Júlia de la Piedra Sitjas (Catalonia, SPAIN)
1500m, 800m and XC runner
Runner Spotlight
Growing up in Spain, I was lucky to have an active childhood surrounded by nature and sports. My father played a big role in shaping that lifestyle, always inspiring my siblings and me to stay active and enjoy outdoors. I officially started track and field at 10 years old, and I haven't looked back since!
Now, as an international student-athlete at Bradley University, running continues to be a huge part of who I am.
Favorite Running Spot
Favorite Running Shoe
Shoes are such a personal choice for every runner, often reflecting your unique journey, personality, and the miles that define you. In my case, that journey began with Asics.
After trying a range of shoes, I've found that nothing beats the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit for me. The design alone motivated me from the moment they were released, and they feel like the perfect blend of style and performance. Whether it's warm-ups, recovery runs, long runs, cool-downs, or even technique drills, these shoes handle it all seamlessly. It's so much more enjoyable to run in shoes that inspire you, and a great shoe can make all the difference in staying consistent and enjoying the sport.
Best Achievement
If I reflect on my entire athletic career, one moment that stands out with a lot of warmth is when I broke my first national record (Spain) at the age of 14, celebrating the Indoor Track Regional Championship with a time of 2min 54.66 in the 1000m. Back then, training still felt like a game, and I truly enjoyed every session. This record was especially meaningful because it had stood unbroken for 34 years. In the process, I also set a new regional record (Catalonia), previously held by Natalia Rodríguez, one of Spain's most legendary middle-distance runners, whose mark was 2min 56.04.
As for last season, my most memorable achievement was setting a new PR in the 1500m with a time of 4:34.82. Meanwhile, my coach—who had already survived a marathon of coaching and supporting us all day—was just trying to enjoy his dinner in peace. It was 11 pm, fair. Yet there he was, watching from the sidelines, cheering me on with his presence (and probably some well-deserved bites in between).
He'll be featured in the last post of the semester—Andrew Carlson—so stay tuned for his version of events.
The atmosphere was charged with excitement, with people lined up along the track, music blasting, the night sky dark, and the stadium lights shining down. It was an unforgettable experience that took place in a very special location—California. A dream destination for every girl growing up in Spain. I'll always remember the official wishing us luck before the race, and mentioning that many athletes set personal records at that meet. I was lucky enough to become one of them.
My favorite running-related product is OXD creams. Since I started in this sport, stretching and recovery have always been an essential part of my routine. These creams help me feel better after intense efforts and are also key for warming up and preparing areas with soreness (if any) or simply for general activation before a competition or hard training session.
I use the heat cream right after my warm-up for the intense activity (whether it’s a race or a hard workout), applying it about 10 minutes before starting to help ease pain and fully activate my muscles. The cooling gel is my go-to for recovery. I apply it after finishing my stretches to relax my muscles and feel refreshed.
Favorite Pre-Race Song
To wrap up the first weekly post, I’d like to introduce the Word of the Week
Present.
This word is about being fully present in everything you do, whether it’s paying attention to the little details or seeing the bigger picture in your life. For example, after a tough workout, don’t rush to the next thing. Take a moment to acknowledge your effort. Thank your body for its hard work and your heart for its dedication. It’s these small acts of appreciation that allow you to feel better, and shaping yourself into the best version of you.
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