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KARISSA SCHWEIZER

Introducing Karissa Schweizer, Kodiak Cakes first official #KodiakAthlete. As a professional runner who is sponsored by Nike, an Olympic hopeful, and a current American-record holder Karissa couldn’t be a better match for Kodiak Cakes. In February of this year, Karissa smashed the American 3000-meter record by almost 8 seconds, and when she’s not breaking records you can find her baking in the kitchen, hanging with friends and teammates, or consulting her mentor, her Grandpa.

We had the chance to sit down with Karissa and discuss not only her impressive career but her diet, daily habits, and some other fun facts.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN YOUR RUNNING CAREER?

My biggest accomplishments so far have been winning my first national title and setting the 3000-meter American record.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO RUNNING?

I started running in middle school. My grandpa and both of my parents ran, so it was definitely in the family. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to be a runner or not, so I tried my hand at several other sports and eventually circled back to running. In the beginning I wasn’t sure if I was going to run in college, but by the end of my freshman year of high school I won state and after that my mindset changed. Running in college became a huge goal and motivating factor for me to work toward. Some college coaches would tell me, “You’re not going to make our varsity” or “You’re not going to be a good fit for our team,” but I just kept my head high and patiently waited for a coach that believed in me. I never imagined I would could run for Nike one day or have a shot at the Olympics — but that’s certainly the ultimate goal in our sport.

KARISSA SCHWEIZER

HOW DOES NUTRITION PLAY A ROLE IN YOUR TRAINING?

Nutrition is super important for my running and training. Typically, I like to eat carb-dense or protein-dense foods before runs for energy, and I like to always have carbs or high-protein snacks in my bag to eat right after my runs so I can start the recovery process quickly.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE KODIAK CAKES PRODUCT?

My favorite Kodiak Cakes product has to be the Buttermilk Power Cakes. I love mixing up a batch of them before races and runs because they sit well in my stomach. I also have recently fallen in love with the cookie mix. I have a pretty big sweet tooth and it makes me feel a little less guilty when I can snack on whole grain cookies.

KARISSA MAKING KODIAK CAKES
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