Today’s blogger feature is none other than the amazing Annie!

Name: Annie

Blog: http://www.lovelaughrun.com

When did you first start blogging and why?

I suffered for 13 years from bulimia. During that time, running made my health worse, not better. It went from being something I enjoyed to being a way to punish myself. After I went through recovery, I was able to repair my relationship with running (and food). I started blogging as way to share my story, help others, and interact with a community of healthy and fit people.

 

What is your most helpful blogging tip?

Keep at it! Like healthy living, it takes dedication, patience, and hard work, but the rewards are huge!

 

What is your favorite fitness activity?

Running! I’m obsessed. But I’ve recently been exploring other types of activities to supplement my running like hot Vinyasa yoga, Bikram, and barre.

 

What motivates you?

So many things. On different days I tap into different pools of motivation! Often, I am motivated to stay healthy because of where I have been. Other times, I am motivated by the people I see around me. And some days, I’m motivated to keep going because I want to see what I’m made of, and how far I can go.

 

What has fitness changed about your life?

Everything. Embracing true fitness (post recovery) has been absolutely incredible. You get out of fitness what you put into it, and the rewards are huge! Physically, I am stronger, healthier, and more energetic. Emotionally, I am happier, calmer, and less anxious. And, I have a hobby! I have met so many great friends through fitness that enrich my life in so many ways.

 

What is your favorite pump up song?

Right now, I turn to “Black Skin Head” by Kanye West and “We Can’t Stop” by Miley Cyrus. The beats in those songs really get me going!

 

What is your favorite running distance?

My favorite distance is the half-marathon. It’s long distance, but not as much of a commitment as training for a marathon.

 

What is your favorite motivational quote/mantra?

“Courage does not always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow” – Mary Anne Radmacher.

My sister gave me a magnet with this quote on it when I was in rehab. Since then, it has gotten me through so many tough moments, days, and situations.

 

What is your favorite piece of running/fitness gear?

Running shoes! I’m a shoe girl in every sense of the word. A close second are the running tops with thumbholes – I have quite a collection!

 

What is your favorite “treat”?

Pizza!

 

What is a long term running or fitness goal you have for yourself?

Just like you, Sara, I want to qualify for Boston. It’s a hefty goal, but I’m working at it, one step at a time.

 

Tell us something unique about yourself.

I come from a family of six kids, all from the same parents. My siblings are all incredible and I feel lucky every day for being related to my five best friends.

 

If you could give one piece of advice to someone who is starting out running, what would it be?

Stick with it! It will be hard at first, but it will get easier. One day, you will go out, and have a “break through” run (as I call it). Remember the feeling – it will get you through the tougher runs.

 

How do you find/make time to train?

I’m a planner – I look ahead at my weeks and plan when I’m going to train. Sometimes it means getting up ridiculously early (5:00am), or not sleeping in on the weekend. I also participate in run clubs and train with friends; social events can double as work outs!

 

What’s an accomplishment you are most proud of?

I am most proud of myself for turning my life around. I have worked hard to stay healthy and build a happy life for myself; its my greatest accomplishment!

 

Head over to Annie’s blog and check it out! You can also find her on Instagram and Twitter.

If you would like to be featured in the Bloggers on the Run feature – please go here.