RUNNING WITH THE RIGHT MINDSET

Shajar Abbas’s story is one of extraordinary athleticism, personal struggles, and resilience—a journey that has the power to inspire anyone to move forward.

To meet Shajar Abbas is to understand the dedication and passion he carries. He is someone who gives everything of himself, both in and out of the athletic world. Growing up in a modest neighborhood, Shajar didn’t have an easy start, but he channeled his challenges into determination, working relentlessly to carve his own path toward success.

 

SHAJAR ABBAS: FROM STRUGGLE TO STRENGTH

Shajar Abbas has always been an athlete. Growing up, he dabbled in many sports—boxing, football, and hockey—and always kept running as part of his fitness routine. But running, for Shajar, was more about pushing his body than focusing on the technical side of the sport. "I was just running too much and wondering why I was so sore," he admits. His athletic journey wasn’t one of immediate expertise but of learning and growing with each step.

When Shajar hit his 30s, the impact of his running routine began to take a toll on his body, and the soreness in his knees became unbearable. Seeking relief, he decided to mix things up by cycling. But when he showed up for his first ride, he was in all the wrong gear—no helmet, a backward hat, and no clue how to cycle properly. But something clicked. "Either these guys are delusional about how good they are, or I’m pretty good at this," he thought. And just like that, Shajar was hooked.

He signed up for a couple of triathlons, but when he looks back, he admits he was unprepared. "I had no idea what I was doing," he says. "I was rinsing off my feet after getting out of the water before putting on my bike shoes." But he kept pushing. He set goals and made a promise to himself: he would train harder, smarter, and with more focus. His determination led him to compete at the World Championships in Hawaii three times. To prepare, he would bike 100 miles and then run 10 miles, often with his friends and family calling him crazy. But Shajar’s mindset was simple: "If I’m going to race 112 miles and then run 26, I’d better be able to do this on a random Saturday."

From Addiction to Athleticism

Before his triathlon success, Shajar struggled with opioid addiction for nearly a decade. But in the midst of that struggle, he found something that helped him break free: endurance sports. "Endurance sports became my natural antidepressant," Shajar explains. It wasn't just about running or cycling for fitness—it was about recovery. The runner's high wasn’t like a drug high. For Shajar, it was about a sense of accomplishment, clarity, and relief from the internal struggles he faced.

Not only did endurance training become his escape, but it also taught him the importance of consistency and responsibility. "As someone who’s battled addiction, I know that skipping a day of training can lead to skipping another, and then another," he says. "I run every day because it keeps me grounded, focused, and on the right track." 

Soft Runn: The Perfect Fit for Every Step

Just as Shajar’s running and athletic journey evolved, so too did his need for the right gear. Soft Runn is more than just a running shoe brand—it’s a companion for those on a journey of self-improvement. Whether you're running for fitness, training for a triathlon, or battling your own personal challenges, Soft Runn’s products are designed to support your every step.

Shajar knows the importance of quality gear that enhances performance and provides comfort throughout every run. "Having the right gear is key to staying injury-free and staying motivated," he says. That's why he trusts Soft Runn—shoes that offer the support, flexibility, and comfort needed to keep pushing his limits.

Running With Purpose

Shajar’s story is one of resilience. From battling addiction to competing at the highest level of triathlons, he has proven that the right mindset, consistent effort, and the right support can overcome any obstacle. Soft Runn is proud to be a part of Shajar’s journey, offering athletes like him the tools to perform at their best, no matter the challenge ahead.

When you choose Soft Runn, you’re choosing more than just a brand—you’re choosing to run with purpose. Whether you're chasing a personal record or just striving for a better tomorrow, Soft Runn is here to support your every stride.