RUNNING TO EXPLORE

Amanda Högvik is a creative force who found peace of mind through running and fell in love with the sport's freedom. After completing several marathons, she now aims to use her running to explore new destinations, traveling the world for races and fresh experiences.

We had a little chat with Amanda about all things running and life in general.

WHAT GOT YOU INTO RUNNING?

I think I started running as a teenager but never consistently. Running a marathon has been on my bucket list since I was twenty but I never managed the training due to lack of joy really. I didn’t enjoy running before, and today I know why. I put way too much pressure and expectations on my running!

It was only 2 years ago I gave it a real shot, this time I did it differently. I ran slow, and I did that so I would do it more often. Then it wasn’t so exhausting each time and I felt that I wanted to go for more runs. The results came when I ran without expectations! I ran because it was freedom and a way to clear my mind.

“DOLOMITES ITALY. IF YOU’RE INTO SKY RUNNING, SPECTACULAR VIEWS AND CHALLENGING ROUTES. THIS ONE IS FOR YOU! ”

TELL US ABOUT VAN LIFE

Just before I moved to Barcelona I was out traveling with my campervan for 9 months. I own and have converted an old VW T3 from 1990, without electricity and toilet/shower. I traveled through Germany, Austria, Italy, France, Spain, Andorra and Portugal.

Top 3 favorites for my fellow runners:

1. Dolomites Italy. If you’re into sky running, spectacular views and challenging routes. This one is for you!

2. Sagres, Portugal. Run along the coast of beautiful Sagres, expect explosive sunsets, deep blue ocen views and orange cliffs!

3. Valencia, Spain. If you’re into city running, Valencia is beautiful, with a park that hugs the city center - perfect for runners! Expect orange trees, old beautiful buildings and cozy restaurants and cafes!

HOW DO YOU COMBINE RUNNING & LIFE ON THE ROAD?

It was during my travels with my van that I fell even deeper in love with running, it's just the best way to explore new places! And even more fun to sign up for races in different countries! 

And really because it was the easiest way for me to exercise while living in my van.

Today my favorite run is a slow longer run without music. Just me and my body hanging out to feel good! After I often enjoy a beer in the sun in a new place and soak up the sun. Just as in life, it’s all about balance!

“I WANT TO USE MY RUNNING TO COMBINE TRAVELS SO I’M READY TO GO ANYWHERE AND RUN ALONGSIDE OTHERS WHO SHARES THE LOVE FOR RUNNING”

WHAT'S NEXT, GOT ANY RACES LINED UP?

I was suppose to be in Stockholm running the marathon, but due to long term covid I had be on the side - cheering on my friends! I just found a marathon in Palma de Mallorca in October... We’ll see! I want to use my running to combine travels so I’m ready to go anywhere and run along side others who shares the love for running.

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