Runner’s World+ Member: Rachel DiMassimo Griffin
Rachel 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 used to say things like, “I’m not a runner.” I’d have been the one with one of those “0.0” bumper stickers if not for a friend of mine convincing me to join her on a couch to 5K a few years ago. I haven’t stopped running since.
Not only have I lost weight and become more fit, but I also have grown stronger mentally. Running trains not only your physical body but your mental toughness. This skill has gotten me through a lot that life’s thrown my way.
Running allows me the strength to stay afloat in this violent undertow of pathological hurriedness that is modern life. Without this strength, I wouldn’t be as patient with my family, or as self-loving.
The zen that I have found in running is addictive and rewarding. I wish I could share it with everyone I know. Doesn’t everyone need something that gets them fit, healthy, at peace, and mentally strong? But just like I did a few years ago, people have to discover it for themselves.
Reading the magazine is inspirational and motivates me to run. It reminds me that there are others out there like me.
I run because it makes me feel good. And I want my kids to know daily exercise as a fact of life.
I try to run on the Earth but I’m willing to experiment.
Anything with pockets. I’ve made up my mind that I’m never buying another pair of athletic shorts or pants without pockets.
I just had a baby in the middle of the pandemic. On June 19th to be exact. His name is Niko and he is my adorable little squish ball of love.
Don’t stop!
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