They'll be covered from head to toe with cushioned socks, sweat-proof sunglasses and more.

Kelly Whittaker-Cummings is a certified run coach as well as the chief instructor and northeast curriculum lead for Barry’s Bootcamp living here in Boston. When her career in finance felt like a major soul suck, she made a huge pivot to quit her job cold turkey to start working the front desk at Barry's Bootcamp. Through her passion for running and relatability not just as a coach, but also a human being, she has become one of the most sought after mentors in the red room and beyond. Embarking on her 43rd marathon next week in the 126th Boston Marathon, it's safe to say she knows a thing or two about what it takes to run your own race and help others along their mental and physical journey with running too.

On this episode of Signature Witch, I had the privilege of having a conversation with, Kelly Whittaker Cummings, chief instructor and northeast curriculum lead for Barry’s Bootcamp. Kelly is a humble ray of sunshine to so many, especially her wife Emily, and pups Maddie + Charlie. She makes anyone + everyone who steps into that notorious red room not only feel like they are welcome, but they belong there. 

Our conversation is rooted in the sport of running, which seems obvious given the number of marathons Kelly has completed. But we get into the nooks and crannies of what it means and how it feels to find joy and redemption in the darkest parts of your life.

We talk about mental health, struggles with alcohol, and Boston Marathon Bombing of 2013 so if any of those subjects may be a trigger for you,  I encourage you to please prioritize your mental well-being and engage with this episode only if you feel as though you’re in a safe enough headspace to do so.

Kelly Whittaker is a Boston-based fitness trainer, Barry's instructor and certified run coach. Not to mention, a 27-time marathon runner, including four Boston Marathons! She has an infectious energy that clearly serves her well in her profession and was evident in our conversation.  In this episode, she gives insight into how she's been navigating the changes brought on by the pandemic as a Boston based Trainer. More specifically,  where she's finding success, what's been challenging, and how the Barry's Boston crew has managed to keep going strong despite the obstacles.

The Everyday Athlete is produced by Athleticus. 

Kelly Whittaker is YORK family and the definition of a fighter. A 2013 Boston Marathon bombing survivor, she worked through that pain with the support of the Boston community she loves so much and is stronger than ever. That’s what we call #bostonstrong.