winner of second frontrunners race series

Congratulations to Elyssa Sykes Bidwell who won the 2019 Frontrunners Race Series. She ran the most races among 15 runners! Elyssa shares with us how she got started with running and how she keeps going!

​1. How long have you been a runner and how did you get started?

Believe it or not, not that long (in my opinion). I started in February of my sophomore year as a group exercise session, and then I started keeping up with it more as a stress reliever. I started with C25K (couch to 5k) and just kept going around the track when I was able to. During the more substantial breaks, I used my neighborhood as a track.

2. What is your favorite race distance and why?

I like the 5k for the short accomplishments, and the 10 miler for the longer accomplishment. Both I think are great milestone distances!

3. Do you have any future running goals?

I'm currently training for my first full marathon, which right now the goal is to cross the finish line. My future goal is to run the same marathon next year, and qualify for Boston or New York.

4. Do you do any other sports to keep fit?

I'm trying to incorporate more weight training at the moment, but I have played outdoor volleyball and flag football in the past. I am looking into joining a softball league in the future because I miss playing ball.

5. What advice would you have for any new runner?
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• Start small - you can't run 8 miles after never running more than the Presidential Mile back in school. Do the legwork of getting comfortable with shorter distances before increasing. 
• Splurge on some shoes! At the very least, go get some inserts that will cradle your feet when you run. Your arches will thank you.
• Celebrate now - You're a runner! Congrats! I'm cheering for you (wherever I am)! You're joining a super supportive community.
• Apps are your friend - I'm a huge advocate for Nike Run (they have really great guided runs for a myriad of distances, lengths, and types of runs) and C25k. Feel free to find one that works the best for you.

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