Chicago Marathon Edition: Limitless Looks Like Shawanna White

You have probably heard the phrase, "surround yourself with people who you want to be like," and WE want to surround ourselves with Shawanna White. Athlete, runner, and Zensah Ambassador, we wanted to speak with her about her her journey with running, her effortless positivity, and all that she embodies.

Due to an injury, Shawanna had to forgo her plans to run in the Chicago Marathon, but she was there to cheer on the 44k runners. Despite hardships, Shawanna remains a light in the Zensah community and we were so honored to get to speak with her! Read on to discover why limitless looks like Shawanna White.

ZS: Describe yourself in two sentences:

SW: I am an optimistic being who is happy about having running as part of my life. I am caring and hope for the best for all mankind.

ZS: How did you get into running? Why do you run?

SW: I started running in high school when the track/cross country coach notice that I looked athletic. I ran throughout high school in Atlanta and in college at the University of West Georgia. I started competing on the roads after a short hiatus after college and I have been running consistently ever since.

I run for those who cannot run and with the hope that in some way I might inspire others to move toward being more physically fit.

ZS: Why are you running in the Chicago Marathon this year?

SW: The Chicago Marathon has been on my radar since running my first marathon in 2011. I was running this year because the time and opportunity has finally presented itself.

ZS: How do train for a marathon? 

SW: My training started out with a lot of relaxed and easy runs that focused on mileage and time on my legs. Afterwards, I started covering my basis to ensure I completed at least one long run, speed session and tempo run per week.

ZS: What advice do you have for fellow runners or those working towards marathon goals?

SW: I would advise getting a good coach for guidance if one does not have the knowledge of what they might need to do.

ZS:What are your Zensah must-have products? Why?

SW: Compression Legs Sleeves  are a must for runs over 3 miles to help with leg fatigue. Pop Tech + Compression  socks for recovery after hard efforts and for traveling.

ZS: What is one quote you live by? Or a personal mantra? (can apply to running or life!) 

SW: Keep it Positive!!!

ZS: What is your favorite place you’ve ever run?

SW: Flagstaff, Arizona is my favorite place to run because there are so many great options to run.  There are urban trails throughout the whole city that people can access from their home. It’s a paradise for runners.

ZS: What other hobbies do you love (in addition to running of course):

SW: If I am not running or watching running, I love to read when I have time.

ZS: Where can people find you? (on social media and at upcoming races in addition to Chicago!

SW: People can find me on Instagram at  peachrunner26.2  for the latest on all races and training. And on Fridays you can count on me putting a smile on your face or laughs with the Friday Dance.

ZS: Zensah’s motto is #withoutlimitz meaning we want you to feel limitless in everything you do. This” because limitlessness can look different for every person. Limitless might look like finding balance, reaching goals, acing the race you have coming up, or manifesting your future. What does limitless look like for you? 

Limitless looks like ME because I am the only thing standing in the way of reaching my goals. Therefore, I continually remove myself or my mind from a barrier.