In Shape for Summer - I do deClaire

work out, athletic clothing picks

I’ve been a runner since I was in 8th grade. I started that summer to try and get in shape for playing soccer. It was awful. Trying improve endurance and increase your lung capacity-it’s just not fun. And it’s a total mind game. You think, “I am in control of wether I run or not. I could start walking with the next step if I really wanted to.” Well my sophomore year of high school I came down with mono right as the tryouts of soccer were starting. It was a blessing in disguise really. I was really bad at soccer anyway. When I had recovered from mono a couple months later, I joined the track team to try and get myself in shape again. I was right back at square one after being sick so long. During practices and meets I began to really like the girls and they convinced me to try cross country. Who knows what possessed me to train that summer with them and join the team that fall, but I never looked back. Once you get past the breathlessness and wobbly legs, you start to feel so empowered. Pushing your body further and further makes you appreciate your body more.

Since beginning running I have run thousands of miles and 7 marathons. About 4 years ago I began to have trouble. I had IT band syndrome after my 7th marathon when I ran a half marathon about a month later. I didn’t worry too much and just took the winter off. I became pregnant with Claire and was able to run through it, but after she was born the pain was back. I did a cortisone shot, physical therapy, and nothing worked. I finally had surgery to lengthen my IT band in the summer of 2014. I ran a little when time permitted, but nothing much. When I finally was able to run again last summer, the same pain on the inside of my knee came up. I had knee tendon bursitis now. This time physical therapy worked and I have been running twice a week all winter long. It’s so exciting to be back running after a long process! This summer I am planning on running quite a bit and I revamping my running gear in preparation.

Even though it’s been a while, I know a good pair of shoes, supportive sports bra, the right hair band, and watch to help time your runs is crucial! I’ve linked to a few of the items I’ve been eyeing so bring on the awesome runner’s tan with sock, watch, shorts, and tank top tan lines! 😉