Runner’s World+ Member: John Quinones
John is a Runner’s World+ member. Join him 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!
In addition to being more physically fit, running has helped me become a more confident and self-assured person. I’ve run on and off since college but became a committed runner about 20 years ago. I grew to love the sport mostly running 3 to 5 miles at a time. In 2014, seeking a new challenge, I decided to enter the lottery to run the NYC Marathon. I secretly hoped my entry wouldn’t get selected, but it was and off I went. The idea of running 26.2 miles was both terrifying and awe inspiring. I set a modest time goal and sought to complete my first marathon. I followed a Runner’s World training plan and ran more than I ever had before. During the summer and fall months, I continued to pass training markers–13, 15, 20 miles–that once seemed unreachable. In the process, I learned a great deal about determination, positive thought, and sheer will. When I crossed the finish line, I was overcome with emotion knowing how much I had committed to that moment. It still gives me chills knowing that I accomplished something so significant. Now there is no challenge that seems too great.
I joined RW+ to find a community of like-minded runners who could offer inspiration and new challenges to pursue. I enjoy reading stories about other runners and learning about what motivates them to run. I also find the training tips and coaches suggestions to be helpful.
I run because I’m motivated by the idea of pushing the limits of what I’m mentally and physically capable of doing. I try to find purpose in every run, so I set smaller goals whether to improve my time or to go a little further than the day before. As an early morning runner, I also enjoy the idea of completing my run before most people wake up. I start the day with a sense of accomplishment ready to take on whatever awaits me.
Unless it’s the weekend, I run first thing in the morning oftentimes by 5:30 a.m. With a busy family life and a demanding job, it’s often the only time I can fully commit to. In the winter, I’m strictly a treadmill runner but love to run outdoors when the weather gets warmer.
I love running in new places, especially cities. When I travel for work, I always pack my running gear. One of the first things I do when I check-in is ask the hotel staff for a local map or preferred running route. I enjoy exploring new places and experiencing different running routes. One of my favorite places to run is along the Pacific Ocean from Venice Beach to Santa Monica. The weather is always ideal and the view picturesque.
I’m run obsessed with two things: my Apple Watch (with the Nike Run Club app) and my Brooks Glycerin shoes. I own several pairs and absolutely love them. They are incredibly soft and comfortable, and great for running long distances.
My goal this year to run the Marine Corps Marathon in October. I promised myself that I would run another marathon when I turned 50 which I did in 2019. I was injured much of last year, so I was able to defer my entry. I hope to improve on my NYC Marathon time and enjoy the unique opportunity to run with the Marines!
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