“The word should can put us into tricky places. Because who’s to say what we should or should not do? A lot of things in life are a lot more nuanced than should or should not, yes or no, black or white.”   Welcome to Ask Ali, a twice-a-month series where I answer all of your questions. This time around, we’ve got listener questions about racing, nutrition, New York City must-dos, running plateaus, Orangetheory memories, and so much more. Plus: a surprise appearance by Brian Cristiano! Thanks to everyone who called in for this one. Enjoy! If you want to be part of a future “Ask Ali” episode (yay!), call 917-947-9699 — introduce yourself, and ask whatever’s on your mind! I can’t wait to hear from you!   SPONSOR: goodr. Click here and use code ONTHERUN15 for 15% off your entire goodr order!   You asked: If I could only race one distance for the rest of my life, which would it be? (3:00) Do you have any tips for nutrition during high mileage weeks? (5:18) What are your top must-dos and must-sees for a first trip to New York City? (10:15) Advice for hitting a running plateau after coming back from injury (15:45) What are my favorite protein bars? (23:15) What is my favorite thing about being a wife? (27:05) Ali sprints to the finish! (33:15) How to ease back into racing when you want to sign up for all the races! (41:20) Which Orangetheory benchmark days were my favorite? (46:30)   What I mention on this episode: Ali on the Run Show Episode 123: Ali & the Experts Week with Kelly Hogan, Registered Dietitian Ali on the Run Show Episode 39: Registered Dietitian Kelly Hogan Ali on the Run Show Episode 216: LIVE on International Women’s Day Ali on the Run Show Episode 257: Nutrition Q&A with Starla Garcia, Registered Dietitian Ali on the Run Show Episode 200: Starla Garcia, Olympic Trials Qualifier Ali on the Run Show Episode 327: Katie Burke on “Taking Care of You” Lilia Levain Bakery Picky Bars UCAN Chocolate Almond Butter bars   Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava   Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play   SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!