What brought you into enduraLAB in the first place? I joined the LAB in the Spring of 2014. At that time, I was preparing to run my first Boston Marathon and I was looking for some guidance. I started strength training with Coach Lee and joined the run group.
How did you exercise before enduraLAB? Prior to the LAB, my only running buddy was my dog, Cricket. I have since ditched Cricket (she is older, don't worry I still love her) and have made new running buddies that tend to talk quite a bit more.
Tell us what you do outside of the LAB? I am a small animal veterinarian at Arlington Heights Animal Hospital.
How have you grown as an athlete since joining the LAB? Since joining the LAB, I have gained so much knowledge about running and how adding strength training can really benefit me. I give Coach Lee all the credit in improving my marathon time from 3:20-ish to 3:05.
What is a goal you have set for yourself in the next 6 months? The next year? Running Boston 2019. This is a tough race so I am not looking to run a personal best, but hopefully beat my previous time. Update: Lauren did beat her previous time and finished the Boston Marathon in 3:13:40. The entire enduraLAB team is beyond thrilled for her amazing race.
Lauren is also registered for the NYC marathon in November 2019.
If there was a workout named after you, what would it consist of? Burpees, lots of burpees. Plus, some rowing and skiing. And 5k repeats. Vomit. I’m totally kidding! I only do cardio outside; exceptions are a tornado or a mid-summer day. I despise all indoor cardio equipment, and burpees! I can always count on Brian Phillips to join me rain, sleet or shine. And Pam Packer if it isn't sprinkling, too windy, etc. I don't mind Taylor Street hill repeats, or a short tempo run. I think 5k repeats are the hardest workout Coach Lee has up his sleeve.
What is your favorite enduraLAB event? My family loves the annual Turkey Trot. Tennessee, myself, and my two boys all love the tradition.
What is your favorite enduraLAB program/cycle? The enduraLAB Run Club is my favorite program.
What advice would you have for a new person starting at enduraLAB? My advice would be to not be intimidated. The workouts are tough. The runs are challenging. Coach Lee knows what he is doing, trust the process. You will be shocked at what your body is able to do along the way. You will see results.
Favorite cheat meal/restaurant in D/FW? Anyone who knows me knows I love margaritas. We are regulars at Taco Heads, Mesero, and The Original.
Where did you go to college? I am a double Aggie. Gig 'em!
