Simple Tips for Running Lifestyles

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Explore how embracing your runner body can lead to joy and celebration in your running journey as a mid-size runner.

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Every runner has their own origin story.

I started running (the first time) when a friend of mine recommended a book that changed the trajectory of my life. The book is The Non-Runner’s Marathon Trainer (available here on Amazon) and I completely threw myself into the idea that if I could run for 30 minutes, I could run a marathon. After reading the first few chapters, I signed up for a marathon in San Diego.

My Marathon Backstory

I was 100% committed to running this marathon. This was going to be my very first race ever! I was determined to follow through with running this race. Even though I was scare, I commited to this race. I also felt like a badass running a marathon and I loved I found something I could fully commit to.

I also felt the weight of responsibility every time someone would ask how my training was going. At a size 16/18, I wasn’t sure how it was physically possible to run a marathon and I was nervous I was judged as much as I was judging myself. I didn’t feel like I was a runner because I didn’t have a “runner body.”

After a few weeks of training, I started to get a pinch in my glute. I saw this as a chance to exit gracefully and from then on, I thought the marathon distance was not for me.

Running Origin Story: Part 2

A few years later I started running again to lose weight. I had started Weight Watchers and I needed an affordable workout option to “earn points.” It helped me stay active, get outside and explore my new neighborhood. I had no interest in running a race or joining a run club. I didn’t think I was fast enough to run with friends and I didn’t think I was thin enough to share publicly I was a runner. This was a sport of solidarity for me, population: 1.

After a year, I finally got the courage to sign up for a 5K when a friend sent a Groupon link. It was at night and I ran in a cast after breaking my hand a few weeks earlier. That friend ended up bailing on the race. I decided to run the race alone (if you do run alone, check out these six essential tips for female runner safety and get your own personal alarm).

I learned a lot from that first 5K and ran my first 10K later that summer. The following year I ran my first and second half marathons. It wasn’t until I signed up for a full marathon was I introduced to group training, running friends and an incredible running community.

I tell this story to highlight while it started as a desire to be thinner (the second time), the true component that propels me forward isn’t about being thin. It’s no longer about weight loss for me. I’m focused on the personal goals, support and excitement of connecting with other humans in this sport.

Running is for Everyone

Running is a sport that welcomes and benefits people of all body types, defying the misconception that it’s reserved for those with a particular physique. The beauty of running lies in its simplicity and accessibility. All body types are runner body types.

Embrace Your Runner Body

Regardless of your size, shape, or fitness level, running offers a personal and empowering experience that can be about movement, health, and joy. Embracing this inclusive nature of the sport can help you find fulfillment and confidence in your own running journey. I personally love that my body can do incredible things and I am proud of myself for looking past things like my size to keep me from accomplishing great things (in fact, why not celebrate your body with a fun “Get Naked” bathmat like this one).

Ultimately I want to express that running isn’t an exclusive club. It doesn’t matter your pace or average distance. Running is accessible, no matter your size. Want to be inspired, go spectate a marathon. It will literally change your life and your perspective on what a “runner body” should look like.

Health Benefits for Running

There are numerous health benefits of running, such as improved cardiovascular health, increased stamina, and better mood. None of these benefits have nothing to do with weight or body type. Running can also be a source of personal joy, stress relief, and mental clarity regardless of body size. The thrill of reaching certain milestones or distances can be worth the experience alone (and as a running coach, celebrating other runners has been my favorite part of the job. And we wear glitter while doing it).

Embrace Your Unique Running Journey

Running isn’t a running isn’t a one-size-fits-all activity. While I started running for weight loss goals, I thought everyone took the same path starting with a 5K through the various road race distances. I didn’t realize there were people out there who love traveling for races, different race types like relays or the beer mile.

And as runners, it’s important to set realistic and personal goals in running so body image isn’t the only focus. Consider completing a new distance or improving endurance, rather than focusing on body image or comparisons. And remember to celebrate your running achievements, no matter how small! These accomplishments are a way to recognize your personal progress and dedication.

Related Post: Looking to embrace how your clothes fit? Check out this post on must-break rules for mid-size fashion success.

Celebrating Your Running Journey

As I look back on my running journey, from my initial fears and self-doubt to embracing the sport as a passionate pursuit, I’ve learned that running is truly for everyone. It doesn’t matter your size, shape, or pace—what counts is the joy and fulfillment you find in each step you take.

And for the record, I did run that marathon in San Diego, checking off that goal 15+ years later. I ran my first marathon in 2014 and since then I’ve run ten total (and traveling to Germany next week for number eleven).

Turns out you just have to run to have a runner body.

Running is about embracing your own unique path and celebrating every milestone along the way. It’s not about meeting a particular standard of appearance, but about finding personal strength, joy, and community in the process.

So whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned runner, remember that your running journey is valuable and inspiring just as it is. If you ever doubt your place in the running world, look around at the diverse bodies and faces that make up this incredible community. Let their journeys inspire you, and let your own story remind you that you belong, just as you are.

Keep running, keep wandering, and celebrate every step of your personal adventure.

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