RBR Interview: Magdelana Lewy Boulet, Olympic marathoner, by Larry Eder

Q&A: Magdalena Boulet, by Larry Eder

RBR, 1. Why is
cross-country important to you?

Magdelana Lewy-Boulet: Cross-Country training
has become an important part of my training because it adds balance and variety
to my marathon routine.  The
softer, uneven surface allows for some new stimulation and makes running on
smooth roads that much easier.

                              Magdalena Lewy Boulet, Fortis

                                Rotterdam 2010, photo by PhotoRun.net.

RBR, 2. What was it like
racing the World Cross Country?

Magdelana Lewy-Boulet:The 2010 World Cross
Country in Bydgoszcz, Poland was one of the most memorable & fun
experiences in my running career. 
Being a part of the best USA team assembled in a very long time, allowed
setting high goals not only individually but also as a team.  My goal for placing in top 20 and
bringing home a World Cross medal could not have happened without the hunger
and competitive blood of my teammates. 
Now I can cherish our achievement and experience foreve

RBR, 3. What would you tell
high school runners about racing xc?

Magdelana Lewy-Boulet:My strongest
recommendation is that when preparing to race xc an athlete should incorporate
training on grass, dirt and hills. 
It is important to train on the same surface you will race.  But mainly, have fun with it.  It is a great sport and you have an
opportunity to be a part of a team, so have a good time with your teammates!

RBR, 4. Any tips on running
hills?

Magdelana Lewy-Boulet:Drive the arms; keep the
eyes fixed on the top of the hill. 
Hills are a great place to “break” a competitor as well, especially if
you’ve trained for them.  Don’t
forget to run hard on the downhill, too, because being aggressive when gravity
is helping you can put even more distance between you and the competition.

Magdelana Lewy-Boulet, Fortis-

Rotterdam marathon, photo by

RBR, 5. What are your
feelings on core training?

Magdelana Lewy-Boulet:Core exercises are very
important in my daily routine to stabilize the trunk area. Every muscle relies
on your abs, hips, and lower back, which is your trunk area. The benefits of
these exercises help prevent injuries and improved ability to maintain good
running technique when fatigued. 
Some examples include variations of planks, hip raises, crunches,
sit-ups and leg lifts.  My daily Active
Isolated Stretching & Strengthening routine also requires the use of core
muscles.  

RBR, 6. Any nutrition tips?

Magdelana Lewy-Boulet:Oh yes!  Nutrition is very important. Simple
& healthful nutrition will bring out the best runner in you.  I always recommend that athletes: 

1. Prepare wholesome
meals, including plenty of whole grains, fish, lean meats, vegetables and
fruits. They’ll provide essential nutrients, help fuel your workouts properly
and aid in your post-run recovery.

2. Drink water frequently
in small amounts throughout the day. 

3. Maintain energy levels
by spreading the calories out. Small meal every three hours or so will prevent
fatigue. 

4.  Make sure to find that magic pre
workout window of when you should have your last meal.  Too much or not enough food before and
after workouts can make a difference in your performance and recovery.  I use GU energy gels and recovery
drinks to optimize my pre-workout nutrition and post-workout recovery.

RBR, 7. Why do you run?

Magdelana Lewy-Boulet: I run because I am
passionate about the sport. I love to reward myself with racing after putting
in months and miles worth of training. 
I love the process of working towards a goal and love the feeling of
achieving my goal.  I enjoy the
journey of bettering myself and am always curious how much better I can become.

                   Magdalena after the Rotterdam Marathon,

                     photo by PhotoRun.net.

Special thanks to Magdelana Lewy-Boulet and Jessica Lupo/Saucony.