Posts

Which Terrain to Train? Best Surfaces to Run On

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Different terrains have different impacts and stresses to your body. The softer it is, the less shock is being sent up through your legs. But you don't want it too soft either.  Beyond the usual asphalt and concrete surface, try these terrains to help prevent injury and strengthen more areas in your feet and ankles. Grass Grass is an easy access as it is obviously everywhere so if you can find a place where you can do a workout or long run in the grass, take advantage of it. Although some places can be uneven, It is soft and easy on the legs. With this being the case, it is beneficial in making  your muscles work harder. There are also less turns and more space. It is best to run on when it is dry and not wet and muddy. Trails Trails are the best for going on long runs. Despite the possibility of naturistic hazards, they are usually even and go on for miles. In addition, they are also very scenic and can come with some nice views. It is soft...

Why You Should Get Yourself a Running Buddy

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Its nice to get in a decent run by yourself but when it comes to running with other people, it makes a huge difference. Whether it be one person or a whole group its just nice to have company while you are running. Having a running buddy could give you someone to talk to. You might think that talking is tiring and you won't be able to breath as well but its not as bad as it seems. If anything, they are a distraction from the pain you're in and take your mind off the fact that you are even running. In addition, its nice to catch up with people and just have a decent conversation with someone. In a group, you can play games or just talk to everyone which can be fun. Running with people can help push you. If you have someone who is in the same pace range as you, its nice to work with each other and keep up the pace. This can help you work harder without you even knowing. If they can do it, so can you. Of course, its safer too. Safety is important and you've all heard...

Racing Tips and Tricks

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When it comes to racing, it can be very nerve-racking because it's time to showcase everything you've been training for. Nerves are the biggest feelings to handle but they are also a good thing. But once you are finally racing, it's go time. This post is going to suggest helpful tips for how to be more successful before, during and after your races. Before: Hydration Hydration is a must. Of corse you need water to survive but having the proper amount can go a long way.  When you’re well hydrated, the water inside and outside the cells of contracting muscles provides adequate nutrients and removes waste efficiently so you perform better. Water is also important for lubricating joints and giving your blood a good volume. Nutrition Make sure to eat foods that are beneficial and healthy. Do not eat anything that you wouldn't usually eat and timing is also important too. Learn more about the Best Pre-Run Fuel . Slee p When you sleep, your body rep...

My New Running Team Experience

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As I was finishing up my last year at Harper Community College, my running was finally getting to where I wanted. I was achieving decent times in my races but still was struggling to beat some of my high school personal bests. But overall I was on the right track and got better in many other areas that I was not well at in high school. Having a great high school and college experience already, I knew that most of my memories and success came from running and the people involved in it. I just could not give that up. So, I knew I still wanted to keep competing and continue having amazing experiences. I was ready to take my running to another level.  That is when I decided I wanted to go to North Central College. They compete in NCAA DIII which I thought I could for sure keep up in. From the outside, I saw a well dedicated program with many successful runners. As the mens team has had many successes I assumed the woman's team had a decent program as well. ...

Best Pre-Run Fuel

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Looking for a way to perform at your best? Food and exercise are huge factors in what happens to your body. Feeding yourself certain beneficial foods can aid in your performance in many ways. Before going for a run, workout, or race you need energy to function.  One time I asked one of my coaches if I should eat before a morning run and he said, "You can't drive a car without gas." Ever since then I have always made an effort to have something in my stomach before running.  Properly fueling your running helps minimize fatigue and speed up recovery.  it's also important to not eat the wrong foods and the wrong amount. Another factor is how much physical activity you are going to be doing. Depending on your body, you may need to leave an hour or two before working out. These food items provide the natural boosts to help you get the best out of your activities. Toast There are many toppings that you can put on toast to make it into a nutritional snack. There are ...

How's track going?...Uh you mean cross country?

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This post is going to be targeted towards the people who are oblivious to the fact that if you attend school and compete as a runner, there are two separate sports for it. Many people don't even know that cross country exists which is different compared to track and field. Depending on if you are a distance runner or sprinter also determines whether you do cross country or not. Running typically takes place all year long as cross country training and competing takes place in the summer and fall and then track takes place in the winter and spring.  I have gotten this question asked many times in the time when its cross country season, and I have to correct them every time. Many people are unaware of cross country's existence because track and field is a much more popular and known sport as it is in the Olympics and contains a wide range of runners and athletes.  Unlike track where there are many different events (and you run on an actual track), cross country has one race...

Fast AND Fashionable

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The best part about feeling athletic is looking athletic. There are actually some pretty cool running outfits that are comfortable and fashionable so you can look and feel your best. Functionality and quality is important too because whatever activity you are doing you need your clothes to be able to endure repetitive and wide-ranged movement. This post is going to focus on the latest trends in running clothes and I put some articles of clothing that are common and serve looks. Click on the pictures to get to the websites to find where you can purchase these items. NIKE Nike knows what they are doing when it comes to looking cool and athletic. They are by far the best. GYM SHARK Gym Shark also has a very nice selection and is good at exemplifying body features. Some look unrealistic as all of their models are jacked but their products are still for all. ˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜ Songs of the Day...

Adopt the Running Lifestyle

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Are you looking to add running into your routine? Wondering if you could stick to it? I believe that everyone should get daily exercise and running is the simplest way to achieve that. One of the best things about running is that it requires very little skill and anyone can do it. All you nee d is a pair of running shoes and you're ready to go! According to Mayo Clinic on " How much should the average adult exercise everyday? ", Dr. Edward R. Laskowski said to get   at least  150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week, or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity. This can be spread out for each day, as b eing active for short periods of time throughout the day can add up to provide health benefit. The best thing about running is that you feel like you get the most out of the work you put in. There is more satisfaction and fatigue giving you the feeling like you truly accomplished something. It helps prove t...

Top 3 Shoe Brands for Running in 2019

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There are millions of choices when it come to picking a running shoe but there are many factors to consider when making a choice. These top brands hit the highest in quality, value, performance, and comfort. 1. Brooks Brooks running shoes are at the top for running shoe brands. Within market research, they receive the highest ratings across many domains. They produce running shoes for almost every type of foot and have  developed several key technologies that can be found in modern running shoes. Not only do they take your body into consideration but also the terrain, running form, and race you're training for. You can answer personalized questions on  Shoe Finder  to  get directed to the shoes that work best for you. Brooks running shoes cross off all the needs for perfect running shoes while paying a decent price for high quality.  Popular choice: Brooks Ghost Brooks Adrenaline Brooks Glycerin 2. Nike Nike takes the crown for...

Let's Get This Bread

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Do you ever lack motivation? Do you wish you were in shape? Wish you had some more endurance under your belt? Having a hard time reaching your goals? If you answered yes to any of these questions you are not alone. These are common problems for almost everyone. But what distinguishes people is who has the desire to change and tackle these problems. To start off, the hardest part of the day is getting out of bed. You're comfortable, it's warm, and you don't want to deal with the day. There's those dreading voices in your head telling you to just stay in and cancel on your responsibilities. Some of these days are harder than others but you eventually find the willpower to get up and get going. You remember your purpose and why you're doing what you're doing and sleeping in all day is not an option.  You have to go get that bread . But, how does one achieve the bread? I have learned these ways of life and perspectives from my coaches and personal exper...