For many women, we grow up trying to poke, prod, and tighten our bodies to fit a narrow definition of beauty and “fitness.”

After a combination of life events, I’ve found myself in a bigger body and downright scared to walk into the fitness class.

“Don’t you think your anxiety will be worse in a city with millions of people?” The question, though well-intentioned, hung in the air awkwardly.

This month, with the help of my furry, grumbling rescue dog, I accomplished my first runstreak (1 month straight of running!) and ran over 100 miles.