Jessie is a Runner’s World+ member. Join her and thousands of others chasing their goals with day-by-day training plans, expert advice from editors and coaches, and unlimited digital access. We regularly feature members online and in print.
I have always been interested in fitness, but I really started running long distance after graduating from college. Rather than build into it, I decided to dive right in and register for my first marathon, the Twin Cities Marathon! I was hooked after that race and I’ve now completed 34. I met my husband through running and some of my closest friends are through my running club, so running has definitely been a part of some of my most important relationships! Running has allowed me to see the world, from Berlin to Tokyo to Antarctica! Without running, I’m not sure I would have the confidence or courage to explore when traveling. Running is an integral part of my life; it’s not just exercise, it’s a lifestyle.
I know that I will feel better after I run. If I’m feeling sad or anxious, even a short four or five mile run can help lift my spirits. Especially during the pandemic, running has been my limited social life (with a few friends in my bubble). Running gets me out of the house when nothing else does.
I broke my leg on a run three weeks before the Antarctica marathon; fortunately, I was able to defer the trip to the following year and I ran it in 2019!
I am working towards the 50 state goal—a marathon in every state, as well as the 7 continents!
Meet More Midwestern Members
Caroline’s enthusiasm for enriching the run community originates from engaging with her local run specialty store customers, where she still works part-time. As a professional hobby jogger, she loves exchanging training stories and hearing from RW+ members about their race victories.
