Meet Andrea Kravitz!
“Before starting with SWET in January 2017, I wasn’t a runner. I attempted to start running in 2014/2015 but wasn’t consistent; my first attempt at a half marathon in 2015 was not pretty – I mostly walked and it took 3 and a half hours. After that, my running was even more sporadic.
In January 2017, I joined SWET in the 5k group. Not only did my running begin to improve, but I met some truly wonderful friends.
After the summer SWEThogs group, I started in the Fall 2017 Running 365 Half Marathon Training group and ran Rock & Roll Vegas half marathon – cutting a half hour off my time from 2015. I did the half marathon group again in winter 2017-2018, and my third half marathon was finished in under 3 hours, which was my goal.
Then, for summer/fall 2018, I decided to take the plunge and join the full marathon training group. This has been my favorite so far. I love putting in high mileage during the week, and actually look forward to Saturday morning long runs. What is most notable is how much stronger (and even faster!) I’ve gotten, due to the consistency and thanks to the amazing coaches. In December 2018, I ran my first marathon, and truly had fun doing so.
Since that first marathon in December 2018, I have run two more (official) marathons, plus the marathon distance as a “training run” several times, and ten (!!!) ultramarathons. I’ve come to love multi-day events that involve running set loops. My highest yet was 70 miles over 48 hours, and at the end of the year, I will be attempting a 100 miler in this format.
I have also discovered a love for trail running. I love that I am more focused on the zen, being in the moment, enjoying nature (and trying not to fall). Also it’s an excuse to go slow. And the snacks are great!
Throughout the pandemic, running was solace. Especially running with my SWET friends. It was something we could do safely, to maintain our sanity. It definitely bonded us in a permanent way.
Running has become therapy, and empowerment. But it also has its highs and lows. There has been burnout, and frustration, and imposter syndrome. I am sharing this because I think it is important to acknowledge, so that if anyone reading this is going through a similar struggle, they know that they are not alone. These struggles teach humility, and the realization that nothing is linear, and sometimes you are in the moment that you are in.
The people of SWET – coaches and running group members – are some of the best people I’ve met. Everyone is supportive regardless of speed or ability.