Why I Run: Jenny Simpson
What keeps speedy Olympian and Word Champion runner Jenny Simpson motivated?
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Middle-distance runner Jenny Simpson, 27, has set two American records, won serious bling at major races and competed in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. But, just like the rest of us, this speed demon is looking for life balance. When we spoke to Simpson, a few weeks before she nabbed silver in the 1,500 meters at the World Championships in Moscow, she was trying to plan a relaxing vacation for herself and her husband, a first in their three-year marriage.
“When I went to high school, I remember my incredible shock at having to run five days a week. Now I can’t imagine not running five days a week!”
“New Balance’s MD800s are my favorite racing spike of all time.”
“My only other sport while growing up was riding horses. I grew up around them and rode well into high school.”
“The first time I ran on a track was in third grade. We were running around the playground at school and picked up a Popsicle stick every lap. I remember wanting to get so many that I couldn’t even hold them. It was supposed to be fun, not psycho, but I was focused!”
“I carry a backpack for running, and I always have two sets of spikes, extra socks, hair ties and clips, an extra New Balance Ndurance 100 watch (I wear the men’s version because the numbers are bigger and easier to read when I’m in oxygen- deficit mode!) and some Advil because you just never know!”
“I’m a person of consistency, even when it comes to treats. I always have something special on race day. In Moscow, I took three bags of Peanut M&M’s and had a package after every race.”