March 26th, 2010
by Joanna Sutter
Lance Armstrong wrote a book called It’s Not About the Bike. I haven’t finished it yet, but I think the title of this book sums up my endurance bike race training so far. Sure, my body is conditioning as a result of the training program, but so is my mind and my spirit. It’s not about the bike. It’s about the mental strength, confidence, teamwork, and passion I’m building as a result of the bike. Who knew life behind bars could be so empowering?
Enough about me, let’s meet…
The MP4 Athlete of the week: Lauren Giles
If we asked your coach or training partner to list three words that describe you they would be: Driven, Dedicated & Passionate
What are you training 4? My first Half-Marathon
What is the best nutrition or training tip you’ve ever been given? Food is fuel, use it to help benefit your body & your training, not sabotage you.
Tell us about your most memorable athletic achievement: Last year, I did my first 10-mile race. Never in my life did I think that I accomplish something like that. I grew up being the “fat girl” and doubted myself all the time. When I crossed that finished line, broke through all those past doubts and fears.
Describe your perfect workout. When hitting the gym, I begin with a little cardio to get warmed up, then do weights, which I really enjoy. I used to shy away from them, now I embrace them. Then I finish with some good stretching. For the half-marathon training, Saturday’s are normally my long run days it helps me see the progress I continue to make every week.
How do you achieve workout/life balance? It’s not easy. Life is always going to beg for your time, but I’ve learned to make working out a part of my everyday life, I schedule it in and don’t let anything else interrupt that. I feel better and even like who I am more, when I get those workouts in. It’s no longer “I have to workout”, it’s become “I want to workout”.
What motivates you on days you don’t feel like working out? I work out a lot with my husband or my sister, so knowing I’ve got to meet them at the gym, is a huge push. On the days they’re not there, I have this battle in my head, one side saying GO, the other side saying just watch TV… So I’ll put my shoes on, do a few things around the house, and purposely not think about the going part, and think about the coming home part and that feeling of accomplishment you get after your workout.
If you could workout with anyone in the world who would it be and why? Gym: Jillian Michaels, I just love her. She’s crazy and think that’s awesome. Run: Kara Goucher, I’d love to learn how she does it!
What is your favorite workout accessory? Water 
What kitchen gadget can you not live without? Blender. Especially in the summer, smoothies are my best friend.
What was the last thing you’ve had to eat today? Yogurt, granola & blueberries together.
What book or magazine is on your bed side table? Jillian Michaels: Master Your Metabolism
What beauty product is always in your purse or gym bag? Lip Gloss!
What is the most played song on your iPod? Lately, it’s been “Neverending” by The David Crowder Band.
The first place you go when you log on to your computer is…. its a tie between my email or my blog.
When you’re not working out where can we find you? Starbucks
What’s your motto? The one running through my head these last few runs “Pain is Temporary, finishing is forever”
Tags: athlete spotlight, Friday fun, motivation
I love these athlete spotlights because it gives me a chance to meet the rest of the team!! Good luck on your first half – I’m sure you’ll rock it!
WOOOOOOHOOOOOOOO!! Love your motto!! Sounds like our Dream Far HS’ marathon team motto: “We start what we finish”. Keep on keepin’ on, girl!! Good job!:o)
Jodi,
“We Finish What We Start!”
I love reading the mp4 athlete spotlight, they are all so inspiring!
Bwahahaha!! That’s what I meant, Jamie!! Thanks…lol:o)