About Me
My Running Story
Welcome! I’m Miguel, a married father of two, SAP consultant, and midlife runner sharing the road, the data, and the mindset behind the miles.
For over 20 years, my routine meant airports, hotel rooms, and five day workweeks away from home. I was always on the move, but not in a way that left room for personal rhythm. That changed in 2020, when the world paused and I finally stopped flying long enough to build something new: consistency.
I started running in 2019, but it was during the stillness of the pandemic that it turned into a true lifestyle. Not just a way to manage stress, but a practice of structure, discipline, and self-care.
What began as a way to cope with lockdowns quickly became a non-negotiable part of my life.
Today, running is more than a hobby. It’s a routine I rely on – a way to reset, refocus, and stay grounded, wherever I am. Alongside running, I incorporate strength training, cross-training, and yoga into my weekly rhythm. Not because I’m chasing youth, but because I’m building durability. At 50, flexibility, mobility, and recovery aren’t luxuries. They’re essential.
Here, I share what keeps me going; the data behind the training, the mental shifts that come with midlife endurance, and the personal stories that shape every step.
Why I run
Running started as a hobby. Now it’s my foundation.
I run to remind myself what I’m capable of: to fight stress, to reset my energy, and to keep moving forward, even when it’s hard.
It’s become more than a workout. It’s where I test my limits, both physical and mental. Some days it’s about chasing a new personal best, other days it’s just about showing up and putting one foot in front of the other.
Whether I’m training for a race or heading out for an easy jog, running consistently brings me clarity, joy, and a quiet sense of accomplishment that I don’t find anywhere else.
I’m not running to stay young. I’m running to stay capable, consistent, and connected to myself in ways that matter, far beyond race day.
Why this blog exists
I started Run to the Next Mile to document my journey through the highs, the setbacks, and the lessons they’ve brought me while everything is still fresh.
What began as a way to preserve memories for my family became something more; a space where others might also find meaning.
Who This Blog Is For
- This blog is for anyone who runs, or wants to.
- For those starting late or starting over.
- For people balancing work, family, and the desire to stay strong.
- For those who love the numbers, fight the noise, and run to stay steady in a world that doesn’t stop.
It’s also for my family, so they can one day look back and understand not just what I did, but why I kept doing it.
If any of that sounds familiar, you’re in the right place. And you’re not running alone.
Recent Blog Posts
Stay up to date with my latest running adventures and tips.
7 Weeks to Amsterdam: Holiday runs and marathon dreams
Back from “Holidays” I’m back from holidays – though[…]
12 Weeks to Race Day: Building a Strong Base for Marathon Success
It’s Been a While… It’s been a while since[…]
Do amateur runners like me really need a coach?
This is a question I’ve asked myself more than[…]
Discover my personal best times for the 10km, half marathon, and full marathon distances.
Explore My Marathon List
Discover the most memorable marathons that I have completed so far.
Lisbon 2020
When official races were canceled due to the COVID lockdown, a group of runners came together to organize an unofficial marathon. It was raw, honest, and unforgettable. My first marathon; no crowds, no medals, just the road and determination. A personal milestone in every sense.
Finish time: 03:37:11
Berlin 2021
My first official marathon, and also my first World Major. The atmosphere was electric, even with ongoing pandemic precautions. It was the beginning of a new chapter, testing myself on a bigger stage.
Finish time: 03:30:57
Paris 2022
Running in near freezing conditions (2°C) through one of the world’s most iconic cities was something I’ll never forget. This was my first sub-3:30, and it felt like I had stepped into a new level of running. Paris delivered on both scenery and performance.
Finish time: 03:27:17
Chicago 2022
This one hurt, not just physically. A plantar fasciitis setback forced me to pull out. It was a tough but humbling experience, and a reminder that even when the training is solid, the body sometimes has its own plan. I knew I’d be back.
Finish time: DNF
Lisbon 2023
Nearly a year after my injury, I came back stronger. Running in Lisbon, on familiar roads, I hit my first sub-3:10. What started as a planned long training run ended up becoming a full marathon effort. This wasn’t just a race; it was a personal comeback.
Finish time: 03:07:50
Valencia 2023
Fast, flat, and exceptionally well organized. Just a couple of months after Lisbon, I improved my time by a few more minutes. Valencia quickly became one of my all time favorite races.
Finish time: 03:04:35
London 2024
The crowd support was like nothing I’ve ever experienced. London lifted me the entire way through iconic streets and moments of doubt. Another Major, and another step closer to something bigger.
Finish time: 03:03:20
Vienna 2025
Windy and cold, this was one of the toughest marathons I’ve run. I had to dig deep just to hold pace. But finishing strong in those conditions was a different kind of victory.
Finish time: 03:03:15