CRUSH MILES LIKE A FLY ATHLETE
To celebrate our recent partnership with Flywheel Sports, we sat down with Flywheel San Francisco Lead Instructor, Jess Forseth for the 411 on all things running. Read on to discover the music that motivates her, how she fuels up, and more ways to ensure a kickass race.
Tell us about how you got into running. How many races have you completed?
I started running by impulsively signing up for a half marathon in Minneapolis. I had never run more than a mile in my life but wanted to challenge myself to do something I didn’t think I could do. Since then I’ve done 6 half marathons, the Chicago marathon, and a handful of 5Ks and 10Ks.
How do you prepare for a race?
I am a big planner so I love setting out a training plan and schedule that mixes in strength training, cross training (like Flywheel and yoga), speed runs and distance runs. Interval training and strength work makes such a difference with speed and endurance.
What keeps you going during rigorous training?
I always have to remind myself how good I feel when I finish a training run or workout — strong and accomplished. Especially on those days when I am tired and just don’t want to do it! Also, I usually sign up for races with friends so having training buddies to help keep each other accountable makes it more fun and keeps me inspired.
Talk to us about the perfect running fuel… what keeps you going?
My go to pre-race meal is oatmeal with a banana or almond butter — and coffee! Always coffee. I need simple carbs that can sustain the hours of running that aren’t too heavy or leave me too full.
How does running help you on the bike, and vice versa?
Running and cycling go so well together! The interval training at Flywheel really helps push my cardiovascular endurance as well as strengthen different muscles in my legs to help prevent injury — it also allows me to get the extra work in with less pressure on my knees and joints. The classes are also great for me when I need that extra little push from an instructor or the group around me to add more intensity than I would on my own!
How does music help you stay motivated?
Music is EVERYTHING to me when I’m working out — whether it’s running, cycling, or strength training. The right beat drop or favorite song at just the right moment gives you that little push you need. Music lets you get lost a bit and forget what mile you are on or even that you’re feeling the burn in your legs. I love a good mix of fun guilty pleasures and intense beat drops in my playlists. My favorite songs to run to are hip hop remixes — makes me get a little aggressive on all of the hills but keeping the faster beats helps with pace. My favorite running song is “I’m a Boss” by Rick Ross… I can’t help it, he just makes me want to crank up a hill!
Do you have any tips for people who are starting to run long-distance?
Be patient! Give yourself time to ramp up your mileage and ease into it. Find ways to change up your runs, whether it’s a different route, going sightseeing, or mixing in extra hills. I like to also judge a run based on effort, and not speed. Not every run is going to be fast or feel great, but if your effort is there you’ll get the benefits!
