From “I’m Not Sure I Can Run Half a Mile” to 5K Strong: Shannon’s Story

When Shannon first signed up for The 1st Mile Project, she wasn’t sure she belonged. “I haven’t been running at all,” she wrote. “Not sure I’d be a complete beginner, but not sure if I can even run half a mile. I feel like I could though.” 

That small sentence — “I feel like I could” — became the spark that started her journey.

Finding the Courage to Begin

Like so many who join the 1st Mile Project Free Beginner 5K Program, Shannon wasn’t lacking determination — she was just unsure where to start. Balancing work and life, she couldn’t always make it to every Saturday group run, but she stuck with the plan, trusted the process, and kept showing up when she could. 

And every time she did, she grew stronger. 

“The workouts were totally doable,” she said. “They worked up to more each week, but it never felt overwhelming. At the beginning I didn’t even know how I was going to run a mile — let alone a 5K!” 

By race day, that uncertainty had turned into quiet confidence. 

“I honestly wasn’t super nervous,” she said. “I practiced for it. And I did it!”

The Power of Progress — and People

For Shannon, what stood out most wasn’t just the running. It was the community and the way the program connected people who were all chasing similar goals. 

“Misty is a great teacher, coach, mentor, and example to anyone aspiring to get started or better themselves through running,” Shannon said. “It’s amazing to see her bring so many people together who share the same passion and aspirations — and to help them achieve their goals, both together and individually. I don’t know how she does it, but it definitely works!” 

Even though her work schedule kept her from attending as many meetups as she hoped, Shannon still felt the team spirit. “Maybe next time, more group workouts or get-togethers,” she said with a smile.

Race Day: I Did It!

Crossing that finish line meant more than completing 3.1 miles. It meant proving to herself that she could. 

“This program built a standard that I can follow for a lifetime,” Shannon said. “It truly means a lot. I’ve learned so much, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.” 

Her next goal? Joining the next program — to keep the momentum Crossing that finish line meant more than completing 3.1 miles. It meant proving to herself that she could. 

“This program built a standard that I can follow for a lifetime,” Shannon said. “It truly means a lot. I’ve learned so much, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.” 

Her next goal? Joining the next program — to keep the momentum going.

Follow Shannon’s Next Chapter

Shannon’s story doesn’t end here — it’s just getting started. She’ll be joining us again for the upcoming Miles with Misty Free Beginner 5K Training Program as we train for the Valparaiso Turkey Trot starting October 18. 

We’ll be following Shannon throughout this next round — sharing her experiences, challenges, and successes along the way. Follow along and cheer her on as she works towards the Valparaiso Turkey Trot. 

“Shannon represents what this program is all about,” said Coach Misty, founder of Miles with Misty Coaching. “She started with uncertainty, found her stride, and finished stronger than she ever imagined. That first mile changed everything.” The 1st Mile Project isn’t just about running. It’s about finding confidence, community, and joy in the journey — and realizing you’re capable of far more than you thought possible.

Join Us for the Next 1st Mile Project 

We start our next Free Beginner 5K Training Program on Saturday, October 18, training together for the Valparaiso Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day. 

Group Meetups: Every other Saturday at 9:00 AM 

Location: Fairgrounds Park / Butterfield Pavilion 

Dates: October 18, November 1, November 15 

What’s Included (Free!): 

• Three levels of training plans (Walk/Run, Beginner, Intermediate) 
• Strength and injury-prevention programming 
• A 36-page training handbook with videos and support 
• A team shirt for race day 
• Community, accountability, and a coach who believes in you

Sign Up Here