10/16/2026
The moment strength training changed Monica’s running.
“As a runner in her mid 40’s, I spent years believing that logging more miles was the only way to get faster and stronger. Strength training felt like an afterthought—something I simply didn’t have the time for, and honestly, didn’t value…even though I knew it was the “right” thing to do.
That all changed this past January when I saw a pic of my friend at an F45 class. I reached out to her to see what F45 was all about and she convinced me to give it a try. After one class, I was hooked!! And was finally ready to commit to a consistent strength training routine. In nine short months it has completely transformed my running.
The high-energy, structured environment of the studio made it easy to show up for myself, and the functional movements quickly translated to the road.
For the first time in my running life, I feel balanced, powerful, and remarkably resilient. My racing has improved immensely-not just in my overall times, but in how I feel crossing the finish line.
Skipping the strength work is no longer an option because I’ve seen firsthand how it unlocks a whole new level with my first true love - running. Not to mention it actively counteracts the hormonal shifts of perimenopause, protects metabolic health, bone density, and long-term physical independence - but running faster is way more fun to talk about . 😉 🏃🏽♀️ 💪🏻 🏋🏽♀️” - Monica, F45 Madison West member.
