Runners Lounge

Extra, Extra - Run All About It!

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported in the Omaha World-Journal on July 19th, Artist Jamie Burmeister, probably best known for his to Omaha exhibits - 'Bucket', a swiveling, stainless-steel bucket that constantly pours water into a small pool, and 'Omaha Song', a giant sculpted “O” that plays chimes whenever anyone sits on it - has certainly taken the expression 'running is an art-form' to an extreme. Last October, Burmeister went for a 26.2 mile run (equivalent to a full marathon) and was able to film himself over the entire course. His film, or rather his films since he managed to film himself at two different angles, is now part of his latest exhibit, 'Needle In Cotton' at the Lux Center for the Arts in Lincoln. When asked to describe his exhibit, Burmeister explained that, "There are two large projection screens. One shows my face as I was running. The other shows my shadow, which is what I see as I'm running. There's also an interactive table that has several components. One is a map of my route. Another is a sculpted figure of a runner on a track. And there's also a heart-rate sensor that the viewers can use to measure their own heart rates. So the viewer becomes part of the exhibit". While I am the first to admit that running is a fantastic sport, I have to say that, by the end of a marathon, I can hardly imagine anyone thinking that my face, being so contorted in pain and so caked in dried sweat, is the personification of artwork. But I have never really understood impressionism anyways, so who knows.

* As reported on Mail Online (England) on July 24th, it seems that Mr. President Barack Obama's influence on foreign affairs in becoming greater and greater with each day in office. At an hour-long question-and-answer session before hosting a Cabinet meeting, England's Prime Minister, Gordon Brown admitted that, "he tried to keep fit on a treadmill in an attempt to keep up with U.S. President Barack Obama". The article was silent on whether Prime Minister Brown intends to better his basketball skills as well.

* As reported in the Financial Times on July 25th, despite the global recession, according to Mintel, a market research company, "sales of sports and gym wear have thrived this year, despite the recession, with 36.8% of us buying at least one item in the past 12 months, compared with 35.4% in 2007". With Puma seeing a 5% increase in sales and Nike a 14% increase, it is hardly surprising that companies like Dolce & Gabbana and well-known personal trainer, Matt Roberts, would come out with their own new lines of gym clothes as well. Explaining his impetus to start his own line, Roberts told reporters, "“I was always struggling with workout gear...I could never find something that I felt really good in, something that was comfortable but flattering. Meanwhile, women were also saying to me that they didn’t like cropped vests that showed off their stomachs". In this recession, I just hope that people don't spend all of their free cash on clothes and then find themselves unable to join a gym!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, August 1st
Southeast Road Runners Frank Maier Marathon (Juneau, AK)
Grizzly Marathon (Choteau, MT)

Sunday, August 2nd
Yukon River Trail Marathon (Whitehorse, YT)

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported in the Omaha World-Journal on July 19th, Artist Jamie Burmeister, probably best known for his to Omaha exhibits - 'Bucket', a swiveling, stainless-steel bucket that constantly pours water into a small pool, and 'Omaha Song', a giant sculpted “O” that plays chimes whenever anyone sits on it - has certainly taken the expression 'running is an art-form' to an extreme. Last October, Burmeister went for a 26.2 mile run (equivalent to a full marathon) and was able to film himself over the entire course. His film, or rather his films since he managed to film himself at two different angles, is now part of his latest exhibit, 'Needle In Cotton' at the Lux Center for the Arts in Lincoln. When asked to describe his exhibit, Burmeister explained that, "There are two large projection screens. One shows my face as I was running. The other shows my shadow, which is what I see as I'm running. There's also an interactive table that has several components. One is a map of my route. Another is a sculpted figure of a runner on a track. And there's also a heart-rate sensor that the viewers can use to measure their own heart rates. So the viewer becomes part of the exhibit". While I am the first to admit that running is a fantastic sport, I have to say that, by the end of a marathon, I can hardly imagine anyone thinking that my face, being so contorted in pain and so caked in dried sweat, is the personification of artwork. But I have never really understood impressionism anyways, so who knows.

* As reported on Mail Online (England) on July 24th, it seems that Mr. President Barack Obama's influence on foreign affairs in becoming greater and greater with each day in office. At an hour-long question-and-answer session before hosting a Cabinet meeting, England's Prime Minister, Gordon Brown admitted that, "he tried to keep fit on a treadmill in an attempt to keep up with U.S. President Barack Obama". The article was silent on whether Prime Minister Brown intends to better his basketball skills as well.

* As reported in the Financial Times on July 25th, despite the global recession, according to Mintel, a market research company, "sales of sports and gym wear have thrived this year, despite the recession, with 36.8% of us buying at least one item in the past 12 months, compared with 35.4% in 2007". With Puma seeing a 5% increase in sales and Nike a 14% increase, it is hardly surprising that companies like Dolce & Gabbana and well-known personal trainer, Matt Roberts, would come out with their own new lines of gym clothes as well. Explaining his impetus to start his own line, Roberts told reporters, "“I was always struggling with workout gear...I could never find something that I felt really good in, something that was comfortable but flattering. Meanwhile, women were also saying to me that they didn’t like cropped vests that showed off their stomachs". In this recession, I just hope that people don't spend all of their free cash on clothes and then find themselves unable to join a gym!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, August 1st
Southeast Road Runners Frank Maier Marathon (Juneau, AK)
Grizzly Marathon (Choteau, MT)

Sunday, August 2nd
Yukon River Trail Marathon (Whitehorse, YT)

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported in the Omaha World-Journal on July 19th, Artist Jamie Burmeister, probably best known for his to Omaha exhibits - 'Bucket', a swiveling, stainless-steel bucket that constantly pours water into a small pool, and 'Omaha Song', a giant sculpted “O” that plays chimes whenever anyone sits on it - has certainly taken the expression 'running is an art-form' to an extreme. Last October, Burmeister went for a 26.2 mile run (equivalent to a full marathon) and was able to film himself over the entire course. His film, or rather his films since he managed to film himself at two different angles, is now part of his latest exhibit, 'Needle In Cotton' at the Lux Center for the Arts in Lincoln. When asked to describe his exhibit, Burmeister explained that, "There are two large projection screens. One shows my face as I was running. The other shows my shadow, which is what I see as I'm running. There's also an interactive table that has several components. One is a map of my route. Another is a sculpted figure of a runner on a track. And there's also a heart-rate sensor that the viewers can use to measure their own heart rates. So the viewer becomes part of the exhibit". While I am the first to admit that running is a fantastic sport, I have to say that, by the end of a marathon, I can hardly imagine anyone thinking that my face, being so contorted in pain and so caked in dried sweat, is the personification of artwork. But I have never really understood impressionism anyways, so who knows.

* As reported on Mail Online (England) on July 24th, it seems that Mr. President Barack Obama's influence on foreign affairs in becoming greater and greater with each day in office. At an hour-long question-and-answer session before hosting a Cabinet meeting, England's Prime Minister, Gordon Brown admitted that, "he tried to keep fit on a treadmill in an attempt to keep up with U.S. President Barack Obama". The article was silent on whether Prime Minister Brown intends to better his basketball skills as well.

* As reported in the Financial Times on July 25th, despite the global recession, according to Mintel, a market research company, "sales of sports and gym wear have thrived this year, despite the recession, with 36.8% of us buying at least one item in the past 12 months, compared with 35.4% in 2007". With Puma seeing a 5% increase in sales and Nike a 14% increase, it is hardly surprising that companies like Dolce & Gabbana and well-known personal trainer, Matt Roberts, would come out with their own new lines of gym clothes as well. Explaining his impetus to start his own line, Roberts told reporters, "“I was always struggling with workout gear...I could never find something that I felt really good in, something that was comfortable but flattering. Meanwhile, women were also saying to me that they didn’t like cropped vests that showed off their stomachs". In this recession, I just hope that people don't spend all of their free cash on clothes and then find themselves unable to join a gym!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, August 1st
Southeast Road Runners Frank Maier Marathon (Juneau, AK)
Grizzly Marathon (Choteau, MT)

Sunday, August 2nd
Yukon River Trail Marathon (Whitehorse, YT)

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported in the Omaha World-Journal on July 19th, Artist Jamie Burmeister, probably best known for his to Omaha exhibits - 'Bucket', a swiveling, stainless-steel bucket that constantly pours water into a small pool, and 'Omaha Song', a giant sculpted “O” that plays chimes whenever anyone sits on it - has certainly taken the expression 'running is an art-form' to an extreme. Last October, Burmeister went for a 26.2 mile run (equivalent to a full marathon) and was able to film himself over the entire course. His film, or rather his films since he managed to film himself at two different angles, is now part of his latest exhibit, 'Needle In Cotton' at the Lux Center for the Arts in Lincoln. When asked to describe his exhibit, Burmeister explained that, "There are two large projection screens. One shows my face as I was running. The other shows my shadow, which is what I see as I'm running. There's also an interactive table that has several components. One is a map of my route. Another is a sculpted figure of a runner on a track. And there's also a heart-rate sensor that the viewers can use to measure their own heart rates. So the viewer becomes part of the exhibit". While I am the first to admit that running is a fantastic sport, I have to say that, by the end of a marathon, I can hardly imagine anyone thinking that my face, being so contorted in pain and so caked in dried sweat, is the personification of artwork. But I have never really understood impressionism anyways, so who knows.

* As reported on Mail Online (England) on July 24th, it seems that Mr. President Barack Obama's influence on foreign affairs in becoming greater and greater with each day in office. At an hour-long question-and-answer session before hosting a Cabinet meeting, England's Prime Minister, Gordon Brown admitted that, "he tried to keep fit on a treadmill in an attempt to keep up with U.S. President Barack Obama". The article was silent on whether Prime Minister Brown intends to better his basketball skills as well.

* As reported in the Financial Times on July 25th, despite the global recession, according to Mintel, a market research company, "sales of sports and gym wear have thrived this year, despite the recession, with 36.8% of us buying at least one item in the past 12 months, compared with 35.4% in 2007". With Puma seeing a 5% increase in sales and Nike a 14% increase, it is hardly surprising that companies like Dolce & Gabbana and well-known personal trainer, Matt Roberts, would come out with their own new lines of gym clothes as well. Explaining his impetus to start his own line, Roberts told reporters, "“I was always struggling with workout gear...I could never find something that I felt really good in, something that was comfortable but flattering. Meanwhile, women were also saying to me that they didn’t like cropped vests that showed off their stomachs". In this recession, I just hope that people don't spend all of their free cash on clothes and then find themselves unable to join a gym!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, August 1st
Southeast Road Runners Frank Maier Marathon (Juneau, AK)
Grizzly Marathon (Choteau, MT)

Sunday, August 2nd
Yukon River Trail Marathon (Whitehorse, YT)

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported in the Omaha World-Journal on July 19th, Artist Jamie Burmeister, probably best known for his to Omaha exhibits - 'Bucket', a swiveling, stainless-steel bucket that constantly pours water into a small pool, and 'Omaha Song', a giant sculpted “O” that plays chimes whenever anyone sits on it - has certainly taken the expression 'running is an art-form' to an extreme. Last October, Burmeister went for a 26.2 mile run (equivalent to a full marathon) and was able to film himself over the entire course. His film, or rather his films since he managed to film himself at two different angles, is now part of his latest exhibit, 'Needle In Cotton' at the Lux Center for the Arts in Lincoln. When asked to describe his exhibit, Burmeister explained that, "There are two large projection screens. One shows my face as I was running. The other shows my shadow, which is what I see as I'm running. There's also an interactive table that has several components. One is a map of my route. Another is a sculpted figure of a runner on a track. And there's also a heart-rate sensor that the viewers can use to measure their own heart rates. So the viewer becomes part of the exhibit". While I am the first to admit that running is a fantastic sport, I have to say that, by the end of a marathon, I can hardly imagine anyone thinking that my face, being so contorted in pain and so caked in dried sweat, is the personification of artwork. But I have never really understood impressionism anyways, so who knows.

* As reported on Mail Online (England) on July 24th, it seems that Mr. President Barack Obama's influence on foreign affairs in becoming greater and greater with each day in office. At an hour-long question-and-answer session before hosting a Cabinet meeting, England's Prime Minister, Gordon Brown admitted that, "he tried to keep fit on a treadmill in an attempt to keep up with U.S. President Barack Obama". The article was silent on whether Prime Minister Brown intends to better his basketball skills as well.

* As reported in the Financial Times on July 25th, despite the global recession, according to Mintel, a market research company, "sales of sports and gym wear have thrived this year, despite the recession, with 36.8% of us buying at least one item in the past 12 months, compared with 35.4% in 2007". With Puma seeing a 5% increase in sales and Nike a 14% increase, it is hardly surprising that companies like Dolce & Gabbana and well-known personal trainer, Matt Roberts, would come out with their own new lines of gym clothes as well. Explaining his impetus to start his own line, Roberts told reporters, "“I was always struggling with workout gear...I could never find something that I felt really good in, something that was comfortable but flattering. Meanwhile, women were also saying to me that they didn’t like cropped vests that showed off their stomachs". In this recession, I just hope that people don't spend all of their free cash on clothes and then find themselves unable to join a gym!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, August 1st
Southeast Road Runners Frank Maier Marathon (Juneau, AK)
Grizzly Marathon (Choteau, MT)

Sunday, August 2nd
Yukon River Trail Marathon (Whitehorse, YT)

Open Mic Friday: Meet Redhead Runner

Our guest this week is preparing for her first marathon--in the warmth of Orlando.  Yet with each long run, she is celebrating her accomplishments.  She's counting down the weeks and days and her excitement for running is contagious.  Her blog, Caution: Red Head Runner, is filled with her running and non-running musings. 

We're delighted to introduce you to Morgan, or Redhead Running.

Your blog is exploding with enthusiasm for running, especially long runs. How did you develop your passion for running and fitness?

I’ve always enjoyed running but never, EVER would have pictured myself doing all this. (I’ve never even participated in an organized sport!) Prior to catching the running bug I just ran to clear my head, get some cardio and help me sleep. (I have insomnia) But after I did my first 5k last year, I felt like I discovered a part of myself I didn’t even know I possessed. I loved the way running made me feel, inside and out. I became so positive and it really helped me get on track in other areas of my life. Once I made up my mind to do the Gasparilla Half Marathon and began racking up the mileage training, that’s when I fell in love with the long run. I’ve been training alone for months but recently I’ve had the opportunity to do a few long runs with my friends, Beth (of Discom-bob-ulated Running) and the “Lazy Runner”. Long run conversations are the best! Not to mention, through them I’ve been discovering amazing new places and meeting really great people! (The Brandon Running Association is the best group of runners ever!)

You might be the most excited runner we know preparing for the Chicago Marathon.  Why did you select Chicago above others?

You noticed that huh? LOL! Well first and foremost I knew I needed a marathon that didn’t have much terrain and I also wanted to make sure my family could be there. I’m a transplant from Michigan and when I did my first Half I realized just how much I wished they had been there for it. So with those perimeters in mind I narrowed down the options to Chicago or Detroit. They fell within a week of each other and during that week just so happens to be my birthday so I opted for Chicago so I could celebrate Marathon success AND my birthday. Win/Win.

How is your marathon training going?

It goes. I have good days, I have bad days. Each day I learn something new about myself, my body and what I’m capable of. There have been schedule conflicts/hurdles/injuries that have gotten in the way of progress but I take each day as they come and try to stay focused and positive. Every run is a learning experience.

Marathon training in Orlando during the summer.  Describe.

• Picture it: Orlando aka Land of the Mouse…
• Humidity: 100% - 24/7
• Terrain: Flatter than a pancake
• Elevation: Below Sea level (Read: Not a chance in heck you’re getting a breeze)
• Average Temp: 80+ (All.Day.)
• Daily Weather Report: SUNNY with an afternoon monsoon.
• Basically you step out the door and you’re immediately drenched in sweat. If you even think of starting a run after 7am your chances of being found sunburnt and dehydrated in a ditch are pretty high. Let’s just say the amount of freckles on my exposed limbs have more than doubled since I started training…

What are you most excited about running Chicago?  Most nervous about?

Chicago is a beautiful city and I’m really excited about running through the different “towns.” But more importantly I’m excited to RUN the marathon and FINISH. To say that I have run 26.2 miles. What am I most nervous about? NOT being able to do/say that.

What are some key things you’ve learned about yourself and about running since starting your training for Chicago Marathon?

Listen to your body. Rest when you need to rest. Eat healthy and get plenty of sleep. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, about ANYTHING. Do I always heed these words of wisdom? Ehh… not so much but I’m working on it.

What would your family and friends tell us about your passion for running?

This can best be summarized by my grandmother’s reaction upon learning I started “running”; “Ooooo, that’s a good “hobby” for her! Maybe it’ll help her get rid of all that nervous energy she has.” – Gotta luv the Gram’s.

Any quirky running traits?

Two words: Skip Start. I have to put a little pep in my step to get going… and everyone makes fun of me for it.

What have you not done with your running that you’re still looking forward to?

Someday, after I’ve finally invested in a Garmin, learned how to use it and perfected my pace, I would love to be a pacer... and finish a 5k sub 20. A girl can dream...

What gets you excited about running?

What doesn’t get me excited about it? (Besides my arch nemesis, “The Injury”) Have you read my blog? LOL!

Favorite race?

Muddy Buddy – I highly suggest everyone participates in one of these if they ever  have the opportunity!

Greatest running accomplishment?

Check back for that answer on Oct. 11th.

Who are some of your virtual running friends you would like to meet up and run with?

Well obviously I’d love to meet them all! BUT to narrow it down to just my running/blogging hero’s:
Frayed Laces: She is awe inspiring and nothing short of amazing. She takes being a hardcore runner girl to the extreme! I have so much respect for her and aspire to be as hardcore as she is.

Chic Runner: So she can teach me to be stylish and witty while running!

Nitmos: To see if he’s really as devilishly handsome as he claims and because he’s wildly entertaining. (And he’s a fellow Michigander)

The Running Laminator: He is an endless fount of running knowledge and I’d love to just pick his brain…

What’s going on in your life outside of running?

I’m ashamed to admit I’ve become a bit of a recluse lately. The social life has definitely fallen by the wayside, but with working two jobs and training for a marathon it’s to be expected. I plan to make a full recovery and reclaim social butterfly status on October 15th.

If money could buy you a running dream, what would it be?

Running tour of the world with my runner friends! Duh! BUT, I would do it stylishly accessorized head to toe in the most adorably flattering and non-chafing running apparel.

Best running advice you’ve ever been given?

I received this gem earlier in the week: “You really need to get in touch with your running self. Do more crazy things… Have more fun!! Live more!!! Take that wild self that you used to have and transfer it into your running self. Your running shouldn’t just be about the running. Make it an adventure, try to discover one new thing every run. Try to discover one new thing about yourself and who you are and where you’re going.” - I think it’s going to be my new mantra.

 

Do you know a runner you would recommend for Open Mic Friday?

Pass along their name, contact info, and some background and we'll explore introducing them to the Runners' Lounge Community.

Send your suggestions to Tom@runnerslounge.com or Amy@runnerslounge.com

Take It and Run Thursday: Slaying The Long Run Dragon

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

This week's theme is ... Slaying The Long Run Dragon.   What are your best tips for getting through the long, hard, hot, hilly, sweaty, torturous but enjoyable runs?

Please click here to add your ame and url.  We have moved the linking widget to the Runners' Lounge Know How section so you can be instantly saved and published as one of the articles in the Building Endurance section.

Next week's theme is ....  A Surprise!!!  Check in next week for a new twist on Take It and Run Thursday's!    

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

This week's theme is ... Slaying The Long Run Dragon.   What are your best tips for getting through the long, hard, hot, hilly, sweaty, torturous but enjoyable runs?

Please click here to add your ame and url.  We have moved the linking widget to the Runners' Lounge Know How section so you can be instantly saved and published as one of the articles in the Building Endurance section.

Next week's theme is ....  A Surprise!!!  Check in next week for a new twist on Take It and Run Thursday's!    

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

This week's theme is ... Slaying The Long Run Dragon.   What are your best tips for getting through the long, hard, hot, hilly, sweaty, torturous but enjoyable runs?

Please click here to add your ame and url.  We have moved the linking widget to the Runners' Lounge Know How section so you can be instantly saved and published as one of the articles in the Building Endurance section.

Next week's theme is ....  A Surprise!!!  Check in next week for a new twist on Take It and Run Thursday's!    

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

This week's theme is ... Slaying The Long Run Dragon.   What are your best tips for getting through the long, hard, hot, hilly, sweaty, torturous but enjoyable runs?

Please click here to add your ame and url.  We have moved the linking widget to the Runners' Lounge Know How section so you can be instantly saved and published as one of the articles in the Building Endurance section.

Next week's theme is ....  A Surprise!!!  Check in next week for a new twist on Take It and Run Thursday's!    

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

This week's theme is ... Slaying The Long Run Dragon.   What are your best tips for getting through the long, hard, hot, hilly, sweaty, torturous but enjoyable runs?

Please click here to add your ame and url.  We have moved the linking widget to the Runners' Lounge Know How section so you can be instantly saved and published as one of the articles in the Building Endurance section.

Next week's theme is ....  A Surprise!!!  Check in next week for a new twist on Take It and Run Thursday's!    

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

This week's theme is ... Slaying The Long Run Dragon.   What are your best tips for getting through the long, hard, hot, hilly, sweaty, torturous but enjoyable runs?

Please click here to add your ame and url.  We have moved the linking widget to the Runners' Lounge Know How section so you can be instantly saved and published as one of the articles in the Building Endurance section.

Next week's theme is ....  A Surprise!!!  Check in next week for a new twist on Take It and Run Thursday's!    

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

This week's theme is ... Slaying The Long Run Dragon.   What are your best tips for getting through the long, hard, hot, hilly, sweaty, torturous but enjoyable runs?

Please click here to add your ame and url.  We have moved the linking widget to the Runners' Lounge Know How section so you can be instantly saved and published as one of the articles in the Building Endurance section.

Next week's theme is ....  A Surprise!!!  Check in next week for a new twist on Take It and Run Thursday's!    

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

This week's theme is ... Slaying The Long Run Dragon.   What are your best tips for getting through the long, hard, hot, hilly, sweaty, torturous but enjoyable runs?

Please click here to add your ame and url.  We have moved the linking widget to the Runners' Lounge Know How section so you can be instantly saved and published as one of the articles in the Building Endurance section.

Next week's theme is ....  A Surprise!!!  Check in next week for a new twist on Take It and Run Thursday's!    

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

This week's theme is ... Slaying The Long Run Dragon.   What are your best tips for getting through the long, hard, hot, hilly, sweaty, torturous but enjoyable runs?

Please click here to add your ame and url.  We have moved the linking widget to the Runners' Lounge Know How section so you can be instantly saved and published as one of the articles in the Building Endurance section.

Next week's theme is ....  A Surprise!!!  Check in next week for a new twist on Take It and Run Thursday's!    

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

This week's theme is ... Slaying The Long Run Dragon.   What are your best tips for getting through the long, hard, hot, hilly, sweaty, torturous but enjoyable runs?

Please click here to add your ame and url.  We have moved the linking widget to the Runners' Lounge Know How section so you can be instantly saved and published as one of the articles in the Building Endurance section.

Next week's theme is ....  A Surprise!!!  Check in next week for a new twist on Take It and Run Thursday's!    

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

This week's theme is ... Slaying The Long Run Dragon.   What are your best tips for getting through the long, hard, hot, hilly, sweaty, torturous but enjoyable runs?

Please click here to add your ame and url.  We have moved the linking widget to the Runners' Lounge Know How section so you can be instantly saved and published as one of the articles in the Building Endurance section.

Next week's theme is ....  A Surprise!!!  Check in next week for a new twist on Take It and Run Thursday's!    

Runners' Lounge - On the Run: Dealing with Injuries

Injuries are on my mind as I work my way through recovery from a knee scope.   Here are my thoughts on four things runners should keep in mind as they work through a recovery plan.

Runners' Lounge - On The Run: Long Run, Part 2

Tom shares some additional thoughts on long run tips.

Runners' Lounge Live: Cross Training

Frayed Laces is back with her thoughts about cross training.  

Running On Food: Be Prepared

 This article is part of a new series on Nutrition for Runners.   Heather from the blog, Trials of Training, has offered her expertise in Nutrition to runners in the Lounge to pass along information on recipes, nutrition, and running/food related questions.  She has her BS in Nutrition from Penn State, she is currently working to be a Registered Dietician, and is a loves to help runners with their questions.

Be Prepared

by Heather

Every week I meet up with an evening running group; we start promptly at 6:30 p.m. for a nice cool run around DC. I absolutely love it. However! Every time I do this, I find myself home around 8:30 p.m., starving for dinner, and the Last thing I want to do is COOK.

To be honest with you, this has lead to a frozen meal choice on more than one occasion. I’m not much of a fast-food eater, but I can see where this would be the easy option as well! In other words, if I’m not prepared, it’s too convenient to make a quick decision just for some Food and miss out on a healthy meal.

Instead of letting this become habit, or something I “just do twice a week”, I’ve started thinking ahead. I also don’t like cooking for just one meal; leftovers are my best friend. Plus, if I make enough for at least two meals, that means I have my Monday and Thursday night post-run dinners all covered!

This concept doesn’t just have to be about dinner after the run, it can apply to weekly dinners in general, post-run snacks, lunch at work, etc. In college, this was a concept that took me a long time to fully appreciate, but once I started making meals ahead of time (and cooking for more than one meal!) I found I ate a lot healthier. On days I didn’t want to cook, or I didn’t have a good post-run snack handy, I went for convenience. When I thought ahead, and actually prepared for these days, I had a healthy home-cooked meal or home-made snack waiting for me.

What you choose to fuel up with after a run can make such a big difference in your body’s recovery. This is not the time to be making haste decisions! It’s always best to get a mixture of Carbohydrates and lean proteins. Adding in some veggies and/or fruits provides more antioxidants and minerals that you may need to replenish as well!

Some easy things to make ahead of time (let’s face it – not everything tastes as good when it’s reheated!):

-Any pasta mixture/pasta salad! Throw in some diced tomatoes, cooked chicken, veggies, garbanzo beans, shrimp, etc.  
-Casseroles 
-Lasagna  
-Home-made Pizza 
-Chili 
-Soups

Smoothies and peanut butter (w/ banana, optional of course!) sandwiches are great post-run snacks to have on hand that can easily be made before you leave! 

Any other ideas? How do you prepare for nights/runs like this?

Running Well: Shin Splints

We are excited to kick off a new series in partnership with Sports Injury Clinic.  www.sportsinjuryclinic.net   This site has been a well used site by me over the last year as I have worked through various injuries.  It provides the right amount of detail about the injury and tips on treatment as well.   And while we hope you don't have the need for the resources, we are pleased to offer articles in tips in the event you are dealing with a running injury.

 

Shin splints is possibly the most common, and certainly the most well known ‘running injury’. However, the symptoms of shin splints are often confused with those of other lower leg injuries, such as compartment syndrome  [picture on right  compliments of sportsinjuryclicinic.net]

 

The symptoms of shin splints usually include:

Ø      Diffuse pain at the front of the lower leg, to the inside of the shin bone (pain on the outside of the bone is more likely a compartment syndrome)

Ø      Pain which is worst at the start of the exercise and often eases throughout

Ø      Pain may then return after exercise or the next morning

Ø      As the condition becomes worse, pain will become more constant

Ø      The area to the inside of the shin bone may be tender to touch

Ø      You may also feel small lumps within the muscles

Ø      Pain may be present when you stretch the shin muscles (i.e. point the toes away from you)

Ø      There may be mild swelling or redness

Shin splints pain is thought to be caused by inflammation of the periostium of the tibia (sheath surrounding the bone). Traction forces on the periosteum from the muscles of the lower leg cause shin pain and inflammation.

Causes

Shin splints is an overuse injury. The symptoms develop over a period of time and gradually increase in severity if treatment is not sought. Overuse injuries can be caused by a number of factors, which are usually biomechanical issues, or training errors such as:

Ø      Overpronation

Ø      Oversupination

Ø      Increasing training too quickly

Ø      Running on pavements or other hard surfaces

Ø      Old trainers which have lost their cushioning

Ø      Tight calf muscles – limted ankle flexibility

Treatment

The treatment of shin splints should begin as soon as possible after the injury has been detected:

Ø      Rest from any activity which causes pain

Ø      Apply ice to the area for 10 minutes at a time, up to every 2 hours

Ø      Take anti-inflammatory medication (always seek the advice of your Doctor first)

Ø      Once you can do so pain free, stretch the calf and shin muscles

Ø      Wear shock absorbing insoles if you oversupinate, or arch support insoles if you overpronate

Ø      Wear a compression support to help improve blood flow to aid healing

Ø      Buy new trainers if yours are very old!

To stretch your calf and shin muscles, always start with a gentle stretch and move further into the position as the stretching feeling fades. Hold stretches for at least 20 seconds and always repeat them 2-3 times and do this several times a day.

To stretch the calf muscles, stand facing a wall with a wide stance and the leg to be stretched at the back. Keep the heel flat on the floor and the knee straight as you lean forwards using your hands on the wall to balance you. This stretches the Gastrocnemius muscle, the largest of the 2 muscles at the bck of the lower leg. To stretch the smaller Soleus muscle, just bend the back knee slightly. You should then feel the stretch lower down the calf.

To stretch the shin muscles, kneel with the shins on the floor, sitting on your heels. Lean back to increase the stretch, or alternatively, use the hands to lift the knee just off the floor.

We always advise seeking professional treatment in order to return to your sport as soon as possible and free from pain! A professional sports injury specialist may also:

Ø      Use sports massage techniques to relax the muscles of the shin and calf

Ø      Tape the shin to take the strain off the muscles

Ø      Use ultrasound to ease pain and inflammation and promote healing

Ø      Devise a full rehabilitation program

For more information on Shin Splints treatment, including a rehabilitation programme, exercise pictures and videos as well as massage demonstrations, please visit:

www.sportsinjuryclinic.net

Half Marathon Challenge - Week 6: Cross Training and Other Runs

Running into week 6 of the Half Marathon Challenge - phew - time flies when you are having fun!  This week I was lucky enough to be joined by three great runners - Sneaker Sister, Mark Berry and Steve to talk about cross training, different types of runs and recovery.

It was great to hear how each runner tackles each topic - some alike and some different.  In the end, the theme that ran through all the advice was "listen to your body" and "do what is right for you".   Isn't that the wonderful thing about running - everyone can do it in their own way and still reach the finish line!

Download Half marathon challenge episode 6

Take us along with you on your next run or cross training.

And don't forget to join in the fun - every Sunday night at 8 CST/9 EST - we get together on the phone and talk half marathons and running stuff.   No topic to big or small - just runners talking about runnng.

And it is as easy as a phone call.  Dial 1-724-444-7444, and enter call id 53767.

If you are looking for some additional resources on the topics this week.  Don't forget to stop by the Lounge in the Cross Training or Getting Faster sections.   Great posts from real runners like you!

Links, Great Thoughts....There is So Much Great Stuff Out There

More great finds out there the last few weeks.  So many great runners and great thoughts.  I have yet to meet a runner that doesn't inspire me or teach me something.

• Amy from Running Commentaries had a great post about "Wanting It".  Asking herself the question if it was worth it.  Trudging through a track work out that she didn't feel quite up to.  And then a walker on the track had this dialogue with her.   I thought it captured a conversation many runners have with themselves (or others):

    She tapped me on the shoulder and said, “you must really want it.” I was a little confused and responded with, “want what?” She said, “Whatever it is you’re chasing– you must really want it. No one is here taking attendance, no one would know if you quit. I’ve been watching and you don’t quit, you just seem so determined.” I responded “well, I guess I do want it… thanks!” It hit me midway through my next interval that I really do want “it.”

• And from "Adventures of a Running Mom", a good thought on why she runs as she prepares for her third half marathon.   "I realized again that running is my therapy. It's my drug."   I think all of us moms need a little guilt free therapy time.
• Great post on why she runs on the "100 Day's Club" blog:   "...but its more about the time to get out to clear the mind whether it be 20 minutes, or an hour. It just is nice to look around but not really zone in on anything but the task at hand. When I see the km´s add up on our challenge it makes me want to do even more-its a race against myself, a race to see how far I can push myself..."    And even better idea is the 100 Day Club.  It is an idea two womean created to take 100 days to get in shape without dieting or spending money - just good habits.
• Happily Ever Now had a great post with quotes on why run as she prepares to take on a 50K race.  My favorite included the lines from Jack London,

   ”I would rather be ashes than dust! I would rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze than it should be stifled by dry-rot. I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet. The proper function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong them. I shall use my time.” 

• Culinary Designs  Solutions blog had this great thought about why he runs - even when it is hard, he is tired, and life is busy, "I remember why I run.  It’s not a punishment it’s a pleasure, a gift. 

• And Bill, on his blog, My Training Blog, dug out one of his old posts to remind him why he runs.  I think it is worth sharing and remembering:  "I find this sport life affirming, spiritually enriching, ego gratifying, transformative, and even magical. It is alchemy. It is an elixer. I love the feeeling of running what seems like, at least to me, fast and forever, when almost everyone in their 50s does not or cannot run. I can and will continue to run as fast and far as I can and as long as I am able."