In September of 2014, Kelly Nice found herself dealing with the heartbreak of divorce after 23 years of marriage. In an effort to build a new life, she made a bucket list of goals to accomplish. What she did not realize is that in her search for this new life, she would find her passion in running. Read on as she shares her story and explains her statement: “I run because…I find me.”
Her Start
Kelly moved to Prattville Alabama about 15 years ago and is originally from Lafayette, Indiana. Just a few month’s shy of her 45th birthday, she put on a pair of running shoes to begin “Couch to 5K” training. She did not realize this relatively small action would send her on a course that truly changed her life.
I was rebuilding my life after divorce and decided to do couch to 5k as bucket list. I then got hooked on running.
I joined a couch to 5K group and it truly changed my life. I found as I got stronger with my running, I was becoming more confident generally in life. I was amazed at myself each mile longer that I ran. I knew then that if I set my mind to it, I really could accomplish awesome new goals. I am hooked on running now. I have met wonderful people and ran in some really fun races. I love pushing myself to be my best.
I run because…I find me.
Her Training
Today, Kelly’s training routine includes a 5k distance minimum twice a week with long distances on Saturdays. She builds from 4 miles to half marathon distance in the weeks prior to a race. Couch to 5K is a great system for getting started in running. She has this advice for anyone starting out.
I love intervals and I think it is a great way to get started. Aim for a 5k first, then 10K, 10 mile and half. You can build up to it. Believe in yourself and remember every step forward is a step forward. Don’t worry about time or not keeping up with others. Your race, your pace is a great motto. Be proud of your efforts and be consistent with regular runs.
Her Future
That first Couch to 5K accomplishment set the course for Kelly to run in The Montgomery Half and 9 other half marathons before that. Running is no longer just an item on her bucket list but a way of life.
It is part of my lifestyle now. I enjoy challenging myself, have met a lot of great running friends and love the races.
Kelly will be running in the 2020 Montgomery Half Marathon and we are looking forward to cheering her on! It is not too late to begin your training for a 5K. If you are just starting out, you may not be ready for a half marathon but we do have the Enlisted Heritage 5K happening at the same time. Kelly’s story of starting from the couch to a 5K to a half marathon could be your story too!
Do you have a special story of your running journey? We would love to feature on our “I run because…” series. Click here to fill out our form. Your story might be the key to changing someone’s life.
This post was originally shared here at mmstiming.com. If you have a submission that you would like to share, send it our way!
