Stride Nation: FanPosts

Small Victories

2013-05-12T04:23:17Z

It's one of the nicest days of the year, with temperatures in the low 70s with little humidity and a weak breeze.

The field is abuzz. For some of the elite, this meet isn't important. Some don't even have to run for time, only place. But for runners like you, it's a chance to prove yourself. It's a chance to show your coaches that there really is some hope for you.

Your season has been full of disappointments. Month after month without a PR. You missed some time because of sickness, but you still become increasingly frustrated with each passing race. This was supposed to be the year you broke out.

Anticipation builds throughout the day. The two mile is one of the last events. The only thing you can do is watch in awe as some of the area's best runners put up times in the 800 and 1600 that you can only dream of at this point. You see runners that you expected to be neck-and-neck with beating your PRs by 20 seconds. Doubt starts to build.

Finally, it's time to start warming up. You're by yourself, just thinking. You think: how am I going to run this? Your PR on the season is an embarrassing 11:35, but you're still not sure you can even beat that. Your seed time is 11:30.

Soon, you get seeded. Eighth. Beat two people and you medal. Simple as that.

The gun goes off and you get out to a solid pace, but the rest of the field goes out even quicker. They are off to a ridiculous pace. Here, however, is not the place to stay with the pack. You've made mistakes like this before and it has cost you dearly. This is your race to run. Gradually, the pack slips in front of you. Even still, you're running better than you expected. Each lap goes by. 1:20. 2:40. 4:00. 5:20. Halfway to a 10:40. That's a little fast, so you slow down by necessity. The lactic acid is building in your legs and with each lap, your range of movement is worsening. But you are so close. If there is one thing you have learned it's never let up.

With one lap to go, it hurts like crazy, but after seven laps, there is certainly no giving up now. No one is around you. A pack is well in front and another is well behind. Nobody will catch you, and you won't catch anyone.

Pushing it through the last turn , you want to die, but you are also relieved. You are coming up on a huge PR. You cross the line and a teammate is right there to congratulate you. 11:01.

No medal. No recognition. But that's not what matters. It isn't about the win. It's about the journey, and what you learn along the way.

Soon, you get seeded. Eighth. Beat two people and you medal. Simple as that.

Pushing it through the last turn , you want to die, but you are also relieved. You are coming up on a huge PR. You cross the line and a teammate is right there to congratulate you. 11:01.

No medal. No recognition. But that's not what matters. It isn't about the win. It's about the journey, and what you learn along the way.

RESOLVE release date is 3/15!

2013-03-10T01:52:01Z

The critically acclaimed novel RESOLVE, which was originally reviewed on Stride Nation is available on 3/15 through Amazon, Barnes and Noble and other outlets. Thanks to Denny Mayo and the Stride Nation crew for helping launch the novel that Publishers Weekly calls, "Impressive and artfully constructed." Visit www.hensley-books.com and facebook.com/hensleybooks for info and updates.

RESOLVE provides a remarkably realistic and honest view into the mind of a long-distance runner. Hensley weaves his experiences as both a runner and a law enforcement officer into a good old-fashioned murder mystery. The result is a well-paced and absorbing book.

Denny Mayo -- StrideNation.com

My week with the new balance 993

2013-03-06T19:32:38Z

As a casual baseball player, I need an activity to keep me in shape during the times when my league isn't playing. Running is one of the activities I turn to when I want to maintain my cardiovascular conditioning. I recently purchased a new pair of running shoes, the New Balance 993, to replace an old pair that was falling apart more than I'd care to admit. I put my new shoes to the test over the last week with several types of workouts and want to pass along my thoughts about how they performed.

Jogging on paved paths: This is my first pair of New Balance shoes and I was most curious to learn about the ABZORB® technology in the sole. The material is designed to absorb the shock of each step and disperse the impact so I don't feel it as much in my joints. I was pleased overall with how the shoes performed; I didn't have any heel, knee or hip pain after my runs. I also appreciated the light weight of the shoes. I've found other shoes that contain cushioning materials were heavier and made running more difficult.

Trail run: When I had a little bit more time for my workout during the weekend, I drove to a local park with a nature trail. I much prefer running outdoors to being on the treadmill at the gym, but because of an ankle injury last year, I need to be careful when I'm trail running. I wanted to see how my new shoes performed and I was pleasantly surprised. The shoes have a lot of stability and I didn't feel like I was at risk for rolling my ankle. Still, I prefer them for pavement, as that's where I found they performed the best.

Interval workouts: One of the types of cardio I love most is interval training, which is most practical for baseball because I am always running in spurts with periods of recovery in between. Most of my workouts during the week included interval training during the middle, and I feel like these shoes were great for it. Their light weight helped me feel like I could run at my top speed during the fast times and didn't feel like they were weighing me down during the slower recovery times. I also found they were comfortable when I walked on the treadmill and didn't slip or slide on my foot even when walking at an incline.

Overall, I was very pleased with how my New Balance 993 shoes performed over the last week. I can't speak to their durability over time just yet, but have heard good things from friends who've owned the brand for years. The sole has several layers of materials, so I'm confident they'll stay together through my different workouts. My only concerns are how warm they'll be during the summer and finding them in a snappier color than plain gray. Overall, though, I'm happy with these shoes and am looking forward to training in them over the coming months.

How I rev up for spring training

2013-02-18T18:32:17Z

rAfter the holidays, especially if it’s your off-season, it can be hard to start working out again. But it’s time to get ready for spring training. Keeping up with cardiovascular training can give you the extra edge when it’s time to go back on the court with your team. The following tips may help you get motivated.

Make the most of indoor environments

Cold weather may keep you inside, but don’t let it keep you from working out. Find a gym close to your home or work so you can start working on your cardio. Many gyms have multiple basketball courts, so grab a few teammates and play some 3-on-3. Don’t forget to practice some drills so you aren’t behind when practices start again in the spring. If you’re solo at the gym, jump on a treadmill and run a few miles to get moving. You can also get great exercise by running up stairs. If you work in a multi-story building, you can squeeze in a challenging cardio workout on your lunch break. If this doesn’t sound like your kind of exercise, try to work a 20-minute walk into your day. The important thing is to get up and move around to raise your heart rate.

An affordable alternative

If your monthly budget doesn’t allow for a gym memberships — or you’d simply prefer not to work out with strangers—there’s plenty you can do at home to get back in shape. If you’ve got an open space with a high ceiling, do jumping jacks or jump rope to get your heart rate up. Other high-intensity exercises, like burpees, mountain climbers or step aerobics are great choices if you need a rigorous workout but don’t have a lot of spare time. You can combine any of these exercises with bodyweight squats, pushups and lunges to create a fast-paced cardio circuit. Whatever gets you moving, even if it's only 10 minutes a day to start, is better than nothing.

Get outside

When that one 40- or 50- degree day comes around in the middle of February, take advantage of it! Get outside and get moving. Take a run around a trail at a local park or find an outdoor court to practice your free throws and do some drills. If you need a real challenge, find a hill and do hill sprints. This great incline workout can prepare you for spring training even better than any machine. Think of the outdoors as one enormous free gym—after all, mankind managed to be in shape for thousands of years before the first treadmill ever appeared.

Get new gear

To motivate yourself for the spring, buy new workout wear or running shoes. You may even need some new shoes and not realize it. Try on a new pair of the same type of shoe you currently wear and you’ll be able to feel whether or not you need them. With a new pair of kicks, you’ll be itching to get back in the gym and break them in.

Grab a buddy

If you are having trouble getting motivated, find a partner to keep you accountable. The two of you can work out at the same time for a little competition or meet and talk about how your training is going. Having someone to report to makes all the difference in the world and can be that motivation you need to get back in the gym.

Staying in shape after the holidays isn't easy. It’s much more tempting to stay on the couch. However, being creative with your workouts and trying new exercises might be all it takes to you get in gear and ready for some serious spring training.

Make the most of indoor environments

An affordable alternative

Get outside

Get new gear

Grab a buddy

My week with my new Asics

2013-02-11T13:30:53Z

Each time I try out a new pair of running shoes, I feel a mixture of childlike excitement when I bring them home. My week with Asics GT 2170 was no different. Even though I'm excited to show off my new shoes, I try to be as objective as possible when assessing the shoes, making sure I don’t carry any baggage from former running shoes, good or bad.

I typically run 40-45 miles per week, with most miles on the road versus the treadmill, and need I light stability and cushioning. The Asics GT 2170’s previous iterations have provided those criteria and I was hopeful that this latest version would offer the same quality and comfort. I tried these out in a few different conditions, including the road, during a light rain and on the treadmill. They held up fine under each condition without becoming uncomfortable in the rain.

At a glance

Aesthetically, the 2170 shares the same appearance as its previous versions. I chose the white-and-yellow design but also considered the charcoal-and-lime shoe. Even though I enjoy wearing attractive footwear, I'm more focused on comfort, quality and performance than whether they match anything else I’m wearing.

One easy detail to note, as is usually the case with Asics, is that the shoes offer high-caliber cushioning to absorb the pounding I take on the road during each run. Distance runners like me can use the extra padding, given the number of miles we put on the books each week.

Asics has pulled out on the stops on cushioning with the 2170. Between the use of various and liberal uses of gel and foam, running has never felt gentler on my feet, knees and hips. While I haven’t had issues in those areas in the past, this shoe gives me a whole new dimension of comfort. The heel is all at once plush, strong and supportive. I never felt unsteady or as if I may lose my footing because of the cushioning.

The forefoot is no exception. As a someone who has issues with metatarsalgia, the extra cushioning is a welcome relief and saves me from having to add as much additional foot padding to aid the balls of my feet. Again, the comfort doesn’t undermine the stability. Runners everywhere will agree that a pain-free jog is a huge bonus when hitting the trail.

Stable on the road

Another cornerstone of this shoe line is the stability it features with each new release and the 2170 is no different. For anyone who needs some support, keep that in its cache of characteristics. With the ever-improving cushioning and solid footing this shoe offers, it's ideal for runners with a variety of challenges such as excess weight and underpronation.

The Asics GT 2170 offers great comfort and is best suited for easy recovery running days rather than speed sessions. The classic look works well with the variety of running gear I own (something my dear spouse teases me about endlessly) and also works well if I want to wear them on the way to the gym. I'm running in a 10K later this month and plan to try them out. They've performed well during my daily training runs and I'm excited to see how they feel when I'm running the race course and naturally running a little faster. (I might be a little competitive.) Overall, I've been really happy with they way they perform, whether I'm on the treadmill or running through my neighborhood. I plan to keep them in rotation and look forward to trying some other color choices... and not just because it means having to buy some more running shorts.

At a glance

Stable on the road

4 Valentine's Day Gifts That Will Steal Your Runner's Heart

2013-02-04T14:08:06Z

On the most romantic holiday of the year, the best way to show your special someone you really care is by getting him or her a gift that's customized to their unique personality. If your Valentine's Day date is an avid runner, you can choose from tons of great gift ideas and get them that special something you know they'll absolutely love. With winter weather considerations in mind, here are the top four gifts to give to your running enthusiast.

1. New running shoes

Avid runners go through shoes quickly. A new pair is almost always needed either to replace an old one or to have a variety to choose from for different tracks and terrains. Saucony running shoes are always a high-quality choice for a secure fit, maximum comfort and an advanced design aimed at fostering better performance. A variety of styles gives you the opportunity to choose your lover's favorite colors for a completely personalized look.

2. Marathon registry

Not all gifts have to be tangible. In fact, a recent study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology reported individuals who purchase experiences as opposed to material items tend to be happier. With the high price of marathons, paying your loved one's way to one of these endurance-testing events will give them the opportunity to show off their dedication to the sport. Marathons are fun events that bring runners of all different skill levels together for a challenging, entertaining and exciting experience.

3. Inspirational books

If your significant other is having a hard time finding the motivation to keep up with the difficulty of running regularly, perhaps they just need a little inspiration from some of the pros who have endured similar struggles. Some highly recommended titles include Born to Run by Christopher McDougall, Run to Overcome by Meb Keflezighi, The Long Run by Matt Long and Duel in the Sun by John Brant. Look for storylines you think your significant other can most identify with for a more personalized selection.

4. Winter running gear

Just because the weather is a bit chillier doesn't mean your partner has to give up their favorite hobby. Winter running gear is an excellent gift for staying warm and comfortable while running during this cold season. A moisture-wicking merino wool baselayer is perfect for retaining heat and staying dry without adding bulk to a runner's outfit, while a lined wind and water-resistant shell coat is ideal for keeping the elements at bay during all outdoor activities.

Flowers and chocolate can be a nice, classic Valentine's Day gift, but choosing a special gift based on your sweetheart's unique interests is one way you can take your present a step above the obvious choices. These four gifts are sure to be a hit with running enthusiasts, while adding your own personal touch to this holiday. For an extra special treat, why not support your partner by joining them on a few runs yourself?

1. New running shoes

2. Marathon registry

3. Inspirational books

4. Winter running gear

Running for a woman's cause

2013-01-28T15:37:36Z

Women all across the world are finding unique ways to support the causes that have a special meaning in their lives. Causes that are specific to women, such as breast cancer awareness and domestic violence awareness, are receiving more and more notoriety. A popular way to show support for such a cause is to participate in races like the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. Even if you cannot be an active participant in one of these races, you may well know someone who is walking or running on their own, with friends or as part of a corporate team. There are many things you can do to support someone who is strapping on their running shoes for a noble cause.

1. Help fundraise for the cause

One of the best ways to show your support is to actively fundraise for a particular cause. Getting out in the community and devoting your time to raising both funds and awareness for the cause allows you to show your support even if you're not walking or running during the event. Charities and nonprofit organizations rely upon the funds that people just like you help raise, whether they're meeting a one-time or annual goal. This money helps pay for research, support, advertising and operational expenses. Fundraising for a friend or loved one’s cause of choice is a terrific way to show you care about their philanthropic and charitable efforts and help your community all at once. Increased awareness about a cause can have a positive impact on your health or that of a loved one as well.

2. Give her new running shoes

Participants in races that raise health awareness are not always avid runners, which means they are unlikely to own a pair of high-quality women's running shoes. Therefore, a thoughtful way to show your support for a friend or family member who is racing could simply be buying her a new pair of shoes. You may even be able to customize these shoes to the cause she is supporting. For example, someone who is running in a breast cancer awareness race like the Komen Race for the Cure might like pink running gear for the race. Buying a pair of running shoes for your friend is a great way to cheer her on. Just be sure to give her the gift about a month in advance of the race so she has time to break the shoes in before the big day.

3. Help prepare for the race

An excellent way to support your friend who is running is to help them prepare for the race. Even participants who are active runners can use help training for an event, especially if the distance is further than they normally run. Becoming a running partner for your friend or loved one that is racing is a terrific way to show that you truly care about both the cause and the person. If you are unable to run, consider being a walking buddy or participating in another toning and strengthening workout, such as lifting weights, a kettleball routine or a yoga class.

Many of today’s women find unique ways to support causes that are important to them every day. Races are an increasingly popular way for women to show their support for a cause in a more hands-on way than a simple donation. These aforementioned ideas are just a few suggestions of several potential ways to show support for a friend and her chosen cause. A little thought and creativity are sure to spark other meaningful ideas, whether you design a t-shirt for her to wear on race day or gift her with a pedicure or massage after she crosses the finish line.

1. Help fundraise for the cause

Training for my first triathlon

2013-01-21T15:01:51Z

(Ed. note - promoted from FanPosts)

The holidays are delightful and delicious. Family and friends present us with trinkets of their affection and delicious treats can be readily found in the kitchen as Thanksgiving turns into Christmas and Christmas to the new year. After the holiday season, the goodies are out of sight, but not out of mind. Every year, my burgeoning waistline keeps those culinary indulgences in the forefront of my mind as I waddle through January. This year is going to be different. After weeks of exercising my right elbow as I faithfully shoveled in the artfully disguised mounds of pure cane sugar, I have decided to exercise the rest of me.

Before 2013 comes to a close, I will race in a triathlon.

I am not a seasoned runner. After doing some online research, I made a plan to get started. Training for a triathlon, like any behavior modification program, is focused on achieving small goals on the way to the ultimate prize. Beginners should consider a slow steady approach, or perhaps training first for a mini-triathlon. Triathlon enthusiasts know the three-part endurance test involves biking, swimming and running. A plan is necessary to reach your goals; keeping a daily food and exercise journal can keep you on track.

Before you begin your workout program, be sure to visit your doctor and make sure your physical health is up to the challenge. I hadn't exercised in the several months -- unless the repetitive motion of brushing cookie crumbs off my sweatshirt counts -- and knew my exercise schedule would involve alternating days of biking, swimming and running most days of the week. Thankfully, my doctor was quick to point out that rest days are as important as workout days. Work and recover. Work and recover. This is your new mantra.

The next priority is getting the proper clothing and gear for training and performance. Never used old shoes or improperly tuned bicycles during training or you risk the chance of injury. Comfortable outfits and shoes can help keep you motivated to train, just as reading about other race winners’ triumphs and pitfalls can help push you towards success. Join a training club or find an accountability partner to keep you going when you just don’t feel like hitting the pool or going to the gym.

When you are training for a triathlon, nutrition and sleep will either work for you or against you. You will probably notice that you get hungry more often during training. That is normal and you should eat when you get hungry. Eating the proper balance of proteins and slow-digesting carbs mixed with fresh fruits and veggies is the best offense. Yes, I'm sad to say that means you'll have to ditch the daily samplings of fudge and peanut butter cookies. Luckily, a training diet does not have to be complicated. As a general rule, plan on three square meals a day that are equal parts protein, carbs and fresh fruits and vegetables. If you are training really hard, consider adding extra calories with protein bars or energy drinks with a sound nutritional balance before or after workouts.

A full night’s sleep is essential for your body to recover. If you are serious about getting in shape and racing in a tri, you might have to give up those late nights at the movies or nights out on the town. More sleep will provide added benefits on your journey to the finish line.

I love a night out dancing with my friends as much as the next partygoer, but I love even more accomplishing a goal that I've set my mind to. Training hasn't always been easy, but I'm not giving up. Eating right, drinking enough water, indulging in sweets every once in a while and having my best friend keep me accountable is certainly helping. See you at the finish line!

(Ed. note - promoted from FanPosts)

Before 2013 comes to a close, I will race in a triathlon.

My take on the New Balance 993

2013-01-02T14:54:32Z

Anyone with wide feet can tell you that finding comfortable shoes can be extremely difficult. Maybe you once bought shoes for a sport that you had to cut with a razor blade so your toes wouldn't be cramped. Perhaps you've eyed a pair of empty shoeboxes and wondered how you could make them into wearable footwear. Things only get more difficult when you're looking for running shoes.

Of all the places you want reliable, comfortable shoes, it's on the treadmill or city street where you make your escape from life's frustrations. Good news: the New Balance brand has long been considered to make one of the best running shoes on the market, as they remain durable and comfortable for avid runners and joggers for an extended period of time. Much of this is due to the focus on the arch support design, allowing more comfort and near-perfect balance. The New Balance 993 follows in this tradition, with focuses on durability and a lightweight feel.

The cushioning in New Balance 993 running shoes truly make them stand apart from all other footwear. The exclusive Absorbz cushioning technology runs from heel to toe, minimizing impact, protecting runners' knees and ankles and making runs on asphalt more comfortable. The technology also keeps the shoes from wearing out as quickly, especially for those who are doing 10 to 20 miles per week on average. The soles are also a tad wider than most running shoes, allowing the diminished chance of an ankle-twisting misstep, which will both cause an injury and derail a strict running regimen. Wider soles help allow those with wider feet to truly experience comfort while running, as many may have never worn a running shoe that didn’t squeeze their feet each time they put them on.

Despite thicker padded soles, New Balance 993 running shoes weigh in at 12.9 ounces and features uppers around the top of the foot that are made from mesh and pigskin, keeping them light and airy in hot conditions. No longer will a run in the dead heat of summer be uncomfortable and something to be avoided. The materials are also meant to be incredibly flexible, allowing more durability over a longer period of time and more mileage, as well as being able to adjust to all sizes and types of feet.

The fact that New Balance 993s are made in the United States are an added benefit to customers who are conscious of buying American-made products. New Balance has been an American company since 1906 and has yet to outsource its labor, unlike many other large, brand-name shoe companies. Not only are you purchasing one of the most comfortable running shoes on the market, you’re also benefitting the economy as a whole.

If you are an avid runner, have wider-than-average feet and have trouble finding a shoe that doesn't cause you discomfort, New Balance 993 running shoes are ideal for you. They will be so comfortable that running might actually become something you want to do rather than something you have to do.

Run With It: 5 Essential Apps for Runners

2012-12-04T15:42:50Z

There's no sugar-coating required: Technology has revolutionized running. First it was the advent of global positioning system technology, allowing runners to take to unmarked trails and blaze their own running paths while keeping constant tabs on their distance, time, average speed and even altitude changes.

And now, thanks to smartphones, apps are providing a wealth of additional help to runners and once again inspiring a tech revolution among fans of this popular pastime. By incorporating these apps into your training, you can become a more efficient runner and enjoy a better readout on what you accomplish with each and every run. They can also help you track the miles you've logged in your current pair of running shoes and let you know when it's time to spring for some new ones.

Here are five apps you shouldn't resist any longer.

1. miCoach

Having trouble motivating yourself? Take this app for a test drive. miCoach is an app that literally brings the voice of a coach into your ear, providing verbal commands dictated by the workout plan you've selected. Ultimately, miCoach is designed to push you to achieve hard-to-reach goals. Plus, it offers the rare feature of tracking your elevation change, which isn't common among other running apps. Another attractive quality: it costs nothing.

2. Runkeeper

Runkeeper is one of the more popular running apps, mainly because it provides a range of services including calorie counting, speed monitoring, activity history and other, more common features. Not only does it work for running, but you can bring it with you on just about any sporting excursion.

But the best benefit kicks in after the workout, when the app sends your data to your Runkeeper.com account. From there, you can publish your workout data to various social media accounts.

3. iMapMyRun

Designed with social media in mind, this app is one of the most popular options out there, claiming more than 2.4 million users. As the name suggests, map creation is the foundational feature of this free app. But there's also a premium version that provides various training programs, including short-term marathon training, for just $5.99 a month.

4. Couch to 5K

Eager to get off the couch and into racing form? There's an app for that. Couch to 5K is specifically designed to get new runners into the game, leading newbies through a variety of workouts on their way to successfully running a full 5K all at once. The app isn't as valuable to seasoned runners, but its focus is on taking sedentary individuals and providing them with a boost to jump-start their personal fitness.

With your apps guiding the way, you should find yourself better able to track your mileage, speed progress and even the number of calories burned in each workout. It may feel like you're cheating on the Spartan aspects of running, but in the end your use of this technology will only help you mold yourself into a better runner. And with many of these apps available at a low cost—and, in some cases, free—you have little to lose by experimenting to see which apps fulfill your most pressing needs.

Here are five apps you shouldn't resist any longer.

1. miCoach

2. Runkeeper

But the best benefit kicks in after the workout, when the app sends your data to your Runkeeper.com account. From there, you can publish your workout data to various social media accounts.

3. iMapMyRun

4. Couch to 5K

The Craziest Running Shoes in the Known World

2012-11-19T14:32:01Z

The shoes don’t make the runner, we know. But running shoes are still one of the most essential aspects to a serious runner’s day-to-day routine. We keep them clean like they’re a 1950s Corvette. We try to preserve the new-shoe smell as long as possible. And, I’ll admit it, that new-shoe smell and the spotless shine of the neon literally makes me feel like I’m a better, faster and stronger runner.

We take our running shoes seriously, and we’re always looking for the next design that that will be lighter still, that will improve the plyometric activities we enjoy, that will feel more and more marshmallow-y and supportive to our feet. But the truth is, we’ve seen some weird variations along the way. Here’s a list of some of the craziest running shoes produced by the known world.

1.) Vibram’s Five Fingers: Bikilia

I figure we ought to start with something modern; a weird running shoe you might have seen on the trails recently. These toe-fitting shoes came into the market in 1999 and are gaining popularity among runners and outdoor enthusiasts who want a full-foot experience. These fall under the category of “minimalist” shoes, the design of which is to enable a more natural running and walking experience. Be cautioned: Your feet will need time to adjust to the lack of cushioning and experts warn of running too much during the acclimation period.

2.) Invisible Shoe: Huarache Running Sandal

Going right along with minimalist-styled running shoes, the Huarache running sandal is based on the Tarahumaran design from Mexico. The Tarahumaras are known for their athletic prowess and their ability to run for days without resting. So, of course modern-world runners wanted to try out their shoes! The original leather design now replaced by rubber, these sandals are durable, light and designed to acclimate runners to a more natural leg and foot movement.

3.) ATI: Jump Training Plyometric Shoes

While not necessarily running shoes, the ATI Jump Trainers were just weird enough that they couldn’t be left off our list. And they are weird! Designed to build “mass and definition, while increasing quantity of fast twitch muscle fibers,” the makers of these shoes claim that using them will increase an athlete’s vertical jump.

4.) Reebok: Zigtech

Reebok says the inspiration for this shoe’s design came from a Slinky. The zigzag, “wiggly” sole moves energy from the heel to the toes, creating a more fluid running movement and protecting runners from injury. It’s shoes like these that go to show that shoe design is still improving—athletic engineers and designers are still experimenting—though the results sometimes have strange appearances.

Looking back on the evolution of shoes—from Huaraches to Converse All Stars to Reebok’s Zigtech—it’s interesting to observe how far we’ve come. The styles change, but one thing remains important: We’re still running.

1.) Vibram’s Five Fingers: Bikilia

2.) Invisible Shoe: Huarache Running Sandal

3.) ATI: Jump Training Plyometric Shoes

4.) Reebok: Zigtech

Tuscaloosa Half Marathon March 2, 2013

2012-11-16T20:55:50Z

The mission of the Tuscaloosa Half Marathon is to encourage healthy habits and exercise, while also aiding in recovery efforts from the April 27, 2011 tornado that ripped through Tuscaloosa County, Alabama.

Benefiting organizations for the Inaugural Tuscaloosa Half Marathon and Fun Run are ReadBAMARead (readbamaread.org) and the Kiwanis Club of Greater Tuscaloosa (playgroundsforttown.com). 100% of event proceeds will go toward rebuilding efforts for the playgrounds and school libraries that were affected throughout the county on April 27, 2011.

Tuscaloosa Half Marathon Link

Weekly Training Rundown: Nov 5-11

2012-11-13T18:50:44Z

I didn't see a weekly run down and figured Denny has his head somewhere else right now, so I'd take up the mantle for him this once.

I'm struggling to find the time to get runs in. Some of it is weather, some of it is the dark mornings, and some of it is football. Not a great week of running for me, but I did get a significant long run in, so I'm pleased with that.

Monday: 6 miles at 9:19

Saturday: 13 miles at 9:46

Sunday: 3 miles at Botanical Gardens

Not a lot, but more than lately thanks to the 13er.

Feel free to post your week here... and good luck to Denny!

I didn't see a weekly run down and figured Denny has his head somewhere else right now, so I'd take up the mantle for him this once.

Monday: 6 miles at 9:19

Saturday: 13 miles at 9:46

Sunday: 3 miles at Botanical Gardens

Not a lot, but more than lately thanks to the 13er.

Feel free to post your week here... and good luck to Denny!

Physically and mentally training in the off-season

2012-11-07T19:58:24Z

Ed.: bumped to the front page (though I love running in winter because it's the best, duh). – DM

It happens to the best of us. When the temperatures drop and the sun goes down earlier in the day, it gets harder and harder to unwrap yourself from your blanket cocoon and brave the cold to get in a daily workout. It’s so much easier in the warmer months. The sun is shining, the birds are singing and the air doesn’t shock your system. You just feel healthier, before you even do anything! Working out feels good, you feel good.

Then the winter creeps up you and it’s a huge setback. Suddenly working out just became…work all over again. Fortunately, there are more than a few comfortable ways you can stay in shape in the cold months.

Go Inside!

There are many challenging physical activities you can do inside your own home. This could be a great opportunity to try out a workout DVD or program you have been meaning to give a shot. And, hey, that Nintendo Wii isn’t just for killing zombies. Wii Fit is designed to create a tailored workout plan just for you in your own living room.

If you’re looking for something to do with your family, it couldn’t hurt to challenge each other in a Wii Sports, Xbox Kinect or Dance Dance Revolution tournament. Can’t guarantee who will win, but you’re guaranteed to get moving and that’s what it’s all about!

Join (or Create) a Group!

Have you heard of Zumba? Of course you have. We’ve all heard of Zumba. You know why Zumba is so popular? Because you do it in a big group of people who look just as silly as you do. Fact: Group exercise helps everyone do better.

If you already have a gym membership, the next time you visit, check their rosters for a running group. Most people find that having a dedicated time to run with others keeps them motivated. There’s usually a sense of camaraderie that develops among these groups that encourages each person to show up and show off. Since most gyms have an indoor track, it shouldn’t be hard to find a group that’s as repelled by the cold as you are.

Soon, you could be running marathons together! Well, when it warms up, anyway.

Get Back Outside!

I know, I know. It’s cold out there and you have little, if any, interest in getting frostbite. The good news is, I’m not asking you to risk frostbite. The bad news is, I’m going to ask you to put up with a little more cold than you're comfortable with. The better news is, it won’t be as bad as you’re thinking it will be.

The bottom line is that running is some of the best calorie burning, heart rate increasing, muscle-building exercise you can get. It also happens to get your body temperature up 20 degrees when you’re at your peak. The reluctance to run in the cold is understandable, but if you can push through those first few uncomfortable moments, you can actually end up warmer than you were sitting on the couch. Keep your body safe by wearing the appropriate gear to protect yourself from severe weather, but get out there and challenge your body.

Ed.: bumped to the front page (though I love running in winter because it's the best, duh). – DM

Go Inside!

Join (or Create) a Group!

Soon, you could be running marathons together! Well, when it warms up, anyway.

Get Back Outside!

Coming Back To Running

2012-10-19T01:07:05Z

Ed. note: Bumped -- Ryan H.

After nearly three years off from running I'm coming back to the sport I've loved. I ran in high school and for a D3 college. After school I even competed for a sponsored team in Louisville. I've ran low 15's for a 5k and broken three hours in the marathon.

After getting married six years ago my running has steadily decreased. I cut down on my runs to try and spend more time with my non-active wife. We had our daughter two and a half years ago and that made it even harder to run. To help me express my creative side I've turned to blogging on and run a SB Nation site. It's something I could do at home and not be away from my family.

The day before our six year anniversary my wife decided that she didn't want things to continue and we are now separated. I've done some soul searching and realized how much I miss running and what it meant to me. Having consecutive running streaks and exploring trails is something that was a big part of my life.

I've been running for the last two weeks and things are not going well. I only gained a few pounds over the last couple years. I'm still a healthy 5'10 an 140lbs. I'm struggling to make it to 25 minutes on my runs. I've had to stop numerous times during most runs. I know it wasn't going to be easy coming back but I didn't expect it to be this hard. I figured my endurance would improve some and I could at least get above 30 minutes now. I have new shoes and I'm running on mostly dirt and gravel trails. I ran four times last week and will equal or exceed that number this week.

Anyone with experience in coming back from a big layoff? Would love to hear your advice. Also if anyone has any advice on dealing with a separation I would appreciate that advice as well. Running is going to be my stress relief over the next few months that will be very rough. I want to make things work but she is resistant to trying to fix things.

Thanks for reading and your advice/suggestions.

Ed. note: Bumped -- Ryan H.

Thanks for reading and your advice/suggestions.