FEET-URED RUNNER: Kylie with Running ECM is just like a Taylor Swift concert

“I was always too self conscious to do sports in high school, and nervous around any kind of competition. I never considered myself athletic, despite being born into a family of very athletic parents and siblings. I felt pretty fit in 2020,  then got pregnant and had a baby. It took me this long to find myself again. I started lifting weights this February because I’ve always enjoyed movement and health, but only started running in March because I saw spring races popping up and thought that might be a fun, new hobby. I’m trying to prioritize mental and physical health for myself and my family, and running really incorporates mental and physical strength.

What I loved about the ECM race was organization, friendly volunteers, and the buzzing atmosphere when I got to the expo. The smiles, support and excitement shared with strangers reminded me of a Taylor Swift concert. As a Swiftie, any time I go to a concert or meet another random fan in person, it’s pure joy, excitement and love. That’s similar to what I felt at the race.

Surprisingly, I never felt intimidated by other runners, or people who looked more athletic than me. I think that fear is now gone. I even ran my fastest miles since starting training in March. Now the only person I’m competitive with is myself.

I showed up to ECM to prove that I could run and not feel embarrassed about it. Training the past month and a half has helped a lot and I’ve come a long way since I started. I really love this sport and want to continue racing even longer distances. Maybe one day I’ll be a marathoner!”

-Kylie