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Kimberly is a Runner’s World+ member. Join her and thousands of others chasing their goals with day-by-day training plans, expert advice from editors and coaches, and unlimited digital access. We regularly feature members online and in print!
Running has had a huge impact on my life. I was never a “natural” runner and it didn’t come easy to me. I think that’s what I love about running the most. Running pushed me and shaped me into the person I am now. I’ll tell anyone who will listen that signing up for a marathon was the best thing I ever did. I found a running family, trained, pushed my mind, and body to a place it had never been. Without running, I wouldn’t have met people that have influenced my life in a big way. Running has changed the way I think about distances traveled, friends that became family, and who I want to be as a person.
I joined RW+ to gain access to amazing running information and to be part of a digital running community. I love hearing everyone’s running stories and adventures. That’s what got me into running in the first place. So, knowing that there was a platform out there with tips, tricks, ideas, and advice was so nice. Joining was a huge help to my running career and continues to be!
I run first and foremost for me. To challenge myself, push myself, and be a better version of myself. Signing up for races and events has always been a motivating factor for me to lace up and get out the door. I love having a goal and working hard to reach them. I’ve run races for charity which helps me run for a cause of someone that possibly can’t. I believe that many of us take for granted the simple act of getting up in the morning and being able to walk let alone run. I try to remember that every day and run as if it were my last time able to do so.
I love getting in an early morning run and watching the sun rise, especially for long runs. I also live in Texas so the heat is a huge factor in deciding when to run. I also love mid-day runs when the weather allows. I have a wonderful job where I work from home and because we all share a love and passion for running, we regularly will go out for lunch runs on our break time. I love two-a-day run days because it gives me something to wake up to and something to look forward to at the end of the day!
Nothing beats the gravel trail path near my house that is about ten miles long. No traffic, no stop lights, no cars. Just the peaceful sound of nature, trees, and the ocean nearby. I think what I love most are the faces I see when I’m out there. Walkers, joggers, and runners all smile, wave, and even strike up conversation. It’s so refreshing to see and to be in a community with others who love to do the same thing as you.
A piece of running gear I love are my Saucony Triumphs. I went through so many shoes to find the right pair and now, all my leg pains have subsided. Two pieces of gear I am obsessed with are my Nike Featherweight Hat and my Nathan Handheld water bottle. I rarely find myself running without either of them. The hat is perfectly breathable and keeps my hair out of my face and in my ponytail securely. The water bottle is small enough to take on speed workouts but holds enough to get me from water station to water station. Its pocket allows me to carry a gel or two and my car key!
I want to explore the world of Ultras. I find myself fascinated with trails and wanting to run more of them! My 2020 running goals consist of a marathon PR, a 50K distance, and a 50 miler!