Runner’s World+ Member: Amani Terrell
Amani 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 was a competitive runner in high school. I had an amazing coach who saw my potential before I could see it and turned me into a distance runner. My senior year, I won state in cross country, the 1600 meters, and the 3200 meters and broke the 3200 meter state record. I quit running when I graduated, though, because I didn’t really have a passion for it. Running (and really exercising in general) quickly became an afterthought for over 20 years. I made excuses to avoid exercising and made a lot of unhealthy nutrition choices as well. After having two kids and gaining 40 pounds, I decided to take back my health. I have a strong family history of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and strokes and I became determined not to let that be my destiny. I cleaned up my diet and took up running again at age 39 and I have never looked back. I’ve developed a new love for this sport that wasn’t there before and I’m stronger and healthier than I’ve ever been!
I joined Runner’s World+ to get insight on gear, workout/racing strategies, fueling, and hydration. I also enjoy reading personal stories of other runners who have triumphed, many times in the face of adversity.
I run for health and for joy. Running has given me another identity and I enjoy being able to call myself a runner. I love being a part of my local running community, which by and large has been so supportive and welcoming. I recently joined the Fort Worth Distance Project, a local team of talented women runners, several of whom have qualified for the Olympic Trials and other major races. I’m also a part of POWR, a Facebook group of strong women runners who are also doctors and mothers. Through these groups, I’ve been fortunate enough to connect with strong, powerful, hard working runners and I’ve been inspired to push towards and accomplish goals that I never thought I could do.
I do most of my runs on Trinity Trails, a local paved trail loop by the river that draws plenty of runners, walkers, and cyclists. I like to see other runners out there. Plus it’s nice that I don’t have to stop for traffic at intersections and there are plenty of bathrooms and water fountains.
I love my FlipBelt. I run solo most of the time and it allows me to carry my keys and my phone. I don’t go on a run without it! I also usually carry a Nathan Exoshot handheld water bottle. It’s easy to hold and is perfect for those long runs in the Texas heat and humidity and I refill it several times on the route.
I get an annoying itch in my legs when I come back to running after taking a break. I used to tell people that I was allergic to running, but it typically improves after a few runs!
I would like to break a 90 minute half marathon and a 19 minute 5K! I’d also like to improve my 10K time.
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