Chris Winn Didn’t Let A Rocky Start To Running Deter Him From The Sport

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Today’s guest is a fellow Headsweats Ambassador that isn’t lacking in running stories from all his adventures.

Our chat is long overdue and we are ready to dive in!

I am looking forward to going a few easy miles with Chris Winn today!

Inspiration Everywhere

Chris Winn wasn’t very active growing up and was overweight most of his life.

About a decade before he ran his first race, he was able to shed around 80 pounds with hard work and consistency.

His first official race was a charity 5k in 2009.

He ran the race because it was for a good cause, but never thought he would stick with running.

Chris was initially inspired by contestants on the television show The Biggest Loser.

He watched them run a marathon and that inspired Chris to give running a try.

Chris wasted no time and signed up for his first half and full marathon in 2012.

He crossed the finish lines of both races, but it would be 4 years before he would lace up his shoes for a run again.

Second Time Was The Charm

Chris took his long hiatus from running due to his body being broken down after completing his first marathon.

While training for his first full, Chris didn’t know what he didn’t know.

His lack of knowledge affected both his training leading up to the race along with the race itself.

In hindsight, he did almost everything wrong and paid for it during and after the race.

It was always in the back of his mind, that he could do better.

In 2016, Chris decided he wanted to get fit again and signed up for a half marathon.

The following year he ran three more half marathons along with another full.

Chris got his redemption when he PR’d his marathon by an hour and felt good while doing it.

Embracing The Community

The second time around Chris did quite a few things differently with his running.

One of the differences was that with the help of social media he was able to seek out local running groups.

Connecting with a running community motivated Chris in a variety of ways.

His running world opened up as he explored new places to run and new distances to challenge himself with.

Chris never envisioned himself running farther than a full, but that all changed in 2018 when he completed his first ultra.

He has since run farther than a marathon more than once and enjoys the mental challenge it brings.

Run, Bike, Run

Chris is continually exploring new and different ways to challenge himself.

His love of running and biking led him to discover the world of duathlons.

He is signed up to complete his first sprint duathlon at the end of September.

The training is going smoothly and Chris is enjoying the variety.

Running has provided a lot of positive aspects for Chris.

Each run gives him a sense of accomplishment and the community keeps him coming back.

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Mentioned In This Episode:

• San Joaquin Running
• Shadow Of the Giants

Stay connected with Chris Winn by following him on Instagram.

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Chris Winn never imagined he would be a runner. The second time was the charm for him and he hasn't looked back. Click To Tweet

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As Always, I’d Love to Know What Stood Out to You From this Episode! Let Me Know Your Takeaway in the Comments Below!

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