Runner’s World+ Member: Kitty Mackey
Kitty 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!
The biggest surprise to me is that I actually enjoy running! Running makes me feel strong and confident! I’ve learned that running is something that is open to everyone, no matter what age, size or ability. I’ve learned that “running my own race” means to embrace and celebrate running on my own terms, at my own pace and distance. When I joined the RW run streak on Thanksgiving Day 2017 I wasn’t sure I could stick with it, having started and stopped running many times in the past. But it’s been nearly two years and I’m still running, with no plans to stop! I’ve gone from struggling to run a mile to finishing a 10K without stopping. One of the most profound changes is that, after a life of yo-yo dieting, I have finally been able to maintain a 50 pound weight loss, for which I credit running and the associated healthy habits that go with it. I’ve gotten more involved in social media, thanks to the camaraderie I enjoy in the RW Facebook group. I had no idea the running community was so supportive and encouraging! The best change of all is that my husband (of nearly 40 years!) and I now enjoy running together. That’s worth all the gold medals in the world to me!
I wanted full access to all the great articles and training plans on the RW website. Thanks to the articles and news delivered to my email I learn something new and inspiring almost every day, and I stay immersed in the running community.
I’ve known people who have just stopped moving, and I’ve seen the negative effects that a sedentary lifestyle has on the quality of life. When I don’t feel like lacing up I just think about the alternative. Running is truly a wonder drug. On the lighter side, I always have a tracking sheet or shirt to fill in for my runs and workouts. I just think about how bad I’ll feel if I can’t color in the box for the day!
Since I’ve retired I can run pretty much whenever I want. When I see snowflakes I want to lace up and run in the snow! But my very favorite time to run is late afternoon, timed to finish just as the last rays of daylight are setting behind the mountains. I am fortunate to live close to a state park with two small lakes surrounded by a paved trail. I love to run there because once I’m on the trail I can run figure eights around the lakes without having to worry about traffic or interruptions. The view is stunning, and there’s even a pit toilet :-)
My Garmin Vivoactive 3 (and music) is essential, but top of the list are my PRO Compression socks. When I first started running I got sidetracked with shin splints and discovered that compression socks are part of both cure and prevention. I wear PRO Compressions every time I run!
My ongoing goals are to keep running three to four times a week and to participate in the running streaks. By spring 2020 I’d like to consistently run a 5K in under 35 minutes.
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