Todays CEOs are facing innumerable challenges: a global pandemic and a sea change in how and where employees want to show up for work, just to name a few. For leaders, the pressure has never been higher. How do they mitigate it? In our new series, we ask executives about their day-to-day wellness habits to gain insight into the tactics they use to minimize stress and maintain their well-being.
Rob Simmelkjaer has been named CEO of New York Road Runners and will oversee all personnel and operations at the worlds premier community running organization. He will assume this role on Nov. 15, 2022. Simmelkjaer is a runner and two-time New York City Marathon finisher, a native New Yorker, an experienced sports business executive, and a government official with a record of leadership and performance across a range of sports and media organizations.
Coffee or tea? And what do you put in it?
Im all in on coffeethe hard stuff in the morning and decaf in the afternoonusually with oat milk. I only drink tea when I have a sore throat.
What is your go-to breakfast?
I fell in love with granola many years ago and never looked back. I like it with Greek yogurt, berries, and a drizzle of honey. When Im on my game I make muesli the night before and leave it in the fridgeits fantastic (and healthier).
Tell us about your workout routine.
This wont surprise you given my new job, but I love a good run before breakfast: Win the morningwin the day. As I get a bit older lifting weights is becoming more important to my fitness routine.
How many hours do you sleep on a typical night?
Six hours is my standard nights sleep, but I aspire to seven. Ive had periods of struggling to stay asleep to get even six, but natural melatonin supplements before bedtime have really helped.
How do you de-stress?
Again, not a surprise answer, but running is the best de-stressor Ive ever found. The runners high is a real thing. Yoga is also amazing and the perfect companion to running. I love Kristin McGees classes on Peloton.
According to your phone, whats your daily average screen time from last week?
Eight hours, 47 minutes, which is quite shocking to see! But that includes audiobooks on the train, music while working out, and times that my 8-year-old hijacked the phone, so I dont feel too bad.
What app do you use the most?
I love audio content (AirPods are the greatest thing ever), so Im regularly on Apple Music, Audible for books, and TuneIn for shows and podcasts.
Whens the last time you took a day off? I have a few weeks before officially starting at New York Road Runners [NYRR] so Im taking some time off now! Im spending extra time with my two daughters and two dogsWhoodlesand getting in some reading.
Whats one thing your company is doing to prioritize employee wellness?
NYRR offers a comprehensive employee wellness program to increase overall health and well-being among its staff. It encompasses yoga and Zumba classes, mental health resources, discounts on gyms and sports clubs, and commuter bicycle discounts, among other benefits.
Whats your favorite treat?
Running is how I get permission from myself to eat cake. Preferably chocolate.
Show us a photo of your happy place.
Courtesy of Rob Simmelkjaer
