If you are a long distance runner, you probably love long runs. You may have even learned the art of running an easy pace for most of your runs for all the benefits it provides. However, there are also benefits to running fast! Of course, these faster runs need to be placed strategically within a training plan in smaller doses. But even long distance runners need to include speedwork in training. Let’s break down why these faster workouts are beneficial and important. Why Long Distance Runners Need to Include Speedwork in Training What is “Speedwork”? Let’s start by defining speedwork. In gen ..read more

I started running marathons in 2011, and a few years later I wrote this post about why everyone should run a marathon someday. I wanted to bring it back because I still agree with this. However, like I said in the original post, a big goal doesn’t necessarily need to be running a marathon. It doesn’t even need to be about running. It’s about finding your own version of a marathon- something that will challenge you in ways you never imagined. Why Everyone Should Run A Marathon Someday In the midst of my post-marathon daze, I began thinking of everything I have gotten out of running marathons. T ..read more

During both of my pregnancies I went to a pelvic floor PT starting around 30 weeks or so. I had a very different experience each time, the second being much better. I found it so helpful that I decided to go back again after having my baby and before I started running again. Pelvic floor PT for pregnant and postpartum runners can be really beneficial for a variety of reasons and can help set you up for success with your long-term running goals. The Benefits of Pelvic Floor PT for Pregnant and Postpartum Runners I know there are many challenges to being able to work one-on-one with a pelvic fl ..read more

I must have the half-marathon on my mind these days. After my race earlier this month I was reminded about why the half-marathon is such a great distance. Are you thinking about training for a half-marathon? Here are 5 reasons to run a half-marathon. 5 Reasons to Run a Half-Marathon 1. The Half-Marathon is a Milestone Race The half-marathon is a milestone race for many runners. It seems like by training for and completing that first half-marathon, you have reached a running milestone. Many runners starting out may be intimidated by the distance, but decide it is a goa ..read more

On March 9th I participated in the Annapolis Running Festival Half-Marathon. This was somewhat of a last minute decision, but I did put in a couple of months of training to prepare to run the half-marathon distance. I ran this as my first postpartum half-marathon after having my second baby last July, and it was also my first race as a masters runner! Overall I had a great time at this race and was happy with how it went. I’m sharing my race recap for anyone who is considering running this race someday! Annapolis Running Festival Half-Marathon 2024 This was the 2nd year that the Annapolis Run ..read more

St. Patrick’s Day is around the corner, so what better time than now to try your running luck? Running takes a lot of hard work but also a bit of luck from time to time. If you’re feeling bored with your running and looking to try something new, here are 5 ways to try your running luck this St. Patrick’s Day! 5 Ways to Try Your Running Luck This St. Patrick’s Day 1. Test Your Running Luck by Entering a Race Lottery Have you ever wanted to run a big marathon, but just haven’t had the opportunity? Consider throwing your name in the lottery to see what happens. Applications for the NYC Marathon ..read more

Spring is a popular time of the year for 5ks (and many other races), but not everyone has been training throughout the winter. There was a time when I was able to jump into a 5k race at any moment and come close to running a PR. That is no longer the case! Over the years my natural speed has declined and I don’t feel like I can keep up with the same level of training year round that I was once able to do. I need to put in some work to prepare for a 5k! For runners who are already comfortable running more than 3 miles, they may not need to “train’ for a 5k. Of course this depends on your goals ..read more

As most parents know by now, having kids doesn’t mean you need to stop running or give up on your running goals. Many women run through pregnancy and many parents start or continue running once they have kids. There are definitely challenges that go along with running as a parent but it can be done! Even better is to start involving your kids in your running. This allows you to spend time with your kids and share your love of running with them from an early age! 6 Fun Ways to Involve Your Kids in Your Running The ways you involve your kids in your running will change based on their age, but h ..read more

There are times when we may feel less motivated than others, and for many runners that happens during the winter. Add on any stress, illnesses, etc. and many of us end up feeling worn down in general. While running can help us to get through some of these challenging times, it can also be difficult to stay motivated when there are so many factors making it less enjoyable. Let’s talk about how to stay motivated when you just don’t want to run. How To Stay Motivated When You Just Don’t Want To Run Lose the all or nothing mindset Many runners feel like they need to keep up their regular running ..read more

Happy Valentine’s Day! What better day than today to talk about some of the many reasons to love running? Now many of you reading this already love running and will probably agree with many of the reasons I am going to share. Others may not love running (yet) but maybe we can convince you to give it a try! There are so many reasons to love running, but I understand not everyone feels that way. My best advice is to not give up too soon. One day you may realize that you love it too! 10 Reasons to Love Running 1. It’s a healthy habit Many people start running to lose weight and stay in shape, bu ..read more