Blog

Running tips, training updates, gear favorites, and honest conversations about weight, wellness, and the miles in between. Whether you’re just getting started or chasing bigger goals, you’ll find practical advice and real experiences here.

Chicago Spring Half Marathon Training — Week 5 Recap

This is my half marathon training week 5 recap covering every run from March 23–29, 2026. Half marathon training week 5 included speed work on the treadmill, a beautiful deer-filled trail run, and a brutal 9-mile progression long run —…

How to Build a Daily Walking Habit

These walking habit tips are for anyone who wants to move more consistently — no running required. Whether you’re starting from scratch or rebuilding after a break, these walking habit tips will help you build the habit and actually stick…

Chicago Spring Half Marathon Training — Week 4 Recap

This is my half marathon training week 4 recap covering every run from March 16–22, 2026. Half marathon training week 4 included a progression run, my first 5K race of the season, and an 8-mile long run in freezing temps.…

Lucky Charm 5K Race Recap: A New PR

My Lucky Charm 5K race recap — how I ran a new PR of 28:45, placed second in my age group, and finally broke 30 minutes in the 5K. A full story of race day, gear, and how far I’ve…

When Life Gets Busy, You Still Lace Up

Training Recaps · Chicago Spring Half Week of March 9, 2026  ·  16 miles  ·  3 runs 5 min read  ·  Training  ·  Week 3 Eight miles, a little rain, and a lot of wind. Still smiling — kind of.…

Runner’s Knee (PFPS): The Honest Guide I Wish I Had

Runner’s knee (PFPS) is one of the most common and frustrating running injuries — and it derailed my entire summer. In this guide I’m sharing everything I learned about runner’s knee firsthand: what it actually is, how long recovery really…

Running Recovery Essentials

These are the running recovery tools I actually used to manage runner’s knee and keep training through it. From foam rollers to compression sleeves to massage guns, this list of running recovery tools covers everything worth having in your kit.…

Week 2: Speed Work and a 70-Degree Disaster

This half marathon training recap covers Week 2 of my Chicago Spring Half Marathon training — 16 miles, 3 runs, and a Friday that completely humbled me. Every half marathon training recap I write is an honest look at what’s…