March 12th, 2010
by Joanna Sutter
I had a major breakthrough in my training this week. I double-dog-dared myself to push harder, pedal faster, and add more resistance. I decided to step it up. I came to the conclusion that an hour out of my day being a little uncomfortable will lead to 23 hours of feeling more comfortable in my own skin. And I was right. Not only did I gain a little more confidence this week, I gained a little more sleep as well. Good thing since we’ll be losing an hour of sleep this weekend (but who’s complaining?)
Enough about me, let’s SPRING forward and meet…
The MP4 Athlete of the Week: Jess Underhill

If we asked your coach or training partner to list three words that describe you they would be: Consistent, motivated, and slightly silly
What are you training 4? Scotland Run 10k and the More Magazine/Fitness Magazine 1/2 Marathon
What is the best nutrition or training tip you’ve ever been given? Rest days are just as important as training days.
Tell us about your most memorable athletic achievement. Crossing the finish line of my first marathon just over 10 years ago.
Describe your perfect workout. A ten mile run followed by a sweaty vinyasa yoga class.
How do you achieve workout/life balance? I never take training too seriously. I’m not a professional athlete and never will be therefore it’s okay to miss a workout or two.
What motivates you on days you don’t feel like working out? Knowing that I never regret working out, but may regret missing a workout. Or promising myself a post run Starbucks coffee… works like a charm.
If you could workout with anyone in the world who would it be and why? Michelle Obama because we could discuss her garden and more importantly her Let’s Move campaign.
What is your favorite workout accessory? Sports Bra
What kitchen gadget can you not live without? A blender. Mine’s currently on its last leg. ;(
What was the last thing you’ve had to eat today? So Delicious coconut ice cream
What book or magazine is on your bed side table? What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami and O Magazine.
What beauty product is always in your purse or gym bag? Bad Gal Lash mascara, but I don’t workout in make-up.
What is the most played song on your iPod? Its a toss up between ”I Run To You” by Lady Antebellum and “Do You Remember” by Jay Sean
The first place you go when you log on to your computer is…. Gmail
When you’re not working out where can we find you? Roaming the streets of NYC.
What’s your motto? I’ll be honest I don’t have a “motto” but my road ID does say “Life is not a dress rehearsal”. =)
Tags: athlete, athlete spotlight, Friday fun, motivation, training for per4mance
I have a question, I did the calorie calculator and it said I need 4045 calories!! That’s not right! I am 5′10″ tall and am looking to lose 15 lbs…as quickly as possbile,my guess is about 1700 cals, as I am doing cardio 5x/week and weight training 4x/week. Any tips on what you gals think? Thanks so much! Loving all the blogs!!
We have so much in common, Jess…with the exception of that running thing
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I have to say I do love Bad Gal Mascara oh, and, So Delicious ice cream bars…a lot!
Thanks again for posting Joanna! Let’s get together soon and share some So Delicious ice cream!
Joanna, nice work this week with your training! I love kicking it u a notch. And I can only imagine all the sleep you’ve been getting!
I love Jess’ “best advice” that rest days are just as important as training. It goes right along with our CNS dicussion that we’ve been having this week. Also, most athletes don’t understand the importance of recovery! Thanks Jess!
Hey Joanna, great job on taking the training up a notch! Love the double dog dare part – another very cool obscure reference (Christmas Story, right?)
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