Brandy Madson fell into running on a bit of a fluke. She spontaneously signed up with three friends for a half marathon, and then they each dropped out one by one; Madson, demonstrating her steadfast resolve, stayed committed. Completely new to long-distance running, she serendipitously saw a mutual friend she knew was a runner at the grocery store. After asking for advice on training, she was invited to run with her group, with the assurance that they would help. Her first run with this handful of women, in the early morning hours, was a turning point. They were all faster than her and she was barely holding on, but Madson got a taste of the sacred nature of the sport. Not only did she not give up, but she completed the half marathon and continued to run with them for five years before moving away. This determination and discipline, amplified by running alongside a supportive community, is exemplified at Fleet Feet Decatur.
Their run club meets three times a week, welcoming new faces each session, alongside others who have been running together for over seventeen years. “Sometimes, whenever you’re struggling mentally or emotionally, physically matching that feeling helps,” Madson explains. Long distance runs serve as a teacher, as you learn over and over again: I can suffer and be okay. This character and esteem building comes alongside a built-in social network. The Decatur running scene is diverse in age, ability, gender, and race. Running is a commonality that bonds people; chatting to distract yourself through physical trials and then the endorphins that follow solidify friendships. At Fleet Feet Decatur’s robust run club, you are guaranteed to get faster while finding community and accountability. They also offer training programs, allowing you to hone in on your goals with intentionality and direct guidance.
The store isn’t only for runners, as perfectly fitted shoes can be life-changing for many people. Decatur residents who work in emergency rooms, grocery stores, restaurants, and schools have found exponential relief in their fit process. When once daily pain evaporates, everyday life is much more enjoyable. Fleet Feet Decatur utilizes a three-pronged approach: interview, fit id, and pressure plates. The interview hones in on the shoe’s purpose, one’s current goals, and any recurring aches and pains. The fit id static scanner takes sixteen measurements of your foot, developing a virtual 3D model, and walking along the pressure plate will outline your motion path. With all this data, they narrow down the expansive shoe selection into (typically) three options for you to try. If you don’t like how your purchase fits, feels, or performs, there’s a 30-day return policy. Anything you could ever need for running seems to exist on the walls and displays of the store. From storage solutions and nutrition to high-tech headphones and specialty socks, your every running need can be met in one place.
Fleet Feet Decatur serves the community in another way: sustainability. Partners with local Atlanta company, EcoSneakers, you can drop your shoes off here to rehome or recycle. If they aren’t in a condition to donate, they are sanitized, placed in a grinder, and used as stuffing for stadium seats, pet beds, and even sustainable stuffed animals. Many people drop by the store simply to donate their old running shoes. This sustainability story works to decrease their environmental impact while positively contributing to greater Atlanta. The store was recently awarded #2 for its culture, community involvement, and reviews. Store Manager Max Heaberlin runs a diverse team of high school students, retirees, and all ages in between. Here, everyone is welcomed in with warmth and earnest encouragement. It’s become a haven for so many, serving as a space that supports your unique goals and physical needs. Step into Fleet Feet Decatur for the perfectly fitted shoes, and stay for the fast friendships and stress-relieving self-care.