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Team Run-a-Ways Spotlights

See our Team Run-a-Ways page for program details.

Lori King

Lori King

Runner Spotlight

When I first met Lori back in June 2010, I wondered if she'd be one of the many come and go runners that I was so used to. How could I have second guessed her? Not only is she still here, she is one of the most consistent people in the class… and she NEVER complains or says she cannot do it! Lori is an excellent role model for so many people. The entire class loves her and they are always telling me that they are so proud of her. She has come so far… and she will go so much further! She now trains with me religiously 2 days a week – runs 3-4 days each week – and does stuff on her own! What a hard worker!! And all because she said she could… Keep up the great work Lori, we're all rooting for you!

Lori's Experience

I joined Emily's Walk/Run class in June of 2010. I was tired of being tired and had decided I was going to do this 100%. The first day, I could not make it around the lake track one time even at a slow jog. Now I can do a couple of miles and have completed a couple 5ks. It has been a great experience and while I'm still not the best runner or the fastest, I enjoy it more. I feel more energized on the days I run and if I miss a day I really "miss" it. Emily is a great encourager. She and the other class members help keep me accountable and motivated. Emily helps us set realistic goals and ways to achieve them. I am planning on completing my first 10k sometime in the next 3 months!

Debbie Folkerts

Debbie Folkerts

Debbie has been consistently running with Team Run A Ways since October of 2009. Despite her hectic schedule she finds time to meet with us consistently 3 days a week. She also helps organize group bonding activities each month. Debbie has improved her 2 mile time by over 4 minutes since she has started running with the team. She has also improved her endurance substantially. Thanks Debbie for becoming one of the special people who hold this team together! Keep up the great work!

I had not thought much about running until this class was suggested to me by a friend. "Why not" I said, and I've been doing it ever since. Naively, I thought I might eventually work up to running a whole mile without stopping. Emily had me doing 2 miles on the first day! Since then I've decided to do my best to accomplish what ever Emily suggests. She's a great teacher and motivator. Being a part of the Run-A-Ways team has been good for me!

Anna Cochran

from trainer Emily Anslick

I met Anna last fall in the first walk/run class that I had conducted. When I realized that the members of the class had problems with consistency while the class was not in session, I decided to make it a year round class. Anna has been one of the faithful few who have continued the class for the entire year. She is very consistent now and even helps conduct the class when I am away. She deserves credit for a great attitude and for changing to such a positive exercise regimen. Way to go Anna!

Anna Cochran's point of view

I started running about 2 years ago and got serious about it with Emily Ansick's Walk/ Run class. I have always worked at getting exercise but never could quite develop a consistent routine. With her encouragement and that feeling of accountability to the rest of the group I have created what I call my "new good habit". I haven't felt this good in many years and I have Emily and the friends I have made in the group to thank.

Nicole Rankin

Nicole Rankin

I moved to Auburn, AL from Washington DC two years ago and decided to join Health Plus in March 2008. I am a team sports person and love playing softball, volleyball, soccer, and flag football. I tried running in high school and college but quickly gave up so I could play team sports. I have tried to pick up running other times in my life but have not enjoyed it and simply quit trying. I have admired my friends that are runners because of their determination, endurance, and strength and have always wanted to enjoy running.

In October, I decided to try the Walk-Run class at Health Plus. I figured this class would be a good way to re-energize my after work gym routine. I was nervous about the first day (pre-assessment) because we needed to complete 2 miles (walking and/or running). I was amazed to complete the 2 miles running and decided one of my class goals would be to complete a 5K in 10 weeks. It is now 10 weeks later and I have exceeded my running goals. I completed my first 10K on December 5th and have met at least six new friends. I am still amazed at how much I enjoyed the class and that I actually love running. I consider myself a “runner” now and just completed the Country Music Half Marathon in Nashville, TN!

Richard Saba

Richard Saba

I had not run in 15 years and the Run/Walk class helped me get back into this activity. The way the class is conducted by Emily is like having a personal trainer.

Beth

Beth

I have enjoyed being a part of the Run/Walk class for about 6 months. Running with a group of people keeps me happy and accountable! Emily is a knowledgeable trainer who is fun to be with, and she is constantly encouraging me.