You know those people that you stalk on the internet but haven’t really met? Yeah, that’s Amanda. I mean, seriously. Just scroll through the first page of her blog. Arrested Development? Alton Brown? She’s a serious-runner-in-the-making (she has some serious goals!), an avid reader, and she’s trying out CrossFit (oh, the humanity). Say hi to Amanda! And let’s all try to get her to come out and run/walk/wog with us!

Why did you start running?

I started running because my cousin had completed the Couch to 5k program and was on her way to training for the Derby Half Marathon and I was jealous. I had always wanted to be a runner but thought I was too out of shape and overweight to be able to do it. I didn’t realize that there was a way to get into it so that I wouldn’t be either one of those things. It didn’t help that she and I worked together at the time and I had to hear about it all day.

How long have you been running?

Well, funny story about that. I started running with the Couch to 5k program on a treadmill in summer 2010. I made it a few weeks and then my knee started locking up. I was diagnosed with patellar femoral pain syndrome. I quit. Then in the fall I started again, only I started running outside. Way better. I made it to the first 20 minute run before I quit again. This time I was filling up my water bottle in the house in a sort of squat/crouch position and thought that my right calf muscle ripped off of my body. It took a few weeks before I could even walk normally again. I finally completed the Couch to 5k program in the summer of 2012, after repeating several weeks and generally being afraid that I would die in the process. After that I’ve embarked on several different running goal/ideas/plans but none of them have come to fruition. Right now I’m lucky if I run once a week.

What keeps you motivated?

When I was training for the RtB Rookie 7 mile run, I was motivated. Once I realized that I was an idiot and couldn’t run the race because of a prior engagement, I fell off the training/motivation wagon. I think my problem is that I’m entirely too goal oriented. I need a plan, and an end game, or else I don’t keep up with the training and just look for something new and shiny to distract me – like Arrested Development coming out on Netflix!

Running/Racing

Are you training for a race or an event?

I keep going back and forth about signing up for Iron Horse. Everyone I know keeps telling me to do it, but I’m afraid that I won’t complete the training and that I’ll fail. Right now I’m just trying to stay active, so that I don’t lose all of my cardiovascular endurance.

What is your favorite race?

I’ve never run a race. I’m intimidated. I’m pretty sure I’ll have to go to the bathroom a lot. Mostly before. Probably during.

Where is your favorite place to run?

I live off of Leestown, so I typically run in my backyard, which is the Towne Branch Trail I think. I’ve done the Arboretum a few times, but I typically just stay home. I’ve tried to run the Masterson Station Park a few times as well but I wasn’t clear on the “trail” and just felt like I was running around randomly. It made me nervous and I felt like the moms at the park thought I had escaped from Eastern State.

What are your running fears?

Honestly, its not injury from running, its injury from being attacked while I’m out running. I’m not crazy, but I might be a little paranoid. I’ve seen some shady individuals while I’ve been out before and it makes me take out a headphone and look behind me every once in a while. I know increasing numbers would help, but I’m not a good planner. And I’m slow. Also, I would hate to run a race and then, you know, lose my bowels. I know that’s an extreme circumstance usually reserved for people running ultra marathons and crazy trails, but I’m not into that.

Do you measure your runs or do you just run for fun? 

I have to measure everything. I’m the kind of kid who tracks everything they do. I’ve even started using a fitbit that tracks not only my distance while running, but every step I take, every stair I climb, every calorie I burn, and every time I wake up when I sleep. However for run specific tracking I use the Nike+ Running app on my phone.

Have you ever dealt with injury? 

I’ve had a couple, which is surprising to me due to the relatively short amount of time I’ve spent running. My first was the knee locking – that came from not having strong enough quads to guide my knee correctly while running. After going to the doc and getting some NSAIDs and strengthening exercises, I was fine in a few days. Next was the calf. That bothered me for a while, like months. I never figured out if it was a strain or just soreness, but once I started foam rolling and increasing my time off between runs it improved. I was also having back issues when I picked up running the last time. It was from not engaging my core while running. Basically bad form. Once I figured it out, took a few days off, and remembered to suck in my gut, I was fine.

Do you do any cross-training? What is your favorite?

Yes! I love yoga, Zumba, and I’m currently doing CrossFit bootcamp. It’s brutal, but in a good way.

Do you have a long-term running goal?

I want to run a Disney half or full marathon. And I want to run a full marathon before I complete my 30th year of life. So, by my 31st birthday.

What gear is absolutely necessary for you?

A GOOD SPORTS BRA. I’m too well endowed to just throw on a $10 compression one or even two. Unfortunately if they aren’t strapped up it basically ruins the entire run. It didn’t take me long to figure that out, but it has taken me a long time to find the best one. Right now I’ve got it narrowed down to a few in my rotation, but they aren’t perfect. I’ve put my boyfriend to the test of developing the perfect one at some point, but he has a job and stuff so it could take a while.

What gear is on your wish list?

I want a Garmin, but I don’t feel like I run enough to justify the purchase at this point.

Do you eat on the run?

I haven’t done a long enough outing to need to, but I have taken some of those Gatorade chews with me a couple times just in case.

What is your favorite running song?

“The Pretender” by the Foo Fighters. I have a whole list of ever changing favorites, but this is always Top 5 every time. Some other good ones I’m into right now are “Workin’ Day and Night” by Michael Jackson, “Potential Breakup Song” by Aly & AJ, “Comeback Kid” by Sleigh Bells, and “Girl” by Beck.

What are your favorite running/health-related websites or apps?

Apps: I use MyFitnessPal, which correlates with my fitbit and automatically subtracts calories burned from my daily allowance. Nike+ Running is how I track all of my runs and I also used the Couch to 5k (now called Ease Into 5k) and Bridge to 10k running apps. I also love the Nike Training Club and Yoga Studio apps for cross training.

Websites: I use dailymile for when I actually do run. Some blogs that I like that deal with running and healthy living are: Twenty-Six and Then Some, Bangs and a Bun/Spikes and Heels, and Skinny Runner. I used to be obsessed with Skinny Runner and found her really motivating, but she runs like 7 min miles and does a marathon or half marathon like, every weekend. I got kind of discouraged reading race recap after race recap, and instead of using that as fuel I just stopped entirely. Bangs and a Bun and Spikes and Heels are written by the same lady. When she got really into fitness and wrote about it heavily in her main blog (Bangs) I think there was some backlash from people not wanting to read about her new found love of running (haters). So now she manages the other site, with the tagline “be pretty on rest days” – which I like for various reasons: you can be athletic and pretty, you don’t have to be pretty while working out (in fact if you look too good you’re probably doing it wrong), and you can take rest days!

What is the strangest thing that happened on a run? 

Once I got tackled by a dog at Masterson Station Park. Another time I was running the track at EKU and my bra like, rubbed a hole in my chest. But probably the strangest and best thing that ever happened on a run was one day when I decided to go without music. I thought it was going to be horrible and long and I was dreading it, but I was so in sync with my body it was unreal. My breathing was natural, my speed was fine, my muscles were alive. It was kind of fantastic.

Do you have a running pet-peeve?

Well. In my limited experience, I get rather irritated when people on the trail run on “the wrong side”. I mean, it’s supposed to be like driving right? You stay on the right and use the left to pass? It’s polite! There are two people that I can think of specifically that do not follow this guideline that I see on the regular. And also, would it kill you to acknowledge my friendly “Hello”?!

What are you reading right now?

Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach. It’s all about the different uses of cadavers in science and industry. I’m actually participating in a thing called the Cannonball Read, which is a race to read 52 books in a year. You can head over to the website to check it out.

What is your one guilty pleasure?

TV on DVD! I will sit on the couch for ridiculous amounts of time watching TV. It’s disgusting. I’m addicted. But at least I’ll draw the line at shows I don’t like. I mean, I can’t watch everything.

What is your favorite meal?

I love pasta. I could eat it every meal of every day and I would be cool with it. But I live with my boyfriend and he doesn’t like it as much as I do, so I usually limit our pasta to once a week. For both my waistline and his sanity.

Seriously, friends. There are no words for how much I love this girl. She just has a way of making us all feel loved all the time. Between her “hug me!” pose and her storytelling, Jaime feels like a piece of my home. If you know her, you are reading this in her adorable accent. If you don’t know her? Make it a priority (and be prepared to text her every time you get home). Say hello to Mama Jaime.

Tell us about your running history.

I think I’ve always wanted to run, but would try it and think I wasn’t built/made for it. In 2009, I was reading about fitness apps for smartphones, and found one for Couch to 5K. It actually told you when to walk & run, and that was essential for me. Have you ever tried C25K without audio cues? Not fun unless you’re a math whiz.

So in 2009 I started running, and joined up with the Striders in December of that year. Trained (not well, my own fault) for my first half, the 2010 Derby Festival mini. I managed to finish in just under 3 hours, walking most of it. And lost 7 pounds during it, and really don’t remember much after it, either. With that, I was burnt out. I didn’t really run again until March of 2012. The time was right. My mentality was right. I found a “get back to running program” that was a bit more intense than C25K. I found my tribe. I signed up for the Iron Horse Half, and started working toward a goal of running the whole thing. Did it, and am not looking back!!!

How do you stay motivated?

Motivation, for me, is a tricky thing. Some days it’s to see my friends. Some days it’s because I am stressed and I can imagine the pavement is someone’s face. Others the only thing that gets me out the door is that I’m OCD enough to not want to miss a run on my plan (I have a spreadsheet. It’s embarrassingly awesome in that OCD way). But, the vast majority of the time, it’s that feeling I get when I’m back at the house, or the car, or wherever my run ends at. That “wow, I actually did that” feeling. The ability to inspire awe in yourself: that’s what running can give you.

Are you training for a race or an event?

I’m *gulp* training for my first full, back where my first half was: the Derby Festival Marathon. My plan was created by my AMAZING!!! coach (after she realized I was probably going to hurt myself with the plan that I’d come up with). For the most part, it’s going great. My first 18 miler was pretty darn rough, and I felt rather bratty by the end of it, but I’m thinking (hoping?) it’s a fuel thing, and will be working on that during my 20 miler this coming weekend.

Where is your favorite place to run?

I’ve had one (ONE!!) barefoot beach run in my life. It’s still my absolute favorite, and if Kentucky had an ocean, I’d live happily ever after all the rest of my days. Second favorite is any downtown route that ends at West Sixth Brewery on a Tuesday. I love Tuesdays.

What are your running fears?

Burning out again and stopping. It was bad. I forgot what running did for me and my mind. I wasn’t happy. I don’t want to go back there. Injury is always another, but is not nearly as big a fear for me as burning out.

Do you measure your runs or do you just run for fun?

Before I had RunKeeper, I would drive the course I did and use a spreadsheet to log my miles. I now have my Garmin and would probably go into a conniption without it.

Do you do any cross-training?

I started swimming in October, and I’m enjoying that (so long as the creepy guy isn’t sharing my lane). I’m *really* getting into yoga. It’s helping me see my body in a whole new way, and I love that. AnneDean is an amazing teacher. Ah-may-zing.

Do you have a long-term running goal?

I want to cross the finish line at my first marathon smiling, coherent, and feeling like I could go further if I had to. And without someone having to feed me a banana. I want to do the Bourbon Chase soooo badly. I can’t decide if that’s more for the running it or for the bourbon, though.

What gear is absolutely necessary for you?

I have to have some way to measure my run (Garmin, RunKeeper). But I’d honestly say my most essential piece of gear is my Spi-belt. I have never run without it since I purchased it. I, in fact, have two: one I leave in my car so that I won’t forget it. I’m a bit paranoid, so I don’t run without my phone. The Spi-belt is perfect for phone, car key, a gel.
One very cool thing that I’ve come to love is my gokey (http://www.getgokey.com/). I got it for Christmas this past year, and I love it for when I’m running from my house. I don’t have to worry about my key scratching my phone, falling off my shoelaces, or breaking my skin out if it’s on a necklace.

What gear is on your wish list?

Crazy pants. Any color or design imaginable. I regularly drool over these (www.runningfunky.com).

Do you eat on the run?

I’ve started on long runs since I had such a bad first half. I use Powerade chews (strawberry banana only, thank you very much), and have now started to use Stinger waffles for 14+ runs. Been experimenting with Gu gels lately, as well. I’m still working to find that fueling sweet-spot.

What is your favorite running song?

Confession: I listen to nothing when I run. Nothing. Even if I’m on a treadmill. Want to see Jaime fall down? Put headphones on her and make her run. I tried the Zombies, Run! app once. I fell and was waving my arms in the air down Man o’ War trying to escape the zombie hoard.

What are your favorite running/health-related websites or apps?
I use Lose It! daily to monitor calorie intake.

What is the strangest thing that happened on a run?

Lori and I were on the second loop of a 10-miler when we heard a thud ahead of us. A bird fell straight from the sky, landed with a thud about 15 feet in front of us, and then a little *poof* of feathers exploded out of it. Lori’s reaction was priceless. This piddly description here does not do the event justice.

What are you reading right now?
“May Cause Miracles” by Gabrielle Bernstein.

What is your one guilty pleasure?

I have many vices: tea, chocolate, peanut butter, egg rolls, bourbon, wine, hugs, hot baths, nail polish. Reese cups are my kryptonite.

Have you met Sarah-Ashley? I just love this girl. So passionate. So giving. So much fun to chat with. I hope you’ll see her on the roads/sidewalks soon!

How long have you been running?
I started running January 2010. I just celebrated my three year anniversary as a runner.

What keeps you motivated?
I love the way running makes me feel. I often refer to running as my “healthy addiction”.

Also, my running friends keep me motivated. We have an awesome running community in Lexington. I have met so many great people through the various running groups that I have joined.

Are you training for a race or an event?
I am training for the Flying Pig Marathon in celebration of my 40th birthday! I am following the marathon plan that Coach Krissie created for me. So far it is going well. I have been maintaining 10 mile long runs on the weekends since the end of summer and will start increasing my long runs in February.

I will be running in support of three great charities: The Alliance for a Healthier Generation, The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and Central Baptist Church Missions. Follow the link below to learn more about these organizations.

http://sassysreasonstorun.weebly.com

What is your favorite race?
I have several that I look forward to each year. Many of the races that I look forward to take place on holidays (The Thoroughbred Classic on Thanksgiving day, Bluegrass 10,000 on the 4th of July, the Shamrock Shuffle on St. Patrick’s day, and the Reindeer Ramble during the Christmas season). These races have gotten to be a part of our family holiday traditions.

Where is your favorite place to run?
The Iron Horse course in Midway is absolutely beautiful. I also enjoy the Run the Bluegrass course.

What are your running fears?
Probably the same as 99% of runners that answer this question—Injury!

Do you measure your runs or do you just run for fun?
I use the Nike+ app on my I-phone. I have to admit…I am a little jealous of my running friends with their fancy Garmin watches.

Have you ever dealt with injury?
I have had several different types of injuries but the one that took the longest to heal was a hamstring injury. After 3 months of following instructions from a physical therapist, I slowly eased back into running. Laying off of running for three months was not fun! I hope I do not have to go through that again.

Do you do any cross-training? What is your favorite?
Runners are notorious for not doing enough cross-training exercises and I am no exception. I have been adding yoga to my weekly routine recently though.

Do you have a long-term running goal?
I would like to still be running when I am 80 years old. The Boston Marathon qualifying time for 80+ year old females is 4 hrs 55 min….Maybe I will qualify when I am 80 (I certainly will not qualify at 40).

What gear is absolutely necessary for you?
I have gear for almost every type of weather. So far this training season I have used my ultra cold weather gear for a 10 degree morning run and my rain gear for a 10 mile run in rain that started out as a light mist and by mile 5 was more like a monsoon. I have not used my yaktrax yet but I am sure there will be a snowy/ icy day soon.

What is your favorite running song?
For two of the races I have trained for, I have had a training “theme song.” For the Country Music Marathon, it was “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey. The TV show Glee had just become popular at the time I was training and the song was featured on the show. I decided to add it to my training playlist and it ended up being the first song I would hear when I set out on my long runs.

For the St. Jude Half Marathon, my training song was “Burning Love” by Elvis (the race is in Memphis…so I had to choose an Elvis song!).

I am still trying to decide what my Flying Pig Marathon training song should be. Any suggestions?

What is the strangest thing that happened on a run?

Ashley Kirkwood and I ran the Iron Horse course in Midway several times over the summer. Each time we ran in Midway, there was a little red fox that would come out and watch us. We called him our “fox friend”. I did not see him when I ran in Midway a few weekends ago. Hopefully, he is just cuddled up in his warm den for the winter and we will see him again in the Spring.

What is your favorite meal/restaurant/recipe?
My husband and I have been vegetarian for over 15 years. In effort to manage his cholesterol without medication, my husband recently decided to follow a vegan diet and has cut out all animal products from his diet. When he first told me this…I had a hard time thinking of preparing some of our favorite foods without dairy and eggs. Now I find it to be an exciting challenge to prepare Vegan meals.

We have to be very selective as to what restaurants we go to but Lexington does have some great Vegan friendly restaurants including Asian Wind, Thai Orchid, and Mellow Mushroom.

Meet my marathon buddy, partner in crime, text-at-any-hour Best Girl, Erin. Our history is almost as long as our long runs.

I can’t wait for you guys to meet her at Run the Bluegrass!

How long have you been running?

I started running consistently in january 2011 as my new year’s resolution. I have a stressful job and wanted a hobby that could channel that stress, but didn’t think i had any skills in anything. My husband had ran a marathon a few years earlier and i decided i would run or at least run-walk a half marathon in the spring. I thought having a goal and training plan would help me stay on-task.

What keeps you motivatated?

Trying to improve. As a beginner, i saw gains in every race i did just from running consistently. Now, i need to really start working harder to see those gains and i’m excited. I’ve also made a lot of friends through running and i love having that part of my life outside of work. It is really fun to recognize faces at local races.

Are you training for a race or an event?

I am running a few half marathons just for fun this winter and to keep my base. ING miami, A1A ft lauderdale, and Run The Bluegrass. I plan to start training in the summer for a fall marathon, maybe Marshall or Columbus.

What is your favorite race?

The flying pig. It was my first half and my first full marathon. The medals have a pig ass on the back and it is adorable.

Where is your favorite place to run?

In ky–Midway. I love the scenery and feel the road is hilly enough to be a good workout but not hard enough that you are miserable.

In fl–There is a route starting in Coconut Grove that goes across several bridges to Key Biscayne. There is water on both sides of you and the view is breathtaking.

Do you measure your runs or do you just run for fun?

Always measure with Garmin or Runkeeper. I am too Type A not to do it.

Do you do any cross-training?

I had the least injuries when i did yoga weekly so i try to maintain that regularly. I love zumba and barre classes, but i have a hard time juggling those with running 3-4 days a week.

Do you have a long-term running goal?

To be that cute old lady in her 70s running in a 5k or half marathon.

Do you eat on the run? If so, what?

GU chocolate outrage. I did packet pick up for the Iron Horse one year and people kept asking what fuel i recommended. I sold a lot of chocolate outrage for John’s that day.

What is your favorite running song?

I wouldn’t say it’s my favorite, but lately when i hear Michael Jackson’s PYT/Pretty Young Thing, i kick it up a notch.

What are your favorite running/health-related websites or apps?

Dailymile, No Meat Athlete, Two Gomers podcast

What is your one guilty pleasure?

Reading smutty novels.

What is your favorite meal/restaurant/recipe?

Qdoba. I have been known to request it as my birthday dinner. I would sometimes drive farther to go to a different location because I was embarassed about how often I was there. And who knows, if you’re nice, I may just make you my version at home, known as Edoba.

If you ever come to West Sixth Running Club, you know Andrea. Big smile. Bright shoes. Unstoppable determination. A true love for running. Get to know her a little better!

Why did you start running? How long have you been running?

The passing of my mother a little over a year ago had a devastating effect on me. To lose such a close connection in my life was very stressful. I really started running for sanity and to escape the “orphaned” feeling I had. I needed to find who I was now that she was gone and running let me do that. It let me clear my head and exhaust myself. I found that when I was running outside a calmness came over me. It is a feeling I still get today.

What keeps you motivated?

My motivation is the dream that I have….to run (or die trying to) at the Western States 100

Are you training for a race or an event?

I am actually training for a few. Of course, like almost everyone else, I have the Run The Bluegrass in March, but I am also training for the TOPO trail running series. My first race is Jan 26th! So far it is going really well. I get down to Raven Run to run the trails when I can but the rest of the time I stick to road running for distance purposes.

Where is your favorite place to run?

Without a doubt, Raven Run. The trails are stunning and if you take the right set, the reward is even greater with a visit to the Overlook and Kentucky River. It really is a hidden treasure, not many know how wonderful the trails in Kentucky are for running.

Do you measure your runs or do you just run for fun?

Now, I would have to say I run for fun. To me, I don’t just run to run..I want to feel a part of the environment I run in. I want to smell and touch it. It is a connection I need. Satisfaction does not come from a number on a watch…it comes from all the places I can explore while running. To say running is fun would be an understatement.

Do you do any cross-training?

Right now I am doing Yoga down at the brewery for cross training. Other than that I focus on core exercises. I am looking to incorporate indoor rock climbing, skiing and bike riding in the winter months.

Do you have a long-term running goal?

Long term I would really like to do more trail running than road running. I love to be on the trails and would like to travel more to do that. I have the opportunity to go to Colorado this summer and explore…so I am beyond excited that my long-term goals are starting to present themselves.

What gear is absolutely necessary for you?

My Salomon XR MIssion trail shoes. You will never see me running without them. I slightly modified them and they are heaven on earth. Everything about them defines me!

Do you eat on the run?

I wish! I cannot eat on the run. I think gels will be the only thing. To make things worse, I have trouble eating before a run. Staying hydrated is also an issue, I hate to drink while running. Nutrition is something I am researching as the year goes on. I have no advice to give on this topic…I will only mess you up!

What is your favorite running song?

Believe it or not, classical music is great to run to. Right now I am obsessed with the Bond version of Korobushka. The whole piece defines my running and I feel such a connection to the music. It is truly a magical experience to start and end my run with it. It is a very emotional piece, and to me, running is a very emotional experience.

What are your favorite running/health-related websites or apps?

I love IRunFar.com for my trail running fix. Right now I am using both Map My Run and Strava as means to keep track of mileage and compete against friends. Both are great programs, however, the GPS can be a little “iffy” in remote areas.

Do you have a running pet-peeve?

I really don’t mind all the typical pet-peeves (spitting, not passing to the left…etc) but throwing trash while running is a complete no-no! I get so pissed when I am running and see all the empty stuff runners leave behind! It is so important to respect and preserve the environments we enjoy to run in..I don’t see how someone can just trash it and go on.

What are you reading right now?

I am in limbo right now. I recently finished Eat and Run by Scott Jurek and read/translated Correr O Morir by Kilian Jornet. I think I am going to start Born to Run.

What is your one guilty pleasure?

Starbucks and their grande iced coffee with cream and 2 sugars in the raw Pure bliss.

What is your favorite restaurant?

The Village Idiot in downtown Lexington. Gastropubs are the best!

I just love Laurie. And I really needed to read her story this week to remind myself the importance of respecting my body. This lady is a great race companion (right Katie?) and often has her kids in tow. Say hi to Laurie!

Why did you start running?
I started running in February of 2010, I had two small kids, needed to get more active, and have some time to myself. I needed a half hour or so for myself, to not answer any questions, to listen to my own music, to decompress. I guess I started running for peace and quiet. What keeps me motivated now is the friendships I have built, the running community, and that little thought that creeps in and says, “Hmmmm, if I can do that, what else can I do?”

Are you training for a race or an event?
As of today, I am not actively training for an event, but have some on the horizon. I’ll do the Urban Mountain Challenge in January, the Rock n Roll Half in Lexington, and might consider another event in March. I am sure some great 5K’s and other random races will show up throughout the year.

What is your favorite race?
I LOOOOOVED the Iron Horse Half-Marathon course. The scenery is beautiful, and the two out and backs make it seem like four smaller chunks. I would recommend it as a great first half.

Where is your favorite place to run?
I love the familiarity of neighborhood runs, “If I get to this point in 5 minutes, I’m at a good pace, if I’m past it, I better reign it in”, that sort of thing. Yet, every once in a while, we all get in a rut and those “change of scenery runs”, Keeneland, Midway, Deer Haven, etcetera sure shake me out of it!

What are your running fears?
Every now and then, as I am headed out the door for a run alone, I get a weird feeling, a car goes by too slow, or something like that and I just turn around and hit the elliptical or say today is not the day. That is one area where I have really learned to trust my gut.

Do you measure your runs or do you just run for fun?
If it isn’t in RunKeeper it didn’t happen.

Have you ever dealt with injury?
I was training for my first half-marathon, and I was in that blessed taper week, on Tuesday I went for an easy 3 miles in the neighborhood. A little after the 1mile point, I felt this giant pain in my lower left leg. I stopped, tried to run again, but it was too painful. I limped my way back home then iced and elevated my shin. I went into work the next day, talked with some experienced runners, and we came up with this GREAT plan….eat Advil like they are M&M’s until Saturday, and you’ll be a-okay! I dutifully stuck to that plan, and Saturday morning the Advil and adrenaline (an intoxicating combination) got me through it. I had a great time, enjoyed the race, and felt such a sense of accomplishment. After another week of me limping around, my associates and husband encouraged me to go to (shamed me into seeing) the doctor. Turns out, I had run a half-marathon on a stress fracture in my tibia, good call huh? Since I had been so smart to “run through the pain”, I found myself on crutches for a few weeks and full recovery took six months. During that time, I did take up cycling, which kept me from totally losing my mind. But I had to give up my position on a Bourbon Chase team with my friends, and found myself resenting healthy runners who would intentionally run past my house as though to say “look what you can’t do because you are too stupid to recognize when you broke your dang leg”. That experience taught me to enjoy even those runs you don’t WANT to do but should, and generalized pain is okay – localized is not.

Do you do any cross-training? What is your favorite?
I love cycling. I’m a klutz and I don’t clip out of my shoes as proficiently as I should, but that feeling of wind and speed is wonderful. Riding a bike as an adult is like rediscovering a PB&J sandwich – you might ask yourself why did I EVER stop doing this?

Do you have a long-term running goal?
A full by 40. Tick tock, tick tock…

What gear is absolutely necessary for you?
My phone for music and RunKeeper.

What gear is on your wish list?
I hate to say it, compression socks. I haven’t tried them, and I don’t want to buy $50 socks, but they must work, because that black knee socks and shorts look is really coming back!

Do you eat on the run?
I do pretty well with Clif Shot Bloks and Powerbar Energy Blasts, but man, that Gu Chocolate Outrage is better than it should be!

What is your favorite running song?
I don’t know that it is my favorite, but I have a childhood memory of taking the President’s Challenge fitness course and running through tires, Money for Nothing by The Dire Straits was in the background. I guess it is a happy place for me.

Are you listening to any podcasts or audiobooks while you run?
Nope, I’d rather turn off my brain during a run. I’m afraid I would come home and not know a word of what was said.

What are your favorite running/health-related websites or apps?
I read a number of blogs that provide inspiration, get my butt out there, and make me laugh. I love that I can keep a journal of sorts with RunKeeper. It lets me know where I have been, what I have accomplished, and the actual day that I broke my stinkin’ leg!

What is the strangest thing that happened on a run?
Over the summer I had a work event in Chicago and in was going up early to visit a friend from high school. There happened to be a half-marathon that weekend, so I signed up. It was going to be great! It was hot. Unseasonably hot. Humid. There were emails flying from the race director all week prior, warning us it would be rough. Aid stations were added, wet cloths would be distributed, water misting stations would be located throughout the course, we were warned not to try to PR. (This was the town that ran out of water a few years ago at the marathon. They were scared.) Well, the race director was right, there would be no PR for me that day. It. Was. Hot. 94 degrees hot. I couldn’t even look at Lake Michigan, because it reminded me of the hot Florida ocean. The only photo I took of myself is fogged up from the humidity, like the lens Barbara Streisand uses on all her TV interviews. I just committed to finish, promised myself a cool shower after I was done, besides, I had run one of these with a broken leg, what was a little heat for a tough (hard-headed) girl like me? Well, I am proud to tell you I finished. It was miserable, and I may, or may not, have eaten the ice that I had previously stuffed in my bra to keep cool, but the medal hanging in my bedroom is still awfully pretty. Perhaps even a little prettier.

Do you have a running pet-peeve?
Anything that rattles, or shakes, or makes noise. I have a special necklace that I wear for big races, but I have to tuck it in so it doesn’t move with every footstep. I made the mistake of freezing my water bottles in my fuel belt one time. The ice chunk that remained rattled around and drove me crazy. I may have lost a running buddy that day too.

What are you reading right now?
Short reads, kid’s books and blogs. My last library book turned out to be a collection of blog posts. Oh well.

What is your one guilty pleasure?
Lyle Lovett! Long story.

What is your favorite meal/restaurant/recipe?
I love a giant breakfast, and a good run allows me to say it is okay!

Look! Another Dude! I “met” Mark initially on DailyMile. He then formed the Polo Club Pacers who have been running for close to a year on Thursday nights. He has kept me company on The Dark Side. He got the water onto the Run the Bluegrass last year. Mark is just a stand up guy. And his wife is absolutely hilarious. Say hi to Mark!

Why did you start running? How long have you been running?

As a way to lose weight. I had made dietary changes and had been walking for a month or so and wanted to try running.

What keeps you motivated?

My awesome running buddies, my desire to constantly push myself farther.

Are you training for a race or an event?

I’m not training in an organized manner right now. I’m running and cycling but I’m not currently using a plan. I plan on doing the Rock N Roll Half in Lex, then my next planned race will be Ironman Louisville in August 2013, then the Marshall Marathon in November 2013.

What is your favorite race?

I don’t have a favorite race yet. But I think the funnest race I’ve done was the Krispy Kreme Challenge 5K.

Where is your favorite place to run?

Definitely out Deer Haven/Walnut Grove in Lexington.

What are your running fears?

That I’m going to suffer an injury that sidelines me.

Do you measure your runs or do you just run for fun? Has it always been that way?

By distance. I’m always running a set number of miles.

Have you ever dealt with injury?

I’ve not had a major injury. I’ve had issues with Plantar Fasciitis, as well as issues with my hips, but nothing that’s kept me from running.

Do you do any cross-training?

I’m cycling now. I’m going to get back into swimming as well. I’m also planning on incorporating weight training. I LOVE cycling.

Do you have a long-term running goal?

I just want to get better. And of course by better I mean faster. Ha!

What gear is absolutely necessary for you?

The Brooks Beast. Can’t run without them.

What gear is on your wish list?

I’d love to have the Garmin 310XT for triathletes.

Do you eat on the run?

I use gels. I was hooked on GU Epsresso Love but now I’ve switched to GU Peanut Butter. If I’m running long distances I will usually run loops and will have a banana after 8-10 miles.

What is your favorite running song?

I don’t listen to music when I run any more. I can’t listen to it during the Ironman comps so I’ve had to train myself to get out of listening to it while I run. But I’d have to say Motley Crue’s “Kickstart My Heart” is one of my favorites.

What are your favorite running/health-related websites or apps?

Cyclemeter is one app that I use to track every workout. I also use MyFitnessPal. DailyMile.com is a great site for encouragement.

What is the strangest thing that happened on a run?

I think one of the worst things that absolutely mortified me was when I first started running with Casey Hill and we were out on a run one nite and I passed gas. She didn’t say anything and I didn’t either but I was SO embarrassed.

Do you have a running pet-peeve?
Races that run out of food or water.

What are you reading right now?

Well besides your questions, I’m trying to read Rich Roll’s “Finding Ultra”

What is your one guilty pleasure?

Sam Adams Oktoberfest

What is your favorite meal/restaurant/recipe?

Mellow Mushroom Funky Q

Okay, friends. I’ve known Sarah longer than I’ve known most of you. She was my first internet friend that I met in real life. She is a great friend and such an inspiring runner. I have loved watching the joy she gets out of running. She’s running her second marathon this weekend. Meet my buddy Sarah from Nashville!

Run the Bluegrass 2011

Why did you start running? How long have you been running?

I was tricked into running actually. I had been running short distances in a boot camp class I had been taking for a little over a year. One class they told us to run from point A to point B 5 times. It took 30ish minutes or so and I realized it was probably more than a mile. A friend from boot camp was running a local 5k a few days later, The Tomato Arts Fest 5k in 2009 and I signed up. My goal was to not walk and to finish under 30 minutes. I did both. I wasn’t hooked yet, but it was a great feeling of accomplishment. I ran another 5k in September, October, and December of 2009 and decided I wanted to push myself and run a half marathon. I wrote a blog about my New Years goals and Annie Parsons recommended I run with a local running group (East Nasty (www.eastnastyforlife.com)) to train for the Country Music Half Marathon. That was 2.5 years ago and I haven’t looked back!

What keeps you motivated?

Definitely my friends and my love of food, beer, and chocolate.

Are you training for a race or an event? 

I am training for the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C. on October 28. It’ll be my second full marathon. There are some training groups in Nashville that are training for the Chicago Marathon and another group I run with called the PR Bandits who do weekend long runs 10+ miles, so I always have a group to run long runs with on the weekend. I am using a modified Hal Higdon Novice 2 plan.

What is your favorite race?

A local brewery does a race every 3-4 months called the Yazoo Barely a 4k. It isn’t timed, there are no bibs, the streets aren’t closed, but it is so much fun! You run a few miles and then drink beer. They open up the tap room and then have a super fun raffle where the race director if you will gives away random crap from his desk. Official race would probably be the Shelby Bottoms Boogie 15k in late September/early October. the weather is starting to cool off and the distance is longer than a 5k, but not quite a half. Lexington connection: my half marathon PR was the 2011 Run the Bluegrass, 1:53:15!

Do you measure your runs or do you just run for fun?

I always run with my Garmin, unless I forgot to charge it…

Have you ever dealt with injury?

Knock on wood, none.

Do you do any cross-training?

I go to about 3-4 yoga classes a week , 1-2 boot camp classes a week, and hiking when I can fit it in.

Do you have a long-term running goal?

Finish Marine Corps Marathon as close to 4 hours as possible.

What gear is absolutely necessary for you?

Garmin 405, Nike Structure Triax shoes, Lululemon crops.

What gear is on your wish list?

Anything Lululemon.

Do you eat on the run?

Clif Shot Blocks in black cherry, chocolate Gu, Salt Stick pills

What is your favorite running song?

Macklemore’s “My Oh My” It’s about the Seattle Mariners 1995 run at the Division Title. The Seattle girl in me LOVE’s this song

Are you listening to any podcasts or audiobooks while you run?

This summer if I run by myself I have been listening (er, nerding out) to the Pop Stuff podcast (http://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/hsw-shows/popstuff-podcast.htm). Both contributors run too!

What are your favorite running/health-related websites or apps?

My running club’s website (www.eastnastyforlife.com) and runnersworld.com. I also love map my run when trying to find new running routes.

What is the strangest thing that happened on a run?

Last summer when running through downtown Nashville I ran into a guy I went to high school with in Charleston, WV and hadn’t seen in 10 years. He had just gotten married the night before. Scary would probably be running at night with out a reflective vest or a headlamp on a windy two lane road. It got darker earlier than anticipated. It was also hot, really hot. I think that was a 19 mile run. After finishing I went straight to the local pizza place and ordered a large pizza to go. I ate half of the pizza once I got home.

Do you have a running pet-peeve?

People who start in the wrong corral/area during a race and then walk, leaving others to weave around them at the beginning.

What are you reading right now?

I should be reading Kindness of Strangers for my book club, but I haven’t started yet. Whoops!

What is your one guilty pleasure?

Pop music, sugary, sugary pop music. And horrible TV shows like Here Comes Honey Boo Boo and Teen Mom.

What is your favorite meal/restaurant/recipe?

Oh man, I have so many foods and restaurants I love! In Nashville, my all time favorite places are City House (http://cityhousenashville.com/) and Mas Tacos, and I could go on and on though!  I am really digging these two salads right now:

Raw Kale Salad, à la Tavern/Kayne Prime

- 1 bunch kale (preferably bought from that sweet lady at Hardy’s Produce at the Nashville Farmer’s Market), washed, de-stemmed, and chopped finely to tabbouleh texture
- juice of 1 fresh squeezed lemon (about ⅛ cup)
- ⅛ cup (of your best) olive oil
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan (I like the really fine crumbles because they coat better than the long strip-like grated Parm)
- ½ cup raisins or currants (I prefer the mix of golden/red/black raisins — Sun-Maid makes a pack of them*)
- ¼ cup pine nuts or slivered almonds (I prefer pine nuts)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- salt and black pepper to taste

1. In a small bowl, whisk the lemon juice and olive oil until it is emulsified and drizzle over the washed and chopped kale. Toss to coat all the greens.
2. Sprinkle the grated parmesan over kale and toss to coat.
3. Add in raisins/currants, pine nuts, and red pepper flakes. Toss to distribute throughout.
4. Generously season with salt and black pepper.

(http://www.nashvillescene.com/bites/archives/2011/09/14/kale-salad-a-healthy-midnight-refrigerator-snack-no-really)

Parmesan Celery Salad Recipe

Set aside any celery leaves you might come across while prepping this salad. I always try to buy bunches of celery that are leaf-heavy on top. That said, don’t despair if no leaves are visible when you’re choosing cellar, there are usually some hiding out atop stalks deeper in the bundle. And for a salad hinged on so few ingredients, my recommendation would be to cook your own beans. Not essential, but well worth the effort.

8 large celery stalks, stripped of strings
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
4 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for topping
1 1/2 cups / 10 oz / 285 cooked cannellini or garbanzo beans, heated
3 tablespoons currants (or golden raisins)
1/2 cup / 1 1/2 oz / 40 g sliced almonds, deeply toasted
sea salt or homemade celery salt
freshly chopped herbs (or herb flowers), or reserved celery leaves

Slice the celery stalks quite thinly – 1/8-inch or so. Then, in a small bowl, make a paste with the olive oil, lemon juice, and Parmesan. Set aside. In a large bowl toss the heated beans with the olive-Parmesan mixture. When well combined, add the celery, currants, and most of the almonds. Toss once more. Taste and add a bit of salt if needed. Serve in a bowl or platter topped with herb flowers and/or celery leaves.

Serves 4-6.

Prep time: 10 min - Cook time: 5 min
http://www.101cookbooks.com/archives/parmesan-celery-salad-recipe.html