Runner’s World+ Member: Carissa Garcia
Carissa 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 enhanced every aspect of my life. It has taught me to set goals and to make plans to achieve them. It has brought me consistent joy and pride and has made me a better mother, wife, and teacher.
Nothing motivates me more than hearing stories of the grit and tenacity that other runners bring to the road. RW+ provides me that extra push I need to get out the door.
Running makes me feel powerful. It has served as an antidote to depression throughout my adult life and gives me a daily sense of accomplishment. It brings me joy, clears my head, and relieves stress like nothing else can.
On weekdays I run first thing in the morning before anyone in my house wakes up. It means that I run in the dark before dawn under a canopy of stars. It is quiet and cold and lovely. My daily route takes me down the Main Street of Highland Falls, my hometown. Because I am a woman running in the dark I am always aware of where the light is and have to plan my morning route accordingly. On long runs I love to run around the campus of the West Point Military Academy which is full of spectacular views of the Hudson River. There is a crazy hill up to the Army football stadium that I hope to conquer someday. It is a part of the West Point Half Marathon route which I have run almost every year since moving to the area. That particular hill kills me every time.
I love my Brooks Glycerin shoes. They are plush, light, and durable.
My long term goal is to run consistently for the next fifty years. My short term goal is to run a 3:45 marathon.
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