Runner’s World+ Member: BoBi Ahn
BoBi 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 is the hardest workout that I do (and I do every possible workout there is–from bootcamps to boxing to spinning to strength training). It has definitely changed me physically (stamina wise), but also mentally. After I ran my first and only marathon (NYC marathon–many years ago), I felt like I could do anything! My car could break down in the middle of nowhere, and I could easily get to safety without any problem. It freed my mind from what I thought were the limits of my body. It was a revelation. I still try to channel that feeling on my runs and also in my daily life.
I joined RW+ when I was recently training for my first half marathon (The Brooklyn Half) so that I could download the training plans and learn to run smarter maybe even faster. I have always been a recreational runner, and I never really ran for time or with a pace goal. Even when I ran the marathon (many, many years ago) my only training guide was a book that was basically a running journal that tracked my runs, but no guidance on pace or tips on how to run. So when i joined RW+ I was hoping it would help me kick it up a notch and help me be a “better runner”. I also liked the RW+ features on new running gear and recommendations on running shoes!
The reason for why I run has changed throughout the different phases of my life–as a kid running was a form of punishment (laps for being late to practice, etc.), and later running became a form of release (from stress/tension), and now, I run because running enhances all my other activities and workouts. It makes me better at life.
I love running after work/in the evening (preferably on a warm summer evening, with a running buddy)! If I can’t get outside I’ll run on the treadmill. I try to run at least twice during the week and once on the weekend. I love running in the city–New York City to be more specific–because it’s never boring and you are never alone! I love the challenges of running the bridges (Williamsburg Bridge and Manhattan Bridge are my favorites–either from Manhattan to Brooklyn or vise versa), and you can’t beat running in central park!
I never run without music! I always have my airpods and my recent obsession is the Garmin Forerunner 245 music running watch because it allows me to run with music without having to lug my phone.
My running goal is to cruise through a marathon with a respectable pace (under 3.5 hours).
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