Runner’s World+ Member: Theresa Mitchell
Theresa 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 given me confidence, strength, and bravery. I never knew my mind could tell my body to keep moving when my body was saying no!
I joined Runner’s World to read about a sport I’m new to and to get educated on different aspects of running, such as plans, strength plans, nutrition, shoes, accessories, and to hear running success stories.
I started running seven years ago. I lost my sister tragically and anxiety crept into my world. Also, being a victim of sexual child abuse, I needed to find courage inside of me that had been squashed. When I began running I felt such freedom and strength I didn’t know I had. I always look forward to the satisfying feeling of completing a run. Some days are easier than others but it’s instant gratification once I’m done.
The route I have the most personal connection to is the road that my sister was killed on. It took me several years to avoid that road. Now, as I run that route I feel a connection with her. I now smile, instead of tear up.
I run in Saucony Freedoms. Nike shorts and sports bras are the most comfortable in our warm Florida weather.
A friend asked me to run a half marathon. I had never run outside before nor did I know how far that was. After she told me 13 miles, I went to our local run shop, bought run shoes and asked the owner if he knew a good route for 13 miles. He gave me the route. I drove the route and the next day I ran 13 miles in under two hours, so I figured I could do the half marathon race. I had no idea that you trained to do that. Lessons learned after many injuries.
I have run five marathons qualifying for Boston four of the five marathons. The 5th marathon was Boston 2019. I was so car sick from the bus ride that my race suffered miserably. Not sure if my goal is to go back to Boston to improve my time on that course or to improve my best time of 3:30:47. So, I guess I currently have two goals.
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