Running for the Joy Within

For Madelynn, Running didn’t start as a lifelong passion for her…it started as a challenge. In middle school, someone told her they didn’t think she could run a mile, and that was all the motivation it took. What began as a stubborn attempt to prove someone wrong quickly became something bigger. She joined the track team, then cross country, and running soon became part of who she was. 

Over time, she realized running wasn’t just about competition; it was about staying consistent, and finding joy in the process. Even after college, that spark never faded. Running continues to be a steady presence in her life. 

How Did You Get Into Running?

I first got into running in middle school when I decided to try out for the track team. Someone told me they didn’t think I could run a mile and that was all the motivation I needed. I went out for the distance events, and even though it was tough, I loved it.

The following year, I decided to join cross country in high school. I actually thought I had missed the preseason cutoff, but I ended up signing up last minute on the first day of school and I’m so glad I did. From there, running became a huge part of my life. I went on to compete at the collegiate level and now continue to run and train post-graduation.

What Are You Currently Training For?

Right now, I’m training for longer distances. After focusing on 5Ks for so long, I wanted to take things up a notch with half marathons, 10-milers, and 15Ks. I still like to throw in a 5K or 10K here and there, but ultimately, my goal is to keep improving and to enjoy the process. At the end of the day, the numbers and miles don’t mean much if you’re not having fun doing it.

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What Does A Typical Training Week Look Like For You?

Since I work during school hours, I usually train in the afternoons or evenings. I average around 40–45 miles per week, with a set routine that keeps me consistent: intervals or threshold workouts on Tuesdays, tempos on Fridays, and long runs on Sundays. Having that structure really helps me stay on track, but I also like to keep things flexible. Life happens, and running should complement it not come before it. For me, it’s about finding that balance and keeping the joy in it. The miles mean nothing if I’m not having fun. 

Do Your Friends And Family Support Your Goals?

Absolutely. My family and friends have always been so supportive of my running. Since graduating, I’ve built an even stronger community of runners people who train because they genuinely love it. My friends always reach out after races to cheer me on, no matter how things go, and my mom has been at every single race. She’s created such a positive environment for me, where it’s okay to have both good and bad days, and that support has made all the difference.

How Did You Transition From Collegiate To Adult Running On Your Own?

Are You Part Of Any Run Clubs? 

I don’t know how I would describe my “transition” from college to adult running on my own… I just made sure to not stop my running. I signed up for a few fall races and I just ran and trained throughout the summer as usual. It was really weird seeing all my old teammates start their xc seasons though…

As far as Run Clubs, I’m a part of one, The Wednesday Knights in West Chester. I try to go when I can. They’re an hour & 20 minutes away from where I live so I can be difficult sometimes. But the people make it worth it. 

What Has Been The Most Challenging Thing For You And Running?

The most challenging thing for me and running is the solo/lonesome part of it…some days it feels great to run by myself but most days I wish I still had a team and structured practice time surrounding me. It gets kind of lonely sometimes, that affects my motivation to get out of the door some days. 

What Is Your Favorite Running Memory?

I have a lot of golden running memories, I don’t really know that I can pin-point only one…but one that I think about a lot is my first ever rainy cross country meet. We thought the opposing team’s coach would cancel the meet but they didn’t. Needless to say we were all miserable on that bus ride back, but the photos of us doing strides at the start in the pouring rain are hilarious! 

Conclusion:

Looking back, running has taught Madelynn more than how to train or race…it’s taught her how to keep going when things get hard. It’s not always easy. Some days, the solitude hits harder than the workout itself, but there’s pride in knowing she’s still doing what she loves. Whether she’s chasing a personal best or just unwinding after work, running remains her constant. The support from friends, family, and the occasional run club makes it better, but what truly keeps her coming back is simple: she still loves it. The medals and milestones matter, but the joy is what stays.

You can find Madelynn on her running focused Instagram. 

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