Name: Karin Kellman
Age: 44
Involved in: Triathlon, Running, Coaching, Fitness Instructing
Miles and miles of motivation
Being fit was the way of life for us growing up in the Adirondack’s. There were four life-hungry girls in our blended family, all within 3 years of age, so it was just a bit competitive! As a young adult I found running to be an inexpensive way to keep in shape and keep sane which eventually turned into running marathons. All those miles by myself was therapy through many of life’s growing pains.
As running became a daily routine, I started to find like-minded friends that wanted to run too! What a huge difference this made! Time and miles clicked by like a breeze! My husband and I met through many channels and of course, one of them was running. I often tease him that he ‘courted me’ on our long training runs with hopes to get me qualified for Boston 2003 ... and we did! Together we were unstoppable!
Now married with 2 children, we’ve discovered triathlon and continue to run. We have both done Ironman Lake Placid (more than once) and many more Boston Marathons since we met. We crossed the finish line together at Ironman Placid 2009 where I placed 14th in my age group! Locally I often place in my age group in Tri’s and races, and in 2010 I had the honor of qualifying and competing in the 70.3 World Championships.
Competition for me is about beating myself and keeping my inner competitor hungry for more! It’s about showing my kids a healthy lifestyle, to always have fun and not be afraid to put it out there! My favorite running group is Moms-In-Motion and I’ve met amazing friends/Moms there! I’ve started coaching and became certified at our local Y as a fitness instructor. My next adventure is a season of racing, teaching and getting certified as a Triathlon Coach! After that I’d love to get certified to coach kids! The fun never ends! Being fit is what you uncover! What ‘fits your fitness’?
Staying motivated and challenged
GirlsGoneSporty (GGS): What is your motivation for staying active?
Karin Kellman (KK): Self-balance that spills over to make me better with my marriage, kids, friends and work.
GGS: What sports or fitness accomplishments are you most proud of?
KK: My first marathon (NYC in 1998). It was the most empowering experience of my life! I felt that if I could push myself to such limits, there was nothing stopping me! It made me realize the I (anyone) could do anything I put my (their) mind to!
GGS: How do you keep challenging yourself to improve?
KK: There are so many ways to grow in your sport mentally, physically and emotionally. It¹s an endless road of new and exciting adventures just waiting to be discovered. I may or may not win the race, but I¹m going to eat it up!
Tools of the Trade
GGS: What's your favorite healthy food or dish?
KK: Egg whites with spinach, feta, and salsa! YUM!
GGS: What's on your workout playlist?
KK: Eminem, Cake, Black Eyed Peas, Young and the Giant
GGS: What's in your gym bag?
KK: Basic toiletries that feel like they weigh a ton, a full water bottle, Zone Perfect Chocolate Peanut-Butter Bar, hair ties everywhere! Swim cap, goggles and a training watch. The training clothes/equipment of the day and a towel. Cell phone to keep in touch with my peeps!
Live the sporty life
GGS: What does the phrase "live the sporty life" mean to you?
KK: Life is an adventure - live it!
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