How Walking Became the Unexpected Fitness Revolution: A Conversation with Cori Burns of Raesyn
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Interview with Cori Burns, Founder of Raeysn walking shoes from “Maybe Running Will Help Podcast” with Nicky Tamberrino
In this engaging interview with Cori Burns, founder of Raesyn, we dive deep into her journey from a competitive runner to an entrepreneur creating footwear that caters to an often overlooked market: walking shoes. Cori’s story is one of passion, innovation, and a drive to provide technical walking shoes that are stylish and functional.
From Runner to Walking Shoe Innovator
Cori grew up in Towson, Maryland, where she ran cross country and track. After graduating from the University of Maryland, she started her career at Under Armour before transitioning to a healthcare startup. However, her passion for entrepreneurship led her to start her own company. In 2023, Cori launched Raesyn, a footwear brand that focuses on technical walking shoes—a shift that reflects her own fitness evolution from a competitive runner to an avid walker.
As Cori explains, “Running shoes kept getting uglier and uglier, and walking shoes were often designed with older adults in mind.” She set out to change that by creating shoes that look good and perform well for walking. Cori emphasized that walking, while often overlooked, is a versatile form of fitness that deserves technical innovation. Her shoes incorporate advanced cushioning, arch support, and flexible soles to cater to the natural motion of walking.
Walking as Fitness: A Versatile and Underappreciated Activity
Cori is passionate about the benefits of walking. Initially skeptical of walking as an effective form of exercise, she found it to be a great way to stay fit while managing the stresses of everyday life, including raising three children. “Sometimes that cortisol spike from running can just add to the stress,” she explains. Walking gave her the me-time she needed, without overwhelming her body or her schedule.
Through her personal experiences, Cori discovered that walking can be as challenging and beneficial as running. She incorporates elements like speed intervals and weighted walks to keep her fitness level high. “You can add inclines, speed, weights, and even arm exercises. It’s a really functional and versatile exercise,” Cori notes.
The Power of Community and Connection
While Cori doesn’t run her own walking community, she’s inspired by groups like City Girls Who Walk Baltimore, where women gather to walk and connect. These walks aren’t just about fitness—they’re about creating a sense of community. Cori believes walking is a more approachable form of exercise, making it easier for people to get outside and get moving without the pressure of performance.
Building Raesyn: A Family-Inspired Brand
The name “Raesyn” holds special meaning for Cori—it’s a combination of letters from her children’s names. Her decision to focus on walking shoes was not just a business opportunity but also a reflection of a shift in her personal fitness routine. As she says, “More people walk than run, yet the footwear industry has neglected this space.” Cori’s shoes are designed to bridge that gap, offering stylish, high-performance footwear that caters specifically to walkers.
Empowering Women Through Business and Fitness
Cori’s journey is also one of women’s empowerment. She’s passionate about building a brand that resonates with women, especially those balancing busy lives. Her experience in male-dominated industries has made her even more appreciative of the kindness and support she’s found in the women-led communities she’s encountered while building Raesyn. “It’s been incredibly welcoming,” Cori says. “Women in this space are real, authentic, and kind.”
Closing Thoughts: Walking Into the Future
Cori’s story is a testament to the power of innovation, perseverance, and staying true to one’s passions. She’s taken her lifelong love of movement and transformed it into a brand that empowers women to embrace walking as a legitimate form of fitness. Her advice? Start small. “Walking meets you where you are but takes you where you want to go,” she says. Whether it’s for fitness, mental clarity, or a simple mood booster, walking can offer something for everyone.
If you’re interested in elevating your walking game, keep an eye on Raesyn—Cori’s vision for the future of walking footwear is just getting started.
Join the Movement
To learn more about Raesyn and explore Cori’s innovative walking shoes, visit her website and follow her on social media for tips on incorporating walking into your daily routine. Whether you’re looking to switch up your fitness routine or simply get outside more, walking might be the perfect answer.
This interview is a reminder that sometimes, the simplest form of movement can have the greatest impact on our lives.
This blog post is inspired by the latest episode of the “Maybe Running Will Help” podcast, hosted by Nicky Tamberrino, also known as @1classy_motherunner on Instagram. For more inspiration and updates, be sure to follow @mayberunningwillhelp on Instagram. We’re proud to sponsor this show and support its mission to inspire and connect runners across our community.
