While running is my main sport, I really love other types of fitness training too. It’s great because cross-training is really important when training for a race so I never have to completely give anything else up. Cross-training or doing other activities besides running helps build strength and flexibility, stops boredom, and prevents injury. It’s also very easy in these cold winter months to be convinced to workout indoors (where you can even wear shorts and pretend it’s not below-freezing outside!). Here are some of my favorite ways to cross-train:
Yoga: I love doing hot yoga and vinyasa yoga at least once a week. It is a great way for me to warm up my muscles and focus on lengthening and flexibility while also building strength. Sometimes the classes are more about my mental wellness and a relaxing rather than being strictly a workout.
Runners can be pretty passionate about running, and why shouldn’t we be? There are so many thing to love about running. We’ve tried to explain our love for running in the essays below. Why do you love running? Tell us in the comments!
Why Do You Love Running?
Lauren: I love running because, while there’s a million things you can buy for running, all you really need is a good pair of running shoes. I love running because every run is different. Sometimes it’s therapeutic, sometimes it’s fun, and sometimes it’s really challenging. It never gets dull. I love running because, while I like running races, the sport is really all about me. Me pushing myself to do my best, to work hard, and get stronger. Continue reading Our Valentine To Running→
Jamie tackles Marine Corps, her second marathon, with ease
Jamie and I met a little over a year ago during Potomac River Running Distance Training, but she’s the kind of person that you feel like you’ve known your whole life. Now our kids run track together, she gives me mom advice (who knew elementary school would be so hard for me to navigate?!), and comes over to run on my basement treadmill when the winter weather makes an outdoor run treacherous. Everyone should have a friend like Jamie!
Those cherry blossoms have a powerful effect on runners. One runner shared his special story with us!
My name is Pete Thomas, and I am happy to say that Victoria Davies agreed to my marriage proposal at the foot of the Washington Monument on the day of the Cherry Blossom race. We are both public charter school teachers in Northeast DC, and I live in Noma and Vic lives in Arlington. In terms of the proposal itself, I actually ran the 10 miler with the ring zipped into my runner’s belt/fanny pack that I typically use for energy gels- I hid it behind some GU packets to be extra inconspicuous.
Once I finished the race, I unzipped my pouch and made sure that the ring was secure (it was just a little bit sweaty) and then waited to cheer Victoria on near the finish line while I hid the ring in my hand. Once she finished the race, I walked up and gave her a big hug and made sure that she got a banana and some water (it’s important to be well-nourished and hydrated before making any big decisions) and then I asked her if she wanted to go up towards the monument so that we could get away from the port-a-potties and look at the cherry blossoms. She was at first a bit more intent on getting to the metro so that we could go get brunch, but I nervously managed to convince her that we should go check out the view of the Mall and the Tidal Basin before we left.
Once we got up close to the Monument on the Lincoln side from where we could get a pretty spectacular view of the city, I finally got down on one knee with the ring and asked her to marry me. She fortunately said yes, and after a few tears, selfies, and phone calls to our moms, we took a nice walk down the mall towards home. Since then, we’ve enjoyed our spring break from school by visiting Savannah and eating lots of delicious southern food that we’ll have to work off in future ten milers! We both had a great time running the race, and we are very happy to be able to look back at this awesome DC event as part of the beginning of our future together!
Jummy at the finish line of the 2014 Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile Run
Does Jummy look familiar to you? If so, you probably recognize her from Good Morning Washington or ABC7 News at Noon. Jummy and I have been twitter friends for a while and have run many of the same races. We even passed each other on the course of the Army Ten Miler in 2014! We finally met in person at the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile run kickoff party last November.
When did you begin running and why? I began running in October of 2013 when I became involved with Girls on the Run (GOTR) through work. My station, ABC7, partnered with GOTR Nova on some events and I was so inspired by all of the young girls. They made me decide to take running more seriously.
What is your proudest running moment? My proudest moment has to be finishing my first half marathon, the Nike Women’s DC Half Marathon, in April of 2014. It was just 5 days after my 30th birthday.
Have you run the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run before? I ran it in 2014 for the first time! It was awesome!
What is your “why” for running the 2015 the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run? I’m running to participate in, what I believe is, one of the best races in our nation’s capital. I am a spring baby and to me there is nothing better than running along the beautiful cherry blossoms. It represents a feeling of new beginnings and a fresh start!
What is your goal for the 2015 Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run? To beat my 2014 time by 10 minutes!
Do you have a running mantra? What is it and what does it mean to you? My pace, my race! I don’t like to get caught up in how many people finish ahead of me, or even behind me. My goal is always to cross that line and accomplish what I started.
If you could use only one word to express what running means to you, what would it be? “GOAL-DIGGING”
What is your favorite New Balance running gear? I’m loving the New Balance Impact Hoodie. It’s the perfect piece to start the race with…mornings tend to be cold in early April.
What is a fun/interesting fact you learned about Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals? Its partner hospitals provide 32 million treatments each year to kids across the country! That’s awesome, what a great organization to support!
Kimberly, @KimberWestrich
Kim has been running off and on for 25 years, but only recently got serious about figuring out how to keep that switch turned on. The secret for her is a broad and supportive running community through Potomac River Running Training Programs, Moms Run This Town, Reston Runners, and followers of her blog, Kim Runs Miles With Smiles. Kim will be coaching the PR Cherry Blossom Training Program at Reston in 2015 and is excited to share her enthusiasm for all things Cherry Blossom, which was her first BIG race in 2014. When she isn’t running, she is tackling the nation’s health care issues in her job as a health care services researcher for a non-profit association.
Did you know we’ll be running with royalty on April 12, 2015? Rainey Sewell, the reigning Cherry Blossom Queen, will be racing the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run with us!To check out the official cherry blossom events hosted by the National Conference of State Societies (NCSS), and see what all of the Cherry Blossom Princesses will be up to, like their Facebook page and follow their Instagram. You will get updates on anything and everything Cherry Blossom as well as see behind the scenes snapshots of what the Cherry Blossom Princesses and Rainey will be up to!
Rainey Sewell, in her official Cherry Blossom Queen Regalia
What are your responsibilities as the reigning Cherry Blossom Queen? My main responsibility is to host the Japanese Cherry Blossom Queen and represent America’s friendship with Japan. I had an amazing time in Tokyo because of their Queen’s hospitality. Now it is my turn to host and show off America’s nation. We will be visiting embassies, attending the White House Easter Egg Roll, speaking at many events, and enjoying the D.C. sights.
Is it challenging to juggle running with your royal responsibilities?
It can be difficult because once I’m all dressed up for an event I don’t want to get sweaty afterwards!
When did you begin running and why? I started running three years ago when I trained for my first race – the Oklahoma City Memorial half marathon. My friends were all training for it and I figured I would join the fun. Now I’m hooked and plan to run the full marathon there at the end of the month.
What is your weirdest/funniest running moment? My coworker and I once got to a 5K thinking we were twenty minutes early, but it turns out we were ten minutes late. The funny part was it took us five minutes to realize no one else was there and that it started without us.
Have you run the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run before? I ran it last year for the first time and it brought me some cherry blossom luck because I won Queen later that week.
What is your “why” for running the 2015 the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run? Spring is finally here and it is time to enjoy the weather. This is the time to enjoy D.C. and forget all the bad things we said about the city during the long winter.
What is your goal for the 2015 Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run? Have fun and enjoy it.
Do you have a running mantra? What is it and what does it mean to you? Just finish. Brunch is waiting.
If you could use only one word to express what running means to you, what would it be? Energy
What is your favorite New Balance running gear? I love their running shoes. I always buy pink shoes so I’m already ready to match the cherry blossoms that will be blooming during the ten mile run.
What is a fun/interesting fact you learned about Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals? My favorite part of CMN is how they really are “for the kids.” You don’t even feel like you’re in a hospital because there are so many colors and fun toys around you. The one in Oklahoma looks like an art museum with all the artwork and sculptures. Making the kids comfortable is the most important and CMN does a great job at that.
Jen finishing “Run With Santa,” her 11th 5k for 2014
Jen and I met during Potomac River Running 101 training in 2013. She ran her first race ever just days after I met her. She was nervous but determined. Then, in 2014 she set a goal to race 40k before she turned 40. She met and exceeded that goal, and in 2015 she has her mind set on conquering new distances – ten miles under the Cherry Blossoms (and I predict a half marathon won’t be far behind)!
When did you begin running and why? I began running in the summer of 2013. I started earlier in the year with walking/hiking on the Reston trails, trying to be more active. It was a natural (and a very surprising!) evolution.
What is your proudest running moment? The proudest is probably when I finished my very first race – the 2013 Dulles Day 5k: On the Runway. I was scared to death for days leading up to the event and kept doubting my ability. The second proudest was the 2014 =PR= Birthday Bash. It was hot, humid and the most miserable I’ve ever been while running. I came in dead last, but I never gave up! Can I have a third? Actually, this ties with first place for my proudest moment. I set a goal for 2014 to run 40k by 40 – eight races by August. I completed that goal a month early and surpassed it with a total of 11 5k races for the year.
Why did you sign up for the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run Training Program with Potomac River Running? =PR= is awesome! The coaches’ passion for running is contagious. And skipping the lottery is certainly a bonus.
Have you run the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run before? Nope.
What is your “why” for running the 2015 the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run? Who wouldn’t want to run on such a beautiful course? This race will take me to the next level in my training and running it will be an incredible reward for all the hard work leading up to it.
What is your goal for the 2015 Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run? To finish strong while enjoying every single step.
Do you have a running mantra? What is it and what does it mean to you? Don’t trip. 🙂 You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great. I came across this quote at the beginning of my journey and it fit perfectly. It’s stuck with me and is the perfect reminder that I am great!
If you could use only one word to express what running means to you, what would it be? Awakening
What is your favorite New Balance running gear? =PR= training participants received $50 New Balance gift certificates, and I’ve got my eye on the Glow Beacon Jacket.
What is a fun/interesting fact you learned about Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals? I had no idea that 1 in 10 kids are helped each year. That’s a lot of healing, good job Children’s Miracle Network!
Kimberly, @KimberWestrich
Kim has been running off and on for 25 years, but only recently got serious about figuring out how to keep that switch turned on. The secret for her is a broad and supportive running community through Potomac River Running Training Programs, Moms Run This Town, Reston Runners, and followers of her blog, Kim Runs Miles With Smiles. Kim will be coaching the PR Cherry Blossom Training Program at Reston in 2015 and is excited to share her enthusiasm for all things Cherry Blossom, which was her first BIG race in 2014. When she isn’t running, she is tackling the nation’s health care issues in her job as a health care services researcher for a non-profit association.
Rob ran another 10 mile spring race in 2014: the Reston 10-miler
Rob and I met during Potomac River Running Distance Training in 2014. Rob was training for the Marine Corps Marathon while I was training for the Philadelphia Half Marathon. Watching Rob run the MCM was inspirational. He showed true commitment and perseverance. And wouldn’t you know it – he ended up running the Philly Half, too!
When did you begin running and why? I started running a little during my high school years. I trained for a few local 5Ks but that was really the extent of it. I then totally stopped running through college. I started gaining weight, and eventually got pretty out of shape. I couldn’t run one lap on the track without walking and wanted to change that. So I started running regularly, both as a way to get healthier and to have fun training & competing in local running events. I also set a goal at this time (mid 2012) to run a marathon within 1-2 years.
What is your proudest running moment? By far it was completing my first marathon, the 2013 Marine Corps Marathon. It’s not just one of my proudest running moments, but also one of my proudest life achievements. Training for and running a successful marathon requires hard work, dedicated training and commitment. Not many people can say they’ve run a marathon. The marathon experience is unlike any other, it’s a huge challenge both mentally and physically, the rewarding feeling of accomplishment after you complete it is indescribable.
Why did you sign up for the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run Training Program with Potomac River Running? The premium Cherry Blossom training program at =PR= running offered guaranteed entry into the race, which made signing up a no brainer for me. I didn’t win a spot in the lottery, so I was looking for another way into the race. I’ve trained with =PR= before for both of my marathons. =PR= Training is a great way to build some structure into your running life, meet new friends, learn running tips from others and really just become a better runner overall.
Have you run the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run before? I have not run it before.
What is your “why” for running the 2015 the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run? I think the Cherry Blossom Ten Miler is one of the trademark races not only in the DC area but in the entire country each year. It attracts runners from all over the world. I’ve never run it before, so I am definitely looking forward to experiencing the race firsthand. I’ve run most of the course before during the Marine Corps Marathon or in training (I’m local to the DC area) so it should be awesome running a familiar route with all the crowd support and beautiful scenery in DC.
What is your goal for the 2015 Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run? It’s hard to have a strict time goal in a race this big; sometimes you can get caught up in a big crowd and end up running off your goal pace. My main goal will be to complete the race successfully and healthy. My time goal which I’ll train for will be around a 1:15 but who knows, if my training goes better I might end up shooting for a faster time.
Do you have a running mantra? What is it and what does it mean to you? My running mantra is “Just run.” I’ve never regretted going on a run. Rolling out of bed extra early in the morning can be so difficult, but I’m always so glad I did it afterwards. Same with signing up for a race that might scare you; I ran my first half marathon in 2013 and I was so nervous for the training and didn’t know if I could do it. If you take small enough steps and do the training properly, it’s really quite simple as long as you keep reminding yourself to “just run.”
If you could use only one word to express what running means to you, what would it be? Determination
What is your favorite New Balance running gear? I’ve used New Balance shoes in the past and have always had a good experience. I go through a number of pairs of running shoes every year and will probably look into getting another pair of 1080v4’s. They’re a fairly neutral lightweight shoe which seems to work for me very well.
What is a fun/interesting fact you learned about Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals? That they have raised over $5 billion over the course of their history (since 1983). That’s a very impressive accomplishment for a great cause. It’s great to see quality organizations like them sponsor and partner up with runners/running events.
Kim has been running off and on for 25 years, but only recently got serious about figuring out how to keep that switch turned on. The secret for her is a broad and supportive running community through Potomac River Running Training Programs, Moms Run This Town, Reston Runners, and followers of her blog, Kim Runs Miles With Smiles. Kim will be coaching the PR Cherry Blossom Training Program at Reston in 2015 and is excited to share her enthusiasm for all things Cherry Blossom, which was her first BIG race in 2014. When she isn’t running, she is tackling the nation’s health care issues in her job as a health care services researcher for a non-profit association.
After this race, Marsden noted that it turned out there was neither beer, nor was he almost there
I started following the mysterious Running Lonely on twitter last year when we were both training for the 2014 Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run. His self-deprecating tweets and blog posts intrigued me. Since then, “Running Lonely” has revealed that his name is Marsden, shared a selfie, and introduced us to the adventures of his friend, the solar-powered pig.
When did you begin running and why? I started running in junior high because they made me. However, I kept running because it never ceases to challenge me (which is a polite way of saying running keeps kicking my butt, but I keep running anyway).
What is your weirdest/funniest running moment? Almost all my running moments qualify, but when I dropped my keys at the start of the Houston Symphony 10K the sight of three thousand runners coming at me as I went back and picked up my keys is pretty funny; well it’s funny two decades later. It helps that I was so mortified that I ran away as fast as I could and set a personal best in the 10K that day.
Have you run the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run before? Yes, I ran it in 2014 and I used it as a springboard to my first marathon, first ultra, and by the end of the year, my first 24 hour race.
What is your “why” for running the 2015 the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run? The race is the unofficial start to spring for me and it’s great to go out and run and put winter in the rear view mirror.
What is your goal for the 2015 Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run? To knock 5 minutes off my time from last year. I can’t believe I just said that on a blog that people actually read.
Do you have a running mantra? What is it and what does it mean to you? “Please don’t die.” When you get to be my age, you will understand what it means.
If you could use only one word to express what running means to you, what would it be? Complicated.
What is your favorite New Balance running gear? I use the New Balance 624 for cross training, to wear with jeans, and when my boss is out of the office, as dress shoes.
What is a fun/interesting fact you learned about Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals? That for the price of my morning latte, a donation can provide one baby blanket in the NeoNatal and Infant Critical care unit.
Kimberly, @KimberWestrich
Kim has been running off and on for 25 years, but only recently got serious about figuring out how to keep that switch turned on. The secret for her is a broad and supportive running community through Potomac River Running Training Programs, Moms Run This Town, Reston Runners, and followers of her blog, Kim Runs Miles With Smiles. Kim will be coaching the PR Cherry Blossom Training Program at Reston in 2015 and is excited to share her enthusiasm for all things Cherry Blossom, which was her first BIG race in 2014. When she isn’t running, she is tackling the nation’s health care issues in her job as a health care services researcher for a non-profit association.
Molly, in blue, embodies the “community” spirit of running – even in her race pictures!
I met Molly through the Women’s Training Program, a running/walking program coached by women, for women. Molly is the director of this amazing program and she has inspired and motivated countless women, including me! If she had a motto, it could be “no woman is left behind” – she makes sure everyone feels welcome and has someone to run or walk with, no matter their pace.
When did you begin running and why? In 2002, shortly after I completed cancer treatment, my brother Brian was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He was a marathon runner, and due to his illness, he couldn’t run his annual 26.2. My sister suggested we run it for him. To humor her, and thinking it was a plan we would never execute, I said “Sure!” Then we discovered the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training program and realized we could raise money toward curing Brian’s disease while achieving our/his marathon goal. There was no backing out after learning that!
What is your proudest running moment? Crossing the finish line of the 2003 Marine Corps Marathon was exhilarating. Brian told us to hold a little back so we could finish strong and I think I did him proud. I actually passed people! And how many people start their racing career with a marathon? But my proudest moment came when heading back to the metro afterward. A participant was walking in front of me with her shoe untied. Not only was I able to bend over to tie it for her, I stood up again with no help! 26.2 and still moving!
Have you run the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run before? 2015 will be my first Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run. I hope it won’t be my last!
What is your “why” for running the 2015 the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run? Running through Washington DC is a thrill no matter what time of year. Running through Washington DC with 15,000 fellow running enthusiasts under the cover of fluffy pink clouds must pretty close to heaven. The race is so well known and well-loved that it was on my “must do” list
What is your goal for the 2015 Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run? I am not fast enough to win, so my race goals are always the same. Have fun and finish strong. I would love to finish the 2015 Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run in 1:50 or less with at least one person behind me and a smile on my face.
Do you have a running mantra? What is it and what does it mean to you? I don’t really have a running mantra, but I keep an internal conversation going with myself most of the time. Take it out slow. Breathe. You can do this. I thank the race volunteers and cheer on anyone having a tough time. I ask volunteers if they think I will win. Their reactions are priceless. I high-five anyone who offers their hand and laugh with the people holding the best signs. It keeps me going until the finish line.
If you could use only one word to express what running means to you, what would it be? Community. I participate in twice-weekly group runs from Potomac River Running in Reston. On the weekends, I run with a Reston Runners group we call the BFFs for Best Foot Forward. And in the spring, I coach the Reston Runners Women’s Training Program. So yes, community sums up running to me. There is nothing more affirming than running with people who accept you, support you and push you when you need it.
What is your favorite New Balance running gear? I have been admiring the Bright Cherry Impact Capri. Cherry Blossom race. “Cherry” capri. I think it works!
What is a fun/interesting fact you learned about Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals? I love the fact that many colleges use dance marathons to raise funds. Lots of funds. Indiana University’s Dance Marathon brought in over $2.6M in 2013. That’s a lot of boogie woogie!
Kim has been running off and on for 25 years, but only recently got serious about figuring out how to keep that switch turned on. The secret for her is a broad and supportive running community through Potomac River Running Training Programs, Moms Run This Town, Reston Runners, and followers of her blog, Kim Runs Miles With Smiles. Kim will be coaching the PR Cherry Blossom Training Program at Reston in 2015 and is excited to share her enthusiasm for all things Cherry Blossom, which was her first BIG race in 2014. When she isn’t running, she is tackling the nation’s health care issues in her job as a health care services researcher for a non-profit association.
