Interview with Ashley & a Spartan Race Giveaway

 Keep reading to learn how you can win a FREE Spartan Race entry!

When it comes to running, we are ALL different. We not only vary in personal goals, whether we want to run farther or faster, but our bodies and form differ, leaving one more injury prone than the other. Regardless of the differences, I believe that knowing what is important to another runner and how they mentally & physically handle a run, is great information that each of us should have. Seeing the perspective of another running enthusiast may open up your image of the practice. You may want to try one of their training techniques, or work towards a  similar goal you never thought of before. 

This is why I wanted to interview others in all stages of running. Hell, I want to interview non-runners to see what their fitness interests are and what keeps them going.

Today though, I am starting with my good friend and future bridesmaid, Ashley. 



I have had the pleasure of running with Ashley on several occasions and hope to continue doing so. Here's some details on her running lifestyle!




How long have you been running for?
I used to run a few years ago, but I didn't get really serious about it. I just started running again this past June. 

What motivated you to start running again?
I was feeling sluggish and out of shape. I just wanted to feel really good about myself and love my body. 

Many new runners become discouraged if they can't go as far or as fast as others. When you first started, how did you keep yourself going? 
I started really slow and didn't really push myself. I also kept reminding myself that if I kept at it, I'd get better. 

What was one of the biggest challenges that you faced in those first few months of running?
The biggest challenge I encountered was an injury to my foot due to running on a road that was severely slanted. It was the first time I had to take time off and I was nervous that I wouldn't start back up again. But I did! 

Now that you have developed a good habit of running, what is your favorite thing about it?
I love running where I live! Nature is so calming to me. I always look forward to the animals and birds that see. 

Tell me about how you are preparing for the Turkey Trot?
My first 5k is just about a week away. I'm trying to keep my miles up so the 5k will seem like a piece of cake! I'm also trying to make the most of my rest days. 

You're about to go out on a run, what are your must-haves?
My running must-haves include: an extra ponytail holder, my phone (music and runtastic), and depending on if it's dark outside my headlamp and reflective vest. My husband would prefer my evening runs to include a knife. lol

What running gear is on your holiday wishlist this year?
Dear Santa, please bring me compression socks, long sleeved running shirts, and I wouldn't say no to running underwear and a Spibelt.

Thank you so much, Ashley for sharing with us! I can't wait to run with you in the Turkey Trot!!! You are going to do awesome!!!


Now, who would like an early holiday present??? Ashley told us a lot about her goals and the challenges she faced while running. How would you like to also be challenged and achieve goals you never imagined possible? Lucky for you, I am giving away ONE FREE entry to a Spartan Race of your choice!* It is a perfect gift to either keep for yourself.

If you are not sure that this is the right for you, then you are in luck!



This year, Spartan Race and NBC Sports have teamed up to present to you "Spartan Beast World Championship." Get a taste of the amazing challenge you could be apart of.
Already sure you want to participate? Then take part in the raffle below!!
I will announce the winner on 11/29/13. Good luck!!
You can go ahead receive 15% off your entry by visiting this address: http://bit.ly/spartanwarrior .
Share this link with your friends!


*Must be in the continental US and within the 2013-2014 season

10 comments

  1. I just got back into running and my biggest challenge is a hip injury :/ it isn't bad but it's forced me to take it down a notch (a big notch!). As hard as it is to backtrack like this I reallllllly don't want a lasting injury!!

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    1. I feel ya, girl! Injuries are really difficult to deal with when you have goals to achieve! But remember, rest is the best, even though I find this hard to grasp!!!

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  2. My biggest challenge was all mental - being able to convince myself that I could run farther even though I was dead tired and felt as if I couldn't go on. Whenever I hit that mental wall, I tell myself "calm and strong, calm and strong" and push forward.

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    1. I find that a lot of my runs are mental rather than physical. I know I could run all day long, but I tend to have the back and forth talks in my head "you can do it!" "No, you are too tired!!"

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  3. The biggest challenge for me was just being able to run. After half a mile i would feel so tired and wanted to stop. But over time i finally got to the point where i can run a good distance without stopping. It feels like such an accomplishment to be able to make it long distances

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    1. I remember wanting to puke after a half mile in high school. Now, it is a walk in the park!

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  4. The biggest challenge for me was making a new routine and getting into that. Now, I automatically wake up before 5am and am ready to go workout... I never would have thought I'd be like that a few years ago.

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    1. Wow! 5 AM! That is some dedication! I am more of a 7am to 9am kinda gal. Depends on how cold it is :)

      Congrats on the win, by the way!!

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  5. The biggest challenge was maintaining my stamina. It's not cool to stop to walk during a race!

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    1. I have actually walked in a race before! It was so embarrassing! But so many runners were motivating and got me speeding up again!

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