Tell us a little about yourself…
I’m an Army wife and a mother to two young children! I am a photographer and stay at home mother. @ashleyedwardsphotographer
How long have you been running?
I ran in high school, but was absolutely intimidated by it and had frequent asthma/panic attacks with running. In 2010, we moved to Hawaii for the first time and I found myself signing up for my first race with my husband thinking he was absolutely crazy to expect me to run SIX miles with no training. Ends up, I didn’t do half bad, loved the runners’ high and chased that feeling. I’ve been running ever since!
Please list your favorite races and PRs.
My absolute favorite race has been the Hibiscus half marathon. It just has beautiful views and I always love the medals! I set my first PR in 2017’s Hibiscus half at 2:12. I just beat that record (2:11, a whole minute!) in 2018’s Route 66 half marathon in Tulsa, OK following my training with HRL. I currently only plan to run half marathons. I have no desire to try a full marathon, yet!
What are your 2019 racing plans and running goals?
I plan on running the 2019’s Rock n’ Roll Half Marathon in Nashville TN in April. I also plan to find one to run with my friend at a later time in 2019. I only have the goal to run stronger and a little faster. As long as I always enjoy it.
Any “bucket list” races?
No bucket list races really, but I’m absolutely open to suggestions!
What is your average weekly mileage?
I run around 16-20 miles a week at the moment, maintaining my progress during the winter.
What is your favorite workout?
My favorite workout is running (of course!) and Olympic weight lifting. I really enjoy any workout that challenges me.
What is your favorite pre-race/post-race foods?
My favorite pre-race food is overnight oats! 1/2 cup of oats, blueberries, spoon full of almond butter and chia seeds. Filled to the top of the mason jar with almond milk and let sit for 4-5 hours or overnight. Post workout, I love nuts and/or fruit!
What is the piece of running gear/food/drink that you cannot go without?
I cannot run without headphones/music. It manages my breathing! I also have discovered I cannot go without my compression socks!
What is your favorite running moment or running quote?
My favorite running moment is the last quarter mile of a race. There’s nothing like the adrenaline that comes over my body. I also have seen many sunrises and sunsets while running, and I remember each one.
Some favorite quotes:
“I run to burn off the crazy.” -unknown
“I just felt like running!” -Forest Gump (I relate to this so much. He came to a really lonely/tough time in his life and just took off running.)
“Run with your heart.”
Describe your running before HRL and after
My running before HRL was boring, not ambitious and inconsistent. Ever since I’ve started HRL, I’ve surprised myself in many ways. I didn’t think i would be able to keep it up with my busy, chaotic schedule, but I’ve managed to do so and have seen incredible progress without feeling like I’m killing myself! The runs and training are ever changing with my progress and goals. Keeps it fun!
Why does training with Hawaii Running Lab work for you?
Running with HRL gives me the accountability I need and personalized training schedule that works for my life and goals.
Instagram @ashleymichelleedwards