Lisa

More and more women take up running. Who are these women, and what makes them want to run? From now on: portraits of Running Moms! For our second portrait of running moms, meet Lisa!

I am a stay at home mom to two little boys (ages 2.5 and 9 months). Before becoming a mom, I was a full time personal trainer and group fitness instructor. 

How old were you when you started to run?

I didn't start running until I got out of college and needed to lose some weight. (too many late nights of beer and pizza!) I've been running for about ten years now.

Why did you take up running?

It was definitely for weight loss purposes. I was looking for a new challenge and signed up for a 5k. Once I ran that, I was hooked and have been ever since.

How many hours do you spend on running during the week?

Not as many as I would like! I'd say anywhere from 3-5 hours, depending on my husband's schedule. 

Do you walk alone or in a group?

For the most part, run alone. I can't really commit to a schedule, so I can't really be part of group. The advantages of running alone is that it is my time to think and work through my problems. I don't have to talk to anyone, which after spending my day with kids is a nice change!

The advantages to group running is that there is a level of accountability. If you know someone is there waiting for you, chances are you are not going to skip that workout. Also, I think people tend to workout harder when they are with a group than when alone. (the peer pressure to keep up, etc.)

What motivates you to go for a run?

Getting away from my kids!! No, I'm just kidding (a little). Running is my therapy so I am primarily motivated by the feeling I have after I run. It helps me relieve stress and recharges my mommy battery.

Do you find there's a difference between physical en psychological reasons to go running?

Definitely. There is a side of me that runs for weight loss or maintenance, but it is much more about how I feel emotionally. I feel strong and confident when I am running. It makes me feel like an athlete!

What does running mean to you?

Therapy! 

Do you see parallels between running and motherhood?

Yes. Running is sometimes difficult and a chore, but it has wonderful rewards and I absolutely love doing it. It is also similar to motherhood in that it challenges you in ways that you never imagined you would be challenged! I never thought I could run a marathon and I never thought I would be a mother. Now, I have done both!

Would you recommend running to your child?

Definitely. In fact, now that my son is older he likes to run with me. We only go a block or two, but he loves it and so do I!  

What makes you participate in a marathon?

I love the feeling of accomplishment----knowing that I can run 26.2 miles makes me feel amazing.

What does racing mean to you in general?

I do it to push myself and for the amazing energy that you can feel at a race.  

Are you running for an official prize?

I wish, but no....I am not that fast!

How do you view your future as a runner?

I'd like to run another marathon soon, but primarily I will stick to the 5 and 10k races.

Do you run with music?

I don't---I really enjoy the sounds around me. When I've run with music I have been too distracted, especially if the wrong song comes on or the batteries die, etc. 

What do you think about Paula Radcliffe?

I think she is amazing and a wonderful example for her own daughter.

Do you have a favourite book about running?

Not really.

Do you have a favourite brand of running shoes?

Definitely Asics!

You keep a blog about running. Why do you keep a blog?

I started it as a hobby but found that I have met a wonderful group of people that I enjoy "talking" with each day.  

Do you have a message for al the moms out there who are thinking about taking up running?

Just do it. You don't have to be fast. You don't have to have the cutest outfit on the block (although having great shoes is a must! get fitted at a running store) You just have to get out there and put one foot in front of the other. It will not be fun at first, but it won't take long before you see results, I promise!

Want to know more about Lisa?

Visit her at her website!