Madelyne Rosenberg

I’m Madelyne. I recently graduated from the University of Iowa with a BA in journalism and mass communication and a minor in political science -

I haven't always bee into the 'fit-girl' lifestyle I’m living now.

During my last semester in high school, my principle allowed me to run a half marathon in exchange for a gym class credit. All I had to do was train, run the race and later show him my medal. I ran track and cross country all four years, but I had no idea this one race would have such an impact on my life.

My first half marathon was in Storm Lake, IA. There were only 20 people at the starting line (including my mom and me). After running for miles alongside cornfields and scattered spectators, I had finished the race with a 9:13 average pace per mile, and two sore knees. A couple things happened next – I graduated and I got hooked.

After that race I couldn’t stop, and I didn’t want to. Attending college didn’t slow my training either. I continued to run to re-experience the feeling I had during my first race, it became addicting like a drug. Running has turned my entire world around. It has changed how I feel about myself because of how hard I have worked to get where I am today. Experiencing firsthand the healthy changes and improvements I have made to my lifestyle is more rewarding than any medal or trophy.

I run religiously to this day. To me, running is more than a workout but a beautiful connection between the mind, body and soul. I enjoy incorporating yoga and mindfulness practices into my workouts, and becoming aware of my thoughts, emotions and sensations. Running is a skill that takes more than a strong body, but a strong mind as well.

I have ran 12 half marathons and I am currently planning to run my first full marathon by next year. In the meantime, I thought I’d share my experience for those who are inspired to start their journey!

“Just Runnin’ Around” is a guide for college students training for half marathons and full marathons while also managing school, work and social schedules. I provide important training information such as, setting a goal, purchasing the right equipment, forming a healthy diet plan, and finding a running schedule that fits your everyday schedule. Just think of me as your online fitness trainer.

I can prove wrong the disbelieved concept that training in college is impossible. Don’t let “busy” be an excuse anymore.

If I can do it, you can too!