Both my parents ran marathons. My brother and I went to their races. We carried a boom box, played the theme from Rocky, and screamed our guts out. It was so cool.
In college, my best friend and I would go out after the first snowfall and run around the University of Iowa and talk about our futures. It was beautiful, dark, and Iowa City was quiet. I felt so free.
Train with these expert marathoning tips from the masterminds at Runner's World!
I'm a secondary black belt in tae kwon do. I surf and run to cross-train. Surfing strengthens my core. Running gets my legs insanely muscular. I can really kick my instructor through the wall.
My running workouts give me confidence for when I surf. I'll run seven miles and then go surfing. I'll pop up on my board right away, and just rip in the waves.
Cross-Training Workouts Borrowed From Other Sports
Running is a sanctuary for me. It keeps me centered. I can't take my cell phone or my computer. I can be unavailable and completely selfish.
I hate treadmills and gyms. I'd rather be outdoors. I run the Santa Monica Promenade all the way up to Pacific Palisades and back down to Venice.
Two years ago, I ran the L.A. Marathon and missed my Boston qualifying time by six minutes [3:46:46]. I was mad. (Search: Destination Races for Runners) This year, I cramped up at mile 16, and ran my slowest time [4:23:51]. But I finished.
10 Golden Rules for Race Success
When I'm working on a film, the call is early, so I run before the sun rises. I just directed a play [Why We Have a Body], and I started our rehearsals later so I could get in my 20-milers.
I love making marathon mixes. I don't go out to clubs, so running is like party time. It's the only time I feel semi-cool. My favorite running song is "Take on Me" [by a-ha]. I've started all three of my marathons with that song. (Video: Get the most out of your running shoes)
Music Playlists of Your Favorite Runners
Racing makes me think about all the casting direc-tors who said I wasn't good enough. I think about the impossibility of running 26.2 miles, and think, They're wrong. I can do anything.
I prep for all my films and plays by running. Going for long runs helps me think and appreciate where I'm at.
Frederick costars with Judd Nelson in the film Just 45 Minutes from Broadway, slated to open later on this year.
For more, check out Runner's World's full Tanna Frederick Interview!
