When pushing boundaries becomes a way of life, meet the "new" extreme athletes.

For the majority of people, endurance sports like marathons and triathlons might appear like impossible tasks only experienced athletes can do after years of training. But for an increasing number of Indians, these intense athletic competitions have evolved into a means of pushing oneself, conquering challenges, and adopting a resilient and disciplined lifestyle. These novice athletes, who range from first-time Ironman competitors to marathoners surpassing physical constraints, offer motivational tales of the perseverance and drive needed to succeed in the realm of extreme sports. Here are four people who have made pushing boundaries a way of life.

This year, Diya Nayar, who competed for India in the 41–44 age group, finished her first Ironman 70.3 race in Turkey at the age of 41. Many would be surprised that she didn't learn to ride a bike until 2020. In 2022, she became proficient in long-distance swimming. She worked a full-time job and trained hard for six months to get ready for the event, getting up at four in the morning five or six times a week.In 8 hours and 30 minutes, participants in the Ironman 70.3 triathlon must swim 1.9 km, cycle 90 km, and run 21.1 km. Maintaining electrolyte levels while exercising during the hottest summer months, prioritizing protein and hydration consumption, and preparing well-balanced meals at home were all part of Nayar's approach.Throughout my life, I believe I have been an adrenaline addict who is always looking for the next challenge. It wasn't until my husband, Sachin, got me my first bike in 2020 that I learned how to ride a bicycle. "I told him I would find out before his birthday," Nayar remarked. You must accept the uncertainty because if you know how your story will finish, where is the fun?