When Paytyn Thompson first laced up her running shoes in seventh grade, she never imagined she would be competing on the Van Buren Eagles’ cross country team.
Thompson’s journey began with a push from her mother, who encouraged her to get into shape and maintain stamina, using videos to teach proper form and pacing.
“She just really talked me into it,” Thompson said. “She’d show me videos of stuff to do. Those videos would show me form and stuff and easier, my form needs to be good and how to help me keep my pace without walking.”
Thompson quickly learned that running was not just about moving her legs. Thompson said she focused on keeping her chest up and moving her arms like a swimmer, a technique that helped her maintain endurance without overtaxing her legs.
“First I would run without moving my arms and I just found it harder,” Thompson said. “I guess my legs were just hurting and I was focused on my legs, but when I moved my arms, I would focus on my arms moving and not really on my legs that much.”
Now in her sophomore year, Thompson has developed her skills as well as her mental toughness. Thompson said she bases her running on a simple mantra.
“Don’t walk or anything, just keep your pace and just keep your arms moving the whole time,” Thompson said. “If you have to walk, that’s okay, and just try to survive, get through it, and not quit.”
Under the guidance of Van Buren Cross Country Head Coach Benjamin Boyd, Thompson follows a disciplined routine that includes stretching and careful preparation to avoid injury and maximize performance. The results have shown, with Thompson improving her time in 5000 meter and two mile races each of the last three seasons.
