FIT4MOM DC
Originally from Russia, Sonia has called Washington, DC home since 2004. She lives here with her husband, their two sons, and their dog, and when she's not working as a lawyer at an international nonprofit, you'll likely find her reading, baking, hiking—or lacing up her running shoes.
But just two years ago, Sonia wouldn't have called herself a runner.
When she registered for her very first FIT4MOM DC Run Club in 2024, her goal was simply to complete a 5K. She had exercised regularly but hadn't run more than a mile in years. “Trying” was the word she used to describe herself on that first Run Club+ enrollment survey.
Well, "trying" quickly turned into consistency; consistency became confidence; and confidence became something even bigger.
Today, Sonia has completed a half marathon, surpassed her ambitious finish time goal, and discovered a passion that we dare say has changed her life.
"FIT4MOM gave me the gift of running," Sonia says. "It is my favorite thing in every way. I am so happy and grateful for it."
FIT4MOM Owner Kelly Reid was a member of the very first Run Club+ that Sonia joined and was training for her own first 5K right alongside her.
“To really understand what makes Sonia’s story so relevant is that the Facebook post she responded to about Run Club+ was specifically pitched to non-runners. So, if you’re reading this and curious: try Run Club+! Maybe you’ll be like me and have an amazing 8-week session, cross a 5K off your bucket list, and move on. Or maybe you’ll be like Sonia and run your first half marathon just 18 months later.”
What makes Sonia's story especially inspiring isn't just the miles she's logged—it's the joy she's found along the way.
She loves early spring runs through the streets of DC, and every new city has become an opportunity for an early morning sightseeing run. Vacation destinations are no longer just places to visit—they're new routes to explore.
Her enthusiasm is contagious.
Since discovering running, Sonia's son has joined his school's cross-country and track teams. Her husband has started running and loves it. Friends have been inspired to lace up their own shoes. What began as one mom signing up for Run Club+ has created a ripple effect throughout her family and community.
When asked what she loves most about FIT4MOM DC, her answer perfectly captures what makes Run Club+ so special.
"I love that it got me into running. The program was exactly the key to my profile. There was a combination of tracking, encouragement, motivation, and socialization. There was no pressure, only rewards."
Run Club+ Manager and Coach, Erin Radomski, feels inspired and motivated by Sonia herself. Erin admits that if it weren't for Sonia's contagious dedication, she would have spent many more early winter morning in bed rather than meeting Sonia for a run.
Sonia's a fixture of our running community. Whether she's celebrating a new PR, sharing photos from a beautiful morning run, or meeting the group afterward for coffee, Sonia reminds us that running is about so much more than pace or distance. It's about discovering confidence and community one mile at a time.
Thank you, Sonia, for being such an inspiring part of our village. We love cheering you on—whether you're running through the streets of DC, exploring a new city, or simply reminding all of us that it's never too late to discover something that changes your life.