Okay, so here’s what happened…
You know those days when you wake up knowing it’s going to be a full-on Main Character energy day? Yeah, that was me this morning. I opened my closet to the soothing murmur of hangers whispering “you got this, Rachel,” slipped into my chicest leggings (that just happen to cost more than my first rent), threw on a cropped windbreaker, and thought:
“Why not do a little cardio and give the people of Central Park a lewk while I’m at it?”
Spoiler alert: Central Park was not ready.
My Cute Little “Fitness” Plan
So, let me set the scene for you. Picture it—it’s a crisp fall morning in New York City. We’re talking golden leaves, couples sipping pumpkin spice lattes, and me stretching like I’ve definitely done this before. There’s this playlist in my ears that’s part Beyoncé, part Broadway. The vibe? Think Sports Illustrated meets Saks Fifth Avenue.
My plan was simple:
- Run around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir like a graceful gazelle… but with better accessories.
- Snap a few “candid” shots, because yes, I did bring Joey’s tripod.
- Hydrate with overpriced coconut water.
- Maybe flirt a little with someone who looks like they own a gallery in SoHo.
Reality? Ha. Well…
When the Sidewalk Becomes a Runway
Now, I know what you're thinking—Rachel, how hard can it be to jog in Central Park? The answer is: not hard at all… if you’re not trying to do it in wedge sneakers.
Yes, wedge sneakers. Sue me.
"Running feels almost spiritual when you’re wearing designer athleisure… until you step in goose poop at 8:42 AM." —Me, panting dramatically by a rock that may or may not be famous.
Okay, so slight fashion misstep, but the paparazzi (read: tourists with really good iPhones) didn’t seem to mind. I even caught a group of Danish women whispering “Chic!”—or maybe it was “She’s going to trip,” but either way, I felt seen.
Moments That Made Me Love This City (Even More Than My Vintage Fendi)
- A man playing the cello under a tree near Bethesda Fountain. I stopped running (obviously) and gave him my snack bar. We shared a look. It was a moment.
- A flock of tiny schoolchildren walked by in little wool coats and gasped at Pigeons. I used to do that! Okay, I still do that.
- A dog in a Burberry scarf literally strutted past me and I think we nodded at each other? I am not well.
What I Learned (Besides Do Not Run in Wedge Sneakers)
- Looking good in your workout look is great. Feeling good? Even better.
- Sometimes, exploring the city alone is like dating yourself—and you totally deserve the effort.
- No one is judging you in Central Park. Unless you stop mid-run for a full photo shoot. Then yes. Yes they are.
But here’s the thing—those half smiles from strangers, that warm fall breeze in my hair (which maybe didn't need the blowout but we're not talking about that), and the sheer fun of being a little extra in public? That’s what makes New York magic.
It isn’t about being perfect. It’s about strutting through a city that’s just as fabulous and messy as you are and knowing that somewhere, someone probably looked at you and thought—
“Damn, she’s got it together.”
(Which is wild because I definitely forgot to pay my Wi-Fi bill this week.)
Would I Do It Again?
Absolutely. Same leggings, different shoes.
Running may not be my forever thing—but showing up in the world like it’s mine? That’s very much my vibe.
Until next time—
xo,
Rachel
P.S. If you’re wondering: Yes, Chandler roasted me later for calling my walk a “run.” Let him. I looked amazing.
