Hi, I'm Abby

My Story

Growing up in rural southwest Colorado, I spent a lot of time hiking, camping, and horseback riding. One of my fondest memories from my formative years is from trekking through the San Juan mountains on a backpacking trip with my dad. I was climbing up to a pristine, alpine lake with a way-too-heavy pack, struggling to keep my balance on the loose talus. Placing one foot in front of the other, I climbed and climbed. Before I knew it, I was passing the two men in front of us, leaving my dad far behind. In that moment, all I could focus on was the act of ascent. The sound of my ragged breathing, the burn in my quads, the silenced mind; little did I know, that small test of endurance would lead me to a lifetime of testing my own physical capabilities and supporting others in finding theirs.

I started running formally in middle school. I was an awkward, gangly, somewhat socially inept kid--definitely not cut out for team sports or anything that involved a ball. Running became my safe haven and connection to community, extending into my rebellious teen years.

In high school, I prided myself in running more and running further than anyone else because I was working out on my own time. However, coupled with my decision to go plant-based without guidance and intentionally under-fuel, my performances suffered. Far before I understood RED-S or the long term implications of it, I entered the vicious cycle of under-fueling, over-training, and injury.

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It wasn't until I intentionally chose to opt out of competitive athletics that I found my true love for running. I studied biology at Colorado State University and balanced my full course load with a part-time job in an ecology lab, but still found myself called to the trails around Horsetooth reservoir in Fort Collins. Although I only ran a couple days each week, running continued to be a comforting presence in my life that followed me through career changes, moves, relationships, and the tumultuous times in life.  

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Now, as a UESCA certified running and endurance nutrition coach and NASM Sports Nutrition Coach, I have the unique privilege to guide others through their own journeys. As I've spent years studying sports nutrition and training theory, I'm fascinated by the ever-evolving body of scientific literature within both disciplines. With my background in biology, I enjoy poring over the science and doing my best to translate it to my clients in digestible portions while also acknowledging that each runner is unique. 

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Running is so much more than a hobby. It's a meditation, a celebration, and a refuge. That is why I created Hills for Thrills Coaching. My hope is to provide personalized support and to foster resilience and self-belief in my clients. Ultimately, I seek to provide each client with the tools to succeed without my services in the future, and above all else, I hope to grow my clients' love of the sport; after all, why else would we do this crazy thing if not for the thrill of it?

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