Ashley Paulson: Pushing Limits, "You Know Pain"
Ashley Paulson isn’t afraid of discomfort. In fact, she chases it. From world record attempts to comeback races, she thrives on challenge, and she never wants to wonder what if.
“I love seeing what I’m capable of,” Ashley says. “Fighting for a new challenge. I learned at a young age to get uncomfortable in order for growth to happen. I never want to look back and think ‘what if I could have?’ I want to know I TRIED.”
That mindset shows up in everything she does. For Ashley, endurance isn’t just about physical strength, it’s about choosing to show up, even when it’s hard.
“Honestly, I’m not always motivated. That part of it. Pushing even though you’re not motivated. If I only trained when motivated, I wouldn’t be the athlete I am today. I’m dedicated and know I need to do the things I don’t necessarily WANT to do all the time. When I’m on the racecourse and hurting, wanting to be done or quit, I think of the next day. It’s coming regardless of what I do. Do I want to feel the pain of finishing or the pain the next day knowing I didn’t give it what I know I can? Choosing the pain of keep on moving rather the pain I’d feel the next day of quitting.”
Training in the Real World
With four kids and a full schedule, Ashley’s training doesn’t always follow a set formula. It adapts, just like she does.
“Life with 4 kids can make every week so different. My kids are a little older now, but I still don’t have a ‘perfect’ training week. And that’s OK! I roll with it and pivot as needed with the kids. I do prioritize sleep. I don’t need to wake up at 4 a.m. like I used to when my kids were younger. I stay up a little later these days and SLEEP! Which does mean I’m training solo most of the time. But I’d rather stay up late with my kids than go to bed early to train with friends. There are sacrifices. That is one I choose.”
Her weekly training volume can range from 20 to over 30 hours, depending on the cycle. It’s all about consistency, effort, and doing what she can, when she can.
Race Day Energy
Ashley trains solo about 95% of the time, which makes race day feel like something special.
“All my solo training days are huge. 95% of my training is solo so when I get to a race and there are so many other athletes it’s like a huge reward to have like minded people around me.”
She doesn’t have any set rituals, but one race-day tradition sticks. “I do love having a small bag of Cheetos before I race. It’s silly, but I pretend it gives me some cheesy speed power,” she laughs.
Advice for Fellow Runners
Her best advice? Lean into the hard stuff.
“Get comfortable being uncomfortable. The growth happens in discomfort. My favorite think I hear people say, ‘I never thought I could, but I did!’ Doubts are OK! That means you’re dreaming BIG! Don’t let fear of failure hold you back.”
For new marathoners or ultra runners, she adds: “Trust the process. Things don’t happen as quickly as we want them to. Follow the plan and be patient. Consistency trumps talent any day.”
Gear That Goes the Distance
Ashley’s been using JUNK headbands since the beginning, not just for running.
“I used to race professionally as a triathlete, so lots of swimming. I put conditioner in my hair under the cap, and the cap will slide right off if I don’t have a band on. Under my helmet—not only to give it some spunk, but to grab the sweat and protect my hair from getting caught in the helmet. Running, it gives me extra sass with all the fun designs and keeps the flyaway hairs in place—and of course, keeps that sweat out of my eyes. And they STAY put! I go crazy without a JUNK band!!”
Her favorite design? Easy. “‘You know pain.’ It’s what my husband said to me during the last event of the Great World Race. I was hurting so bad. He said it so lovingly: ‘You know pain, Ash. This is just a different pain. You CAN DO THIS.’”
What’s Next?
Ashley’s not slowing down. Her big races for 2025?
“Run Rabbit Run—it was my first ever DNF. This year, I want to podium. It’s a tough field and a TOUGH race. And I’m going for the world record for 100 and 200 miles on the treadmill. I’m sure I’ll sprinkle in several more races, but those are the "A” races.”
Through every mile, Ashley keeps showing up. For herself, for other athletes, and for anyone who needs proof that hard work and heart go a long, long way.
Follow her on social @ashkickn and tag us in your running adventures this summer @junkbrands.