A while back, I did a Q&A on Stories of questions you all have about running and working out in general! I’ve gathered everything up here so you have a resource to look back on anytime!
Q: How do you get faster if you’re starting out super slow?
A: I ALWAYS try to make my last mile my fastest! I check my Apple Watch to make sure I’m on pace. If you don’t have an Apple Watch or other smart watch, there are a ton of apps you can download to your phone that will help. I used to LOVE the Nike Run app!
Q: How do you finish a run off strong?
A: If I’m ever about to die towards the end of my run, I’ll play a song that pumps me up! I love running (and cycling) to the beat of a song, so I’ve found songs that are on the fast pace I need and keep them in a running playlist. Some of my favorite songs to finish a run to are:
Side to Side – Ariana Grande
Blue Tacoma – Russell Dickerson
Countdown – Beyonce
We Can’t Stop – Miley Cyrus
Post Malone – Beets
Marmalade – Maclemore, Lil Yachty
These are such random songs, but I’ve found over the years that I love running to them!
Q: How do you build up endurance? I can never control my breathing!
A: Definitely start by walking, then power walking, then walking and running in intervals, and so on! If you have access to a treadmill, walk fast on an incline to help build endurance. Try not to rush it or you won’t stick with it!
There are also apps like Couch to 5K that help you time your walk/run intervals to train you up to running a straight 5K.
I’ve been running for so long, I unfortunately don’t have tips for breathing and I am so sorry! It truly just comes naturally to me since I’ve been running and playing sports for as long as I can remember.
Q: Do you think about stuff or clear your mind of nothing? I get so bored running but I want to get into it.
A: I literally CANNOT run without jamming to music! I always, always have my AirPods in. Running outside really helps me clear my mind and helps with my stress. If you aren’t into running, turn on some music or a podcast and go for a long walk!
Q: Best running shoes?
A: I’ve linked my favorite running shoe here!
Q: Favorite sports bra?
A: My two favorite sports bras are linked here! I have about 45 different colors of them… Lol! You can always find links to my favorite gear on my LikeToKnowIT page and my Amazon Storefront!
Q: How long do you usually run for? Are you more concerned about time or distance?
A: I used to HATE distance running. I was always a sprinter, but I had amazing endurance from playing soccer so much. I’ve learned over time to love distance running, BUT I never run over 5 miles. Currently (after baby) the furthest I’ve gone is 3 miles. I’d say I do tend to focus more on getting a few miles in than on how long it takes.
I have no desire to run a marathon or anything. That could change one day, but I doubt it! Lol.
Q: What sports did you play growing up?
A: I did A LOT when I was little: tennis, swimming, softball, gymnastics, etc. In middle and high school I played soccer, competitive soccer, basketball, and track. I also played soccer in college at Vanderbilt my freshman year before I transferred back to UT!
Q: Did you run cross country?
A: HECK no! LOL, but I did run track in middle and high school and was a sprinter. I actually ran for the high school team my 8th grade year. I ran the 100, 200, and 400.
Q: Have you tried Orange Theory Fitness? Thoughts?
A: I have never tried OTF, but I feel like I would love it! I love cardio intensive and HIIT workouts. If I’m not drenched in sweat after my workout, I feel like I haven’t done it right (but that’s just me, that’s not true for everyone!).
Q: Since you breastfeed, how do you prevent getting clogged ducts from exercise?
A: I’ve never had this issue (thankfully, as I know it can be painful!) I would definitely recommend talking to a lactation consultant for advice.
Q: What are some tips to get back into working out after a rut or even just get STARTED working out?
A: I wrote this blog post a while back all about this topic!
XOXO,
Laura Elizabeth
