I Tried Nike’s Iconic (and Just Updated) Running Shoe For a Week of Summer Race Training—Here’s What I Learned

My relationship to running has evolved over the years, at different points including a slew of fun runs, one full marathon, and a handful of halves. Bottom line, though? There aren’t many things I love more than encouraging and being encouraged by a swarm of sweaty people heading in the same direction.

But I’ll be the first to admit that my body isn’t always on board. For as long as I can remember, I’ve had rather *vocal* joints—a couple knee surgeries, a chronically twisted ankle, daily snap-crackle-pops—and after the birth of my daughter, my hips and legs have never felt wonkier.

So for about a year, I took a running hiatus to prioritize rest after, you know, birthing a human. And now, I’m finally ready to get back to the races. In my time away, I got to thinking (and rethinking) about the way I train—and the shoes I train in. Given my history of injuries, I’ve always been particular about my footwear, and my standards are only rising as I age.

That’s why the latest Nike running shoes got my attention. The Nike Pegasus 41 is (you guessed it) the 41st edition of the iconic model, designed with all the classic features plus a few new innovations. After a bit of research on how Nike has updated its most beloved fit, I grabbed myself a pair and mapped out a training schedule that felt equally ambitious and attainable.

Whether you’re looking to get into a running groove or need some fresh inspo as you enter race season, I’m sharing my week-long training schedule and all the intel on the Nike Pegasus 41. Lace up and follow along.

Nike Pegasus 41 Women's Road Running Shoes — $99

Monday

The morning I unboxed my new pair of Nikes, I slipped on moisture-wicking tube socks and shoes, tied my hair up, and traced a short run route. I wanted to be sure I wasn’t too far from home if I felt totally taxed or (gasp) got the dreaded new-shoe blisters.

While my knees were definitely grateful for a short-distance warmup to the week, my stress about discomfort was unwarranted. From the first step, the Pegasus 41 felt custom-fit—no breaking in necessary.

Tuesday

On my second day of training, I brought my daughter along. Side note: If you’re ever wondering if running requires arm strength, try pushing a stroller on the move. Woof.

Our Sound of Music-themed jaunt (she’s in her Julie Andrews era) ended with a leisurely coffee at our local spot before heading home. After more than two hours laced up, my feet were happy campers—thanks to the engineered mesh of the Pegasus 41, which is designed to be lighter, more breathable, and more comfortable than previous models.

Wednesday

I convinced a long-time training buddy to join me for my first distance run. Setting out for the most miles I’ve logged since becoming a mom, and aiming to keep pace with my friend, I was a bit nervy about how my joints would hold up—and how my shoes would feel.

Remember how I mentioned I’m picky about sneakers? I want pillowy cushion, but not too much. I want snug support, but not blisters (duh). I want durability, but not a ski boot. The latest Nike Pegasus 41 checks all my boxes—and my joints were pain-free from warmup to cool-down.

Thursday

I wasn’t nearly as stiff or sore as I thought I’d be after my long run, but I know how important recovery days are—so I carved out time for stretching and a leisurely stroller walk. I paired the Pegasus 41 with a few other Nike classics (a breathable cropped tee, a padded sports bra, and pocketed biker shorts) and ended up staying in them all day.

Friday

After a day of rest, I was ready for a speed workout. It could be the neon orange detail just above the sole (of all the color options, I sprung for “Blueprint”), but simply slipping on my shoes feels like a double shot of espresso, straight to the legs.

Apparently the spring in my step isn’t just my imagination: The Pegasus 41 is the first of its kind to feature built-in ReactX foam, which offers more responsiveness and increased energy return for major take-flight vibes.

Saturday

I swapped my run route for 30 minutes of cross-training at home, complete with an infant sidekick. In my Nikes, I felt steady through a quick plank circuit and surprisingly buoyant as I gave burpees a try. (They feel a *bit* different postpartum.)

Sunday

Interval training, a favorite early-aughts playlist, and my new favorite shoes closed out my seven-day schedule. With every 30-second sprint, I felt a bit more energy and confidence in my stride. I’ll be looping my week-long training schedule all season long, with a goal of running my first post-hiatus half marathon later this year. Join me?