Here at runladylike.com, Fridays are all about sharing the inspiring stories of fit people who motivate all of us to be better tomorrow than we were yesterday. My Friday FITspiration series profiles runners, triathletes and casual exercisers who are making choices every day to be as healthy as they can be – in both huge ways and through simple, small victories. Their stories are about the journey of transforming from ordinary to extraordinary each and every day.

Today, I’m excited to introduce you to an inspiring woman: Jenny Jurek. When most runners hear the name Jurek, they immediately think of Scott Jurek, the legendary elite ultra runner who is known as one of the most talented and decorated ultra runners in the world. But few may know much about the woman behind this man. Well, meet Jenny. In addition to being married to a guy who enjoys running more than 150 miles at a time for fun, she is an awesome runner too, as well as a designer and business woman who has created a line of fitness products and accessories just for women (have you entered my giveaway for Jenny’s awesome running waist belt yet? If not, enter here through Sunday!). Several running bloggers and I had the chance to ask Jenny some questions. Check out her awesome answers and insights.

What motivates you to run?
Mountains and fresh air!

As runners, we are constantly searching for ways to fit everything in. What tips do you have for balancing training and the busy schedules you and Scott have with family and life outside of running? 
Communication and routines are helpful. Every morning, we wake up and discuss our schedules for the day before we head out for a run. We are big fans of errand runs where we will stop by the bank, post office or grocery store on the way home to save some time. Whoever gets home first starts making breakfast and we try to function like a team.

Do you have a favorite memory of a particular view during a run, or moment during a race, that has always stuck with you?
I started trail running when I lived in Seattle, so I have a lot of nostalgia for the Northwest. One of my favorite races was my fist 100 miler, the Cascade Crest 100, because it was in the Cascades and my BFF Krissy paced me for the last 45 miles. Just finishing gave me a huge amount of confidence in myself, in pursuing my dreams and in life in general. It was a big moment for me.

What is the most essential part of your training … the one thing you know you can’t give up and still succeed?
Track workouts. It’s easy for me to get stuck at one pace for my training runs and I can easily get too comfortable. I like hitting the track twice a week to work on my speed.

How do you keep yourself injury free? 
When I’m training for a race, I try to follow a schedule where I have recovery runs and off days planned in. I also do strength training and a lot of low impact cross-training like climbing and yoga.

What is your one thing in training you can’t live without? 
My iPod shuffle.

What is your favorite pre-run fuel or meal?
I’m not a huge eater before I run. I usually run first thing in the morning so it’s on an empty stomach. But if I do run later, I love eating an avocado sushi roll before I go!

What is your favorite fuel for a long run? 
It’s hard to choose just one, but anytime I have a Bearded Brothers energy bar it makes me happy (beardedbros.com). They are all organic, raw, vegan and amazing! I also really like Margarita Clif Blocks. The saltiness is a nice way to break up all the sweet gels.

What do you use to hydrate on your long training runs?  
I use an Ultra Vesta with two 10 ounce bottles in the front and a non-hose Platypus bladder in the back with another 20 ounces of water.

What is your typical recovery routine? 
Scott’s more the expert on recovery, so I drink what he drinks which is 20 ounces of Clif Shot drink mixed with 15 grams of protein powder within the first 30 minutes after my workout. I like taking a Vinyasa Flow yoga class the day after a long race or a hard workout because it keeps me from getting too sore the next day.

What do you do during your “off season” to stay active and fit? 
In the winter I nordic ski, and I rock climb year-round.

Do you participate in any other sports such as cycling or triathlon either as a method of cross training or to keep running fresh?
Climbing is my only other consistent sport. I like to go for long rides and I swim, but not competitively or with any regularity. I lift weights and do kickboxing twice a week, too.

What is the biggest piece of advice that you would give to a new runner?
I would suggest finding a running buddy. It’s always easier to make time for a run when you have somebody counting on you. Stop by your local running store and see if they have any group runs. Those are a great way to meet other runners and get involved with the community a little more.

What are some techniques you use to get your head back in the game if you find yourself discouraged after not-so-great performances or injury/illness?
I wish I was better at this but I still get disappointed with myself and question if I could have pushed harder or trained better. But I try not to beat myself up and turn the disappointment into motivation for the next event.

To win one of Jenny’s race belts in her Ultimate Direction Jenny Collection, check out this giveaway. It is open until 11:59 p.m. EST this Sunday, April 6. You can also get 20 percent off hydration products in the Ultimate Direction Jenny Collection using the promo code below.

If you or someone you know has an inspiring running, triathlon or fitness story to share, please send me an email at runladylike@gmail.com. I am always looking for everyday athletes to feature on Friday FITspiration.

Jenny’s favorite fuel for a long run is Bearded Brothers bars and Margarita Clif Shot Bloks. What is your favorite fuel for long runs and races?