‘I’m Prepping for My Next Marathon Without a Wearable—and My Training Has Never Felt Better’
Women's Health
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Running has always been a cornerstone of life for the author, who grew up in a family deeply connected to the sport and now runs marathons as a hobby. After years of relying on fitness wearables, including smartwatches and GPS devices, the author found that these tools became more distracting than helpful. By ditching wearable technology during their collegiate career, they discovered the freedom of running by feel, trusting their body’s internal cues over external metrics. This shift not only simplified their training but also made it more enjoyable and intuitive.
The author highlights how they now track mileage through a stopwatch or podcasts, estimating distances based on their pace and experience. Running with friends who use wearables occasionally allows them to stay on track without relying on their own devices. This approach has rekindled their connection to the sport, reducing stress and fostering a deeper understanding of their body’s needs.
For readers interested in health and fitness, this story offers valuable insights into the importance of reconnecting with one’s physical intuition. By moving away from constant data monitoring, individuals can find greater joy and efficiency in their workouts. The author’s experience demonstrates that while technology has its place, sometimes less is more—especially when it comes to listening to your body and finding balance in training. This mindset shift not only enhances performance but also strengthens the personal connection to running as a form of self-care and community building.
Verticals
healthfitness
Originally published on Women's Health on 2/20/2026