Running for More Than Just Miles
It’s been a little while since I’ve written here, and I feel like there’s so much I could catch you up on—but I want to start simple. Perspective.
Earlier this year, I ran a half marathon with a goal of finishing under two hours. I came in at 2:02. Two minutes over my goal. At first, that number stuck out, but then I thought about what it really meant: I had trained, showed up, pushed myself, and ran a strong, steady race. And honestly? I’m proud of that pace.
That race sparked something in me, and I’ve decided to keep running. Lately, I’ve been averaging 2–3 runs a week. Sure, running supports my physical health, but what keeps me lacing up my shoes is what it does for my mind. Running is my reset button. It clears the clutter, quiets the noise, and gives me space to process life. It’s therapy in motion.
One of the best parts for me has been building a morning rhythm that sets the tone for the day. There’s something amazing about waking up early, sipping my coffee, taking time to pray, meditate, and journal, and then heading out for a run. It’s like stacking one grounding practice on top of another—by the time I start my day, I feel anchored, clear-headed, and ready for whatever comes.
I’ve noticed recently how often people measure success only by outcomes—the exact time, the scale number, the visible change. But what I’ve been reminded of is that the process itself carries the reward. Running is teaching me patience, discipline, and presence. Some days the pace feels effortless, other days it feels heavy, but every mile adds up.
And that’s the truth about any goal, fitness or otherwise: it’s not perfection that gets us there, it’s consistency. Small steps, repeated over time, move us forward. That half marathon wasn’t the finish line for me—it was the beginning of a new rhythm. In fact, I’ve already signed up for another half marathon at the end of September, and this time I’m going for it again—under two hours.
Individualized Training
The same is true for the people I coach. Everyone’s body, schedule, and goals look different, which is why cookie-cutter programs don’t work for long. What does work is an individualized plan that takes into account your lifestyle, fitness level, and long-term goals.
That’s the heart of my training services: helping people find a routine that’s both effective and sustainable. For some, that might mean strength training with a focus on building lean muscle. For others, it might be adding in running or cardio that supports endurance and mental clarity. No two plans look the same—because no two people are the same.
If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to start, I’d love to help you create a plan that feels doable and actually gets you results—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
melodiealexander 