(Dr.Shruti Brahme, BPTh Intern, 

MAEER’s Physiotherapy college.)

The Jumping Gorilla Mountain Ultra Running Championship 2024, Burj.

27th-28th January 2024.

Embarking on the Sahyadri mountain trail, an event tailored for professional runners, was not just a physical challenge but a holistic experience that transcended the usual realm of competitive athletics. With 200-300 participants converging on this rugged terrain for a 2-day camp, the scale was both exhilarating and demanding.


Physiotherapy: A Vital Component in the Runner’s Toolkit.


In the heart of this mountainous escapade, the presence of 11 dedicated physiotherapists transformed the narrative. Beyond the traditional role of addressing injuries, they became architects of wellness and awareness. The sheer number of participants highlighted the necessity of this support system, ensuring that each runner received personalized attention to enhance their performance and mitigate the rigors of the challenging trails. 

As a professional runner navigating the Sahyadri trails, the benefits of physiotherapy were palpable. The physiotherapists, with their expertise, seamlessly integrated into the event, offering pre-emptive strategies to prevent injuries, tailor-made warm-up routines, and post-run recovery sessions. The result? A transformative experience where the runners not only conquered peaks but did so with a resilient and well-conditioned body.


A Symphony of Logistics and Expertise.
The orchestration of an event of this magnitude required meticulous planning. From trail logistics to medical contingencies, every detail was scrutinized. The inclusion of 11 physiotherapists in the planning phase ensured a comprehensive approach to the runners’ well-being. Their expertise, combined with the event organizers’ meticulous groundwork, created an environment where runners could push their limits, knowing that a robust support system was in place.


A Note of Gratitude to Jumping Gorilla and Switch India Organization: A Collaborative Triumph.


This transformative experience was made possible through a collaborative effort with Jumping Gorilla, an organization dedicated to promoting holistic well-being through outdoor adventures. Their commitment to providing a platform for this unique mountain trail experience, along with the support from Switch India, an NGO championing social causes, amplified the impact on both runners and physiotherapists. Expressing gratitude for their vision and support is paramount, as their collaboration became the catalyst for the successful integration of physiotherapy into the Sahyadri mountain trail event.


Impact on Beneficiaries: Peaks Conquered, Lessons Learned.
The impact of the Sahyadri mountain trail camp resonated far beyond the two days spent on the trails. Runners emerged not only physically stronger but armed with a newfound awareness of the importance of physiotherapy in their training regimen. The personalized care received during the camp became a catalyst for ongoing wellness practices, enhancing the overall resilience and longevity of their athletic pursuits. 


 Volunteers as Catalysts of Transformation.

For the 11 physiotherapists who volunteered their expertise, the Sahyadri camp was more than a weekend commitment. It was an opportunity for us to contribute to a collective transformation. Witnessing the impact of their guidance on runners navigating the challenging terrain became a testament to the power of physiotherapy as a catalyst for both physical and mental well-being. We surely gained insight and a fresh perspective that will help them deepen their understanding of movement and function, particularly in the context of athletics.


Conclusion: Beyond the Summit.
Being a physiotherapist on the mountain runner’s trail was more than a professional venture; it was a journey into the heart of endurance, determination, and the beauty of overcoming challenges. As the runners descended from the peaks, the echo of their triumphs resonated not only in the mountains but also in the hearts of those who had the privilege of accompanying them on this extraordinary trail.