Road Runner Girl: Runner Spotlights #73

I'm having an amazing time in New Orleans this weekend! This morning it's race time! I will be running my 21st half marathon and 3rd race in 2014! Wish me luck!

Now it's time for another runner spotlight...my favorite time of the week! I love reading other runners' stories about their running journey! If you are interested in being spotlighted on my blog please email me at mindy@roadrunnergirl.com! I'd love to spotlight you! You don't have to have a blog to be spotlighted...you just have to be a runner! ;-)

Today I'm spotlighting Lauren from Breathe Deeply and Smile! She is such a cutie! Keep reading to learn more about her and her running journey!

Name: Lauren

State: Baltimore, Maryland

When and why did you start running?

I started running a little over 2 years ago to lose weight and get in shape. I signed up for a 5K at the end of that summer to encourage me to keep running and fell in love with the sport. Now I’m hooked!

What is your favorite race and race distance?

I've only done one marathon, but it was the most unique and difficult journey. My favorite is probably a half marathon-it’s long enough for me to get into a running groove usually and has its own highs and lows.

What is your race day routine?

I feel like I need to refine my routine a little bit! I always have trouble sleeping the night before and usually cut it close to the race start time. I wake up and get dressed and eat some toast or a bagel with nut butter and a banana. I usually have a half a cup of coffee and go to the bathroom and make sure I have everything I need before heading out (a post-it reminder is a necessity for this!).

What is your most favorite piece of running gear?

Besides shoes I'm comfortable in (I run in Brooks!), I'd have to say my compression sleeves and socks. They are great for long runs and then post run I wear them all day!

Do you follow any diet or take any specific supplements that complement your running?

I’m gluten sensitive so I try not to overdo it on that but don’t like diet restrictions so I just try to eat healthy, get some vegetables in, but definitely leave room for indulgences! I do take amino acids like l-glutamine and triple omega fish oil pills to help with muscle recovery. Other than that, I just try to drink water throughout the day and stay hydrated!

What do you wish you’d known when you first started running?

I wish I’d known how important it is to switch up your workouts. Besides keeping things interesting, incorporating speedwork, longer and slower runs, and hills helps you become a stronger and faster runner!

What is your fondest running memory?

My most recent race last month-the Baltimore Full Marathon has been really memorable because it was such an accomplishment for me, especially because I reached my exact goal time of 3:45. Also the Nike Women's Half DC I ran last year was really emotional for me and then finishing with my goal time and friends cheering was priceless.

What is one thing that most people do not know about you?

I wish I was good enough to do something creative with my life as my profession like a fashion designer or chef. For now, I just watch lots of reality TV competitions though!