Alyssa Pilger

1. What did life look like before you focused consistently on nutrition and fitness?
I started running in 2009, ran my first race in 2010 and I was hooked. I have always been competitive but running meant that I was competing against myself and trying to get faster. Running also helped with stress and anxiety, it was my outlet. Over the years I knew cross training was important, but I never did it consistently. I didn’t want to “waste” my time doing something that I didn’t love. I also knew nutrition was important but besides eating pasta the night before a long run, my eating habits did not change. I continued to increase my mileage and was relatively injury free for many years, but that changed in 2019.





2. What made you decide to make a change?In the spring of 2019 I was diagnosed with Acute Diverticulitis and struggled with lower back and knee issues. By summer I was unable to run and was eventually diagnosed with a torn labrum in my hip. Forced to take a break from running I needed another outlet. I turned to the Warehouse and focused on getting stronger. I enjoyed working out with friends and the classes challenged me. In October my diverticulitis worsened and by November I had surgery to remove a portion of my colon.
3. What has changed (attitude, energy, weight, habits, priorities, race times, blood work, confidence,
etc.)?
I was given the green light to exercise a week into January of 2020. I eased into it and by February I was back at the Warehouse five days a week. I was also able to start running again! I felt like I was getting a fresh start and I was mindful of maintaining a balance between the two. With the pandemic we locked down in the spring, and things shifted again. Workouts went to Zoom and races went virtual. So much time at home with the family! I was able to take walks with my husband and daughter and run with my son! Having more time to plan meals has helped us to eat healthier too. As we move into 2021 I am determined to keep this balance and focus more on nutrition. I signed up for the American Cancer Society’s 100 miles in January as a way to kickstart the year and help raise money for a great cause!
Share the following below:
1. What is your favorite Warehouse workout song?
2. What is your favorite workout class?
3. What is your favorite quote?
1. Shook Me All Night Long
2. Combat HIIT
3. Be here now