Running Survey

Happy Tuesday!  For today's post, I wanted to do the running survey that's been going around the blogosphere lately.  Luckily, I got tagged to do the survey by the lovely Meredith!  Enjoy, and answer some questions below (and check out the Tuesdays on the Run linkup).

1. Would you rather run on a beach path or a mountain trail?

Mountain for sure.  I love the scenery of trails and find them more fun to run on!  I usually don't run on the beach if I visit on vacation (which isn't often to begin with).  As much as I love being in water and looking at it, running on sand is not my favorite and I prefer running in the shade with different scenery to keep my occupied.

2. If you could choose the flavor of Gatorade at your next race’s aid stations, what would it be?
I don't usually drink Gatorade during races.  It bothers my stomach and gives me cramps, unfortunately.  My favorite flavor is grape or lemon lime though!

3. If I gave you a $100 gift card to a running store, what would you purchase with it?

Items are here, here and here

Definitely a new running outfit!  I'm loving all the new fall clothes that are coming out, especially from Brooks!  How cool are those shoes?!?!

4. Do you prefer to follow a training plan, or wake up and decide how far and fast you want to go?
I have to follow a plan!  I wish I was one of those runners who could self-motivate, but I have to follow a schedule and know how many miles I should run that day.  Check out my current plan here!

5. Would you rather start your run with an uphill and end with a downhill, or start with a downhill and end with an uphill?
My apartment is in a very hilly area, and no matter where I run, I always end up running uphill for the last mile.   I think it's helped make me a stronger runner and helped my mental toughness, so I would have to pick ending with an uphill!  In a race though, I would rather end with downhill :)

6. When you can’t run, what kind of cross training do you choose to do?

Spinning, yoga or taking a walk with Selma and Dan!

7. What is your preference: out-and-back, point-to-point, or loop?
Definitely loop.  I try to avoid out and back courses as much as possible during my training runs.  During a race, I prefer out and back though!  I like seeing the leaders so I know where I stand, as well as the opportunity to cheer on friends and family that are running.  Plus, you already know what to expect for the second half!

8. If you could recommend any running gear or items to a new runner, what would it be?
I have to tag along with everyone and say that shoes are the most important gear.  Everything else you get is just a bonus and unnecessary to start running.  Most running stores (including True Runner..my favorite) will offer gait analysis and recommend the perfect shoe for you.  It can make a huge difference!

9. Do you see any animals on your runs?
I see deer constantly, as well as random other animals: rabbits, squirrels, cats, groundhogs, TONS of chipmunks, and nasty geese.

10. Ever gotten lost while on a run?
I like to explore different areas a lot on my runs, so sometimes I'll have to retrace my steps to find my way back.  I've never been completely lost thankfully!  I luckily have a really good sense of direction and always make sure to load maps on my phone if I'm out of the country (thank you City Maps 2 Go) so I can always find my way back.

11. If you could have one meal ready and waiting for you at home after each run for the next 30 days what would it be?
I actually can't really eat after I run!  I don't really have an appetite for a while and have to force myself to eat.  I would rather have lots of drinks waiting for me- coconut water, tart cherry juice, Nuun, or a Starbucks Refresher.

12. Capris or shorts? which do you run in most?

Depends on the time of year.  From about May to September I only run in shorts.  From September till it's too cold I wear capris.  I love them both equally though!

13. At what mile (or how many minutes) into a run do you feel like your body is completely warmed up?
I usually feel a lot better after mile 1 of a run.  In races though, I usually hit my comfort zone around the quarter way point, no matter the distance.

14. What do you do with your key when you run?
I hold it in my hand.  It seems like no one else does this, but I love having something to hold on to when I run!  Plus, I get a huge fear of losing it if I keep it in my pocket or Spibelt and spend the whole run checking to make sure it's still there.

15. If you could relive any race that you’ve done in the past, what would it be?

If I had the opportunity, I would go back to Copenhagen and do the ParkRun 5k again!  It was so much fun, plus I was in Europe with my best friends.  Who wouldn't want to relive that?  Best day ever!

My favorite local race would have to be the Pittsburgh 10 Miler, and last years' was the best. It was the first time I stuck with a pace group, and it was so much fun.  I crushed my previous PR for that distance, and I'm excited that I actually do get to relive that race this year!

16. What type of run is your least favorite?
Tempo runs are the worst!  Run commuting would also be high (or low?) on my list.  I'm always so exhausted, and my running backpack makes the run 10xs harder. I know that both of these runs are great for training, which is why I will suffer through.  Definitely not a fan though!

17. When you go for a run, do you leave from your front door or go somewhere to start?
I pretty much always go running in my neighborhood.  The only time I will drive somewhere to run is if I'm meeting someone, or want to have a long run at North Park or the river trail!

18. When running in daylight, are sunglasses a must or just an annoyance?
Definitely a must.

19. When you get tired, what keeps you from quitting?

I just tell myself that only wimps quit, and that usually works!  I also try to remember that running is a privilege so I should be thankful that I'm able to run (even if it sucks in the moment).

I nominate all of you to answer these questions!  I love to hear all of the different responses, so make sure to answer some questions below!