National Running Day 2015

Happy National Running Day to all runners!  What defines a “runner” anyway?  I have mentioned before that I don’t really consider myself a runner anymore… and then sometimes I do.  I love to run.  I run a lot of races.  I am decent at running.  But… I don’t only run.  I lift weights.  I take classes.  I just love fitness.

In honor of this day, I have decided to participate in this running survey that is going around the the blogosphere today.  If you are a runner, a wanna-be runner, or you just sometimes go out for a nice stroll, I’d love you to join along with me by answering one of these questions in the comments below.

1.  Why do you run?

I started running to lose that weight I had gained in college from too much Keystone Light and late night pizza.  Yep, years ago I had it in my head that running was the way to lose weight.  I am glad that I know more than I did when I was in college.   Now I run to clear my head, fuel my competitive nature, fight off depression and because I….actually…. love it (gasp, I know).

2.  How do you plan on celebrating National Running Day?

This morning we ran a lot of sprints at my park workout and then once my kiddos wake up from a nap, we will go out and I will go for one mile as fast as I can.  Not much distance running here lately as I am really working on speed right now.

3.  How many miles have you gone so far this year?

Another reason why I may not be a real runner: I don’t keep track of my mileage.  I run about two times a week: one day of speed work and one long run on Saturday or Sunday IF I am training for a long race.  I used to keep track and I used to log about 15-20 miles a week.  Believe it or not, ever since I cut back, I have gotten a lot faster.

4.  What big events do you have on the race calendar so far this year?

I just got done with my three half marathons for the Spring: Carmel, Indy Mini & Noblesville.  Next up on this list will hopefully be a 10k this summer and then the Fort 4 Fitness Half Marathon in the fall.  I am thinking of trying another three in the fall again- we will see.

5.  What must you have before you leave for a run?

• A watch.  Whether it be my heart rate monitor, my cheap target watch, or a Garmin I always need to know at least how long I am running.  I am always competing against myself.
• A headband to keep my hair back.
• Earrings…  I am serious.  I will not even leave the house for a run without earrings.

Oh and some of my other running favorites can be found here.

6.  Do you have a favorite app to track your runs?

I use MapMyRun if I am tracking the distance.  I prefer to use my Garmin over MapMyRun though.

7.  Who is your favorite running partner?

I have a lot.  Sometimes I do enjoy running alone, but that is rare.  I enjoy running with my husband a lot and he pushes me to be faster.  And of course if we are running together I can’t forget my favorite two munchkins we push in the jogger.  I also love meeting my girlfriends for a run and my favorite girlfriend to meet is Rachel.  Rachel and I trained for a full marathon together in 2010 and have been running partners ever since.  Although since 2010 we have been busy having babies so our runs have been sporadic.  I also enjoy going on family runs with my husband, mom and soon-to-be stepdad when they come to visit or we go to my hometown.

8.  What races have you run so far this year?

Pump & Run, Carmel Half Marathon, Indy Mini, and Noblesville Half Marathon

9.  If you had to give someone one piece of advice about running what would it be?

If you are a new runner: don’t give up.  It gets easier, I promise.  Make small goals, each time make it 1 more mailbox or 1 more tree.
If you want to be a runner: choose a race, find a running buddy and work together.  Once you run a race there is something addicting about it and you will be hooked.
If you are a seasoned runner: pick up some weights, do some strength training… you will get faster, I promise!

10.  Describe your relationship about running in one word:

VITAL

And now it is time to go get that fast mile done!  Will you join me?  Even if it is just a 100 meter dash or a quarter of a mile around your block, lace up those shoes and tell me what you think.  Oh and if you will, join in on the survey too by picking a question and answering it in the comments.

Wherever you are on you running journey, just keep going.  Set a goal or two and work towards it.  When you are out pounding that pavement, it is you verses yourself- you are stronger than you think!

Your turn- tell me!
Choose a question from the survey and play along!