RC Team Member Jennifer Smith
Lives: Chattanooga, TN with my husband, three kids and son-in-law. I have five dogs, a cat, two chickens and two horses.
Works: Branch Manager at a bank and I also attend University of Central Florida online full time pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Political Science.
Interests: I enjoy hiking, reading and of course running.
How long have you been running?
When and what your first race?
What is your favorite race?
What are your goals? Goal races? Any bucket list running goals?
I just turned 40 and one of my goals was to complete a half marathon. So I’ve signed up for the Rock & Roll Marathon in Savannah, GA this November and joined RunnersConnect to help me train. I’d also REALLY like to run in a Disney Marathon sometime next year just because I’m a Disney junkie.
What were your biggest struggles before joining RunnersConnect?
My biggest struggle prior to joining RunnersConnect was simply training. I had no clue where to begin and the information and support I’ve received so far from RunnersConnect has been so valuable to me.
I ran a 5K in March of last year and to train for that I used a Couch to 5k app on my cellphone. It was helpful and I completed the race without stopping but I was unprepared and VERY slow. I also had no clue about pace and running with proper form so I ended up with a very sore knee.
What did your training look like prior to working with us?
Prior to using RunnersConnect I wasn’t really doing anything. I had trained last year for the 5k I did in March but after that I basically stopped. I knew that I needed to learn more about running and get a good training regimen to prepare for a half-marathon.
Using the Couch to 5k app wasn’t going to cut it and get me where I wanted to be in terms of time and fitness. There was no support and no accountability. I need accountability sometimes to keep me motivated.
What prompted you to start looking for a better solution?
I feel like I’ve found my niche with running. I really enjoy it because it’s competitive but it’s about me and how I perform. I don’t have to rely on anyone else and it’s up to me to achieve success. So I wanted to get better and I wanted to train properly from the start.
I began to do some research online searching for a running coach in my area. I did find one but with my work and school schedule, finding time to meet with a coach on any regular basis was nearly impossible. I then stumbled across an “online coach” option and clicked the link for RunnersConnect. I read the testimonials and I took advantage of the trial period.
I’m very impressed with the tailored training schedule and the support that I get from the coaches.
How has your training changed since you started working with RunnersConnect?
My training has changed in many ways. First of all I’m training at a pace that’s much more comfortable and achievable.
Secondly I’ve now added some circuit and strength training to my schedule and understand the value of these additional workouts.
Finally, the changes in my strength and energy levels, the way my clothes fit better and most importantly the reduction of my stress levels are changes that continue to motivate me and push me to continue.
What has been the biggest surprise or most interesting revelation about either the training or your own abilities that you’ve had in the last few months?
I’ve only been back to training for a few weeks but I already see a dramatic improvement in my stamina and strength.
Three months ago, I wouldn’t have been able to WALK 4 miles much less run/walk. I feel amazing mentally and physically and I keep asking myself, “why did I stop training in the first place”? I just want to keep improving and surprise myself even more.
Did you have any doubts or fears before joining RunnersConnect? After you first joined, were you intimidated or nervous about the schedule?
I’m unfamiliar with some of the terminology but each day there’s an explanation of what’s expected and links to more information. This makes it so much easier.
I’m still a little intimidated by some of the experienced people in the community and find myself hesitating to ask questions, but that fear is invalid. Everyone in the community is very helpful and supportive. I just need to get out of my own head and utilize the experience these people bring.
What is your favorite part of RunnersConect now?
I love the community support I get through RunnersConnect. As I said before, I don’t know any of these people but they cheer me on and give me that moral support I need to keep going. I’m inspired by the posts of seasoned runners and could sit for hours reading the stories others post.
What recent results have you been able to attain since joining?
The biggest results I’ve seen is that I’ve lost 5 pounds since I started and I’ve seen an improvement in my strength and energy levels.
When I began, I hadn’t done any training since May of last year and allowed myself to become weak and soft. I would go to work and by 2pm I’d hit a brick wall and need to take a 15 minute power nap in my car just to survive the rest of the day. Then I’d get home and crash by 8pm only to rise at 6am and repeat the process again. Now I go to bed around 10pm and I’m up and moving (running or strength training) by 5am. No nap required at 2pm anymore.
