Kathryn is 25 years old and started to run in 2008. You can look to her blog here.
1. Why did you start running? Why not other sport?
I took up running as a way to help in my weight loss journey. I chose to run rather than take up another sport because it's something I can do alone and it doesn't require any major equipment (bike, pool, etc). When I first started running, it also helped me to clear my mind and relax.
2. Do you think that running changed your life? Do you feel more active, happy :)?
Sure. It did assist in weight loss - along with eat healthier - but it also keeps me off the couch. I've always been an active person, but I do feel that I try to eat healthier while training, and I make a conscious decision to go run rather than so many other (unhealthy) things that I could do.
3. When did you start running?
Ran track in high school (and I used to think 2 miles was a long run!), but after a 7 year break, I started to become more serious about running in 2008.
4. What are personal records for 5k and 10k?
My first 5k official 5k time was 26:44; my personal record (PR) is 25:46. I'm training for my first 10k later this month, but so far, PR is 55:48
5. Do you participate in races?
Yes. Usually the entry fee goes to a worthy cause, and I love the extra adrenaline boost from the competition. I don't race to win (because I know that I am not fast), but I participate because it gives me a training goal, and it's something I love.
6. What would be your top (1 or 5 or 10) tips for beginners?
*Start out slow - don't push yourself too far too soon. Not only could it cause potential physical injuries, but if it's not enjoyable, you won't keep running.
*See a doctor before you take on any major challenges for the first time - as you should with any fitness routine. There have been a few running incidents, and it's always better to be safe than sorry.
*Get professionally fitted for a running shoe. A lot of specialty running stores offer to analyze the way you run and look at worn shoes to suggest the best running shoe for you. It's worth having a shoe that is made for your foot and the way you run.
*Set your own goals. Not everyone is a marathoner, and not everyone can bust out a 5 minute mile. Figure out what is best for you personally. Don't let anyone tell you that it's not good enough. Getting out there and moving is better than sitting on the couch any day.
*Have fun with it - it is a mental challenge as much as it is physical. You have to prepare - body and mind. In one of my first 5k's, I completely defeated myself, thinking I couldn't finish because I hadn't seen the 2-mile marker yet and I was already getting tired. I just kept thinking I couldn't make it the whole way if I hadn't even ran 2-miles yet, and I gave up and started walking. Turns out, I had long since past it, and could have completed the run, if I just hadn't talked myself out of it. So don't take it too seriously :-)
7. What are your running goals?
I would like to run a marathon. After I accomplish that, we'll see what's next.
8. How often do you run (per week)?
On average, 4 days a week, with one of those days being a long run.
9. What is running in your life?
Though I started out running for weight loss, I've continued to run for my health. Even though I'm young, my family history includes some pretty scary illnesses and surgeries - heart disease, high blood pressure, heart attacks, triple bypasses, cancer, strokes, diabetes....I run for my future.
10. If you were asked to describe "RUNNING", what would you say?
Running is self driven. Everyone has a different reason why they run, and everyone has different strategies, lengths, times work best for them. Find out what works for you personally; take advice from those who have more experience, but listen to your body. And don't let anyone distract your from your goals.
Good luck, Kathryne and I hope that one day you will make a marathon :)