Happy Wednesday! Mid-week and one day closer to the weekend makes me a happy camper. And I am sure I am not the only one who thinks that way!
This week’s spotlight is on René, a blogger who has faced a back injury and had to take time off from running. I love that it did not stop her and she has taken the time, sometimes a slow process, to get back to it.
About René…
When did you start running? I started running in high school. I was trying to impress my then boyfriend. He was a track star and I was band nerd. When I went off to college (and the boyfriend and I broke up) I kept running consistently. It stayed with me until I received a back injury. I had to stop for a few years while doctors figured out what was going on, had surgery, and recovered. My running really took off after I felt well enough after my surgery. I ran for me this time, and it felt like a triumph for my soul.
Who or what inspires you to run? When I had my surgery, I faced a lot of obstacles. It was a long time before I could walk without pain, much less run. I saw countless doctors and who did nothing for me but tell me what I couldn’t do. My breakthrough was when I was referred to a physical therapist who changed my life. He encouraged me to get out there and fulfill my running dreams, and equipped me with the stretches and work outs that built my core so I could run with minimal pain. It didn’t happen overnight, though. I had to get out there often and run the few minutes I could before my body started to ache. Eventually, I was able to put miles in before I would feel my spine ache. I have my good days and bad days, but I’m much more consistent now. Every time I run, I internally thank him for helping me get there.
What is your favorite running mantra? Mind over Body
What is your favorite running or fitness blog? I really like http://www.fitsugar.com/. They have great training tips and articles on good foods for runners.
What is the first race you ever ran? My first race was the St. Patty’s 5k in my city. I sign up for it every year to commemorate how far I’ve gotten.
Name one thing you learned from your first race? Walk around and stretch after a race. It will help your muscles cool down.
What are you currently training for? I’m training for a 10k coming up. I’m also in the beginning stages of training for my first half marathon!
What one piece of running gear you cannot live without? My shoes.
Share one piece of advice to new runners… Don’t skimp on your shoes, especially if you have an injury. Your shoes can prevent injuries from happening. Find a store that has a treadmill and will take the time to see if your stride is correct in specific shoes.
And for fun… What do you like to do besides run? I love to write for my own blog as well as guest post for others. I’m also a person that has to have a book (usually 2 or 3) on them at all times.
Be sure to follow René here….
Blog: http://habitsofthinking.wordpress.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/habitsofthought
Instagram: http://instagram.com/burchamvr
Feel free to leave any questions or comments here for René, or wish her good luck for her upcoming races!
Each week, I will spotlight one runner. If you are interested in participating, please send me an email at crazylifeofmineblog@gmail.com.