Welcome (or welcome back!) to my Friday FITspiration blog series! Several Fridays during each month, I share inspiring stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things to be better tomorrow than they were yesterday. These are people just like you and me who believe in redefining what’s possible. They’re making choices every day to be as fit and healthy as they can be … in both huge ways and through simple, small victories. And they’re sure to help inspire all of us to do the same.

“I run because it sets me free. Each run is mine and no one can take it away from me but me. It really keeps me centered.” ~Jimmy Kinney

Today, I’d like you to meet Jimmy Kinney. Get ready to be blow-your-socks-off inspired. Six years ago Jimmy weighed 289 pounds. After many years of what he calls yo-yo dieting, he finally decided enough was enough. He lost 100 pounds in a year by making small, simple changes and through running. Today, Jimmy weighs 175 pounds and has run 142 days in a row. Jimmy’s story reminds us that it’s never too late to be the best we can be. It takes hard work, consistency and determination, but if you’re willing to push yourself you can do anything you set your mind to.

Check out my interview with this inspiring and determined runner:

How long have you been running, and what inspired you to start?
I started running after my freshman year in college. I liked doing it but I didn’t stay with it until I turned 36. I was inspired to start to lose weight, but completely fell in love with running in the process.

Finish this sentence: I run because _____________.
I run because it sets me free. Each run is mine and no one can take it away from me but me. It really keeps me centered.

What is your favorite race distance? Why? Feel free to brag about your race PRs.
Five miles is my favorite distance, but I just love to run and eat up miles. I often run twice a day. My best race PR is a 5K of 20:58. I was proud of that because I broke the 21-minute mark. That’s also the last official race I’ve run. Next, I want to break 20 minutes.
What running/racing accomplishment are you most proud of?
Right now, I’m in the middle of a run streak, running at least a 5K every day. My goal is to do this for 365 days. I’m on day 142. I’ve run a total of 932 miles so far as part of the streak. I am very proud to have made it this far.
What is the hardest challenge you have had to overcome? How did you do it?
Just the normal everyday aches and pains. Also scheduling. I just make sure I do it. I rest by adjusting distances, time of day and paces. That’s also why I picked a 5K a day for my run streak. I felt a mile was too easy for me. I need to do something I should have no excuse not to get in, but something that is also a challenge.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start running or who thinks they can’t do it?
You can! I started at 289 pounds and pushed myself a little more each day. I did it without a TV show, a trainer or any miracle diet. Just straight-up hard work and dedication to myself and my running. Anytime I come across someone who is questioning whether they can do something, I always try to boost them up. I did not have that kind of support so I try to provide it to others.
What is your running mantra(s)?
Run free and every damn day 🙂
What running gear do you never run without?
My iPhone. I have connected with so many people on Twitter. Many of us announce when we are running. When my notifications ring in my ear, I know I’m not running alone. We have even done group runs via Twitter.
What keeps you hydrated and fueled the best (us runners are always looking for the best tips and secrets on nutrition!)?
I drink plenty of water every day, but I don’t drink any before or during. I have done as many as 15 miles without anything. I don’t recommend it; it just works for me. My body is just used to it I guess. But I drink water all day. Plus I am vegan, so I use tons of veggies and fruits to fuel me.
What’s on your iPod right now?
Blues Traveler, Foo Fighters, Incubus, Blink 182, Beastie Boys, Avenged Sevenfold
What are you most passionate about? What inspires you the most in life?
I’m most passionate about running and being vegan. Both of those things are important to me. Music inspires me. I would listen to music all day if I could.
What is one thing most people would be surprised to know about you?
I am really pretty shy.
What else should we know about you?
I love life. I am not afraid to be different. I am a Ninja (obviously not in the traditional sense, but I’m focused, I’m athletic, and I’m stealthy).
How can people connect with you?
Twitter: @JimmyKinney1 
Thank you Jimmy for sharing your story with us! Your weight-loss and running journey is incredible. If you or someone you know would be a great candidate for Friday FITspiration, email me at info@runladylike.com.
What inspires you most about Jimmy’s story? Has running ever helped you get to a healthier weight?