NAME: Melanie Castillo-Cullather

AGE: 46

PROFESSION: Director, IU Asian Culture Center

BEST LIFESTYLE CHANGE IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS: I discovered running a couple of years ago and I have been hooked ever since. My friend Eunice Donovan encouraged me to join a half-marathon training for beginners, which was offered by the Indiana Running Company. I had never run and had not joined any race before, so to be able to finish the half marathon was a life-changing experience for me. The training began in June and the IU Mini Marathon was held in September 2007. When the race was over, my interest in running just started. Since then, I have adopted this very rewarding exercise as part of my routine.

HEALTH/FITNESS ADVICE: I think there are workouts suited for every person. It’s a matter of trial and error until you find the right fit. And you can tell if it’s the right one for you when you start including it in your schedule and eventually it becomes a healthy routine. It is also very helpful to surround yourself with people who share your interest.

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU: When I run I experience this sense of self-discovery and a sense of accomplishment. Haruki Murakami talks about this too in his book, “What I Talk About When I Talk About Running.” Murakami says that there are runners who are “motivated by an individual goal — it could be a time they want to beat.” And yet, even if one does not reach his personal record, but if one has made his/her best effort and learned something from it, then that in itself is an accomplishment, you gain a “positive feeling” that keeps you going to the next run or race. Also, I look forward to eating without guilt.

HOW DO YOU STAY DRIVEN: I can’t give up running now that I have tasted the benefits and there are many. Running clears my mind and allows me to look at the annoyances in life with patience and a smile.

TOOLS OF THE TRADE: We pound those feet on the ground so much, that I began saving money and investing in good quality running shoes. It makes a huge difference when you are wearing a comfy pair. For recovery foods, I crave for a cup of clear soup. My husband makes me homemade miso soup and that hits the spot. If there is room for another workout to complement what you currently do, I highly recommend the “body blitz” class at the Y. Last but not least, join a group and if you are lucky like me, you might meet friendly runners like my Wednesday running buddies Rachel W. and Rachel N. They make waking up early and running very easy.

INspiration ingredients

WHAT INSPIRES YOU: The memory of finishing my first half marathon has always been a source of inspiration. It reminds me of how my running friend Christy Victor and I trained together that summer of 2007 and how motivated and resolved we were to finish a half marathon for the first time.

WHO INSPIRES YOU: I get my inspiration from my family and friends who understand and support mommy’s new love for running.

WHERE ARE THE PLACES THAT INSPIRE YOU: I really enjoy running on the trail on Rogers. It is such a treat to be running in the woods. It’s very peaceful and spiritual. Hills are my friends too. They challenge me and they spice up the run, breaking the monotony of running a flat course.