ROJ Running

In 2007, I participated in my college Relay for Life Event. At Relay for Life I would walk ¾ of a mile, and then run ¼ of a mile. Each run lap was TORTURE. Despite losing nearly 50 pounds the year before, I was not in shape. I realized though, if running for a few minutes was the hardest aspect of my life, I was blessed. I signed up for my first 5 mile race the next weekend and have been running nearly every weekend since.

Over the years my weight, health, passion and involvement have ebbed and flowed. I started this blog as a way to track my progress toward my first road marathon. Now I write not only for my own records, but to hopefully inspire those around me. My writing isn’t meant to show off or reprimand. It is simply a way to show an average girl doing what she loves. Last year I completed my first trail 50K and am currently training for a second. Next year I hope to complete a Half Ironman.

My fitness routine has adapted around graduate school, full time work and some version of a social life. Somewhere along the line it became a goal of mine to show people it doesn’t matter how busy you are, there are ways to fit in fitness or be an active person.  You do not have to eat like a bird in order for your performance to improve, there is no shame in adjusting goals to incorporate other important events and people, and above all else fitness time is personal time. This passion has earned me a spot on Team Marathon for 2010 and 2011.

Currently, I have reviewed two food products, Wendy’s natural cut sea salt fries and McDonald’s fruit and maple oatmeal. I am planning to have various gear reviews by the end of summer. Other highlights include guest posts such as a history of women’s sports fashion and being featured on the Podcast Phedippidations.

ROJ stands for Republic Of Julie, and is pronounced like the name Roger. It is a nickname my Mom gave me for always doing things in my own little world. It is perfect for the way I look at fitness, sure there are rules, but it is more fun to do things your own way!

ROJ has been good to me over the years, and I hope you will join me on my journey through life, love and the pursuit of marathons.

ROJ Running can be found on Blogger. I am also on Facebook and Twitter.