Nicole D

Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Recently I have been feeling like quitting this blog, it happens sometimes when I feel like I have done all that I could and I am not going anywhere. Going nowhere slowly that is what I feel like. 

Nostalgia, as I read this interview and thought about running on a farm. I have never done but Its on my bucket list now. 



Q. Tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do for a living? 
I am a former gymnast, forever runner, and soon to be graduated and licensed Physical Therapist. 

Q. How do you balance your exercise regime and your professional life? 
Try to set a schedule and stick to it, but realize when I’m wearing myself down. I know that it’s okay to take a break and not go out running for a few evenings if work has been too stressful and my mind and body need rejuvenation from sleep.

Q. When and why did you start running? 
Probably since I could walk. I’ve always ran all over the place even if I didn’t have to. I always ran around on my farm between the fields and houses. I’ve been “seriously” running since I was 7 or 8. My mom and grandma “trained” me when I started track and field events. I competed all through highschool in sprinting and jumping events. I’ve slowly been transitioning myself to longer distances.


Q. What motivates you to go out there, when you do not feel like it? 
My motivation is anything from feeling yucky after eating too much junk to being in a “hyper-active” and excited mood, all the way to being grumpy and needing to get out and away from those around me. When my day at work with patients has been particularly taxing and I may have spent a lot of my energy (physical and mental) I don’t feel like running.

Q. What is the longest distance you have ran? 
Half marathon! Working my way to that full!

Q. What gives you the confidence to run in the streets? 
My pepper spray! JK…but for real…As a female I believe it is important to analyze the situation around you…listen to the news, etc and decide whether it would be beneficial to carry something for self defense. In a few areas that I have lived and run in…there is often new reports of stabbings or rapes along the trails/streets. So I carry some pepper spray or a knife. I only run with music in areas that are busy and filled with people. If I’m alone in a quiet spot, like a nature trail, I am alert at all times.

Q. What do you think about the lack of exercise among the youth?
I think it is awful. This is from a runner’s standpoint, a to-be physical therapist’s standpoint, and the standpoint of someone who just believes exercise is so important for every aspect of YOU….mind, body, soul. There are so many youth out there who are struggling with health problems because they spend all their time in front of a TV, video game, or computer.They are missing out on some of life’s best experiences. They don’t need to be runners…just get out and ride a bike or go hiking or go swimming at a water hole!

Q. What was your best running experience? 
Shoot!! Too many! I don’t have one that stands out in particular…pretty much if I’m in a good mood and I’m enjoying nature’s beauty. That’s my best running experience. Oh…and as long as I don’t get that pesky side stitch!

Q. What was your worst running experience? 
Probably chasing after a calf (baby cow) to keep it from getting away from our farm…I think I was running a 6 minute mile for 3 or 4 miles zig zagging not included! Now…many of you might think that is easy…but for this girl…she runs 8:30 to 9 minute miles. Not to mention, I was running through a field of wheat clear up to my chest, in rubber boots, a normal bra (pesky straps yo!), and falling into ruts and gopher holes…then I chased after it through a water canel (slow running creek) and then fell in a hole deeper than I am tall! But I caught that calf!

Q. How do you push through the pain?
Deep breathing, positive self-talk, and the walk-run method. BUT….there are times pushing through pain is not appropriate. Learn your limits and how to avoid a serious injury.

11. What advice can you give somebody who wants to start running? 
Take it slow and invest in a good pair of shoes…but be aware that running stores and their treadmill videos don’t always give you accurate descriptions of your footfall when walking/running. A shoe with a wide toe box and zero drop is a great option to work into. If you are concerned about your feet or already have lower extremity problems…take the time to meet with a podiatrist or a physical therapist who offers exercise program opportunities. If you have health problems or are overweight…consult your physician….seriously! Also…learn to eat healthy and drink at least 2 litres of water a day…this goes for EVERYONE!!

Q. Which Social media sites are you on and how can one follow you? Instagram - @nd_dpt2b 
Twitter - @nddpt2015 
Pinterest – pedsdpt 


  •  My best running shoes is … Skora Core
  •  I love running because … I feel free
  •  Injury is … sadness
  •  My body is … my job to treat well
  •  My running playlist has … country music!
  •  I hate running when … I get a side stitch that just WON’T go away!
  •  Pain is … not always overcomable 
  •  The road … is open and free
  •  Sweat is … wonderful
  •  In future, I would like to run … a 6:30 minute mile
  •  Indie means … hip
  •  I do not like runners who … think they know everything about the body and running, especially if they haven’t had a formal education in multiple medical/health and wellness/physiology areas.

#RunRevolution

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