Runner’s World+ Member: Ella Charon
Ella 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!
I started running in high school when I discovered I was really bad at all other sports. I joined the cross country team with three other special girls and we are best friends to this day. Running gave me a community. Over the years since, running has kept many aspects of my life together. My mental stability, friendships, relationships and my passion have benefitted from running. Running has helped me cope with grief, depression, anxiety and panic. I feel balanced even when everything in my life feels is at its most fragile. When I run, I have control and purpose, but I also have a palpable sense of calm and clarity. Running provided me a release from my anxiety. It was also often how I dealt best with my panic attacks. I could push myself in a run and after, I would feel my breath regulate. I would push the panic out of me. I could also run as a meditation, slow and smooth, with a similar effect on my panic and anxiety. I became more confident knowing I could run and in turn, deal with my overworking mind.
To learn from the RW community and grow as a runner–especially in areas of injury prevention, and strength. Plus, I just love reading all the fun articles about gear, shoes and fueling foods!
When I run, I feel energized, driven, strong and clear minded. I love that I can go through the full spectrum of emotions during a run. I love that in races and training, I can be extremely competitive but also experience kindness and connection to others. It has also allowed me to create some of my strongest friendships and has given me my most cherished mentors.
I enjoy running first thing in the morning when I need to set my mind and body up for a particularly challenging day. This brings feelings of clarity. Or, right after work, so that I can clear away stress. The trail in my hometown of Baltimore that I only get to run on occasion–when home for holidays. But it brings me right back to my days of high school cross country and track, and is so special to me. When I run on it now, everything comes back clearly: the laughs my teammates and I shared, the focus of watching for tree roots or muddy puddles, and the calm state of mind that running gives me.
My stepdad’s Under Armour wool cap. It is my good luck charm.
A sub-4 hour marathon and better yet, injury-free marathon training beforehand!
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