Feature Friday: This Runner Really Loves Wine
Every Friday we chat with one of our blog content network contributors to find out what most inspires them to be fit and find adventure every day.
This week we're chatting with Lisa from Running Out of Wine.
Lisa is a Baltimore-based blogger who loves running and wine; but don't worry, she promises to never combine the two. She's been involved in sports since high school but didn't start running frequently until college. Now she's a certified running coach and uses her blog as a way to connect with new clients and inspire other runners.
Continue reading to find out her favorite books about running, why she's so passionate about the sport and the biggest challenges she's had to overcome while training.
—Katie Rosenbrock
The Active Times: How did you first become involved in running?
Lisa: I started running in high school when I was involved in sports, and then used it as a form of exercise through college. It wasn't until after I graduated and was living on my own that I began participating in races and began to truly love running. Since then it has been my passion.
What are the wisest words you ever heard about running?
Not every run will be a good run. Some will be painful, or difficult, or mentally challenging, but that's what makes the good runs that much better.
What spurred you start your blog?
I had been reading blogs for 3 years and wanted to get more involved in the running blog community. I also hoped to one day become a running coach, and I wanted a way to reach out to people who may be interested in coaching services.
Describe in 140 characters or less how you judge the success of your blog.
The feedback I get from my readers—when I get a lot of engaging comments I feel like I am on the right track with my posts.
What is the greatest joy you get from running?
The feeling during the "perfect run" when everything just comes together, it feels effortless and I feel like I can run forever. Also the endorphins that come after a race or hard workout.
What's one thing many people don't know about running?
It takes work but it does get easier! Even the most experienced runners had to start somewhere, and through practice and patience good things will come.
What's the biggest challenge you've had to overcome while running?
Managing and preventing injuries. I seem to be injury-prone, and I have a hard time passing up a run or workout even when something hurts. I am learning how important it is to listen to my body so I stay healthy!
What advice would you give to someone trying running for the first time?
Don't worry about how far or fast you go. There is no shame in taking walking breaks. Keep at it and you will reach your goals!
What is the one piece of kit or equipment you'd never be without?
This is a tie between my Garmin GPS watch (I use the Forerunner 620) and my Brook's Pureflow running shoes.
If money were no object, what piece of kit or equipment would you buy?
Anything that would help with recovery! There are some really nice looking self-massage tools and electronic muscle simulators available that are way out of my price range.
What is the one book about running everyone should read?
My favorite running book is "Anatomy for Runner's" by Jay DiCharry. It's not so much about running but about how the body works to keep you running healthy. Jay does a great job explaining why certain injuries happen and there is a lot of information about preventing and recovering from injuries.
Who do you think is the most inspirational figure in running?
Steve Prefontaine. I would love to run in the Eugene Marathon one day and get to finish on Hayward Field!
What is top of your bucket list when it comes to running?
It is my dream to one day qualify for the Boston Marathon...but I have a long way to go.
Where is your favorite place to be?
The beach. I grew up 15 minutes from the ocean and now the nearest beach is 2 hours away. Now I love going on vacation to the beach every summer and staying as close to the water as possible.
Learn more about Lisa at runningoutofwine.com.