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In this episode of Running to the Castle, Dr. Ali sits down with Kai to share his powerful journey from walking for weight loss to completing the Dopey Challenge after years of setbacks, surgeries, and time away from running.

Despite dealing with multiple surgeries, shin splints, and barely being able to run 20 seconds at a time just months before race day, Kai committed to a different approach: slowing down, focusing on time on feet, dialing in fueling, and using a run/walk strategy.

Together, they unpack how shifting from “just run more” to intentional training, including proper fueling (even if that meant Cherry Coke), structured workouts, and grace with missed sessions… helped him not only finish Dopey but actually enjoy Disney afterward.

This episode highlights resilience, patience, and the reminder that your time will come… and when it does, you’ll be ready to cross that finish line strong.

Learn more about Stronger. Faster. Finisher. !

Ready to cross the finish line stronger, faster, and prouder at your next runDisney race?

Get personalized support, smarter training, and strategies designed specifically for slow, back-of-the-pack or injury-prone runners who want to build a bigger buffer ahead of the balloon ladies, have time for character photos and energy to enjoy the Disney Parks. Learn more about the Stronger. Faster. Finisher. Program today and be the first to know when doors open!

Free Resources

• Follow me on Instagram @rundisneydpt
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• Check out FREE training plans for injury-prone runDisney runners on my website.
• Book a Free 30 minute Call with me if you're wondering how you should train and if working together makes sense.
  
  Hi, I'm Dr. Ali
  I've been running for 15+ years and been in the rehab space since 2012 when I earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree. I get injury prone runDisney runners across the finish line without feeling broken.