The KC Dirt Community is a female-led inclusive trail running group that doesn’t let any kind of weather slow them down. Their four leaders, Ashley Baker, Kelly Kardon, Kim Olson and Theresa Reyes-Cummings, are marathon and ultramarathon runners. They found each other in this supportive running community, which was once named Mud Babes. Being a part of this group is about more than being fit. It’s a way of life.
Each of the KC Dirt Community leaders have hundreds or even thousands of miles under their belt. They have run 10k and 50k races, half marathons, marathons and ultramarathons. However, each of them began simply. Ashley was looking for a hobby and community. Theresa began running to establish new habits in her life. Kelly wanted to be part of a hiking group. Kim began by going on walks during her lunch break. Their simple beginnings have become incredible journeys.
Their success stories are staggering. For example, Theresa ran a 50k every month the year she turned 50 years old. She has trained for long races by running all night. Additionally, Theresa ran the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington DC.
“It’s the only lottery I’ve ever won,” she says.
Through that experience she met and ran with Billy Mills — the first Native American to win an Olympic gold medal. It was such an energizing experience to her that she walked another five miles at the end of the marathon.
It would be easy to feel intimidated by such accomplished athletes. However, part of their commitment to one another is that they never leave a runner behind. They don’t judge beginners, and they don’t pressure them to keep up with the ultramarathoners. Through the KC Dirt Community, they have found a familial kind of support. In fact, Ashley has not only formed lifelong friendships through the group, she also met her husband. The support they give to one another is rooted not only in helping everyone reach their goals but in their understanding of how important movement is to everyone.
We know mobility is essential for mental and physical well-being. However, the real test comes once the weather turns cold. In the wake of the holiday season, it’s not uncommon to seek comfort and warmth over outdoor exercise, which can be particularly challenging to those who love outdoor activities.
More important than the effect immobility has on our waistline is the effect it has on our overall quality of living and lifespan. Aside from the medical conditions caused by excessive sitting — such as obesity, hypertension, back pain, cancer and cardiovascular disease — immobility can cause mental wellness issues such as depression, which is already a concern for many during the winter months. Also, reduced physical activity combined with shorter daylight hours contributes to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) for approximately 5% of the U.S. population. Even if you don’t fall into this group who experience SAD, many people feel slumps in their mood, productivity and overall happiness.
The popular Netflix documentary "Live to 100: Secrets of Blue Zones" explores five of the world’s blue zone areas (Okinawa, Sardinia, Ikaria, Nicoya and Loma Linda) and the factors that contribute to the health of the citizens. Blue zones are locations that have the highest number of centenarians in the world. The people who live in those five locations share three important factors: a plant-based diet, natural movement and human connection. Many of them were older than ninety and continue to stay active by walking hills, gardening and dancing or other exercise.
Movement is directly correlated to quality of life.
Ashley, Kelly, Kim and Theresa have expert advice for embracing the cold so you can stay mobile all year. You may know the saying, “There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.” The key is to dress in layers. Bundle up if you’re hiking. If you’re running, keep in mind that it will feel 10-15 degrees warmer once your body warms up. Pockets allow you to store layers.
Keep your hands and feet warm with gloves that double as mittens and wool or synthetic socks. Also, look for gloves that have a place on the thumbs to specifically wipe watering eyes or running noses in colder temperatures. Buffs, neck and shoe gaiters as well as handkerchiefs around your wrists and neck will keep the chilly air from creeping in. Wear running skirts over your fleece-lined leggings to keep your bottom warm. Top it off with vests, headbands and beanies.
Buddy up with a friend to stay motivated. Set yourself a goal and give yourself grace. Do it for yourself; not others. Be willing to change gears and do something else, like a video or core work. It doesn’t all have to be big.
Make yourself get out there. You’ll be glad once you do.
Movement is directly correlated to quality of life.
“There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.”