Meet Josh Johnson: How Running Transformed His Life and Faith
At Upward Running, we are inspired by the stories of members like Josh Johnson, whose running journey embodies faith, family, and perseverance. From reluctant beginnings to leading a running community, Josh’s story highlights the transformative power of running—both physically and spiritually.
A Push Toward a New Start
Josh Johnson didn’t set out to be a runner. In fact, after his first race in 2016—an untrained attempt alongside his sister and dad—he declared, “This is stupid, why would anyone want to do this?” The soreness and frustration from that first race convinced him to hang up his running shoes, but God had other plans.
Fast forward three years, and Josh felt an undeniable nudge from God to give running another try. This time, he approached it differently, starting slow and focusing on building both his pace and mileage. “That’s really where my running journey began, and this time, the right way,” he shared. As he ran more, he began to see the physical benefits, but it didn’t stop there—his spiritual life started to change as well.
Running Into God’s Plan
In 2020, while searching for a way to share his running journey with others in his church, Josh stumbled upon Run For God. “It was like God literally took His finger, pointed at the screen, and said, ‘Here you go,’” he said. Josh launched a 5K group at his church in 2021, and from there, his community of runners—known as Team Coolidge—was born.
Since then, Team Coolidge, often recognizable by their bright orange shirts, has completed multiple Couch to Marathon (C2M) programs. “We’ll finish our third year together in St. Petersburg in February 2025, and we’ve already made plans to join the new Upward Running nationwide group,” Josh said.
Running is now a family affair for the Johnsons. “The majority of my runs are with my wife, my family—my dad, mom, sister, son, and daughter-in-law all run—my Team Coolidge family, and the Upward Running family,” he said. Yet, he still treasures those solo runs: “They give me time to unwind, focus, and talk with God.”
Faith at the Core
For Josh, running has been about far more than fitness. “Run For God and now Upward Running have had a major impact on my life, both physically and spiritually,” he explained. “It’s helped me mature spiritually in 3-4 years more than in the 30+ years of my past when I was just ‘playing Christian.’”
Josh describes how running has deepened his relationship with God. “My time with God has increased,” he said. “Especially on those long runs training for half marathons or marathons—you can get some major prayer in during those 14-20 milers!” He also sees running as an opportunity to reflect on one of his favorite Bible passages, Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, which reminds him that “there is a time for everything.”
Running as a Tool for Growth
Josh’s transformation isn’t just spiritual; it’s impacted every area of his life. “This program caused me to refocus and prioritize my Christian walk,” he said. “I feel it’s made me a better husband, father, church leader, work leader, and overall man.”
As a leader in the Upward Running community, Josh finds joy in seeing others grow. “My favorite memories are when I get to run with or watch members of my family or team complete a distance race they’ve never done before,” he said. His advice for new runners? “Start slow, give yourself time to adjust, find what works for you, and run your race. The most important thing is to just start.”
The Joy of Community
Josh is quick to point out the dual value of solo and community runs. “Solo runs allow for personal growth—physically and spiritually—while group runs bring fellowship and discipleship,” he explained. “It’s kind of like our Christian walk. We need alone time with God and fellowship with others.”
Through Upward Running, Josh has found a community that encourages him on tough days, celebrates victories, and shares in the challenges. “It’s given me purpose, motivation, and fellowship,” he said. “Whether it’s our local team or the national group, you see and hear similar things we’re all going through.”
Advice for New Runners
Josh’s advice to anyone considering running is simple: start slow and run your race. “You’ll have good days, average days, and tough days, but the key is to start,” he says. “You’d be amazed where and when you can fit in a run if you’re willing.”
Running with Purpose
Josh is currently working on completing a year-long running streak, running at least one mile every day since February 2024. “I passed the 300-day mark the week of Thanksgiving,” he said, looking forward to wrapping up the challenge with his team in St. Petersburg.
His motivation comes from many places—his competitive nature, his team, and above all, his gratitude to God. “God has blessed me with this ability, and I’ll use it even when it’s not convenient, like on tough days,” he said.
Josh’s story is a powerful reminder of how running can be more than just a physical activity—it can be a journey of faith, growth, and community. As he puts it, “I sure am glad my sister kept pushing me to try running!”
Be on the Lookout for the New Upward Running App, Launching Soon!
At Upward Running, we believe running is about more than just fitness—it’s about finding purpose, community, and faith along the journey. Inspired by Josh’s story? Get ready to join our community through the upcoming RunClub app, designed to support all levels, from beginners to marathoners. Whether you’re a walker, a new runner, or a seasoned athlete, our app will be your guide on this journey. Stay tuned for the launch and be one of the first to experience the joy of running with purpose!
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