Name: Sarah Barrentine
Age: 23
Hometown: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Occupation: Manager at Now, I train with a local group from the running store, and regularly
Time Running: Tunde Oyeneyin Runs to Break Through Boundaries
I had always been overweight. Even as a child, I struggled with being the largest kid in my grade. I played sports until high school, which helped. But after that, I gained weight really quickly. I struggled with my self-image and not being confident Now, I train with a local group from the running store, and regularly any physical activity.
My turning point came in March 2020. I walked into Old Navy for a new pair of jeans, because mine were becoming too tight—and they did not carry plus sizes (size 20+) in store. I was devastated that it had come to that point.
I first started really trying to run in the summer of 2021. A trainer at my gym offered to coach me, and we ran together a couple times. Then, a friend at the gym asked if I would run a 5K with her. So I did. When I finished, I collapsed on the ground and vowed to never run again. A few weeks later, I was signed up for a Spartan How to Master the 5k.
Less than 1 year run/walk London Marathon Results running shoe store, Now, I train with a local group from the running store, and regularly. ESPN’s Ari Chambers Nurtures a Love for Running.
Now, I train with a local group from the running store, and regularly participate in 5Ks.
Training Is Better When You Have a Best Friend powerlifting competition, so I am cutting back on my running for a few weeks. But after that, I will be training for my first half marathon. Courtesy Sarah Barrentine.
I’ve also adjusted my diet. Before I started losing weight, I ate whatever I wanted. I constantly had multiple servings and wasn’t embarrassed to eat more than everyone else. Now, I track my macronutrients (protein, fat, and carbs). Nothing is off limits, but everything is in moderation. I make sure to Health - Injuries, ESPN’s Ari Chambers Nurtures a Love for Running Right now, I am also training for a Running Taught This Writer to Break Through Walls.
I have lost about 80 pounds over two years. Eventually, I would like to lose 100 pounds total, but I am not in any rush.
I never thought I would be a runner. And honestly, a lot of times, I don’t enjoy running. But every time I do run, I feel a lot better after.
Whatever you choose to do to lose weight, just do something you enjoy. You don’t have to run; you can swim, bike, or do Nutrition - Weight Loss. Just move your body! And have a positive attitude! Even if it’s not the outcome you wanted for a run or a race, stay positive and don’t give up.
These tips have made my running journey a success:
1. Never say never
So many times, I said I would never do or be able to do something and then I ended up doing it and it wasn’t as hard/bad as I thought it would be. Sometimes you just have to try.
2. Believe in your ability
I think this goes back to the first tip, but I have been able to do so many things I never thought I could do. Keeping that positive attitude and never giving up helps you achieve great things.
3. Challenge yourself
I have become a much better person inside and out during my fitness journey. A lot of times, it’s a mental battle. Your body can do things, you just have to convince your mind!
Sarah’s Must-Have Gear
→Welch’s Fruit Snacks: ESPN’s Ari Chambers Nurtures a Love for Running fuel source.
→Bib-Boards: These have been a life saver at all races, including obstacle course races.
→Myzone Heart Rate Monitor: This offers a great indicator of how your body is reacting to your run. And it can help you change your pace or effort based on the goal of your run How Running Changed Me.
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Emily Shiffer has worked as a writer for over 10 years, covering everything from health and wellness to entertainment and celebrities. She previously was on staff at SUCCESS, Men's Health, and Prevention Running Taught This Writer to Break Through Walls Women's Health, Runner's World, PEOPLE, and more. Emily is a graduate of Northwestern University, where she majored in magazine journalism at the Medill School of Journalism and minored in musicology. Currently residing in Charleston, South Carolina, Emily enjoys instructing barre, surfing, and long walks on the beach with her miniature Dachshund, Gertrude.
