Corinna Jackson on running and resiliency
Tell us about your running origin story!
My mom loves to get credit for always guiding me down the right path…and I must admit that she was the inspiration for my running career, twice. I was on swim team in elementary and middle school, but when transitioning to high school, my mom encouraged me to join XC as a way to meet new people. I was not competitive; running more than a mile, let alone racing a 5k, was challenging for me. And I can’t say that I loved running, but I did enjoy the company. After that first season, I suffered a knee injury while dancing and as soon as running was taken away from me, I couldn’t wait to get back at it.
In college, I was finally able to start running again. I was in Southern California and started running fartleks and long trail runs in the San Gabriels without any guidance, just following my heart. I loved working hard, the sense of accomplishment after each run, and the independence that running brought me. My mom was training for halfs at the time, so I jumped on that bandwagon and started building my mileage up. I ran my first race, a half marathon, in the Spring of 2012 and I was completely hooked, running my next half just 5 weeks later! I started individual coaching that summer and running and racing have been a consistent part of my life ever since.
Why do you continue to run?
For so many reasons. But simply because it makes me happy. I am always happier, more grounded, more present after a run whether it’s just an easy run after a long day, a tough track workout first thing in the morning, or a long exploration trail run with a friend. Running has given me a platform to develop resiliency, and it has helped me to become more clear about my values and my goals in running and in life.
And I’ve grown tremendously through running. It was part of my journey through loss when my grandma died, it has allowed me to confront and work through challenges, and the relationships that I’ve formed with training partners and student athletes, who I’ve coached, have inspired me to continuously reflect and improve. And at the end of the day, I’m always looking forward to the next run.
What inspired you to join RCTC?
Morning track workouts, strength sessions, and most importantly, the opportunity to be a part of an awesome community of runners. I also love pastries and exploring new cafes so I was pretty excited about Foodie Fridays.
What’s a piece of training wisdom you wish you knew earlier?
My first coach, Bob Williams, always talked to me about the importance of a slow and steady upward trajectory in running. It was hard for me to absorb this concept at the time when I was eager for the next PR, but the wisdom of his advice has settled in in the decade since. Growth happens over years of consistency and work, as mileage and experience accumulates. I’ve learned that part of this growth is physical but it’s also about the mental focus and clarity that come with years of running and racing. Now, this advice reminds me to stay focused in the present knowing that each small gain in training will accumulate instead of feeling pressure to do everything all at once.
What’s one running accessory you can’t go without?
Gloves. In the winter, fall, and spring. I’m quickly remembering this as we finally enter the cooler months. I have raynaud’s/poor circulation in my fingers and toes which can get pretty uncomfortable, so gloves! Plus it always makes the transition out of the house and onto the roads easier when I know I can stay comfy and warm.
Tell us about your pre- and post-run routine!
Toast with jam or peanut butter before easy runs/workouts (I love sleep, so sometimes I’m still munching on my toast as I start my run) and oatmeal before long runs. I do a couple minutes of mobility and any PT prehab exercises I might have before each run, sometimes even a quick foam roll too. After easy runs, I do a couple minutes of light stretching, then shower, and eat! On workout & long run days, when I have time, I have some chocolate milk or a protein smoothie and then get some strength in before having a real meal.
What are some non-running hobbies/interests of yours?
I’m very into baking and cooking. I’ve recently started going to my local farmers market and am excited for all of the seasonal projects. We’ve been eating lots of applesauce and apple tarts.
Any goals this year?
I’m looking forward to getting settled in the club and potentially throwing myself into some last minute 5/10ks!
Anything else you’d like other people to know about yourself?
I’m a lifelong Portlander but if I could live anywhere else it’d be in London where I had the opportunity to spend a year while my husband was in school.
