About Me

If you're new here and want to find out more about me, check out the about me tag! 

Thanks for stopping by Hit the Ground Running! My name is Ali and I'm a late-blooming runner. (You can read about how that all started here.) I began running in 2009, and began this blog in 2012 to keep myself motivated. These days, my blog is primarily a place for me to think through running-related things and post race recaps.

I was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio before moving to Florida, which is where I started running in 2009 in an attempt to find a healthy outlet for anxiety, stress, and depression. It's the only New Year's resolution I've ever kept. I grew up with asthma and thought I could never be a runner, but over a decade later, here I am!

In 2010 I discovered racing and it changed my relationship with running. To date I've run 5ks and marathons and everything in between.

Orcas Island

In 2017 I was diagnosed with chronic exertional compartment syndrome and underwent bilateral fasciotomies on my lower legs. I am therefore in the second half of my running story, and am a different runner than I was prior to that experience. You can read more about that entire process on my CECS page.

My husband and I moved to Seattle, WA in August 2020 — yes, in the middle of the pandemic. We love the outdoors here and the running community here is just unbeatable. Since moving to Seattle, I've also finally discovered a love for cross-training and spinning thanks to the Peloton community.

I am an ambassador for:

Zooma Women's Race Series

Skirt Sports

Momentum Jewelry

Nox Gear

My discount codes can be found on my Instagram page.

Mt. Rainier

Besides running, I enjoy writing, reading, traveling (although I don't do much of it), and generally trying to force myself out of my comfort zone.

When I was 11, I was diagnosed with Celiac. I eat an entirely gluten free diet, and I have for over 20 years. I also eat a mostly plant-based diet at home in a small effort to help the environment.

Vancouver

I strive to keep this blog positive and upbeat, but I also pride myself on keeping it real. Expect a little bit of everything here, from updates on my training to life in general. I hope you find something you like and stick around!

ABK