Mackenzie L. Havey

Contributors
Mackenzie Havey

Journalist, coach, mindfulness master

Ultra running, trans-Pacific rowing, Alaskan cycling. Mackenzie writes about all of it. She’s well-versed in endurance sports, exercise science and gear, but her background in sports and exercise psychology led her to investigate the link between athletics and mindfulness. Mackenzie now teaches the fundamentals of running and mental training at the University of Minnesota and in 2017 published the book “Mindful Running: How Meditative Running can Improve Performance and Make You a Happier, More Fulfilled Person.”

Mackenzie lives and works in Minneapolis with her husband and daughter. When she’s not typing, she’s hitting the trails on foot, on a bike or on skis.

More Stories by Mackenzie

A pair of runners sweat during a summer workout

Take a Mindful Approach to Running in the Heat

If you're a runner, you're going to eventually encounter the dreaded summer run--and it might not be as bad as you think. Here's how to approach the dog days.
Training
A group of runners does a track workout

Craft a Personal Running Mission Statement to Inspire Your Training

Podium finishes, personal records and a wall full of medals are great goals. But crafting a personal mission statement can help you find fulfillment in running.
Culture
Two runners enjoy meditation in a park.

How to De-Stress Your Training with Mindfulness

How do you overcome the human tendency to control and cling to your goals? A mindful practice known as non-attachment is a good place to start.
Training, Injury Prevention
Three runners run together down a path.

Want to Start Running? Start with SMART Goals

Setting goals is an important exercise for runners. But you need to learn to set the right ones. Here's what you need to know.
Training, Culture
a man and woman run together bundled up in the snow

5 Mental Tricks to Keep You Motivated Through Winter

Maintaining motivation to run can be difficult. Use these five mental tricks to fight back.
Training
A woman smiles as she runs down a path.

Overcome Mental Hurdles With These 4 Mindfulness Exercises

Getting your mind into training mode can be difficult. Use these mindfulness exercises to overcome the mental hurdles that keep you from getting after it.
Training
A woman wearing warm running clothes during a cold day

Use Mindfulness to Embrace Winter Running

Once I drag myself from couch to trail, I’ve calculated it takes no more than five blocks to warm up and feel comfortable, even on some of the most brutal days.
Training
Three people run together on a paved path

5 Reasons Running is Your Best Holiday Stress-Buster

If you're feeling worn down, running can help you manage the stress of the season. Here's how.
Training
A group of runners stretch after their run.

How to Listen to Your Body and Recover Better

Training can be stressful on your body and your mind. Learning how to be mindful of your recovery can help protect you from burning out.
Training, Injury Prevention