Spotlight on Runners Maria & Liv: The Power of Strength Training

At Limitless Fitness, we believe in creating a space where every athlete can tap into their full potential. This month, we’re proud to celebrate Maria and Liv — two incredible runners who have not only conquered the Rockfest Half Marathon but have also shown how dedication to personalized strength training can lead to breakthroughs in both performance and confidence. With the expert guidance of trainer DJ Ayotte, Maria and Liv have turned their goals into reality, proving that strength training is a crucial—and often overlooked—component of running success.

Maria: Conquering Her First Half Marathon

For Maria, the Rockfest Half Marathon marked a significant achievement—her first-ever half marathon. Finishing with a time of 1:54 and an average pace of 8:44/mile, Maria’s success is a direct result of her consistent training at Limitless. A year ago, she joined with the goal of improving her running form and avoiding injury, and her hard work is paying off.

"Training at Limitless has greatly enhanced my overall strength and endurance, which has been a game-changer for my running performance," Maria shared. The focus on functional movements and conditioning has helped her build the stamina she needs for long-distance running, while DJ’s expert guidance has kept her injury-free. Maria is now eyeing the Eastern States Half Marathon next March, and we have no doubt she will continue to thrive in her training.

Beyond the gym, Maria shared that training at Limitless has impacted her life in more ways than one: “The mindset of pushing through challenging workouts has translated into other areas of my life, helping me stay committed to personal and professional goals.”

Liv: Shattering Personal Bests and Embracing Growth

Liv’s journey has been just as impressive. Having completed three half marathons before, she approached DJ with a goal of improving her marathon time. The results have been nothing short of outstanding. Liv finished Rockfest with a time of 1:31, shaving 9 minutes off her previous personal best and achieving a blazing pace of 6:58/mile.

"Prior to Limitless, I really had no structure or plan, and I found it impossible to remain consistent with my training as I was frequently getting sidelined by one issue or another," Liv explained. Since starting at Limitless, her strength has soared, and her running performance has reached new heights. “I no longer experience the constant aches and pains and recover faster from harder efforts,” she added.

But it’s not just about physical gains. Liv's mental transformation has been equally profound. “I used to avoid or abandon goals out of a fear of failure, but since training at Limitless, I’ve shifted my mental dialogue from one of self-doubt to growth and optimism.” With more energy, reduced stress, and newfound confidence, Liv is well on her way to achieving her next goal: completing a marathon in under 4 hours and qualifying for the Boston Marathon.

Why Strength Training is a Must for Runners

What makes Limitless Fitness different? We believe that every athlete, whether seasoned or just starting out, deserves a tailored approach that meets their unique needs. DJ’s specialized strength training for runners is built around the idea that strong, balanced bodies perform better—and stay injury-free. From core stability to strengthening the glutes and hamstrings, DJ’s programs are designed to complement your running routine, helping you gain speed, endurance, and resilience.

As Liv put it, “Every workout is customized to meet me where I’m at. If something doesn’t feel right, DJ knows exactly how to adjust the routine to target weak areas and keep me moving forward.” This personalized approach is a hallmark of the Limitless experience, where we believe that no two athletes—or workouts—are the same.

And it’s not just about physical gains. The supportive, community-centered environment at Limitless is what keeps our members coming back. “I never feel intimidated here,” Liv said. “The atmosphere is always welcoming, and the accountability from both DJ and the community keeps me motivated.”

Your Next Chapter Starts at Limitless

Maria and Liv’s success stories are proof that the right combination of strength training and endurance work can elevate any runner’s game. Whether you’re training for your first race or chasing a new personal best, Limitless Fitness is here to help you reach your full potential. Our expert trainers, personalized programs, and supportive community are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals—on the road, the track, or wherever your running takes you.

Curious to see how strength training can improve your running? Contact us today for a free consultation and discover the Limitless difference.