“Allyson Geschwentner is currently a junior in college working on a bachelors degree in nutrition science. she loves cooking, and is always experimenting in her kitchen with new ideas. She decided to go vegan in April 2013 after reading Scott Jurek’s book “Eat and Run”. She has noticed a big overall change in her health since making the switch to veganism, and her running continues to improve.”
Where do you live?
Wichita, Kansas
So what got you interested in running?
In May of 2012 I ran a 5K mud run called the warrior dash for the first time ever with my family. After that I started to love running. I started to run more and more, eventually running my first 10K, followed by a half marathon, and then by a full marathon. Now I’m hooked on the marathon distance, and can’t imagine my life without running.
Is there anything that sets you apart from other runners?
Well, being a vegan certainly sets me apart from the average American runner. Although with the recent proof of health and endurance benefits of a plant based diet, I have a feeling that in a couple more decades that wont be the case!
What keeps you motivated?
Training for races keeps me motivated when the weather is nasty or I’m tired, but honestly my love of running is usually enough to get me out the door.
Do you have a favorite race length?
Marathon
If you could run with anyone (living/dead), who would it be?
Scott Jurek, hands down. I know he’s a popular choice, but it’s just because he’s so awesome!
What is your all-time favorite race? Why?
I like the Prairie Fire fire Marathon right here in Wichita Kansas! It was my first marathon, and even though the last 6 miles were basically a death march, I know I left everything on the course that day. Finishing that race made me realize I was capable of so much more than I ever would have imagined.
Do you have a favorite pre-race food?
Gluten free English Muffin with fruit jam and chia seeds. Plus, Spirulina tablets for energy!
Post-race food?
Always a green recovery smoothie made with kale, spinach, tart cherry juice, pineapple, strawberries, protein powder, and almond milk. I’m addicted to my green smoothies!
What piece of running gear could you not possibly live without?
My Garmin forerunner GPS watch. It’s a great way to track your progress and log mileage.
What do you tell yourself when you are struggling?
I remind myself of all the miles I have already covered, and how good I will feel when I’m done if I just keep going.
Do you have any current goals? Races?
A short term goal is to run a sub 4 hour marathon. A long term goal is to qualify for and run a Boston marathon.
What advice would you give to someone who’s new to running?
Never underestimate nutrition! I don’t think a lot of people realize how much more energy you have, and how much more your body is capable of when you fuel it right. Your body is literally made out of the food you put in it.
You can read more about Allyson Geschwentner on her blog – Running Green – where she shares her favorite plant-based recipes, as well as her love for running. She’s also very active on Twitter under the name @VegRunnerGal. Connect with Allyson today and share your running love!
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Hi Ally, great read! I always look forward to your motivating tweets and runkeeper comments!