 |
| "I'm proud of what I've accomplished and that's all that matters." |
My reason to run has changed over the years. Right now, I run because it keeps me healthy and keeps me sane. I wrote more about why I run in this post: http://the-running-mom.com/?p=594
How long have you been running? How did you get started? Why did you choose running over other activities?
I have been running on and off since I was a teenager. I ran then because I had to when I played field hockey and also because I knew it would help me stay in shape. I did not like to run then though. It wasn't until late in college that I actually started to enjoy running.
How do you motivate yourself to run regularly? What about on the days the weather is bad or your are feeling particularly lazy?
I only run 3-4 days a week because I am injury-prone and if I run more than that, I feel aches and pains starting to creep up on me. Running less can sometimes zap my motivation. I have more rest days so it's easy for me to get lazy. I keep myself motivated by changing up my route to keep it interesting. I also force myself to put my running clothes on and head out the door even when I really don't want to. I tell myself that if I want to quit after a mile, then I will. I haven't quit yet. Once I get going, my motivation appears.
Do you use a running coach, or read any books to aid in your training?
I don't have a running coach, but at times I wish I did so he/she could help keep me motivated and accountable. I'd also love to have someone who knows what they're talking about tell me what to do!
How do you fit running in with your daily schedule?
I'm a stay at home mom and I do the majority of my runs pushing my son in the jogging stroller. That gives me the freedom to do my runs whenever I can fit them in during the day. In the summer, I am limited to running early in the morning so it's not too hot for my son or me. In the Winter, depending on how cold it is, I run alone early in the morning or wait for the warmest time of day and bundle up the little man for our run.
Do your friends and family support your running or think you are crazy?
My husband is my number one fan. He is extremely supportive. It helps that he is a runner too. We ran together this year for both his first half marathon and his first full marathon. Most of my friends and family are also super supportive. There are those that just don't get it though. The day I ran a half marathon in the Spring, I saw some friends later in the day and they asked me how my "thing" was in the morning. Oh, you mean how I ran 13.1 miles? Yeah, it was kind of a big deal, thanks for asking. I've learned that some people will just never get it. That's okay with me because I'm proud of what I've accomplished and that's all that matters.
What is your favorite running terrain (road, trail, treadmill)?
The road. I mostly run on sidewalks because I want to be as safe as possible when my little passenger is along for my runs. When I'm alone, I run on the road so I can enjoy different scenery than I usually do on my stroller runs. I have yet to run on a trail, but I'd really love to try it. I despise the treadmill, but it's a necessary evil on days when I can't get outside to run.
 |
| running a 5K with my son |
I've run 2 marathons and I think they were both equally hard. The first was a bit harder than the second. I think that was partially because I knew what to expect the second time around. My hardest run ever was when I ran 20 miles pushing my son in the jogging stroller - http://the-running-mom.com/?p=814
What is the most enjoyable race you’ve run to date?
The most enjoyable race I've run was in the Spring when I ran the Maryland Half Marathon. It was my return to distance racing after a 4.5 year hiatus, my second half marathon and my husband's first half marathon. It was so much fun to run with my husband and feel the excitement of a long distance race again.
Have you ever been injured due to running? What were the ramifications?
Yes. When I trained for my first marathon, I had all kinds of issues. They were fairly minor in the scheme of things, but they still kept me from running for quite some time after the race. My problems were with my feet. I had horrible pain in my arches when I ran. Multiple doctor visits concluded absolutely nothing except the suggestion to get orthotics made. I did and they caused me new pains - in both my Achilles and my knees. Finally, I figured out on my own that I wasn't wearing the right running shoes. I had tried countless pairs, but hadn't found the right ones. Once I did (my beloved Mizunos), my problems have gone away. I also keep injuries at bay by only running 3-4 days a week as I mentioned before.
Do you use any music or run tracking devices when you run, or are you a naked runner.?
I don't listen to music when I run with my son in the jogging stroller. I feel that it's safer that way so I can make sure I hear him if he needs me and I'm also more aware of my surroundings. I do listen to music when I run alone and it's a like it's a treat since I'm not used to it. I always wear a Garmin watch when I run. However, lately, I've discovered the joy of watchless runs. I don't do them often, but sometimes it's nice not to know how fast or far I've gone.
How do you get yourself through the difficult parts of your runs? Do you have a personal mantra or do you just give up?
I rarely give up. I know if I do, I'll be disappointed in myself later so that's what keeps me going.
A lot of runners know that "Who has the runs" has a double meaning. How do you deal with the occasional "problem" that plagues every runner at one time or another?
I have to say I have been very lucky in this regard. This problem has not happened to me yet. I know it will at some point though! I do always keep an eye out for where bathrooms are on my long runs, just in case.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about taking up running?
Just do it. I have people ask me about running all the time. They tell me they can't run. I tell them they can. I think anyone can run (unless there are medical issues, of course). I tell them to try. Even if it means running for 10 seconds out of a 30 minute walk. You have to start somewhere.
What is your next big race?
I will be running my 3rd half marathon in March - the Rock 'n Roll USA Marathon in Washington, DC. I'm so excited!
What is your immediate running goal?
My immediate goal is to maintain my endurance so I'm not starting from scratch when I train for the marathon. I ran the Baltimore Marathon in October and I've been keeping up with double digit runs on the weekends since then.
What is your ultimate running goal?
An ultra marathon. I don't think I've ever admitted that before! I'd like to give a 50K race a go and then consider a 50 mile race. That's far into the future though. I'd also like to run a sub-4 hour marathon. That would mean shaving an hour off of my marathon time so it's another goal for far in the future, but something I'd like to do, even just once.
Do you have a way we can keep track of your progress (Twitter, Facebook, Blog, etc)
Blog: http://www.the-running-mom.com
Facebook: TheRunningMomBlog
Twitter: @thismomruns
Dailymile: thismomruns
Wow! You did a 20-mile stroller run? I ran with my sister and pushed her stroller for part of a 5k and it was SO hard! Definitely do the ultra - best running experience of my life! Such a wonderful and supportive group of runners!
ReplyDelete