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Julie 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!
I’ve lost 30+ pounds since I started running about a year ago. Running has helped me be more active overall and find new activities. Running has helped reaffirm how strong I am mentally and reinforces that I can do anything I set my mind to. Running is an outlet for me and helps me deal with life. Running has encouraged me to explore, both at home and if I’m in a new city.
I asked a fellow runner for some advice about bras. She gave me a copy of her magazine and I couldn’t get enough. I signed up pretty quickly after that!
Last January I was offered the opportunity to travel to Houston and watch the 2020 marathon, so instead, I signed up and started running. That’s what got me started. Now I keep running to keep training, but also for fun, for mental health, for the camaraderie, for a chance to process my day.
Running first thing each morning helps get my day off on the “right foot.”If I’m running before work, I run in Midtown. If I’m running solo during the day, I like to run on the trolly trail. It’s perfect for ending with a downhill finish and coffee at Crows.
My current favorite apparel is a pink, long-sleeved Under Armor top. I got it out of the “free” box at my running store. It’s lightweight and easy to take off while running.
To complete the Houston Marathon! Yes, I have a time goal too.