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Wednesday, 30 March 2011

What a difference a month makes...

In the past few weeks the runners I hit the road with continue rack up the miles towards their half and full marathons.  The spirit to continue burns bright in each one of them - I take great pride in helping them prepare and have become a better runner by running along side them.
And, on a similar note we have 35 new runners who have made a commitment to learn to run and prepare to conquer the 5K distance.  This is monumental as we all know marathon runners one and all started out in similar fashion.
Again, it is inspiring to run and train with people who have committed to make a change in their lives by working towards a specific goal.  My hat goes off to each and everyone one of the FITNESSfive42 runners who have become their own agents of change.
Run Strong and dare to dream big!
Keep up the good work...
David (F542)

Tuesday, 29 March 2011

And the beat goes on...

Tonight is another training run for my marathon runners...we continue to ramp up our mileage and will soon be running 80kms per week; more if we actually counted cross-training and specificity training.  We have been focusing on race profiles, distance &endurance and will revisit fartleks tonight. But, tonight the fate of my runners will be in their hands; each runner will call out a pace and identify an objective point to be reached at the selected pace as we run our speed drills.  It should be fun and will undoubtedly include a little payback for yours truly.  Oh my aching bones!
Run Strong and wish me luck!
David (F542)

Sunday, 20 March 2011

A few words on Destination races...

If nothing else destination races give you a chance to literally run around and explore new surroundings.

If you sit back and recall your experiences during a recent trip you may have seen quite a lot of your travel destination through the eyes of a tour operator, looking out of a train, car or bus window and maybe even took a moment to talk to a native of the area while standing in line somewhere....

In today’s world travel is accessible and no longer considered a privilege of the moneyed elite. There are travel channels with dozens of shows on television, vacation trade shows, cruise conventions and online travel discounters galore. The sky is literally the limit when it comes to travel.

As runners, we know the journey is as important as, if not more so than the destination. Reaching the finish line isn’t always the point or goal of training to eventually running a race; be it 5K, a full marathon or an ultra distance event. The true experience of running a race is everything that happens from the moment you commit and the moment you stoop to have a medal hung around your neck.

Deciding to run a race is a lot like planning a vacation...there is a sense of anticipation that intensifies as the date draws near. Increasingly, tourists who run and runners who travel have started travelling to “bucket-list” destinations to do two things: go somewhere new and participate in a prestigious running event; and like the age old question of what came first, the chicken or the egg, it’s difficult to determine if the inspiration lies in the destination or the race. In any event; who cares...the point is that destination races are about managing the expectations that come with training and vacation planning.

As I said, it isn't just about the destination...it's about dreaming and working toward getting there. It's about maintaining the motivation to keep your training up, saving your pennies and watching your diet; not only to be an effective runner or a frugal tourist but also to be able to fit into a bathing suit comfortably without spilling out over the waist band - once the race is done it’s R&R time...so be ready to enjoy (and remember there’s nothing wrong with wearing your medal to dinner later that evening)...You earned it!.

A destination race can be as far away or as near to home as you want it to be; however, it should be at least a 4 hour drive away and include, at the very least, one night away from home. Once you have a destination race under your belt you will know that the pleasures you derive from the experience emanate from the sacrifices and hard work it took to get you there. Running the destination race is more about celebrating everything that had to be accomplished from start to finish and not necessarily about how fast you crossed the finish line.

So why not get started, spin the globe; throw a dart at a map or just plan to go someplace you have always wanted to visit. Then check out the local running scene by googling local running stores, running clubs or http://www.marathons.ahotu.com/ to see what, when and where a challenging road race is scheduled to take place. And, be sure to recruit some like-minded road-warriors and adventurous travellers...as I said, everyone loves a destination race...so start spreading the joy.

Once the objectives have been set; each training run, drop of sweat and dollar saved, from there on in, will bring you closer to achieving your goal and experiencing everything that defines your destination race.

It’s a process that’s for sure; but make no mistake the intangibles: the opportunities for personal growth and the much anticipated sense of accomplishment, to name but two, will be priceless once all is said and done. And, years later when you look at the pictures, press the race-bib against your chest and don the medal for old time’s sake you’ll smile to yourself and reflect on the experience...it won’t be the same as recalling a relaxing vacation, instead you will re-live the rush of every moment and appreciate everything that went into getting you there...and by there; I mean the person you are at the time of reflection.

So, unless you’re a misguided youth, or your family owns a circus; it’s très cool to run away from home!

Run Strong!

David (aka F542)

Tuesday, 15 March 2011

Spring Fever...(and how to avoid it)

Ahh; spring is just a few weeks away...soon time to pack away the winter garb. It’s nice to see some green and of course get reacquainted with our shadows in the evening sun. However, as is the case with race day excitement be careful not to be fooled into going too fast or doing too much too soon. Although the sun may be shining la little longer during the day be sure not to under dress and catch a chill once the sun goes down. Same goes for mileage; don’t ramp up your outdoor mileage too soon if you’ve been training indoors over the winter months...the change in surface and sudden increase in mileage can (and will) lead to injury.

In most parts of North America spring and summer will last for a few weeks; maybe even a month or two, so remember that when you try to cram a week’s worth of mileage into the first few days of spring. So; if you want to have a long and successful warm-weather running season, try to adhere to the following recommendations:

1. Keep your distances and mileage under control. You will feel great and want to run, run, run...but before you do assess your conditioning and apply the 10% rule; don’t increase mileage by more than 10% from week to week.

2. There’s no need to rush, as I said the warm weather should last more than a few days...and remember to keep your pace moderate at the outset..once you shed the outer layers you’ll want to run like the wind. As they say: Speed Kills! Don’t get sidelined before you even get started. Again; develop a spring running plan and stick to it.

3. Assess your footwear; you may need to don a pair of cross-over trail shoes if you plan to run on multiple surfaces; especially if the thaw leaves the ground soft, pot-holed and uneven. Be sure of your footing. There is a big difference between running on hard-frozen ground, snow covered sidewalks, treadmills and unfamiliar spring running surfaces. Again, be wary of your surroundings; you don’t want to be laid-up just when the going gets good!

As with most things running related moderation and pacing are key; And, just like most watches this time of year...spring forward; keep track of time and try not to run too fast.

Happy Trails!


David (F542)

Monday, 14 March 2011

March is Nutrition Month (but you should be eating properly all year long...)

As you may know March if Nutrition month; and like most things that are good for you there is an overwhelming range of complicated information available to you.
However, if you adopt the following recommendations; basically, 6-Steps to a Healthier You  you`ll be well on your way to achieving a healthier lifestyle through proper nutrition.
1st Step:  Make a plan to eat better and be active more often. Set realistic goals to make this lifestyle possible for you.  Be specific about what you hope to achieve. Goals need to be measurable, realistic, personally rewarding and have a realistic timeframe.  Goals keep you on track and motivated along the way.  If you write them down they become a plan you can refer to often.
2nd Step:  Achieve a balance. A healthy diet combined with regular physical activity will help you achieve and maintain an ideal and healthy body weight while it also reduces your risk of weight related health problems. Strive to incorporate a balance between healthy eating and active living into your everyday life.  Before you know it; you WILL be living an active and healthy lifestyle.
3rd Step:  Watch your portion sizes. How much you eat is as important as what you eat. Most people eat much more than they think they do, consume portion sizes of foods and beverages that are right for your body size, age, and level of activity. A realistic understanding of portion sizes will help you maintain a healthy weight.
4th Step:  Eat more fruits and vegetables. As outlined in the Canada Food Guide a healthy diet includes five to ten servings of vegetables and fruits each day. They are naturally high in vitamins, minerals and fibre.  They help fill you up and are low in calories.  Make them a key source of your daily diet; they make great snack choices as well. 
5th Step:  Eat more whole grains. Most people eat less than half the recommended daily amount of fibre they need.  Choose whole grains like whole-wheat bread and high-fibre cereals.  They help reduce the risk of colon cancer, heart disease and other gastrointestinal disorders. Like fruits and vegetables fibre also makes you feel full while controlling your cholesterol and blood sugar.
6th Step:  Make healthy food choices.  Be informed by reading labels to help you choose foods that are higher in fibre and lower in fat and sugar. And, when preparing meals for you and your family use lower fat cooking and baking methods.
Just remember, that making informed decisions and setting realistic and achievable goals will help make it easier for you to adopt a healthier lifestyle and improve your health for the long-term.

Friday, 11 March 2011

Running: Brain Drain or Learning Boost? (The facts may very well surprise you...)

It has been scientifically proven that it is harder to solve challenging math problems while exercising vigourously.  This is due to the fact that exercise deprives the brain of fuel and oxygen to ensure the body's motor centres are well supplied and able to complete the intense physical tasks.  However, the brain is never as sharp as it is after a challenging run..after a run your brain chemicals are elevated and enhance your ability to learn and remember.  So if you want to be regarded as a brainiac at school or work be sure to run first thing in the morning.  Running is many things that's for sure -- and it turns out it's also the ultimate mental warm-up. 
Who knew?  

Thursday, 10 March 2011

As scheduled tonight is "Pizza & Movie Night" at SIM

Hi Runners; after much anticipation it's time to reward all of our hard work and celebrate our recent half marathon success.

As usual a quick 5K run around the Frazee Loop will get underway at 6:00 p.m. followed by pizza and the movie in the classroom.
  
Tonight's movie selection: "The Marathon Challenge" explores the science and biomechanics involved with running a marathon.  It provides a close-up of what goes on inside your body and looks into some of the risks runners may encounter along the way. I think some of you will be able to identify with what these athletes in training are going through.  If nothing else you will be inspired by the the human drama that unfolds on their journey of self discovery. 

However, I must say that I have been inspired by your dedication and commitment over what can best be described as an inhospitable winter.  Keep up the good work...
RUN STRONG: BE PROUD! 

I look forward to seeing everyone tonight.

David
(aka: F542)

Wednesday, 9 March 2011

At the finish line...

I have heard it said that finishing a marathon isn't just about athletic achievement. It's more a state of mind; a state of mind that says you believe that anything is possible. 

Tuesday, 8 March 2011

Focus - objects are going to seem a lot closer than they appear...

Hi Runners, we have all seen similar warnings in rear-view mirrors...unfortunately, we don't have these cautionary reminders when we train for a goal race or marathon.  The Bluenose is roughly 10 weeks away.  Loads of time right; well maybe, almost...I guess so.  Are you every really ready or prepared?  Is 10 weeks really just 70 days away?  Before you know it you’ll be at the Expo the day before the race wondering if you trained hard enough.  As the sign says, things are going to be a lot closer than they appear.  With 10 weeks to go it's time to review your progress to date, identify performance rough spots and develop a training plan to smooth them out.  At this stage you can run, your running base has been well established and your race plan sufficiently roughed in.  What do you need to review?  Do you need to focus on hills, speed work, finishing kick or just good old endurance?  When it comes to marathon distance running there is always room for improvement.  Isolate where the improvement is needed most and focus on it until there is no longer an issue; however, don't neglect everything else...you need to be a well oiled machine come race day. Maintenance is key; run a little a lot of the time...you know what I mean.  In the interim sign up for a midpoint race to gauge your overall preparedness, review your training logs and assess, assess, assess your strengths and do everything you can to eliminate any weaknesses. You must be honest with yourself now; if you sugar coat it early on you'll likely be sick to your stomach on race day.
Train Tough: Run with Pride!
F542    

Monday, 7 March 2011

It's a new week...why not try something different?

Hi All; you may have heard that variety is the spice of life; so why not add a little spice to your wellness routine?  Shake things up to keep them fresh; instead of the same old workout routine start from the last exercise and work back, run a new route, call an old friend to join you for a walk or make something different for supper.  The change doesn't need to be monumental to have an impact..and; as they say, with change comes opportunity.  Seize the day!

Sunday, 6 March 2011

Goffs Back to Basics 8-Miler - we're on our way...

Hi Runners we are heading to Goffs in a few minutes...hope to see you there.
Drive Safe: Run with conviction!
F542

Saturday, 5 March 2011

The Back to Basics 8 Mile Road Race.

Hi Runners!

Tomorrow marks the unofficial start of the Run Nova Scotia 2011 Race Calendar with The Back to Basics 8 Mile Road Race. The race starts at the Goffs Fire Hall on Old Guysborough Road (take the Aerotech Park exit off Hwy102 and follow the signs).


The race route is Out-and-Back and is come ready-to-race as there are no showers, lockers, or change rooms – so plan accordingly.


Date:  Sunday March 06, 2011,

Registration opens at 08:30 a.m.
Race starts at 10:00 a.m. (sharp!)


Entry Fee: $5.00 (there will be hot soup and other foods available at the end).


NOTE: Limited parking is available at the firehall so carpooling is advised if you can. If you do park on the road be sure you are well off the road surface and be sure not to park on the race route.


We hope to see you there...

Run Strong!

This morning's long run...Well Done! (05Mar11)

As always it was great getting out for a run with everyone...and a pleasure to meet new runners who have come to run with RUN542.  What first looked a little iffy weatherwise turned out to be an excellent morning for a long run.  Keep up the good work; run strong and keep believing...

You must BELIEVE in what you have set out to accomplish!

Hi Runners; wakey, wakey..looks like a fine morning for a run.  When it's cold and uninviting you need to believe in yourself and what you have set out to accomplish.  If you "say" you will that's one thing, but if you BELIEVE that you will...then you're well on your way to realizing success.  Remember the marathon is a journey of self discovery...right up until they hang a finishers medal around your neck.  Run Strong! 

Friday, 4 March 2011

Saturday Morning Long Run - 05 March 2011 (Route Card)

19 K Dart-i-fax  Loop d`Loop - Route Card

1.  Commodore Drive
2.  Right on Brownlow
3.  Run thru hotel parking lot (watch your step)
4.  Pedway to Highfield Park Dr.
5.  Left on path to Leaman
6.  Right on Albro Lake
7.  Left on Slayter
8.  Right on School St.
9.  Left on Victoria.
10.  Continue on Victoria and down to Ochterloney
11.  Left on Ochterloney
12.  Left and up Maple
13.  Left on Thistle
14.  Right on Slayter
15  Left on School St. to the bridge
16.  Cross Victoria onto Nantucket down to bridge
17.  Run over the MacDonald Bridge
18.  Left on Brunswick
19.  Right up Cornwallis St.
20.  Right on Gottigen to North St.
21.  Right on North down to bridge
22.  Run back over bridge
23.  Left on Wyse Rd.
24.  Right on Albro Lake
25.  Left on Leaman to path
26.  Path to Highfield Park Dr. (watch your step)
27.  Right on Highfield up to pedway
28.  Thru Aramark parking lot
29.  Left on Brownlow
30.  Left on Commodore back to SIM
31.  And that my hardcore marathoners is how you poke
       19K in the eye...Well Done!

A Few words on Aerobic Activity and Workplace Absenteeism

A recent study from the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that at least 20 minutes of aerobic activity five times a week reduced the number of sick days by 40% in comparison to those who average one day a week or less of aerobic activity.

Just imagine what a workplace Learn-to-Run and/or WALKfit Wellness Program could do for your company's bottomline...let FITNESSfive42 develop a Work Fit Program for the people that keep your organization running.

Drop us a line at:  fitnessfive42@live.ca

Thursday, 3 March 2011

Are you a runner?

It doesn’t matter if I’m facilitating a 5K Learn to run clinic or a Marathon training program; there is usually one runner who doesn’t think of them self as a runner.  The scene goes something like this:
F542:  “Great work everyone; excellent run...you dug down deep and went the distance.  It’s that type of dedication and focus that makes you all RUNNERS!”
Trainee:  “Oh, I’m not really a runner; I just like to get out and burn off a little stress.”
F542:  “Really, after all the kilometres you’ve run you don’t consider yourself a runner.”
Trainee:  “Not really; I’m a fifty minute 5K runner; not an elite by any stretch...me, no I’m not a runner.”
F542:  “Hmm, so you mean to tell me you signed up for a 5K clinic, have been running 3 times a week  with the rest of us for the past 7 weeks, bought stability shoes, a new jacket and wear a real technical Tee...but you’re not a runner; really? 
Trainee:  Yup, I just like to get up and go; and the people here are great!”
So the question begs to be asked; what does it take to be considered a runner?
Well you first need to look at your situation objectively.  If someone was to ask: Are you an Olympian?  The majority of people I know would say No...However, if someone asked:  Are you a runner?  That would be a different story all together.  Many of the people I know think of themselves as runners; why; well they have firsthand knowledge of at least 4 of the following:
1.       Put on a pair of running shoes and specifically go out for a run; not while evading capture, running from rabid dogs or trying to catch a bus; but rather they set aside time to go for a run at least once a week.
2.       Wear a dedicated pair of running shoes to run in; not a pair of street runners, but an actual pair of run-sport specific shoes.
3.       Know the difference between cotton and technical running fabric to the extent that they chose to run in tech gear and leave lowly cotton wearing for chores around the house.
4.       Know what a Garmin Forerunner is...
5.       Run a set route and have given it a name; i.e. the Lake Loop, the Mall Mile or the Heartbreaker Hill route; you get the picture...
6.       Know what Body Glide is...
7.       Know what Runner’s Nipple is all about; please refer back to Item 6.
8.       Have a bib with numbers and not crusty Pablum on it...
9.       Have been to a Wellness Expo to pick up a race kit.
10.    Have a least one piece of runner swag.
11.    Don’t laugh and snigger when someone says: FARTLEK
12.    Don’t say: Hill, when someone says: Hill repeat...(think about it; it’s funny...really it is)
13.    Know the difference between an IT Band, a laptop and U2.
14.    Wince when you hear about someone else’s’ Runner’s Knee or Shin Splints.
15.    Owns a runner’s utility belt and water bottle.
16.    Knows that sports Gel isn’t for your hair...
So I ask you:  Are you a RUNNER?

Just What is The Chance of a Lifestyle?

The Chance of a Lifestyle is a facilitated 8-week learn to run program, offered over the lunch hour or between shift changes, that will train participants to successfully run a distance of 5 kilometres by building individual fitness and achieving a series of realistic incremental goals. 

The facilitated training program includes scheduled noon hour runs, daily motivation, weekly goals, classroom instruction and online support.  The Chance of a Lifestyle has become a popular wellness program used to motivate and challenge participants in a supportive, fun and empowering group setting. 
Fitnessfive42 will expose your employees to the benefits of active living by delivering wellness and get fit programming to the workplace.

The Chance of a Lifestyle is just one of many active living programs that can be tailored to meet the needs of your unique workforce. 

At Fitnessfive42 we deliver wellness opportunities at an affordable price….however, the end result is always priceless! 

Read On...to see what everyone is talking about...

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