The Wellness Files // a wellness-focused interview series featuring the badass ladies that inspire me.
Evann Clingan was one of the first bloggers I ever met “in real life.” We initially connected on twitter (this was before instagram became my main squeeze!) and met for the first time during a training run. We were both running the Nike Women’s Half in DC with Leukemia Lymphoma Society. Both of us had a personal connection to the cause unfortunately thanks to our dads, both of whom are thankfully healthy now.
Like me, Evann is also a former dancer turned group fitness junkie turned marathoner who feared the mile run in high school. She recently ran her second marathon in NYC and absolutely crushed it — even though she was juggling training with a crazy work schedule.
Read on for how she found the time to train for a marathon and advice I think we can ALL use when it comes to time management.
Hi, I’m Evann Clingan. I’m a New York City-based fitness blogger and marathon runner. I also work full time as a Senior Digital Influence Strategist. In short, I get a very 360 view of the online influencer world.
▶︎ What inspired you to start your fitness blog, EvannClingan.com?
Growing up, I was a competitive dancer. When I moved to New York City in 2011, I started to look for fun fitness options. Taking boutique fitness classes reminded me of taking dance classes. My entry level salary allowed me to take very few classes, so I would research studios and instructors online. After awhile, I decided to add my opinions to the mix, as I knew other people were searching for reviews, as well. What began as a studio review blog grew into an outlet to share everything from healthy recipes to race training tips.
▶︎ What advice would you give to someone looking to start blogging?
My advice is to JUST START. So many people talk to me about my blog and say, “I had this idea for a blog…” or “I’m waiting for the perfect design / name / strategy…” If you don’t start now, you might never take the plunge. You can refine as you build your audience.
▶︎ You recently ran the NYC Marathon (your second marathon!!) How did you find the time to balance training, full-time work, side projects and other commitments?
I can’t believe I’ve now run my second full marathon (and that I’m in the lottery for a Fall 2017 marathon). NYC was an incredible experience! People often ask how I find the time to train for marathons. The truth is, no one has time to train for one. You create the time to train for it. You have to make your training runs, especially long runs on the weekend, a priority. Aside from the workouts, you also have to prioritize sleep, recovery, and healthy eating. For those who dream of taking on the huge goal, the sacrifices are worth it!
▶︎ Where does your motivation to lead a healthy life come from?
I definitely have more than one source of inspiration for living a healthy life, but my dad and brother top the list. They’re both cancer survivors, which makes me extra grateful for my health. I ran my first half marathon to support cancer research through the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I’ve continued to run as a celebration of my health. Being a distance runner is a privilege.
▶︎ How has Instagram played a role in your wellness journey?
Instagram is my favorite social media platform. The fitness community comes together on the platform to share everything from wins and struggles to leggings and matcha. I strive to tap into the distance running community on Instagram. Every weekend, I ask how everyone’s long run went. We share race tips. It’s a very supportive, non-judgmental group.
▶︎ What’s your go-to spot for a healthy meal or snack in NYC?
For meals, I love Sweetgreen and Dig Inn. At Sweetgreen, I get the Harvest Bowl. At Dig Inn, I love the charred chicken. I typically grab smoothies as a snack or carry fruit with me.
▶︎ What’s your proudest fitness moment?
Crossing my first marathon finish line (January 2015 at Disney World) was my proudest fitness moment. I was the girl who got anxiety about the mile run in high school. I’ve come a long way. I’m also proud of how much stronger I felt during my second marathon training cycle. Crossing the NYC Marathon finish line was almost as exciting as crossing my first.
▶︎ What work out, if any, are you currently obsessed with?
Now that I’ve finished my second marathon, I’m thinking about running a spring half marathon. But for the next month, I plan to take yoga classes and recover.
▶︎ When you’re tight on time but want a healthy, homemade dinner, what do you make?
Confession: I rarely cook. It ends up being a giant project for me. However, my boyfriend cooks for us almost every night. He’s great at changing up lean proteins and vegetables with spices. To balance out the responsibilities, I do the dishes every night.
▶︎ What’s the last great book you read?
Before the marathon, I started A Race Like No Other, which shares stories from people’s NYC Marathon experiences. The last fiction book I read (and loved) was Truly, Madly, Guilty by Liane Moriarty.
▶︎ What beauty products do you swear by?
I’m very low maintenance when it comes to beauty. I’ve used products like Bare Minerals foundation and Cover Girl mascara for years. However, my new beauty obsession is One Love Skin Savior, a hydrating balm. It’s 100% natural and very concentrated — great for outdoor athletes!
▶︎ What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
In my post-grad life, I’ve slowly learned to live by this quote: “You can do anything, but you can’t do everything.” I tend to overcommit myself, but I’m learning to spend time on what matters most.
▶︎ What’s one piece of advice you would give someone new to fitness + wellness?
I would tell them to choose a workout that they enjoy (at least somewhat). Just because others are running marathons, taking Crossfit, or practicing headstands doesn’t mean you have to do the same. Take a dance class, ride a bike, or join a soccer league. When you strip away the trends, fitness is simply about moving — and doing it often.
LIGHTNING ROUND!
Barre or Yoga? Yoga – It helps keep my muscles healthy while marathon training.
Spin class or run? Run – This goes without saying. I do sometimes sub a SoulCycle class for a run.
AM or PM workout? PM – I often aim for a morning workout, but I end up sweating in the evening.
Smoothie or juice? Smoothie – My favorite is Peanut Butter Split from Juice Generation.
Group fitness or solo workout? Solo running but group boutique fitness classes – A bit of each!
▶︎ Where I can find you on social media and blogging?
Blog // evannclingan.com
Instagram // @EvannClingan
Where is her “Marathoner” sweatshirt from, I love it!
Gooooood question! Will ask Evann!
The sweatshirt is from https://sarahmariedesignstudio.com
Lots of cute goodies there!