When I first started blogging a little over a year ago, I wasn’t sure where it would take me. But through it, I’ve met so many fascinating and inspiring people…one of them being Kecia, who recently nominated me for the Liebster Award (thank you!).

The Liebster award is an internet blogging award that gets passed from blogger to blogger.  Here’s how it works:

– The nominator asks you 11 questions
– You answer those questions
– You nominate 11 other bloggers to answer 11 questions you pose

So here are the questions and answers Kecia asked me to answer…

1. How did you choose your blog name? 

It took me a while to settle on a name! I didn’t want anything too personal or too feminine because I envisioned it as a mix of a blog and a heath & fitness publication. KineticFix had a nice ring to it, and it spoke to my desire to always be in motion.

2. What is your favorite thing to write about?

Two things, really: First, I enjoy documenting training because it not only holds me accountable, but it’s also a great way to connect with other people who are experiencing the same thing. We’ve created a little community where we swap info and help each other grow. And second, I love interviewing people. It’s fascinating to hear more about why they do what they do, what drives them, what they’re striving for, etc.

3. Why did you start blogging?

I desperately needed a creative outlet! My day job at the time was in high-tech PR, and I wanted a place where I could explore my passions for heath & fitness, connect with others who shared those passions and maybe even inspire a few people in the process. In a great twist of fate, blogging actually led to my current job, which is at SweatGuru, a start-up that merges technology and fitness — the best of both worlds.

4. What kind of workout makes you feel the best after it is all over?

Speed work. It’s easy to go out and run X number of miles and just zone out, but on the track you’ve got to be dialed in and make every lap count. It can be painful, but there’s a great feeling of accomplishment when you hit your goal paces. And it’s also rewarding to see — and feel — improvement over time.

5. What is your favorite post workout recovery food?

When I’m being “good,” I love a nice recovery shake! My current favorite is Osmo Acute Recovery blended with ice, a banana and almond milk. Or if’ I’m in a hurry, I’ll grab chocolate milk and a banana. And when I want to treat myself, I’ll go for brunch, deep-dish Chicago-style pizza or a burrito. As you can see, I’m pretty food-motivated 🙂

6. What motivates you?

Besides all the food I just listed? Well, my immediate gratification is my post-workout morning coffee. Overall, though, I’m extremely competitive — with myself. I love setting a goal and going through the whole process of trying to accomplish it, whether it’s learning a new discipline or going for a new personal record.

7. What is your “A” race or biggest fitness goal for 2014?

I’ve got a few! First, I was hoping to tackle a half Ironman this fall, but after my recent Olympic triathlon, I am resetting expectations and want to work on my open-water swimming technique and confidence. Second, I hope to complete my first ultra-marathon, which I’ll attempt at the end of May. And third, I’m still after that elusive sub-four marathon, which I may shoot for in the fall.

8. What is your favorite motivational song?

Eminem’s “Lose Yourself.” I’m a proud Detroiter!

9. If you could meet anybody (past, present or future), who would it be and why?

Wow, this is a tough one…but, off the top of my head, I’d say Leonardo da Vinci. Centuries after his death, the man is still an enigma. He was a true Renaissance Man, so diversely talented and ahead of his time that he seems almost super-human. I’d love to pick his brain, talk about the stories behind his paintings, how he got the ideas for his inventions, etc.

10. If you could give your 16-year old self a piece of advice, what would it be?

Non-running activities are key to becoming a better runner. Take a more holistic approach with lots of cross-training, stretching, balance work, massage and even an adjusted training schedule. Train smarter, not harder.

Also, don’t be in such a rush to grow up! Listen to your parents, and be a kid for as long as you can 🙂

11. Are you going to pass on the torch and nominate 11 fellow bloggers?

Heck, yeah! Here’s my list:

Double D Athlete

Fueled By LOLZ

Must Love Jogs

Kelsie Lou

Run Away with Me

Running Wild

Single-Tracked Mind

Sprinkled Twist

Stamped with a Heart

The Game Plan: Playing to Lose (Weight)

Twenty-Six & Then Some

My questions to each of you:

1. How did you choose your blog name?
2. What is your favorite thing to write about?
3. Why did you start blogging?
4. What would be your ultimate athletic achievement?
5. When are you the most nervous while competing?
6. Describe your most embarrassing athletic moment.
7. What is your “A” race or biggest fitness goal for 2014?
8. What one or two things do you currently do in your training that are keys to your success?
9. How do you set your goals?
10. What was the best advice you were ever given?
11. Are you going to pass on the torch and nominate 11 fellow bloggers?

The rules:

• Thank the blogger who nominated you.
• Answer the 11 questions given to you.
• Nominate 11 other bloggers (generally with the same number of followers, though it can be tough to tell; ideally less than 500).
• Post 11 questions for your nominees to answer.
• Comment on your nominees’ blogs to let them know you nominated them.
• Have fun spreading the blogging love!

Thanks in advance, and I can’t wait to read your responses!