Get to know Elana Ackerman!

MS: What was your inspiration for starting running? 

EA: After finishing residency, I decided I wanted to start working out regularly.  I started with working out with a trainer and going to yoga classes, and later started going to Orangetheory.  I was going about 5 times per week, even throughout my first pregnancy, before COVID.  My favorite part of class was running on the treadmill and I thought about focusing more on running.  Our daughter was born in January 2020 and COVID happened, so I started working out at home.  We bought a Peloton and started running with the app... and next thing you know, I am a runner!  Also, my husband Andy was an inspiration for me to start running.  Watching him enjoy running made me interested as well.

MS: As a busy mom with a full time job as a pediatrician, how have you managed to be consistent with your training?

EA: Habit!  I have made it a habit to exercise daily and really love running.  I like having a routine and schedule for working out- the accountability helps.  It is busy, not always easy, and definitely takes help with childcare and a supportive partner.

MS: You recently ran your first ever half marathon. Congrats! How was that experience and what did you take away from participating in your first ever live running event? 

EA: It was so exciting and fun!  I am excited to do it again.  I loved the energy and running with other people.  My husband and a friend from residency also ran it as well.  I will never forget the emotions while I was running through the finish line to see my husband and our daughters.

MS: Your husband Andy is also a runner. How special has it been to have a spouse who is dedicated and passionate to running as much as you are?

EA: The best part of having a spouse who is also a runner is he gets it- he understands how sometimes you want to go for a run and don't want to go for a run at the same time! We rehash our runs, talk about which shoes we want to try, I buy him gels that he never tries.  The hardest part is scheduling our runs when we are busy with our kids and work, but we make it happen.

MS: What's been the most positive experience that has come from the sport for you? 

EA: Running has made me a happier person and I think a calmer, more patient person.  I love that I am showing my daughters that they can set goals for themselves and how important it is to take care of your mental and physical health.  I also have the mentality now that I workout to feel strong, not skinny.

Fire away questions!

MS: What are your favorite running brands?

EA: Lululemon, Old Navy, Rabbit are where most of my running clothes are from.  Can anyone ever have too many workout clothes?

MS: What's your favorite post race meal?

EA: I wasn't very hungry after my half marathon.  My favorite foods after running are chocolate covered espresso beans and Boom Chicka Pop popcorn.  I eat both nearly daily!  I know this wasn't the question, but I would like to give a shoutout to animal crackers for being my favorite pre run snack!

MS: Do you listen to music on your run? If yes, what's on your playlist?

EA: Yes, I do.  I listen to Peloton frequently when running (Becs Gentry is my absolute favorite coach!).  My guilty pleasure is listening to Lizzo.  I also like to listen to podcasts while running.

MS: Is coffee your secret weapon in life and the sport of running? 

EA: Absolutely!  I like a pre-run espresso and a post-run iced coffee or cold brew.

MS: Tell us something unique about yourself that no one would know! 

EA: I have never lit a match.

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