I am a Runner: Rebecca

It’s Thursday which means another runner feature.

Live from Toronto …. it’s Rebecca! Today I’m excited to shine the spotlight on this fabulous Torontonian.

Name: Rebecca Yanyk

Age: 30

City: Toronto

Profession: Associate Brand Manager – Wines

Runner Since: 2007

1. Why did you start running?

I moved to Toronto and didn’t know many people. A few friends were doing a learn to run program at Running Room and I joined them. Best thing I’ve ever done. I love the feeling you get when you’ve had a really great run, the ‘runners high’ as they call it. I’m always challenging myself with new times to beat and new races to run in – that ultimately keeps me going.

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

I’m just back into running after an achilles injury, but I like to do long runs on Sunday mornings, some hill training and shorter runs during the week. Time permitting – I like to get out there roughly 3-4 times a week.

3. What do you consider a perfect run?

I don’t really think any run that I do is ‘perfect’, but I ran the sea wall in Vancouver for the lululemon Half marathon and it was one of the most beautiful and picturesque runs I’ve ever done. I’d recommend it to anyone and everyone!

4. What is your favourite distance to run?

10K. It pushes you more than a 5k, and it’s not as hard as a half. I’d love to be able to get sub 53 for a 10 some day! It’s going to take a lot of work 🙂

5. Favourite pair of sneakers?

Asics. I have about 10 pairs of them. They will always be my ‘go to’ shoes.

6. Do you have any running goals this year? What are they?

I want to get faster and better at shorter distances. I’d like to hit some of my time goals when it comes to the 5K and 10Ks that I am doing this year! Speedy versus finishing the longer runs 🙂

7. What’s your favourite season to run? Why?

Spring and Fall equally. Spring is fresh and new; fall is crisp and cool. There is just something about running while leaves are budding on the trees or when leaves are crunching under your feet!

8. What is the best piece of running advice you ever received?

Go at your own pace, don’t worry about anyone else but you, and most importantly enjoy yourself.

9. What’s your training philosophy?

You will have good running days, and you will have bad running days, but in the end you’ll feel much better if you do than if you don’t!