Community Voices: A conversation with Ale from The Running Mamis

The Power of Running and Transforming Life by Ale

If you would’ve told me 3 years ago that running would become my therapy, my outlet, and my source of empowerment—I don’t think I would have believed you.  Considering that I never ran more than 10 minutes straight. I didn’t grow up seeing many brown women like me on race courses. My running journey began parallel with another brand new life for me, a life as a mom to a baby girl.

Taking The First Step

I began walking with my stroller when I was 3 months post-partum. I promised myself a brisk walk to make myself feel active and alive. One brisk walk turned into a light jog, a light jog turned into miles that helped me cope, move through chaos, and discover a new identity.

At the time, I was a single mom—so wherever I went, my daughter came with me. I bought second had stroller from a thrift shop and just kept running. Slowly but surely, this simple act became part of our routine. I signed up for my first community 5K and that’s when everything changed. I found the Running Mamis, and in them, I found home.

Finding Community- The Running Mamis

The Running Mamis are a community that embraces women, uplifted mothers, and reminded me that I wasn’t alone. Not long after, I registered for my first marathon. My longest run at that point had only been 12 miles, and maybe it was a little delusional for thinking that I could finish with not much time to train—but I held onto that fire in me and kept moving forward.

Before becoming a mom, I was a personal trainer dedicated to empowering women. When I stepped away from that role, I grieved the loss of that version of myself. But through running, mile after mile, race after race I found her again. This time, though, I feel even more connected to the women I want to uplift—because now I am her. I’m in the course alongside them. And I want to shout: you can be here too.

Transformation

Running has begun to heal parts of my family. They show up to my races now. What once felt like a solo act has become something that brings us all together. It’s turned into a family celebration. Running has taught me that I’m capable of conquering the things that I once feared. Long distances are hard—but so are job interviews, overwhelming days at work, and all the moments in life that feel bigger than me. And yet, every time I lace up my shoes and push through another mile, I remind myself: I am strong. I am capable. That belief spills over into every part of my life.

What is even more beautiful is how that confidence has become contagious. Friends who once watched from the sidelines are now signing up for their own races. And my daughter—just two and half years old—runs her mini races now. She cheers for herself, just like I cheer for her.

This is Where I Rise: A Declaration of Presence, Growth and Place

Running helped me reclaim my identity. As a Latina, as a woman, as a mother, and as a friend—I feel deeply proud of the space I’ve made for myself and others in this community. It brought my family together in unexpected ways. It gave me real friendship, a new sense of belonging, and the joy of knowing that I am showing my daughter what’s possible when you dare to begin.

And the best part? I know there are still so many miles left to run—and I can’t wait to see where they take me.

Your running partner, Ale

Ale is a member of The Running Mamis and the running community in Los Angeles. Follow her on Instagram for all her running adventures.

Instagram: @mimibananna