Why is fitness important to you?
As a mental health clinician, I believe that fitness is a combination of both physical and mental health. Physical fitness and mental health help us to be resilient, or bounce back in the face of adversity. Resilience is very important to me and helps me to be a good model for my kids when things get tough. My goal as I age is to be less prone to injury by building physical strength and endurance, and to also build mental/emotional resilience by using physical activity as an outlet for stress and a way to build up my sense of empowerment.
How do you stay motivated/inspired?
Goal setting has been a technique that I use to motivate myself to push harder, try new things, and persevere. Signing up for my next marathon or a difficult trail run is the best way for me to dial in! For inspiration: I am constantly inspired by the kids on my cross-country team. Running is a hard sport (we often say our sport is other sports’ punishment!) and they show up, work hard, set goals, and have good attitudes and sportsmanship. Watching kids who are kind and genuinely good human beings is the best inspiration ever! It makes me focused on being the best version of myself.
Favorite memory from running or event or?
One of my most fond event memories is from 2021 when my whole family, along with 2 other families of friends, participated in the RunDenver Series races. It was something that brought us so much joy- to get outside, experience a healthy activity together, cheer each other on, brave and conquer the elements, and give us a wonderful sense of community at a time when it was needed so much.
Anything else you want to share?
My family and I have been participating in HAL Sports events since 2013 when I began bringing my then 4- and 6-year-old to run The Great Candy Run Fun Run. We have run The Great Candy Run for nearly 10 years progressing from the Fun Run to the full 5k race!
What is your HAL (Healthy Active Lifestyle)?
My HAL is: Running, traveling, hiking, being outside, visiting National Parks, chasing adventure and new experiences with my kids, coaching XC for middle schoolers—they’re amazing people, and finding humor and laughter wherever I can!
Should the toilet paper roll be put on with the paper coming out under or over the roll? HA!
Definitely under. I don’t know why, but I feel somewhat passionate about that.
~Liz Schwemlein