Culture
Beyond the Run: Q+A with Brenda Martinez
We sat down with Brenda Martinez to learn more about her training, her favorite gear and how running has changed her life.
As World Silver Medalist, Olympian and U.S. National Champion, Brenda Martinez has had her share of successes. She’s also faced hardships throughout her career. She struggled to find a training group after graduating from University of California Riverside in 2010, and dealt with injuries throughout her professional career. Despite her struggles, running has remained a constant.
We sat down with Martinez to learn more about her training, her favorite gear and how running has changed her life.
FF: At Fleet Feet we believe Running Changes Everything®. What has running changed for you in your life?
BM: Running continually changes my outlook on life, and always for the better. The days I don’t feel my best are the days I don’t take for granted, and the days I feel my best are the days I appreciate the most. Running has brought me community and helped me to feel a part of something bigger than myself.
FF: If you could give your younger self some running advice, what would it be?
BM: Take care of today. Do your best to do the little things that are in your control now in order to better prepare for tomorrow. It’s all about consistency in the process.
FF: How do you balance the joys of running with professional goals, pressure and expectations?
BM: When running starts to become something that feels forced, I take a step back to regroup. I can often find a way to move forward after I take that step back for myself. Putting yourself first doesn’t have to be selfish.
FF: What’s your "Desert Island" workout? If you were “stranded” on a desert island and could only "bring" or repeat one run workout with you, what would it be?
BM: I’ve grown to love mile repeats because they always humble me. That’s my bread and butter workout and the only one that truly gives me a confidence boost.
FF: You've been with New Balance for over 10 years. What do you think has made this partnership so successful?
BM: I’ve been with New Balance for 12 years and all I feel is love from them. New Balance has stuck by my side and I feel the loyalty. I’m Team New Balance for life.
FF: What is your favorite New Balance shoe?
BM: The New Balance Fuel Cell TC. I like how light they are, and I love the responsiveness on my recovery runs. I also love the new 1080v12.
The FuelCell TC will evolve to the FuelCell Supercomp Trainer, coming this summer. Follow the blog to stay tuned for the latest shoe updates.
Sale
Men's New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v12
Men's Running Shoes
The New Balance 1080 v12 is a great shoe for anyone who likes a lot of cushion. It is made from New Balance's most comfortable Fresh Foam X foam for ultimate comfort.
Sale
Women's New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v12
Women's Running Shoes
The New Balance 1080 v12 is a great shoe for anyone who likes a lot of cushion. It is made from New Balance's most comfortable Fresh Foam X foam for ultimate comfort.
