Archive | March, 2011

Running: A Form of Workout for the Legs and the Body

Running: A Form of Workout for the Legs and the Body


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Are you in search of a perfect workout to achieve the perfect shape for the legs and body? You need not consult your fitness trainers nor check out exercise workout regimens. In fact, you do not need to spend significantly in enrolling in a gym membership. The best workout that experts could recommend to you is running. It may sound a bit odd, but running up your stairs at work, home, or escalators should take a good part of your own physical training and rigorous daily routine.

Running up several flights of stairs could serve as an effective cardiovascular exercise. Doing so could surely help your body burn thousands of calories per minute. If there are stairs at home or on your way to the office, consider running up or running down them. When you start the activity, be sure to do it right. Yes, there is a proper way to run so you would not injure yourself and your body would reap the benefits of the physical task.

The first thing you should do when you are running is to check your own body posture. The body definitely needs to be upright. The shoulders should stay relaxed throughout the activity. Raise your feet as high as you comfortably could and at the same time swing both of your arms as you continue moving up (as in running up the stairs) or down (running down).

To make the activity a good form of workout, run about 20 steps up before walking down to where you started. Do the task for several times until you recover your own breath. Try not to run double steps at once. It is normal to run out of breath and feel too tired when running. You would notice that when you run regularly or everyday, your body could manage to comfortably run longer. In the process, your hips, thigh, and your abdomen would get better shapes.

When running up or down the stairs, do not forget the fact that there surely are risks or dangers in doing so. Be very careful especially in putting your feet on each step of the stairs. When you walk down, do so quite slowly, not too slowly. You may use banisters if you are feeling too tired and at the same time shaky.

Running up you stairs could in fact physically train most of your body muscles all at the same time. If you do so regularly, your fitness level could further improve quickly. Expect your overall personality to also improve, especially your mood. This is because for sure, your life would get brighter and better if you see many inches vanish from your waist. Initially, try running once every week. On the succeeding weeks, increase your workout. Run up to three times weekly. A 20-minute running session would definitely do your body good. However, as a form of warning, never run more than your body could actually endure. Do not compromise your overall safety when running.

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List of Important Running Gears And Accessories

List of Important Running Gears And Accessories

People say that when you have a good pair of running shoes, you’re good to go. This is generally true, but if you want to make the most out of your running experience, you need to invest on some things. Following are some of the important running gears and accessories that, although not required to make you a certified runner, can make your running comfortable and trouble-free.
1. Shorts. Many varieties of running shorts are in the market today, but there are two that seem to stand out from the rest. One is the compression tights. Resembling cycling shorts, compression tights are made of fabrics that fit the body tightly so that when the runner is on the move, the muscles are held firmly. This compressive feature offers little chance of chafing. Also a favorite choice among runners, full split shorts have a slit on either side, which allows for the free movement of the leg. Although split shorts are typically short in length, they provide runners with unobstructed and easy stride.
2. Shirt. Gone are the days of cotton shirts. Shirts with wicking quality, usually made of polyester, are the best choice for running. These types of shirt absorb sweat from the body and keep the temperature low. Thick, long-sleeved shirts are recommended for use during the cold climates and thin, short-sleeved shirts are for warm climates. For extra support and comfort, women are advised to wear sports bra.
3. Socks. The best pair of running socks prevents blisters. Other sock brands also promise to keep the feet dry and in perfect condition even after running several miles.
4. Reflective vest. When worn, reflective vest keeps the runner visible, making it very useful to people who run along the roadside or in the dark. It helps avoid accidents and calls attention when the runner is injured. In place of a reflective vest, some runners use reflective stickers, reflective jackets, and LED armbands.
5. Heart rate monitor. This is important to people who like to keep track of their heart performance and improvements in the pulse. With a chest strap and wrist unit, heart rate monitor displays information on the heart rate and calories burned. Depending on the results of the heart rate monitor, a runner can figure if his training is working and at an appropriate intensity.
6. Running watch. Because of its multiple uses, a running watch is almost a necessity. It can record distance, time, and pace. Most running watch models today also a have heart rate monitor function, and those that are even more advanced have GPS capabilities. GPS watches can monitor route and distance information, which can be downloaded and stored to track performance. They are a bit expensive, though.
7. Running belt. One of the important running gears, especially among distance runners, running belt carries important items such as phone, keys, camera, and energy bars and gels. Most running belts are not bulky and do not bounce and budge while the runner is on the move.

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How To Choose The Best Running Shoes

How To Choose The Best Running Shoes

Although running barefoot was the preference of many running legends, it can’t be denied that running shoe is your most important equipment as a runner. It acts as your first line of defense against any danger and injury, while helping you achieve your fullest potential. But because running shoes greatly affect your performance, choosing the best pair should be a careful process. To help you, here are a few buying tips.
1. Know your foot type. There are three types: neutral-arched, mid-arched (overpronators), and high-arched (underpronators). One way of identifying your foot type is by checking your footprint. A neutral-arched foot shows a distinct curve along the inside of the foot, which connects the heel and the toe. This type of foot pronates normally, meaning that when the foot lands, the outside of the feet rolls inwardly in order to absorb shock. The mid-ached foot, in comparison, rolls far too inward so that the print shows a slight curve along the outside of the foot. (For more info on Pronation visit Running World)
Mid-arched foot print looks almost like an entire foot; hence, the nickname flat foot. Among the three, mid-arched foot is the most prone to injuries. High-arched foot, on the other hand, doesn’t pronate enough, which is why its print has a very pronounced curve, showing a narrow band that links the heel and toe. Because the outside of the foot doesn’t evenly roll inward, it gets much of the stress.
2. Choose the shoe that is compatible with your foot type. For neutral-arched foot, stability running shoes are appropriate. Made with supreme durability and cushioning, stability shoes offer medial support. Mid-arched foot runs best with motion-control shoes that function to reduce excessive foot inward rolling. Although quite heavy, they are durable, have firm midsoles, and adapt a straight shape for support. To promote foot motion, people with high-arched foot need to wear cushioned shoes. These have soft midsole and curved or semi-curved shape.
3. Take note of the size. And make sure that the shoes fit you right. Some runners, however, mistake the appropriate fit for tightness. But with tight shoes on, you might end up with blisters and black toenails. The shoe with the right fit has about half-inch space in the toebox, leaving enough room for the foot when it swells during a run. The best shoe, without cramming it in, keeps the foot in place so that when you run or walk, the heel does not slip up or down.
4. Try the running shoes on. Run with them. Jog with them. Walk with them on a treadmill. In other words, never leave the store without finding how the shoes work in your feet. To make a better judgment, use the socks you normally wear when running. Another important point: Try shoes on in the afternoon, when your feet are in their largest size. And because both feet have different measurements, one is always larger than the other, make sure to measure both and go by the size of the larger foot.
5. Avoid being floored by style. When it comes to running shoes, function comes before style. So don’t be tempted to buy the handsomest, most stylish, and latest pair in the market; rather, get the shoes that will most likely allow you to perform superbly.

20-40% Off Running Sale at Paragon Sports

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Tips for Running: A Guide for Beginners

Tips for Running: A Guide for Beginners

Have you decided running regularly as a form of practical workout for your weight loss or physical training activity? You are on the right track. Running is truly a good and practical activity that could provide your body with an ideal cardiovascular or aerobic exercise. Running could make you sweat profusely, a sign that your body is metabolizing faster and burning up excessive stored fats. But you should not just run. You have to do it right and do it safely. If you are beginner, here are several useful tips to serve as your guide.

First tip: It is the right time to start running. Running and all other physical exercises are good for your body whatever your age is. Regular exercises could provide ideal benefits: you would have more energy; the chances of developing a heart ailment would be decreased; you could sleep better and get more relaxation; and you would be able to lose weight. It would never be too late to start running.
Second tip: Consult your doctor. Prior to starting running and other exercise programs, it would be appropriate to drop by your doctor’s clinic. Try to do so more especially if you are suffering from heart problems, obesity, breathing problems, and chronic fatigue. Your doctor could advise you on how to get proper pacing and could guide you on how long you should keep running per session. It is not safe to overdo running.
Third tip: Begin with a simple running or walking program. It is not advisable to start on a high level. Humbly start at low-levels. You may run or walk shorter distances when beginning the running program. You may also opt to run at least once a week initially. As you go on, you could slowly increase the distance, the duration, and the weekly frequency. Notice that as you go on with your regular running exercise, your body could take greater distances and endure longer sessions. You are increasing your body’s resistance.
Fourth tip: Monitor your pulse rate. Running and other exercises when done properly could help the heart beat less. This is because the heart is properly trained. When the heart beats slower especially during your relaxed hours (like bedtime or after waking up in the morning) it means the heart is successfully pumping more blood throughout the body in every beat. Perform a simple test. Get your heart beat per minute everyday, immediately after you wake up in the morning. If your pulse rate is higher today than yesterday, it means you are overdoing your exercise. Continue your running program when your heart beat normalizes.
Lastly, listen to your own body. After running, it is normal to feel tired. There could even be tolerable muscle pains. Be alert when you feel dizzy or experience chest pains after the activity. That may mean you have overdone it and you have reached or exceeded your threshold. When such adverse feelings occur, cut back on the training load and immediately seek the opinion of your doctor.

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Common Running Injuries: Symptoms, Causes, And Treatment

Common Running Injuries: Symptoms, Causes, And Treatment


Although running is perhaps the simplest form of sport and exercise, it is highly susceptible to injuries. Running injuries are not uncommon among runners—novice or long-time. And if you’ve been running for a while, you most likely have experienced any of these common injuries:
1. Runner’s Knee
Also referred to as iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS), runner’s knee is characterized by the tenderness of the iliotibial band (ITB), the connective tissue outside the thigh, and causes friction between the ITB and thigh bone. Runner’s knee results from overpronation, overtraining, tight ITB either naturally or due to lack of stretching, wrong shoes, weak hip muscles, and too much hill running.
People with runner’s knee feel pain and inflammation outside the knee. Pain is most pronounced when running downhill or on cambered surfaces, when knees are stretched, and even when simply walking upstairs and downstairs. At the onset of pain, running must be immediately stopped. Intake of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), cold therapy, and massage can reduce the pain. In severe cases, especially when the injury does not respond to any treatment or rehabilitation, corticosteroid injection is performed onto the site of injury.
2. Shin Splints
Shin splints is a widely used term to refer to the pain at the front of the lower leg. The injury is commonly caused by oversupination, overpronation, intense running, bad footwear, running on hard surfaces, and poor ankle flexibility. Runners with shin splints experience pain inside the lower half shin, which usually extends to the knee, at the beginning of the run. The pain subsides while running but comes back after with a more stabbing intensity. Redness and lumps in the shin may also develop.
Treatment is centered around abating the pain, especially during the early stage when the pain is intolerable. It includes rest, massage, and cold therapy. Intake of NSAIDs is also advisable.
3. Achilles Tendonitis
Because it is no longer considered an inflammatory condition, Achilles tendonitis is now often called Achilles tendinopathy. It is a condition in which the Achilles tendon, a band of tissues connecting the calf muscles—gastrocnemius and soleus—to the heel bone, is inflamed, and which may eventually cause degenerated tissue and scarring. Achilles tendonitis is generally caused by overworking the tendon, either by subjecting it to excessive pressure or forcing it to work under abnormal conditions. Factors include weak or tight calf muscles, excessive uphill running, overpronation, wrong shoes, abrupt changes in distance and speed, and weak ankle joints.
Achilles tendonitis is categorized into two: acute and chronic. The pain associated with acute tendonitis only lasts at the beginning of the run and may ease during and after the exercise. It doesn’t stay for more than a week. Chronic Achilles tendonitis, on the other hand, can go for weeks and months. Pain is consistent all throughout the run and when walking up or downstairs. Tenderness and redness may be apparent at the site of injury. Lumps may also develop.
Like other running injuries, Achilles tendonitis can be treated with NSAIDs. Massage, heel pad, casting, ultrasound treatment, and rehabilitation are also effective ways to correct the injury. In the case of serious injury, surgery is performed to remove the scar tissue.


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Best Rated Running Shoes

Best Rated Running Shoes

Best Rated Running Shoes Review 2012

While others disdain the hassle of scouring, comparing, and reviewing the market for the best value for their buck, others do read reviews, listen to customer’s opinion and meticulously gather data before engaging to buy an item, especially pricey ones.

I am one of those meticulous types. I gather info, read, listen, and compare my choices before spend a dime. That way I am ensured that what I am going to purchase has the essentials I need.

A ways back I have gathered a small data of best rated running shoes that has more wows from customers than marketability. Because I found out that wows are much, much more indispensable than the product’s marketability, which could be boosted by means such as media.

Here are my best rated running shoes.

Saucony ProGrid Hurricane 14

Saucony Powergrid Hurricane 14

Price Range: $129 to $139

You’re not messing around with flimsy footwear, step in to super duty Stability when you’re sporting the men’s Saucony® Powergrid™ Hurricane 14. Enjoy ample support and cushioning in a sleek style with a reduced heel-to-toe drop for a more natural run. 11.2 ounces. Hurricane 14 is a stability + shoes provides increased cushioning and more guidance for your feet.

Features & Benefits:

  • Powergrid with Powerfoam: Injection molded midsole material provides the ultimate in responsive cushioning
  • IBR + outsole: Provides better durability, lighterweight and more resiliency than standard blown rubber
  • Sauc-Fit: Locks midfoot onto platform. Keeps heel secure and comfortable
  • XT-900 outsole: Provides durability in high wear areas
  • Hydramax lining: Mositure transfer material in collar and tongue keeps the foot dry
  • SRC impact zone: Provides shock attenuation. Assists in a smooth transition
  • Engineered stability: Flair in medial post for added stability
  • 8 MM heel to toe drop: Encourages a more midfoot strike

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Brooks Vapor 10

Brooks Vapor 10

Price Range: $80 to $90

Inspired by the Adrenaline™ GTS and built with value in mind, the Vapor™ 10 now comes with patent-pending circular Brooks® DNA for adaptable cushioning, and a caterpillar crash pad for a smooth transition. With its clean look and versatile features, this sharp shoe is ideal for new and younger runners. Brooks Vapor 10 is a stability (Average Arch) shoes which provides cushioning and help guide your feet naturally through each step.

Features & Benefits:

  • Circular DNA: Adaptive cushioning and resiliency
  • Bio-EVA Midsole: biodegradable, durable cushioning
  • Catepillar Tech Heel Crash Pad: Smooth heel laydown
  • Contact Rubber Forefoot: Durable and Soft
  • S-257 Cushsole sock liner: Custom fit, excellent cushioning
  • Air Mesh Upper: Breathable
  • Diagonal Rollbar: Enhance Stability

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Nike Shox Turbo + 11 Running Shoes

Nike Shox Turbo+ 11

Price Range: $100 to $160

Nike Shox Series is Nike’s flagship in the running shoes arena. I consider this Nike Model to be among the best rated running shoe since it incorporates Nike’s zealously protected innovation. The combination of the aspects though is for the user’s discretion.

Take on any surface in the Nike Shox Turbo+ 11 Men’s Running Shoe, with ultra-responsive cushioning that minimizes the shock of impact, plus expert traction and support for maximum stability.

Nike Shox Turbo+ 11 Running Shoe Features:

  • Breathable mesh upper with synthetic overlays and Flywire for ultra-lightweight support and comfort
  • Phylon midsole with Nike Shox columns for responsive, lightweight cushioning
  • Blown rubber outsole lugs for better cushioning and response
  • Considered Design for high performance and low environmental impact

Nike is always my first casual shoe choice. They’re too pricey to be otherwise.

Get discount at: http://runningandmarathon.com/nikeshoxsale

New Balance 890v2

New Balance 890

Price Range: $80 – $110

The 890v2 model is perhaps New Balance’s top rated running shoes. A number of customer delights on New Balance 890 have also surfaced on reviews.

The New Balance 890v2 is incredibly light, but it’s not a stripped down racing flat reserved for speedsters. The 890v2 is a neutral running shoe for everybody, thanks to REVlite, a new midsole foam compound with the durability of foams that are 30% heavier, which means way more fast and way more excellent. Synthetic/mesh upper. ABZORB® EX provides durable cushioning. ABZORB® cushioning in the forefoot offers exceptional shock absorption. N-Lock™ external support system ensures shoe is pulled snugly around the midfoot. Reflective detailing enhances visibility. N-Durance™ rubber outsole gives maximum durability. Wt. 7.2 oz. Though finding a model this time is a bit tough, the reviews should easily convince you that this belongs with the top rated running shoes.

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The featured best rated running shoes were wear-tested and reviewed to help you find the perfect fit shoes for you. How about you? What’s your best rated running shoes?

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Positive Body Effects of Distance Running

Our body reacts to strenuous activity like distance running in two ways: acute reaction and training effect. Acute reaction is when your heart rate speeds up, your stroke volume increases, your ventilation rate and depth of breathing increase, your blood pressure rises, and your muscles feel some fatigue. However, when an activity becomes regular routine to you, you will eventually feel the second reaction which is the training effect.

It is when your body gets used to chronic exercise; your muscles feel stronger and less discomfort to physical activity. Through training, your blood flow increases that it allows you to produce more energy and less lactic acid to accumulate during exercise. Your resting heart rate becomes slower caused by a stronger heart that can pump more blood per beat. You will also most likely develop a lighter, springier step, lower resting blood pressure, lower body weight, and less fat under the skin.

Your body now can tolerate stress and ready for competitive efforts. “The system you stress during exercise is the one that stands to benefit from the stress,” wrote Jack Daniels in his book Daniels’ Running Formula. However, the principle of specificity restricts you to achieve gains through performing another activity. By doing another activity, you take yourself away from your primary interest and might produce results that limit performance in your main activity. Long distance running has negative effect on performing explosive leg activities like sprinting and jumping. Thus, you must give considerable thought to every aspect of your training and you must keep in mind that everything you do affects you and your body’s reaction.

Adding a new level of stress on top of your current training further increases your fitness level. In distance running, if you have performed a training routine regularly and reached a stable level of proficiency, you can possibly take more training modifications (for frequency, duration, intensity, or recovery) which will lead you to a new level of fitness. For example: you can increase the training frequency from three to four days per week, you can increase the amount of training from three to four miles per session, or you can increase the distance of each interval from one mile to one half and a half each. Another possible modification is to change the recovery time allowed between the mile runs within a workout.

Sticking with a training program for longer than six weeks produces more benefits. If you want to increase training, the best time is after six weeks of adapting to a specific training stress. The primary risk of increasing training too often and too soon is an escalated risk of injury and overstress. There are limits to training for distance running.

Overstressed system can affect variety of activities other than just the activity that caused the damage. For example, a stress fracture in leg caused by too much running or improper running can restrict a runner from doing other activities that stress the injured extremity. Thus, it is important to watch out for abuses that you can possibly do as you try to reach your goals. You must learn to accept that even you are physically active; your body has still limits that dictate your success.

In distance running, few people realize their limits and improvements are always possible. However, keep in mind to take things at the perfect timing.

Running World is a resource center for runners providing running tips for beginners, basic running training guides and program. It aims to provide information and form a community of runners around the globe.

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Three of the Best Running Shoes in the World

Three of the Best Running Shoes in the World

It pays to get the best equipment when you are exercising. For running, this equipment would be running shoes.
There are many brands of running shoes. A runner who has enough money can buy the best brands of running shoes. The best running shoes can offer unparalleled comfort, style and safety.
One of best running shoes in the market is the New Balance 803. These shoes are lightweight and comfortable. Aside from that, the New Balance 803 is also very stable. Ankles are less likely to lean out of position. In fact, its stability is one of its best features. A runner can even hike over rough terrain without losing his balance. New Balance 803 also has very good traction.
Another shoe that can be considered as one of the best running shoes in the world is the New Balance 761. This pair of shoes has a lot of flexible cushion. The soles are quite thick and durable. The heels are designed to be thicker than front. This makes the shoe roll easier on the balls of the feet. The insides are lined with terrycloth which prevents chaffing.
Light reflecting fabrics are sewn into the exterior of the shoe. This makes walking or running at night safe. However, these fabrics cannot easily be seen during the day so the shoes won’t look tacky.
The only disadvantage about this shoe is that it bends easily and stays bent. To prevent this, the runner must untie the shoes when stowing them or before putting them back on.
For some, the best running shoes come not from New Balance but from Nike. The Nike Shox TL is one of the company’s best running shoes. It is has one of the most stylish and innovative designs. The sole of the shoe is not solid at all. Instead, it incorporates a unique 11 column design in which the columns look like springs. However, the sole design allows gravel and large debris to be stuck between the individual columns.
The construction of the sole and the waffle outsole provides maximum shock absorption. The design also gives excellent traction for runners, whether they are running on the pavement or on an outdoor dirt road.
One of the best features of the Shox TL is its ventilation system. This is provided by a soft yet durable mesh which allows air to freely circulate within the shoe. This makes the feet relatively dry and cool, thus making the shoe very comfortable to wear.
There are other shoes out there that could be considered as one of the best running shoes. Checking the internet or browsing a shoe or sports magazine will give the runner an idea of what these shoes are.

 

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Asics GT-2160 Running Shoe

Motion Control Running Shoes

For a normal gait person, as he moves a step forward, his heel touches the ground first then the arch of his foot followed by his forefoot and toes. The normal footprints would depict a heel, a bridge connecting to the metatarsus, and the toes. This is the normal gait, the heel which rolls to the arch then the forefoot and toes.

What happens in a flatfooted individual is quite different. As his heel touches the ground, it rolls to the whole sole of his foot followed by the toes. The resulting footprint would be his entire foot sole imprinted with a little or no indication of an arch. This is an indication of over-pronation, when the heel strikes the ground and rolls inward as the step completes its motion. Over time, this causes injuries and the most common indication of untreated over-pronating feet is the knee slightly bent inward with the feet splayed slightly apart.

Before, motion control running shoes are used exclusively for runners to correct their gait (over pronation). But over time, motion control running shoes are used as a corrective shoe on normal people who over-pronate while they walk.

If you belong to the category of flat footed individuals who over-pronate while walking, get yourself a motion control shoe and prevent a serious injury. Here are samples of motion control running shoes I find available over the internet.

Motion Control Running Shoes for Men

Saucony ProGrid Guide 4

Saucony Progrid 4Price: $100
Weight: 11.6 oz
Where to Get It: http://runningandmarathon.com/saucony-progrid-4

The perfect everyday training shoe! The ProGrid Guide 4 is the next rendition of the award winning ProGrid Guide 3. Ideal for light stability runners, the Guide 4 offers a dual density midsole for motion control and support throughout the entire gait cycle – ensuring a great run every time!

Saucony ProGrid Guide 4 Running Shoe Features:

  • The perfect light stability, everyday training shoe
  • Dual density midsole slows down any mild overpronation
  • Smooth transition and ride allows for a great run
  • Weight: 11.6 oz

ASICS® Gel-Foundation 9

ASICS® Gel-Foundation 9 - Men'sPrice: $100 – ON SALE @ $80
Weight: 13.3 oz
Where to Get It: http://runningandmarathon.com/asics-gel-foundation-9-mens

The ASICS® GEL-Foundation® 9 running shoe continues to address the needs of the moderate to severe overpronator. This update features improved fit and comfort along with all the stability features that have made the series one of the industry’s best sellers. Rearfoot and forefoot GEL® Cushioning Systems attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle. ComforDry™ sockliner, separate cushioning performance and anti-microbial properties for a cooler, drier, healthier enivornment. SpEVA® midsole improves bounce back characteristics and decreases midsole breakdown. DuoMax® Support System is positioned to enhance support and stability, positioned sport specifically. Personal Heel Fit (PHF™) foam lines the collar and molds to the heel, creating a personalized fit.

 

Motion Control Running Shoes for Women

Nike Air Structure Triax Women’s Running Shoe

Price: $100 – ON SALE @ $80
Weight: Wt. 10.2 oz.
Where to Get It: http://runningandmarathon.com/nike-zoom-structure-triax-12

Nike Zoom Structure Triax + 12

The Nike Air Zoom Structure Triax+ 12 running shoe offers a superb mix of stability, cushioning and flexibility. Breathable sandwich mesh upper with supportive overlays and welds provides a secure, lightweight fit. Firm heel counter adds pronation control. Zoom Air™ in the heel and forefoot combine with a dual-density, decoupled Crash Pad, supportive footbridge and flexible forefoot for a smooth ride. Large Duralon™ insert offers outstanding cushioning, longevity and traction. Asymmetrical arch gives support and sufficient torsion. BRS 1000™ carbon rubber heel.

 

Asics GT-2160 Running Shoe

Price: $100 – ON SALE @ $75
Weight: Wt. 10.2 oz.
Where to Get It: http://runningandmarathon.com/asics-gt-2160
Millions of runners have enjoyed the consistent fit, stability and comfort of this economically priced high-end performance shoe. Now with Guidance Line for a more efficient gait cycle, and reduced overall shoe weight.

Asics GT-2160 Running Shoe Features:
  • Impact Guidance System (I.G.S.) (RUNNING): ASICS Design Philosophy. Employs linked componentry that enhances the foot’s natural gait from heel strike to toe-off.
  • Guidance Line: Vertical flex groove decouples the tooling along the line of progression for enhanced gait efficiency.
  • Gender Specific Space Trusstic System: Recognizes the normal periodic changes in the shape of the woman’s arch and provides for the controlled deformation of the arch into the space within the system.
  • ComforDry Sockliner: Provides cushioning performance and anti-microbial properties for a cooler, drier, healthier environment.
  • Solyte Midsole Material: A lighter weight midsole compound than ASICS’ standard EVA and SpEVA. Also features enhanced cushioning and durability.
  • DuoMax Support System: A dual density midsole system positioned to enhance support and stability, positioned sport specifically.
  • Dual Density Solyte Lasting: Employs different densities of Solyte lasting material in heel and forefoot for improved comfort.

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Ironman Triathlon: Distance Running, Swimming and Biking in One

Ironman Triathlon: Distance Running, Swimming and Biking in One

If climbing a few flights of stairs already leaves you panting at the top step, then you would no doubt pass out if you try to finish even the first leg of the Ironman Triathlon—a combination race of long distance running, swimming, and biking, which must be finished all in a row by an individual.
Considered as the most challenging race and endurance event across the globe, the Ironman Triathlon is an annual race held in Hawaii since 1978. It started out when U.S. Navy Commander John Collins proposed that there be a race combining swimming, running, and biking. It was then just an answer to the long-standing debate between the local athlete clubs on which athlete is greater—the swimmer, the sprinter, or the cyclist.
Thus, on February 18, 1978, Hawaiians held the first Ironman Triathlon. It was participated in by 15 individuals. Twelve completed the three-pronged race, which consists of a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, and 26.2-mile run—definitely a piece of cake. And the first to cross the finish line that day? A former Navy communication specialist named Gordon Haller. Considered the first ever Ironman, he completed the race in 11 hours, 46 minutes, and 58 seconds. Well, nothing’s really amazing if someone had run, swum, and biked for half a day without rest, right?
Today, held by the World Triathlon Corporation around October each year, the race is still held in Hawaii—the swimming leg in Kailua-Kona Bay, the cycling stretch on the lava desert to Hawi, and the running marathon by the shores from Keauhou to Kailua-Kona.
Thousands of athletes and non-athletes alike flock to Hawaii each year to participate and test their endurance in the Ironman Triathlon. Before the competition, participants are briefed on the rules and parameters of the competition. And, I bet, not a few had permanently etched in their brains the Ironman’s trademarked motto printed on the last page of the rules hand-out as if to challenge the racers—“Swim 2.4 miles! Bike 112 miles! Run 26.2 miles! Brag for the rest of your life!” If only that motto is so easy to carry out on your own.
But then, the motto doesn’t say you should win so you can “brag for the rest of your life,” does it? That’s why for many people who join it, winning is actually just icing on the cake—and the “cake” is finishing the race.
Julie Moss is the best example. Not really much of an athlete, she joined the Ironman marathon in 1982 simply to get data for her exercise physiology thesis. She was leading the race and was only few hundred yards away from the finish line when fatigue and dehydration finally took their toll on her body. Videos documenting her struggle to finish the race show Moss constantly buckling, falling to the ground, and picking herself up only to walk on like a drunkard on Jell-O legs.
Kathleen McCartney, the participant coming next to her, was a good 20 minutes behind her. But because of Moss’ falls, she caught up and got to the finish line a few seconds before Moss. Not a few TV stations aired Moss literally crawling the last few yards to the finish line. Now, how many people in the world can complete such a series of long distance running, swimming, and biking? Well, count in everyone with an iron will.

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Trail Runners Running to Stand Still

Trail Runners Running to Stand Still

A different offshoot from track and road running events, trail running is a different breed of running competition. Mostly taking place on hiking trails, trail running courses commonly use trails inaccessible by road. Trail runners are expected to face a course traversing on various terrain types, rocky roads, narrow passages, hills, soft underfoot conditions and steep inclines.
It isn’t really a wonder why trail runners invest in high quality trail running shoes, considering what they have to face in a trail running race.
Trail runners enjoy their passion for the outdoors in recreational trail running runs, as well as organized trail races. Though commonly running in groups, trail runners basically engage trail running as an individual sport, with distances ranging from five kilometers, ten kilometers, twenty kilometers, thirty kilometers, fifty kilometers, even up to a hundred miles. Trail runners are faced with the challenging their stamina levels, their running speed, and their navigation skills.
As an Ultra Marathon event, which are characterized as events going beyond 42.195 kilometers, which is the standard distance of a Marathon Run, trail runners are not only left to face the challenges in running a long distance course, they have to deal with the elements of nature as well.
The Western States Endurance Run, known also as the Western States 100, poses to be the quintessential Ultra Marathon devoted trail runners categorize as “have to be part of”. Other organized events for trail runners include the New England Trail Racing Circuit, also known as the “Grand Tree” and the “Lakeland Trails” of Great Britain, which is known to be well attended by trail runners, with over 3000 participants in 2006.
Trail runners have grown in population as trail running has grown popular throughout the world. The United States alone has over 6.7 trail runners, with over 40 million all over the world. Mountainous areas like California and the Western parts of the United States are notorious to have a heavy following of trail runners.
Though with all the challenges trail runners have to face, there remains a beauty in trail running, not often experienced in a running competition, or recreational running activity. Because trail runners take on courses set deep into woodlands, trail runners enjoy the wonders of nature during a trail run.
Trail runners are left treated to nature’s solitude, leaving them to pace themselves at their own pace, calmly. One could say trail runners are running to stand still, figuratively. Of course, lack of knowing the course’s trail could lead to trail runners getting lost, which of course would be a bad thing.

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