healthy laps

2007 Chicago Marathon

I love to run!  I use running not only as exercise, but also as my outlet.  It is my time, and I love that.  I feel so free!

In August of 2006 some friends approached me to join their team for a marathon relay (my part would be 3.1 miles).  I was shocked and terrified!  I was not a runner, what were they thinking?!  I mean, I tried and wanted to ‘learn’ to run so badly because I knew it would make me lose more weight.  But, boy was it hard!  I eventually agreed, after a lot of persuading, and printed myself out a copy of the Couch to 5k Plan.  I knew I could do it if I put my mind to it, but the next 8 weeks looked very daunting to me.  I followed the plan and started off by walking and running, and eventually was able to run 3 miles without stopping!  I was still terrified going into the relay, but I completed the race and I have never been so proud of myself!!

That relay was 2 days before my 26th birthday, and it was the start of my new life!  Since that day I have continued to run and run and run.  I immediately began signing up for more races, including a half marathon and a marathon, which I completed before my 27th birthday!  I was lucky to have my husband by my side every step of the way.  We pushed each other to do what seemed like the impossible.  When we crossed the finish line of the Chicago Marathon in October of 2007, I knew that this was the life I wanted.

Mighty North Fork Triathlon, July 2009

Running keeps me healthy and sane (i’m sure my husband and daughter appreciate it!).  Since the Chicago marathon, I have participated in another marathon, multiple other half marathons, and a sprint triathlon!  Healthy eating and running fit together like puzzle pieces – it is hard to run well without eating the right foods!

Recently, my husband and I welcomed a beautiful baby girl in to our lives!  Running is still a passion, and despite being a mom, I am making every effort to still hit the road a few days a week for my sanity, and for my health.  I want to teach my daughter the importance of eating healthy and working out.  It’s a wonderful lifestyle!

If you are interested, I have listed some tips, ideas and sample workouts below and will continue to update them as time goes on.

Running Ideas & Tips

• Fitness Tips
• Treadmill Workouts
• Speedwork Sessions