Prepping for Your First (or Tenth) Marathon

Last month, we explored the origin and history of the mother of all races: the marathon. Today I’d like to share some tidbits that every aspiring marathon runner should know, whether this will be your first time at the starting line or a seasoned marathon veteran.

26.2 or Bust!

A History of the Modern Marathon

We’ve all seen the ubiquitous “26.2” oval bumper stickers plastered on cars around town. Most of us understand that the digits represent the number of miles in the modern marathon. A handful of our stalwart readers are probably marathon veterans themselves. But what gives? Where does that seemingly random distance come from? Who tacked that killer final quarter of a mile (am I right, marathoners?) on to the end of a nice roundish number?

It All Started with the Greeks

5 Ways to Have a Better Treadmill Experience

Climate, convenience, rehab — no matter WHY you choose treadmill time, the fact remains that stationary running can become tedious in a hurry. Here’s a quick list of ways to improve your treadmill experience.

1. Entertain Yourself

Treadmill workout time doesn’t have to mean just staring blankly at the gym wall. Keep your mind engaged or distracted to help pass the time and prevent (or lessen) boredom. Some facilities position their stationary equipment with a view out the front windows. This makes for great people watching!

Leader of the Pack

If you’re like me (and millions of other Americans), you love running almost as much as you love dogs. Having your canine companion as a wingman is a great way for you both to get fresh air, exercise and loads of quality time together. However, dog bodies need to warm up to running the same as human bodies do. So take it easy on your pup at the start.

Follow these simple tips to enjoy a happy and healthy run with your dog.

Consult Your Physician

Running with Asthma

Asthma doesn't have to keep you from enjoying a daily run, sports or even a marathon. With proper medication and some common sense precautions, runners who have asthma — whether chronic asthma or exercise-induced asthma (EIA) — can keep stride with the rest of the pack.

Medical Guidance for Asthma

Good Game: 5 Habits for Healthy Running

Whether you’re an expert road runner or just starting out, it pays to build good habits. The following list of five healthy running habits will help you succeed at any level. But remember, they only become habits through repetition!

1. Set Goals

5 Tips to Get Your Co-Workers Running

Let’s face it. Many of us have jobs which require us to sit for hours on end, with little opportunity for exercise. This is the perfect reason to get yourself — and your co-workers — out of the cubicles and on to the road!

These 5 tips will show you how to start and maintain a running club with your co-workers. Of course, these same principles can be applied to people at church, school, or anywhere else large groups of peers gather to sit for long periods.

 

Let's Talk Time

Many people don’t realize that February is National Time Management Month. Clearly, the intent is to raise awareness for improving how best to handle your personal or work responsibilities. But it seems like a good opportunity to talk about the importance of accurate race timing management.

 

It’s Your Name On The Line

Make Small Steps to a Better You

As we cross the finish line of another year, it’s important to look ahead at the new year to come and to set some goals — whether that means improvements in your personal life, professional development, or even just hitting new marks in your training and endurance.

I personally put a lot of stock in what leadership guru Robin Sharma has to say about the matter: “Greatness begins beyond your comfort zone.”

Road Rules You Can Use

Road Rules You Can Use

A big part of the joy we derive from running can be found in the fresh air, change of scenery and the variation of challenge levels afforded by taking our hobby to the great outdoors. I’d pick a trip through the hills (or even the city) over a treadmill any day of the week. But it behooves us to remember some simple safety tips to keep from running into trouble. Many of these appear to be common sense, but they’re worth repeating here.

Dress For Success