 |
| "I can't even conceive of a life without running" |
I run for many reasons. I run to be fit and healthy, but also to relieve stress and keep me sane. Running has become part of who I am. I can't even conceive of a life without running.
How long have you been running? How did you get started? Why did you choose running over other activities?
I ran in high school, then stopped running for a good 7 years. During that time I developed unhealthy habits and put on some weight. When I was ready to make a lifestyle change, I turned to running again, and have been running regularly since 2006. I chose running over other activities because I am too uncoordinated for other sports - I needed an activity that didn't require much more than "left foot, right foot!"
How do you motivate yourself to run regularly? What about on the days the weather is bad or your are feeling particularly lazy?
I am very Type A, so I tend to stick to a plan pretty well, mostly because it will annoy me if I don't. When I'm tempted to skip a run because of bad weather or other circumstances, I remind myself that I always feel better after a run, and that while I've never regretted going for a run, I've often regretted skipping one. This works most of the time. Having new gear to try out or bribing myself with Starbucks helps, too.
Do you use a running coach, or read any books to aid in your training?
I subscribe to Runner's World.
How do you fit running in with your daily schedule?
On weekdays I either get up by 5 am to run before work or head out when I get home. That's tough in the winter because it means running in the dark four days a week, but I don't have a treadmill or gym membership so it's really my only option. On weekends, I run both days at no specific time (I do schedule Sunday runs around football - can't miss a Patriots game!). I am not by any means a fast runner, so I need to allow plenty of time to fit my runs in.
Do your friends and family support your running or think you are crazy?
Yes, they are great! My husband sometimes runs with me, and on longer runs he will drop me off at the rail trail, drive to my end point, and meet me on his bike, carrying my water, snacks, etc. The rest of my friends and family are also very supportive.
What is your favorite running terrain (road, trail, treadmill)?
My favorite place to run is a rail trail in a rural section of the state. It's beautiful, and the running surface is dirt and stone dust, which is great to run on.
What is the hardest race you’ve run to date?
The 2011 Branford Road Race, a 5 mile race in June. I don't like heat, and this was a particularly hot, sunny day, the race started in the late morning, and there was little shade on the course. Add that to the number of beers I drank the night before, and it was a pretty miserable run. It felt a lot harder than a 5 mile run ever should.
What is the most enjoyable race you’ve run to date?
The 2009 Hartford Marathon, my only marathon to date. It was mentally and physically exhausting, and at mile 20 all I wanted was a nap and some tator tots, but it was so rewarding and nothing can compare to the feeling of finishing your first marathon.
Have you ever been injured due to running? What were the ramifications?
In November 2010, I developed hip flexor tendonitis and didn't run for almost 2 1/2 months while I went through physical therapy. When I started running again after that I was only doing 1-2 miles at a time, a couple times a week, for a while, but I was fortunately able to slowly build my mileage back up and felt stronger than ever by the end of the year. I still go through all of the stretches I learned in PT, and on days when I feel extra tight or sore I take it easy and do extra stretches.
Do you use any music or run tracking devices when you run, or are you a naked runner.?
I always have my Garmin with me, and every once in a while I run with an iPod.
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 set my Garmin to lap every mile, and I keep it on the screen that shows details for only the current lap. I tell myself to focus only on the mile I'm currently running.
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?
When I'm running long near home, I'll usually plan my route to loop by my house a few times, in case I need to make a pit stop. I also run by two high schools and a college that have sports fields with port-o-potties, which would do in an emergency. I've been very fortunate that so far I haven't had any "issues" while running on the trails!
What advice would you give to someone thinking about taking up running?
Get fitted for running shoes, start slowly, and pay attention to your body. Don't compare yourself to anyone else. Go your own pace and don't get discouraged.
What is your next big race?
New Jersey Marathon on May 6.
What is your immediate running goal?
I want to run two marathons this year, and would love to break 5:00 in either or both (I told you I'm not fast!).
What is your ultimate running goal?
I'd love to run a 50K some day.
Do you have a way we can keep track of your progress (Twitter, Facebook, Blog, etc)
Blog: lazymarathoner.wordpress.com
No comments:
Post a Comment