Konstantin more about running techniques, safety rules, warm-up routines, and the psychological challenges that cause many beginners to quit when I attend one of the running club’s sessions.
Also, stay tuned for an upcoming interview on our blog with Mikhail Ivanov, the head of the publishing house Mann, Ivanov and Ferber, who is also an experienced runner.
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