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| "a sedentary lifestyle is never an option" |
The natural high, the killer legs, the calorie burn... Or, as conveyed via photo: http://wp.me/p1nsNt-3t
How long have you been running? How did you get started? Why did you choose running over other activities?
I've ran on and off ever since I can remember, but I've only been seriously committed to the sport for about a year so far. My mom was into running marathons when I was younger and that initially got me into it. Fitness has always been a huge part of my life though; whether I'm running, hiking, in the gym, etc, a sedentary lifestyle is never an option.
How do you motivate yourself to run regularly? What about on the days the weather is bad or your are feeling particularly lazy?
I do best when I'm adhering to a training plan. I like to pick a target race, find a plan I like and that I know I'll be inclined to stick with, then let loose. Once I'm in the midst of training, I get a little Type-A and have very few problems with finding motivation to get off my ass. As far as bad weather - I adore running in the rain, but if things are particularly nasty, I'll go tough out a few miles on the treadmill at the gym.
Do you use a running coach, or read any books to aid in your training?
I don't use a running coach. The internet is a fantastic resource for both knowledge and inspiration. And also, I'm too poor to pay for a coach. Ha.
How do you fit running in with your daily schedule?
Prioritizing. If I know I have a busy evening ahead, I'll get out of bed early and run in the morning. If my night is open and I'm sleepy when the alarm goes off, I'll run in the evening. It's all about being flexible and remaining committed to the goal.
Do your friends and family support your running or think you are crazy?
My friends think I'm crazy, but only in a "I'm not sure how you run 10 miles" type of way. My family supports it of course, my mom got me into it!
What is your favorite running terrain (road, trail, treadmill)? Anything but the treadmill. Please. Anything.
What is the hardest race you’ve run to date?
I've only ran one race thus far, so by default my hardest race would be the Charlotte RaceFest half-marathon in April this year.
What is the most enjoyable race you’ve run to date?
See above, but replace "hardest" with "most enjoyable."
Have you ever been injured due to running? What were the ramifications?
Yes. I had a "crunchy" ankle issue for quite a while, as well as a mysterious knee injury which kept me sidelined (other than gentle crosstraining) for a couple of months. Both are discussed in further detail on my blog.
Do you use any music or run tracking devices when you run, or are you a naked runner?
Both! My iPod Shuffle and my Garmin 410 are my constant running companions.
How do you get yourself through the difficult parts of your runs? Do you have a personal mantra or do you just give up?
It just depends on the conditions. Sometimes a walking break helps, sometimes flipping through the Shuffle and finding a particularly motivating song helps, sometimes I'll make little bargains with myself. I'm a big fan of picking a mailbox or a tree or street sign, etc, and telling myself that if I run to that particular marker, I can take a quick break/slow my pace/call it quits for the day, but I'm a firm believer of ending on a good note with a solid effort.
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've honestly yet to experience any major bowel issues while running. I try not to eat anything crazy prior to a run, and I hit the bathroom before I head out. *knocks on wood*
What advice would you give to someone thinking about taking up running?
Quit making excuses and just get out there and do it. Yes, it's going to suck for a while, but few things are more satisfying than seeing progress in your performance...makes it all worthwhile.
What is your next big race?
I've got my sights set on the Charleston half-marathon on January 14th.
What is your immediate running goal?
Build my mileage base back up for Charleston, then work on speed and crush my Charlotte RaceFest time in April 2012.
What is your ultimate running goal?
Marathon, of course. Halves will be my primary focus, but eventually I'd like to do one or two marathons a year.
Do you have a way we can keep track of your progress (Twitter, Facebook, Blog, etc)
Certainly! I'm on Twitter as @summeroutside
My blog is http://summerslowrunner.wordpress.com
I'm on Daily Mile at http://www.dailymile.com/people/SummerB2
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