Running has become a huge part of my life. I never thought I'd say those words, but it's true! When I played soccer in high school, I used to barely make it through the timed mile we had to run every year during pre-season. I told myself, "I'm just not a distance runner". Fast forward to a few years ago, I was trying to get back into moving my body and being fit. I also was wanting to find ways to maintain my mental health. I decided to give running a try because it's so accessible and has a low barrier to entry. Low and behold, I loved it! It made me feel confident and proud of myself every day I got out there and ran. It also helped to me to quiet my constant racing thoughts and love my body more for all it can accomplish.
That's why I'm running with Girls on the Run this year as I complete my first half marathon ever. I want to support young girls in the Philly area finding their own self-confidence and self-love through running the way I did. The mission of Girls on the Run is to empower girls for a lifetime of healthy living. The program is for girls in 3rd through 8th grade, and it inspires girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running. Trained coaches use physical activity and dynamic discussions to build social, emotional and physical skills in every girl while encouraging healthy habits for life. You can find more stats about the impact of Girls on the Run here: https://www.gotrphiladelphia.org/Our-Impact. Please support me in reaching my goal of running a half marathon AND support girls in the Philly area on their own health journey!
