Liz: I am a Runner

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Good day folks! It’s that time again to shed some light on an awesome runner! Today I am tapping into my local running scene to introduce you to Liz who just celebrated her two-year anniversary as a runner. This year Liz is chasing a big goal that I have no doubt she will crush!

Liz is an incredibly upbeat person and her energy is infectious! She always has a bright smile for everyone she meets. When she is not running, Liz is a nursing instructor at our local college. I was happy when Liz agreed to be profiled. I just knew she would be inspiring! Enjoy your read & then go out and run! 

Name: Liz Hagell
City:  Red Deer
Profession: Red Deer College instructor
Runner Since: January 2012

1. Why did you start running? What pushes you to keep going?

A friend asked if I wanted to join a learn to run clinic at the Running Room. She had done them before, found them effective for motivation and staying committed. I had been gaining weight and I was generally on a downward slope of fitness. Also, a family history of diabetes and heart disease was a motivator. Finally, I ride and compete in equestrian activities and thought running might be a good cross-training option.

What keeps me going is the fantastic feeling I get when running. Appreciating the beauty of winter is a great feeling. Also, the fun, positive/upbeat people one meets in the running world. I am positive about how I have lost weight, improved my eating and lifestyle and feel less stressed.

2. What is your running/fitness routine for a typical week?

I am currently training for the Hypothermic Half-Marathon in February. My first half marathon! So I am running 5 times a week. Currently running 40+ km per week and this will increase weekly.

3. First word that comes to mind – “hills” ?

Endurance: mental and physical

4. Trails or pavement? Why? 

I haven’t done trails too much but I do like pavement. Red Deer is great because one can run in the woods on a pavement trail- best of both worlds. Trails are nice because there are no cars and stop and starts at lights and crossings.

5. What is your favourite distance to run? Why? 

I don’t think I have a favourite. 5 km is nice because it is quick. 10 km is good because it feels more like a work out and 15+ is cool because who knew I could do it!

6. Best running memory? Tell us about it. My first official 5 km race in Calgary. The buzz of the crowd was a blast. I did it with my learn-to-run group. We went to Calgary together, ran it and had lunch after. A really fun day!!

7. How many medals do you own? Where are they displayed?
I have all the completed medals. I did get a second place in my age group in the Kansas City 5 km run. I have some hanging with a picture of my first 10 km race in Calgary hanging in my bedroom.

8. Do you have any current running goals? 

Half marathon in 2:30 or better.

9. Do you run alone or with a group?
In a group or with my partner who is also a runner. Love running with people. Helps me keep a pace otherwise I tend to go to fast and burn out.

10. If you could tell your younger (less experienced) running self something, what would you say?

Start slow, join a group and set yourself up for success.

Want to connect with Liz?

Find her on Twitter: @ehagell

Thanks for stopping by today! If you would like to be featured in my runner profile series, email me! Next week I am featuring Janelle from Run with No Regrets!

4 Comments

  2. Way to go Liz! Wish you all the luck on your first half marathon 🙂

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