This week we are proud to interview our new Brooklyn-based running coach, Rebecca "Bex" Burkett. Bex is a California native who just celebrated her 10 year NYC anniversary. She is a graduate student and run coach living in Brooklyn. Fun fact - she spent almost a year in San Francisco racking up miles along the Marina and over the Golden Gate Bridge AND working at The Cheese School of San Francisco. Her cheese and wine knowledge makes her a great asset for dinner parties! Check out Bex's coaching bio on our Coaches page.
When did you start running?
I would pick up running from time to time throughout college, but didn't start seriously running until 2004. I had recently moved to NYC after graduating college and wanted to cross "run a marathon" off my bucket list. So I started training. Little did I realize that I would love it so much!
Who inspired you to run?
My parents are my inspiration. From as early as I can remember, they ran together every day. They are now both in their 60's and still going strong. We all run together when I'm visiting or we're traveling and I even convinced my mom to run her first half-marathon with me a couple years ago.
What is your favorite running route? Why?
I recently moved to Downtown Brooklyn, so I've been spending a lot of time running along the waterfront and Brooklyn Bridge Park. I love being by the water and it usually isn't very crowded over there. I also really like running the Brooklyn Bridge at dawn. At that time it's mostly empty, beautiful and a great way to connect to Manhattan for longer runs (loving Summer Streets for that at this time of year). But the bridge is only lovely at dawn. Any later and the swarm of people becomes difficult.
Favorite post-run meal?
Usually I'll go for eggs or a smoothie with almond milk. But after a really hard, long run, a burger is my favorite thing to eat. A medium rare, grass-fed cheddar cheeseburger. Yum!
Best piece of running advice?
Listen to your body. I'm a stubborn person and I have a tendency to push myself hard. Over the years, I've learned the importance of being attuned to what your body needs. Sometimes it's an extra rest day, a shorter or slower run, and that's okay.
Who would you love to run with and why?
I'd love to run with Bart Yasso (Runner's World). I read his book a few years ago and found his story so inspiring. He has such a wealth of knowledge about running and fun races all over the world. Plus, the man invented Yasso 800s, so I'd like to get to know the man I curse while doing speedwork! I'm going to have to catch him the next time he's in NY.
Are you running for fun or sport?
A little of column A and a little of column B. I run because running keeps me happy and sane and is the ultimate stress-buster. Most of my friends also train for marathons, so my workouts are often great ways to catch-up with them, in addition to getting me race-ready.
Favorite way to sweat other than run?
I love yoga, spinning, and rock climbing.