Yes, you read that headline right. And, no, I did not have any major running experience. When a rep emailed me with the opportunity to join the most legit Hoka athletes and train with their official coach for the Big Sur International Marathon—yes, being a fashion editor has its perks!—I laughed out loud.
I mean, I sprinted for track-and-field during high school but I could never understand how anyone could run long distance. It's a feat! Still, I took one look at the cute shoe styles I'd get to try during the experience and said, yep, that's worth it. I'm the type that loves to push (and laugh) at myself, try new things (especially as it relates to fitness), and obvi, the shoe part speaks for itself! For about five months, I laced up and hit the pavement with the goal of building my stamina (I could barely run a minute before feeling out of breath at first) so I could reach the finish line at a good time.
In between, I met monthly with my trainer (hi, Ben!) to track my progress. Also part of the process: digital group sessions, check-ins with a dietician and mental health practitioner, and an in-person meet-and-greet with the other runners whilst training in Flagstaff, Arizona. Yeah, it was a pretty comprehensive running plan! All of that was absolutely amazing and inspiring, but I gotta get back to the shoes.
I trained with two pairs of sneakers: the Mach 6 (I received the gorgeous, colorway that's unfortch out of stock in women's sizing, sry!) and the iconic Speedgoats.