KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Whitney Heins has found success combining the three things she loves most: writing, running and motherhood. "I write about all things at the intersection of running and being a mom," she said.
Five years ago, the founder of The Mother Runners was figuring it all out on her own.
"When I was a new mom and I was training for my first marathon since becoming a mom, I was Googling all these topics, and what was written was clearly written by somebody who hadn't lived it," Heins said.
That's when she created an online community to equip new and experienced moms with information she wished she had. The website is full of free training plans, conversations with experts and Heins' personal experiences.
"A big topic that wasn't written about a lot when I got started was mom guilt. Every time I tried to go running, my kids would freak out because they were attached to me and I felt so much mom guilt," Heins said.
Mom guilt, running while pregnant, running postpartum and even running with a stroller are all things "Mother Runners" have grappled with, as Heins coaches them through obstacles.
"Parents are busy," said runner Hanna Caughron. "It's busy taking care of kids and getting everything done, so having running be an escape, but also having it not be a burden."
"I also think it shows my kids that no matter what age you are, you can go after goals and accomplish things," said Elizabeth Minor, another one of Heins' clients. "Just because I'm an adult, just because I'm a parent, doesn't mean I can't go after my own goals and aspirations."
Five years since its creation, The Mother Runners has evolved into an international business, as Heins coaches women from around the world.
As she navigates her life as an entrepreneur, runner, mom and so much more, Heins' message to all mothers remains her driving force. "Never feel bad or feel guilty for taking time for yourself," she said. "Because when you're your best self, you are your best self for everybody else in the world."
On May 19, The Mother Runners is partnering with a local martial arts facility to offer runners a free women's only self-defense seminar in Knoxville.