Tell us a little about yourself.
I am a mother of three who is passionate about running. Running changed my life in so many ways and brings me so much joy and balance. I’m a running coach and a Pilates teacher and I find that sharing my love of the sport with others is one of the most satisfying things ever. I am so grateful to love what I do!
How did you come up with the name “Pace of Me” for your blog?
I have my best ideas while I’m running - movement clears my head and opens my heart to new thoughts and ideas every single time I lace up my shoes. So one day when I was struggling to think of the right name for my blog I pondered it as I ran. That is when the idea of “Pace of Me” just popped into my head. It was an “aha” moment for me - because my blog is about so much more than “just running” - just like running is about so much more than “just running” for me - it is about my life and all the things and people in it.
How did you get into running? What’s your favorite aspect about running?
I first started running about 12 years ago. I was one year out of college and was harboring some pretty bad habits, as well as battling a lot of depression. I knew something needed to change. I
My favorite thing about running? That might be one of the hardest questions anyone has ever asked me! What don’t I love about running?! I love the way it makes me feel - physically, mentally, and
emotionally. I love that it has shown me I am capable of so much more than I ever would have dreamed. I love that it is time for me - time for me to clear my head and open my heart and celebrate my life. Time for me to let go of things that are bugging me. I love that it allows me to set goals for myself and for my health that have nothing to do with the number on the scale or the size of my waist. I love that I know that I love it - that it is always there for me and that all I have to do is put on my shoes and get out the door to do it. I am so grateful for this sport!
What’s the best way to become a marathon runner?
Be patient with yourself and celebrate the little victories along the way. Start small and gradually build your distance - if you do too much too soon you will very likely get injured or burn out from overtraining. Listen to your body! Also, even though running is an individual sport I think it is so helpful to find a group (through a local running store or run club) so you have the support and advice of others. Use your resources and find someone to train with and if you don’t have that locally you can hire a running coach to help you virtually. I promise it makes a huge difference!
I love Pilates and believe it is so important for everyone to do - I make time for it every single day! Sometimes it is only 10 minutes, and sometimes I do it for a full hour. It really makes me so aware of my body’s imbalances and strengths and helps me to be a stronger, faster runner as well as a happier mother! I also adore yoga, spinning, and going for walks with my family. In addition, twice a week I do 45-minute strength training sessions at the gym.
For more from Jessica, visit her blog, http://www.paceofme.com/, and follow her on Facebook and Twitter @paceofme
