Born to Venture Beyond

The Life of a Runner

The continuous thump of footsteps against the dense terrain of Central Pennsylvania trails is seemingly unimportant to those who do not thrive off running. For Teresa Nelson Barnes, running is more than a mere "hobby."  Running is an addiction, in the sense of the euphoria she feels. Teresa explains, "I call running an addiction because for me, I get a high like nothing I have ever felt, I imagine it has to mimic the euphoria that alcohol and drug addicts feel when they get their fix." 

To Teresa her way of life revolves around the races she participates in throughout all four seasons. First and foremost, nutrition plays a vital role into shaping an average person into a runner. As Teresa describes her day to day nutrition guide, one couldn't picture it in any other way than a diet on steroids. She consumes little to no processed foods and sugar. Being that Teresa is a human being, she admitted to taking the occasional "cheat day." A time to time occurrence that happens in all fitness fanatics lives. Nonetheless, nutrition isn't the only contributor to being physically fit. Hydration is also of high importance to anyone who chooses to run long distances. Staying hydrated minimizes the chances of cramping throughout a race. Teresa points out a helpful tip for anyone who strives to become a runner, "Your body consumes a lot of calories and you really have to be constantly refueling.  If you feel hungry or thirsty, then you’ve waited too long.  It’s almost like you have to force or train yourself to eat/drink when you’re not really hungry or thirsty."

The exercise aspect of training to be a runner is comparable to the workouts any other athlete does. However, with Teresa's day to day work schedule and having three dogs along with three horses to take care of, sometimes it is difficult to squeeze in intensive workouts. Regardless, Teresa strives to run at least two miles a day on her off season, along with two days per week of strength training. Strength training includes not only lifting weights, but also doing movements that use her own body weight. Teresa gave yet another motivational tip stating, "There are definitely times that I just don’t want to do anything but sit on the couch, but this has become a way of life for me.  If I push through and put in the work, I WILL cross that finish line." 

To be a runner and work a full time job takes a passionate individual. Whether you're a beginner, or have been running for years, Teresa made it clear you can do anything with hard work and dedication. Next time you see a flyer for a race in Pennsylvania, try to stop by. You may find your inner longing to be free on a trail, or you may just so happen to spot Teresa's unforgettable positive attitude and contagious smile.