I found my joy and passion in athletics

So happy to introduce myself to you: my name is Leslie Smith, grew up in Ohio and played nearly every sport: from soccer to lacrosse, to track to speed skating (that one was very short-lived). I've always been a bit of a tomboy and found my joy and passion in athletics.

 I found my joy and passion in athletics

I played varsity soccer for NYU for four years. After graduating last January, I’ve really explored personal fitness through a variety of avenues. I do a lot of running - the transition from being a soccer player to a runner was pretty simple-, but I love to experiment and try new things. I’ve taken kickboxing classes, done yoga, swam; you name it and I bet I’ve tried it. I am a fitness junkie. I think exercise is the easiest way to improve your quality of life. It makes you happier, healthier, and more energetic. I love working out because I love challenging myself. If there is something I’m bad at, I want to work on it for four weeks and be able to notice an improvement. I want to see myself get stronger, faster, fitter. I don’t like to pigeonhole myself as a 'runner' or 'soccer player'.

I want to be the best, most well-rounded, holistic athlete possible.

I currently am a pacer for Nike here in New York. I’m extremely lucky to be part of the amazing Nike+NYC program, where we offer the community (free) runs hosted by Nike, for runners of all levels. I also am a certified fitness consultant and train for Exude Fitness.

In sum, I love working out. I am an extremely competitive person, even with myself, so nothing feels better than pushing myself to exhaustion, or setting a new personal best. I also get extremely excited when I am able to help others reach a goal, no matter what it is. I’ve seen people build friendships, get through hard times, achieve personal goals, and genuinely become happier all through exercise and finding a fitness niche. I want to share my passion and help as many people as I can!