#REALwomenmove

Skirt Sports has started a new movement that is totally awesome! It’s called #REALwomenmove. This is all about people like me. A woman, a mom, a weekend race warrior, a friend, a wife and an inspiration and motivator to all those around her.

Who is a REAL woman? She is proud of who she is. She is confident. She does not judge, but rather encourages other women. She is comfortable in her own body. She accepts and loves herself as she is. She prioritizes health and fitness.

I’ve been an athlete for most of my life. I was a bit of a “tomboy” growing up. But, I didn’t start running until I got into college. Not sure what held me back, but one day I decided to give it a try. It was usually just a couple of miles at a time, with no goal at the end of it. When I got into my mid 20s, running was a great way to relieve stress from my first job as a journalist and always helped me get through break-ups with boyfriends. I got hooked on running short distance races, when I ran a 5K in Biloxi, MS. I had just moved there, to work at the local newspaper. I didn’t stick around after the race, I had no idea I could win an age group award. A week or so later, a 2^nd place ribbon came in the mail! I was so excited. That was the start of my love of racing. A year later, I ran my first half marathon and 6 months after that, I ran my first marathon. Now, I’ve run 55 half marathons, 21 marathons, 2 ultra’s and so many 5K and 10K races, I can’t even count.

My love of running has been with me for over 20 years now. My weight and pace per mile has fluctuated, with all of life’s changes. But, whether I was running an 8 minute mile or a 12 minute mile, I always consider myself a runner. I get out there and work to the best of my abilities. And the biggest surprise to me? I’m faster now, than I was in my mid 20s? My big dream goal is to qualify for the Boston marathon. Since I’ll be moving up in age group at the end of the year, that goal is getting closer! J

Check out the #REALwomenmove website for more information: http://www.skirtsports.com/realwomenmove/

Do you want to take part in this amazing movement? Help spread #REALwomenmove by posting photos of yourself being active. Or photos of you and your friends being active. Don’t forget to include #REALwomenmove and #SkirtSports

For every 5,000 hashtags, Skirt Sports will donate a Get Started Scholarship to a woman who shows all the traits listed in the description of #REALwomenmove.