When I started this marathon training cycle, I promised myself one thing: I’d train smarter, not harder. After a few years of half marathons and shorter races, I wanted to build strength and endurance without burning out or losing my…
How to Stay Motivated When Running Feels Hard
We all have those runs—the ones where your legs feel heavy, the weather isn’t cooperating, and your motivation is nowhere to be found. Maybe you’re juggling work, parenting, or training fatigue, and the thought of lacing up feels like one…
Cold Weather Running Tips: How to Layer and Stay Motivated
When the temperatures drop, it’s easy to trade early morning runs for a warm blanket and coffee on the couch. But running through the colder months doesn’t have to be miserable. With the right layering, warm-up routine, and mindset, winter…
Best Running Podcasts and Playlists to Stay Motivated in Fitness + Life
Lately, I’ve realized that what I listen to—whether I’m out for a long run or sitting at my desk working on new content—can completely shift my energy. Some days I need something that fires me up, other days I want…
How I Fuel Before, During and After Long Runs
Fueling for long runs isn’t just about what you eat the morning of—it’s about the small, consistent choices that support your energy and recovery throughout the week. Over the past few months of training, I’ve realized how much nutrition affects…
Why Your Running Shoe Sock Combo Matters More Than You Think
When it comes to long-distance running, most runners obsess over finding the perfect pair of shoes — but few think about what’s underneath them. Your shoe-and-sock combo can make or break a run. The right pairing helps prevent blisters, keeps…
Full Review and Thoughts on FLUX Adapt Shoes
I love testing out new gear—especially running shoes. IYKYK. Over the last year, I got my hands (well, feet) on three pairs from FLUX: the Adapt Knit Trainer, Adapt Runner, and Adapt Trail Runner. After a few months of wearing them for everything from…
Half Marathon Race: Recap When Things Don’t Go as Planned
Some races go perfectly, and others remind you that running can be unpredictable. This weekend’s half marathon was one of those humbling experiences. The first four miles felt incredible. My pace was right on target, my legs felt light, and…
The Best Pre-Race Breakfast Ideas for Runners
Race day mornings can be nerve-wracking — the early alarm, the pre-run jitters, the checklist running through your head. But one thing you can control? Your breakfast. What you eat before a race can make a huge difference in how…
Saucony Ride 17 Tested Over Miles and Half Marathons
If you’ve been following along on my running journey, you know I don’t recommend gear unless I’ve truly put it to the test. Shoes especially. The Saucony Ride 17 has been one of those rare finds that checks almost every…
Thoughts on Training for My First Marathon
When I first signed up for my marathon, I knew the training would be hard. But what I didn’t fully realize was how much it would shape me not just as a runner, but as a person. The long runs,…
Fuel Tested: My Honest Review of Lecka Gels
There’s one universal truth in endurance sports: fueling matters. You can train your heart out, nail every workout, and still fall apart on race day if your nutrition isn’t dialed in. As a runner who has battled everything from mid-run…










