Nicole Kimball
is a inspiration always wearing a smile.
She is a dedicated runner, adventurer, triathlete, book lover, newly committed yogi and soon to be Physician Assistant with a specialty in Women’s Health.
Nicole and I met working at Torrey Pines Orthopedic Medicine in La Jolla, CA. Little did I know how much change was happening for her at that time. I caught up with her recently and had to share her story with you.
Nicole, when and how did you get into the sport of running?
In early 2013 I was a smoker, 2-3 packs a day, and had been smoking like that for almost 10 years. I was always getting sick, feeling run down constantly, and my mind was dominated by thinking about when I could have my next cigarette. I had tried to quit multiple times in the past and always wound up smoking again. It was becoming really clear to me that I needed a new plan, something that would make it impossible for me to maintain if I were still smoking.
Running became that plan. I had always wanted to ‘be a runner’ but it never felt in reach. On April 5th, 2013 I decided to go for it. I woke up that morning, threw my cigarettes away, put on some shorts and old sneakers, and went for a run. I made it to the front of my apartment complex, couldn’t have been more than a quarter mile, layed on the sidewalk and cried. It was really hard! My lungs burned, my legs ached, and I couldn’t believe I had let myself become so unhealthy. Walking home I decided to let that disbelief fuel me, I sat with it, I acknowledged that truth in a way I hadn’t before, and committed myself to this change.
The next day I ran again, and the day after that, and the day after that. It took weeks to build up to a full mile, but the first time I ran one I was so proud of myself, I danced on the sidewalk! Plus my time, 16:15, was blazing fast to me!
What motivates you to lace up your shoes and get out there each time?
Over the years my motivation has changed a lot. Initially it was fear, that if I stopped running I would start smoking. Then it became about tackling longer distances, proving to myself that I could do hard things. Now it’s about spending time with myself and nature. I know when I head out on a run it’s going to help me clear my mind.
What does your typical training week look like?
This varies so much depending on if I am training for anything. With nothing on the horizon right now I’ve been able to just do what feels good. Which means 3-4 runs a week, some yoga, a few bike rides, and a lot of walking.
What has running taught you about your body and mind?
I am capable of so much more than I ever imagined! It’s amazing to see how far I can push myself. And how many things I can work out in my mind on a long run.
When did you add yoga to your exercise program?
At the start of March with the stay at home orders. I had dabbled with it in the past but finally had the time to really commit to a regular practice. Once I did my first few classes, and felt how great my mind and body felt after, I knew it was something I would stick with.
You recently made April a "mental health month focus", can you reflect on what you did to focus on your mental health and the benefits you found?
I began using a daily meditation app, Headspace, and devoting 10-15 minutes to it. I also began counseling through an online platform, BetterHelp, which allows text communication and phone/video chat appointments. I also prioritized getting outside for some slower movement, so walks instead of runs, and slowing down allowed me to focus on being mindful of my surroundings and really taking in nature and spending some time with my thoughts.
Scared to take up yoga? Nicole says “Just Start”
What are the main benefits of adding yoga to your running routine?
It has improved my ability to push through discomfort while running, and really when anything in my life is uncomfortable. It’s helped me slow down and just breathe through it. Plus all of the stretching is great for my running muscles and keeping me injury free!!
How do you recommend a runner who is interested in taking up yoga start?
Just start. If an hour seems overwhelming just start with 15-20 minutes. Once you start to see and feel the benefits you can add more time. I always thought I need to be good at it to enjoy it, but really, I feel benefit just from showing up and doing my best.
Are there any other words of wisdom you have to tell us?
Keep running, keep holding onto whatever makes you feel most alive, and makes you feel most like you!