I lost 100 pounds and became a runner—here’s the advice I wish I had on day one

When I first began my weight-loss journey, my goals were pretty simple: get healthy, get fit and feel comfortable in my own body.

I never expected that losing 100 pounds would turn me into a runner. I absolutely didn’t expect that running would change the entire trajectory of my life.

I was always overweight growing up, felt unsure of my athletic abilities, and was certain I would never be viewed as an athlete. Yet running became not only something I did, but a core part of who I am.

My story didn’t start with confidence or natural talent. It started at 265 pounds, exhausted, unmotivated, and unsure of how to begin again after years of losing weight and regaining it.

What changed was a single decision to try one more time and to do it differently this time. I vowed to myself that I would focus on building habits, not shrinking myself. Eventually, that choice led me to trails, finish lines, a 50km ultramarathon, and an athletic identity I never thought I’d claim.

Still, the early days of running were messy. I was intimidated and I felt behind. I didn’t believe I belonged because I felt I didn’t have a “runner’s body”. Looking back, there are a few things I wish someone had told me on day one. If you’re a new runner, a bigger runner, or someone who has always felt “not athletic,” here is the advice I needed the most.

Start slow—even slower than you think

When you’re excited or newly motivated, it can be tempting to jump straight into daily runs or high-mileage running weeks. That’s exactly how I got injured in the beginning. Don’t look down upon walk-runs, they could honestly be the key to your success. It’s smart training and can help build stamina, protect your joints, and keep you consistent enough to discover your love of the sport.

Your body is not a problem to fix—it’s the engine that moves you forward

After losing a lot of weight, I struggled with fueling properly. I spent so long trying to eat less that when I was learning to eat enough to perform well, it felt uncomfortable and scary. But eating enough protein carbs, electrolytes and overall calories in general is what allowed me to feel strong rather than depleted and to keep up my training routine.

If you’re in a bigger body or starting to run after weight loss, it’s important to remember that running isn’t a punishment, it’s a partnership and your body needs fuel to adapt and thrive.

Imposter syndrome is loud, but it isn’t telling the truth

I used to look around at group runs and think, I don’t look like any of these people. I didn’t realize at the time that almost no runner feels they look like a runner in the beginning. Running isn’t supposed to be about aesthetics; it’s about effort and heart.

When I stopped comparing my body to everyone else’s, I actually started to progress. Ironically, the thing that once made me so insecure actually inspired so many others around me who felt they weren’t represented in the sport.

Community will carry you even further than your own motivation

I wouldn’t have become the runner I am today if it weren’t for the people who surrounded me during my journey. When I joined group workouts, run clubs and started obstacle course racing, I suddenly had accountability, encouragement, and a place where my goals felt like they belonged.

You don’t need a huge team, just a few people who believe in you on the days when you struggle to believe in yourself.

Confidence is built over time

I didn’t magically wake up with confidence just because I lost weight. The confidence I thought I’d earn from the scales wasn’t the type that sticks with you. True confidence came from showing up on days when I didn’t want to, running ever longer distances, and continuing to surprise myself with my efforts and willingness to try.

If you’re beginning your own running journey, whether you’re starting from scratch, in a bigger body or starting again after life has knocked you off course, know this: every runner starts somewhere and the starting part is what truly matters.

I didn’t become a runner because I was fast. I became a runner because I kept trying, one mile and day at a time. You can, too.