Tweet tweet!

Twitter: @runnersworld

Click here to visit Runners World's Twitter

Do you ever need a little bit of inspiration?

I stumbled upon Runners World on Twitter. Runners world is a magazine for runners with topics and articles that are much like the topics that I post about in my blog. 

A lot of times they will post links to articles that would be helpful to runners--people who are beginning, people who are experts, and people who are injured. 

Even if you do not use twitter, you can just google "@runnersworld on twitter" and it should be the first link to come up. I like to follow them because sometimes just seeing one of the quotes they posted, can give me the little reminder or boost that I need to exercise that day. 

There's no magic to running far...Endurance is mental strength. It's all about heart. 

@BearGrylls #MondayMotivation

^ The above is something they posted on Twitter this morning. 

Things like that can sometimes be the difference in lacing up those running shoes, or not. 

Check it out! :)

Find your SoleMate!

A running buddy might be just what you need!

Getting a running buddy can be a big help. Sometimes when you just don't want to get out there and run, having some one else can help! Often times, when we don't want to get out there and exercise, we're just feeling lazy; when you actually start running it's usually not as bad as it seemed while you were sitting on the couch. 

Even if you don't run with your buddy every time you go, it's good to have some one who is also a runner to talk to about problems motivating yourself, or simply to share running stories and experiences to inspire one another! 

It's also fun to have some one to go to races you're participating in with. Although, you don't want to limit yourself to running with your buddy, because you want to do your personal best, not their personal best. But, nevertheless, it's good to have some one to help you navigate your way through the crowds, and some one to line up with at the beginning of the race for one last bit of encouragement and a high five!

420 Healthy High!

Have you ever wanted to run in a road race?

OR

If you're already a runner, here's an opportunity to do another!

What is it?

The 5th Annual Healthy High Race takes place on April 20th, 2012. It is a race set up by Student Affairs. There is a 1 mile fun-run, a 5k (3.1 miles) and a 10k (6.2 miles). BUT, don't be intimidated by the word race! It's for fun :)

Registration?

You may register online here or pick up a form in the Office of Alcohol and Drug Education Programs in the Memorial Union. For students, if you present your Maine Card and apply in person the fee is only $5.00, if not a student, the fee is $10.00. 

Or... Spectate!

If you're just not up to running, the race starts and finishes right on campus. Go out and support your peers who are running for the cause! 

Shuffle Your Feet, and Shuffle Through Your Favorite Songs!

I recently purchased an iPod Shuffle to use just for fitness. I bought it on Amazon.com for only $45.00. It comes with a clip right on the back on the iPod, so it is easy to clip to a collar or waistband. It is very small, only about one square inch which is perfect when you're on the go. It only has a memory of 2GB, so I decided to use it for exercise; I only loaded upbeat, workout songs. 

Music can really help while running. Songs with a good steady beat help to keep you in check with steady footfalls. Also, music is just good for the mind! When a happy sounding song comes on, you can't help but get a little happy yourself!

I'm very please with my new iPod Shuffle, I recommend them for fitness music for sure! Try it out :)

TD Beach to Beacon 10K Road Race!

What is the Beach to Beacon? 

The Beach to Beacon is commonly referred to as "Joanie's Race," by the locals because former Olympian Joan Benoit Samuelson founded the race. It is a 10K (6.2 mile) race through the beautiful coastal town of Cape Elizabeth. Over 5,000 people run it annually, and those spots fill up quick!

How do I register? 

Registration begins Wednesday, March 14th at 7:00AM for Cape Elizabeth Residents only (600s spots), and general registration begins the following day Thursday, March 15th at 7:00AM. 5,000 spots are open for general registration. This race is so popular that registration has filled up within a half hour. So, if you wish to run in the race, be ready to sign up on your computer at promptly 7:00AM!

I have run in the Beach to Beacon twice and it's a great experience. There are thousands of spectators, and thousands of runners from all over the world every year. Even if you're not running yourself, it's definitely something to go see! 

Have a Race Coming Up?

Many runners run on their own time, as well as compete in road races. There are countless road races ran all over the country and plenty to choose from in your home state, any time of the year. This entry is aimed more at beginner runners, but these tips can be good reminders for any runner on what to do on race day!

Getting Ready

1) DO NOT wear anything new. Lots of people will buy great new gear--shoes, clothing, etc--and that's great, but trying out anything new on race day is not the way to go! Running shoes especially need to be broken in, and should not be used for long distances the first time they are worn, this can cause blisters on the feet, and plain old soreness! Wear something good and reliable that you've had a lot of experience running in before. 

Start of the Race

2) Start off slow! If the race you're running in is longer that a 5k (3.1 miles) then it is usually best to start off a little bit slower in order to conserve your energy and not "burn out" too quickly. For 5k's, many runners run a fairly quick pace through out the whole race. It is quite a short distance, so it is not as important to have a slow start, unless of course, you're beginning or your longest training run reaching only 3 to 4 miles. 

During the Race

3) Drink water! A lot of times it is not very convenient to carry a bottle of water while running, so almost all races offer water on course. Typically, they fill up dixie cups with water from a cooler and hold them out to the runners. But how do you drink and run at the same time? It is an art, for sure. I have still not yet mastered it, and usually end up with some water on my shirt, but there is a method. Squeeze the cup so the lip of the cup folds, and the opening is a long rectangular shape, then pinch one side so the opening becomes very small and then you are able to tilt the cup and drink out of the small hole - potentially this can be spill free!

Need A Boost?

Have you ever been excercising and just needed a little extra kick?

Clif's new Shot Block's are a low calorie fruit chew. They are ideal for long runs because they help to restore some of the energy that is being expended.

What's so great about them?
          - They replace carbs and electrolytes during activity
          - They contain caffeine to boost alertness and energy
          - They are only 33 calories per cube
          - Their slim shape and pacaking makes for easy storage
          - They come in a variety of flavors
          - Many of the ingredients are organic
          - They aid in hydration, and muscle recovery

Peronsally, I think they taste great and they have quick results. Some times all you need is one small block and you're good to go!