Melanie 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 lost both of my parents in a four year span and gained a lot of weight from the stress and grief. My co-worker was a big runner and inspired me to give it a try. I not only lost the weight, but gained a true passion for running. I began running races and striving to improve. Running gave me focus, discipline and instilled back in me confidence and pride that I had lost over the years.
I want to have access to the latest information on running and hear stories about other runners, both professional and recreational.
I’m motivated by maintaining the health that I have gained. I feel accomplished and mentally relaxed when I finish a run. What motivates me to run is the fact that I am able to when a lot of people can’t because of their health. You never know what might happen the next day, month, or year, so you have to take advantage of the time you have.
I used to run at lunch but as life gets busier, I find whatever time I can. My favorite route is along Buffalo Bayou Park. It was a project that I worked on when my mom was sick and my runs there remind me of her.
My Garmin Forerunner 235. When I got it, I started getting more serious about my running time and stats. If definitely transformed my running game
To run a 1:42 half marathon.
