Runner’s World+ Member: Shannon Svensen
Shannon is a Runner’s World+ member. Join her and thousands of others chasing their goals with day-by-day training plans, expert advice from editors and coaches, and unlimited digital access. We regularly feature members online and in print.
Growing up, I was a competitive swimmer, and didn’t really give running much thought. After a 20-year beach lifeguarding career, I turned to the mountains and began hiking and backpacking on the weekends, while teaching during the week. By chance, a colleague mentioned that he was signing up for the Hot Chocolate 15K, and invited me to join. When I responded that I wasn’t a runner, he said, “With all that hiking you do? You’ll be fine! You’re already training!” The connection he made to my hiking and the prospect of well-earned oodles of chocolate convinced me, and so it began. Several years and many 15Ks and half marathons later, I find myself to be a run streaker, on day 300 of running at least one mile a day.
What started as a Runner’s World 30 day challenge has turned into a lifesaving daily run streak. I relish the chance to connect with the outside world and get my heart pumping. Some days it feels like flying, and some days it feels like slogging through quicksand, but it always feels like bliss when done!
I’m blessed to be able to run a short, daily route through parks and trees around the neighborhood. For longer runs, I like the path around a nearby golf course, and along the San Diego Embarcadero.
I am loving the Oiselle Flyout Long Sleeve, which I read about in RW. It’s just perfect. So light and airy, but just warm enough. I’ve got it in all the colors I can!
My teenage students are aghast when they hear, but it’s true. I spent 20+ summers as a beach lifeguard on San Diego’s North County beaches, making rescues and saving lives.
To make 365 days on my run streak, but still continue! I like to do a few half marathons a year, to enjoy and have something to train for.
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