Today I’m introducing a new feature, the Shapin’ Up Fitness Spotlight. Each month I’ll highlight fellow bloggers and my fit friends. First up is Evann Clingan of EvannClingan.com, she’s balancing a job in digital advertising and runs a fitness blog. In the past year she’s gone from running 3 miles max to training for her first marathon. Following her blog and Instagram inspires me to get out and run and take on new challenges. Here’s a bit more about Evann:

Favorite Way to Stay Fit: I run four days per week and cross train two days a week. I like to the take different types of strength classes–bootcamp, TRX, barre.

Why I Workout: I grew up as a dancer but have since branched out. In high school both my dad and brother were diagnosed with cancer. After years of treatment, I’m grateful that today they’re both in remission. Part of the reason I work out is to celebrate what my body can do. Watching loved ones be treated for life-threatening illnesses will teach you not to take your health for granted.

Favorite Fitness Item: Current favorite is my Brooks Adrenaline GTS, they’re light, supportive and colorful. I also have a large collection of printed, neon crops; the bolder the better.

Biggest Fitness Accomplishment: In April I ran my first half marathon with Team in Training to support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Before registering, I had never run more than three miles. It was an amazing experience to run my first race for a cause that impacted my family.

Next Fitness Goal: I’ve been running for almost a year. After two half marathons I decided to train for my first full marathon. In January I’ll be running 26.2 miles through the four parks at Walt Disney World. I still can’t believe it’s happening.

My Advice to Readers: I strongly believe that fitness should be about how your body feels and what it can do, not what it looks like. I was one of those women in college who worked out to slim down. Now that i challenge myself by training for races, I’ve built so much more confidence by running farther, stronger and faster.

Get more inspiration from Evann and check out her blog at EvannClingan.com and follow her on Twitter, Instagram & Pinterest.

Are you a blogger who wants to be featured in the next Spotlight? Email me at ShapinUpFitness@gmail.com and let me know!