Introduce yourself:
Chris: My name is Chris Sosinski and I have been going to Goodmiles since 2023!
What brought you to Goodmiles Running Company?
Chris: After seeing Goodmiles at various race expos, specifically the Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon, I needed to to check out the storefront to see what it was all about.
How is the store different from other retailers in your area?
Chris: Going to Goodmiles is like going to see a good friend and talk about something you love! In this case, we talk about our passion for running. Other stores push for the sale based on what is in stock. Here at Goodmiles, you get the fit right and ensure a person walks away with a great experience.
What’s one of the most memorable experiences you’ve had with Goodmiles?
Chris: This year I attended my first group run with Goodmiles. 2023 was a year of physical recovery and building back up to a “normal-for-me” mileage. In late 2022 I was unknowingly ill and was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. Between not feeling well and having to adjust to my new diagnosis, my training stopped. I also lost most of my confidence in running socially.
While my health declined, I slowly drifted from a front-of-the-mid-pack runner to a back-of-the-pack finisher. Our personal self perceptions and reflections can be our worst enemy. Here it consumed my social confidence in running.
Attending the brookfield fun run club was a great time! I felt welcome and could run whatever pace I needed at that moment without pressure. On the front end we stretched and did a dynamic warmup, and after we socialized. In the weeks that followed, I saw the group run leader Jennifer out and about in the community. It was a great experience to build my social confidence and make more connections in the running community!
Why do you love HOKA?
Chris: HOKA is one of my most loved bands because their shoes are so unique, they have a lower offset, and higher levels of cushion. Also many of the color ways are cutting edge, and to me, that is essential. Apart from the function and look of HOKA shoes, HOKA wins over my heart because they celebrate diversity.
HOKA fosters an inclusive community with different perspectives. When we are together, we are truly better together! HOKA likes to defy all the odds by ignoring the doubters, brushing off the critics, and pouring their heart into a wild idea! HOKA says that "Every run is about more than just a run." This is 100% true! For me it is about what I CAN DO. What I enjoy. Digging deep within to be centered on what matters. Running helps me find focus in the busy buzz of life.
What is it important to you to give back to your community?
Chris: The community is who made me who I am today! That means it is my job to help forge tomorrow's generation. Mentoring and supporting teens and young adults is gratifying. Seeing each person achieve their personal goals and grow is one of the best rewards in life.
What is a Goodmile to you?
Chris: A Goodmile is a happy pain and injury-free mile. Any mile you can do without the burden of injury is great!
Tips or Tricks for people who want to start running or training long distances?
Chris: You have to want it! Running is hard and takes time to get used to. Get fitted for the right running shoes as that will prevent injury. Build up your volume slowly, this too will help prevent injury. Running allows you to see the world from a different perspective from walking or driving! Running is one foot in front of the other. Finally, if you are not having fun, you are doing it wrong!
Is there anything else you would love to share with us?
Chris: I have been running for 17 years. Cross Country was my favorite sport during my scholastic years. Running the trails was such a thrill. My goal is to keep running my whole life. This is accomplished by running to another day! I now struggle withType 1 diabetes and want to show others that they too can overcome and continue to run, or pursue their sport of choice.
Shop Chris’ favorite HOKA style here at Goodmiles!
Women's Arahi 7:
Men's Arahi 7:
