Runners Spotlight - Let Me Introduce Katie

Every runner has a story, that pushes them and drives them to do what they do.  I find it fascinating to learn about others, and in return it also inspires and motivates.  I know I am not the only one who feels this way.  

Runners Spotlights are now a weekly series I do on Thursdays.

This week I'd like to introduce Katie.

I asked Katie several questions, to help tell part of her story and introduce you all to her. 

Katie Blogs at From Ice Cream to Marathon

Tell us what made you want to start running?

I had been overweight for many years and thought running might help with my weight loss. Whenever I would see people running I always wished I could do that, but for some reason I just never thought I could be a runner. When I first started, I honestly didn't like it! But I wanted to like it, so I kept doing it and kept doing it, until I started loving it and couldn't live without it!

Katie's before and after pic's on her weight loss journey

Do you run for fun, run to compete?  Both?

I run because I love it- for fun, and the only person I compete with is myself. 

What distances do you run/race?

I can now say I have run 5k's, 10k's, half marathons and a marathon!

You just finished your first marathon, what was the thing you loved the most about it?  

I honestly enjoyed the whole journey, even the hard moments. Doing something I never dreamed that I could do, was incredible. My favorite moment was coming up to the finish line and seeing my family, holding signs and cheering. And of course the runners high afterwards was incredible, even though I could hardly walk!

Katie approaching the finish line of her first marathon

If you could run ANY race/distance in the entire world what/where would it be?

If I could choose anywhere in the world, it would be the Paris Marathon, in France. In the US it would be the Napa Valley Marathon in Calistoga, CA. I've heard they're both beautiful races!

You've had some amazing weight loss success!  What tips do you have for someone who's wanted to lose weight and maybe get into running?  What advice would you give them?  Where do you think is a good place to start and find motivation?

What worked for me was to find a race and just sign up for it!  When i signed up for my first half marathon, I couldn't imagine being able to run that distance, but I was determined to try. I found a training plan online and followed it.  Once I started running seriously, I started losing weight.  I realized that after burning all those calories from my run, I didn't want to eat all those calories back by eating junk food!  And that's how I lost 30 lbs.
I also started my blog at that time, and that really helped me to stay accountable too.
So, start out by signing up for a race of any distance, and get to training!

Besides running what other sports/hobbies do you participate in?

I love spinning, and go to a class once a week. I also do weight training at home. Besides running, my favorite thing to do is cook.

Per your blog you love ice cream!  Tell us, is this your favorite post long run snack?  Did you grab a huge, delicious ice cream sundae to celebrate after your first marathon?

I do have an addiction to ice cream. I could live on it, and be perfectly happy forever! Although I didn't have an appetite right after my marathon, I did celebrate with ice cream later.

Do you run and listen to tunes?  If so, what are your top 3 favorite to pound the pavement too?

I always listen to music as I'm running. I listen to Group One Crew, to Kelly Clarkson, to Miley Cyrus! Whatever keeps me moving!

Tell us how you juggle work and life and still get your runs in.  What motivates you to put on your running shoes and head out the door?

When something is a priority, you will make time for it. That's how running is for me. I usually run in the evenings, but if I know my evening will be busy, I'll wake up early so that I can fit it in. Knowing I'll be running the Chicago Marathon in October also keeps me motivated!

Do you hope to be a lifelong runner?

I will be a lifelong runner!

For someone who is just in the thinking process of wanting to do a marathon, what would you tell them now that you have finished one?

DO IT! Yes, it takes dedication and work, but crossing that finish line is amazing. It is so worth all the blood, sweat and tears! I never dreamed I could run a marathon, in the beginning I could hardly run a mile! But you can do anything you set your mind to, I'm proof of that!

When you go around looking for new blogs to follow, what types of things are you looking for?  What blogs/topics grab your interest and make you want to come back to read more?

Since my blog is all about weight loss, fitness and running, I find those are the type of blogs I enjoy reading.

Tell us about your blog, what do you post about?  What topics do you cover?  What can people expect when they visit? 

I write about my runs, my training, anything new in fitness I have done. The good, the bad and the ugly!  I'll also post yummy recipes I have tried. I write about random happenings in my life as well! 

Go Directly to Katies Blog HERE

FOLLOW KATIE TODAY

I think Katie's journey has been amazing, don't you!  You can tell how hard she worked with her weight loss journey in her before and after pictures.  I see many more marathon's in her future and of course Ice Cream to celebrate:)  I also have to say, the final photo of her with her marathon finishers medal.  Dang, I don't think I have looked that good before I have started a race, let alone after!  Great photo Katie!!!  Thanks for letting me spotlight you!