Hey there! I’m Caroline, the creator of Run With Caroline.
Since starting Run With Caroline in 2018, I have helped millions of women around the world at every stage of their running journey.
I created Run With Caroline to share my love for running and fitness. They have quite literally been my therapy over the last 16 years.
The benefits of running go far beyond the physical – it has become much more of a mindful and meditative activity for me as I’ve grown older.
My journey as a runner began in 2008. Since then, I’ve participated in various running events, ranging from 5k runs to half marathons to duathlons and triathlons.
I’ve also embraced the importance of strength training in order to become a stronger and faster runner.
In 2018, I became a certified Run Leader with UK Athletics, quickly followed by a qualification as a Run Coach and Level 3 NASM Personal Trainer in 2019.
Since then, I’ve been helping women in my local community in Cambridge, UK to start their running journeys by leading beginner and intermediate running groups.
My mission is simple:
- Empower women through running and fitness.
- Support women at every stage of their running journey.
- Promote self-improvement and self-confidence through running.
- Raise awareness about the physical and mental health benefits of running.
You can find more about my personal story below.
My story
My running journey began in childhood, where I loved sprinting and long-distance running.
I regularly participated in athletics and cross country competitions and was recognised as the most promising female athlete in secondary school.
When I went to university, my focus shifted away from exercise – I was too busy partying and meeting new people.
Looking back, I regret this decision hugely because exercise has since become a source of joy for me.
In 2008, after graduating from university, I decided to rekindle my passion for running.
It was a tough journey after years of neglecting my fitness. I clearly recall my first post-university run – I could barely manage 10 metres without getting out of breath!
Determined to make a change, I committed to regular running. The outdoors, combined with the physical and mental benefits, brought me solace. With each run, my confidence, inner strength, and self-esteem grew.
In 2010, I set my sights on my first half marathon, even though I had only been running for two years.
The idea terrified me, but I persevered and transformed my life in the process. Crossing the half marathon finish line was a defining moment, and it boosted my confidence.
Fast forward to 2023, and I’ve completed numerous 5k, 10k races, and half marathons, in addition to various walking and hiking challenges.
While running isn’t solely about speed, I’m proud to have achieved the following:
- Multiple 5k runs with a personal best of 21.44.
- Multiple 10k races with a personal best of 44.32.
- Multiple half marathons, including a second place finish, with a personal best of 1:47.
In 2018, I became a UK Athletics Run Leader, leading beginner and intermediate running groups in my hometown, Cambridge, UK.
A year later in 2019, I achieved certification as a Run Coach and Level 3 NASM Personal Trainer.
I’ve had the privilege of working with hundreds of women, ranging from beginners to seasoned runners.
Despite my running achievements, my journey hasn’t been without challenges.
In 2018, I was diagnosed with endometriosis, a chronic illness with debilitating symptoms. While this condition has limited my ability to run long distances, I underwent endometriosis excision surgery in 2022, which I’m immensely grateful for.
Since my diagnosis, I’ve become an advocate for raising awareness about endometriosis and demonstrating that even with a chronic illness, you can maintain an active lifestyle, albeit with certain limitations.
Though there have been moments of self-doubt and crises of confidence, my determination to continue running remains unwavering.
Today, I’m grateful to still be running.
Running has evolved into a spiritual and mindful activity, no longer fixated on pace and distance. I look forward to a future filled with happiness and health.
Thank you for being part of the Run With Caroline community.
Caroline 🙂