So I'm going all out! I've washed my car (twice!), packed away my gloves and sweaters, and dusted off the old running shoes. For me, Spring means being able to take half of my workout outside and enjoy the beautiful day. I love the smells of Spring: the fragrance of flowers and trees budding, the sweet scent of dew in the early morning, and even the calming aroma just before a thunderstorm or gentle rain shower. Most of all, I love that it gets me out of the apartment for a short while.
So here are some great ways to kick off your new workout schedule and put a little Spring in your step!
- If it's been awhile since you've taken to the open road. You may want to review some of the unspoken rules of running. This may be especially helpful if you have moved since your last running experience and are exploring new territory. I found this great article that covers the basics. Take a look to make sure you don't get on anyone's bad side.
- I don't know about you, but I'm in desperate need of a new pair of running shoes. As much as I've grown attached to my good old Asics, they are just plain worn out! I'm not certain if I want to get a new pair of the same shoe I've been using, or try a new shoe all together. If you are thinking about upgrading or have never found a shoe that works for you, make sure you take your time. Choosing the right running shoe is very important and can make or break your run...literally. I used to work at a shoe store that specialized in finding the right shoe for your foot type and running style. There are several around, so make sure you search for a full-service running store (or shoe store with knowledgeable salespeople). If you're in the Kansas City area, check out Tradehome Shoes in the Independence Center Mall. If you are somewhere else, check this website to see if there is a Tradehome near you: http://www.tradehome.com/locations. Here are some tips to a successful (and stress free) shopping experience:
- Make sure you tell the sales associate exactly what you are looking for and how you will be using your shoes. Be careful not to get too hooked on one specific style or brand that you saw in an advertisement or heard about from a friend. Ads are supposed to make it look appealing, but it might not be the best choice for you. And while friendly recommendations are great, chances are what works great for your friend won't be the right shoe for you.
- If you don't know what foot type you are, that's okay. The salesperson can measure you and analyze your gait to find out what type of shoe you will need. In fact, even if you think you know your foot type and size, let them measure you anyway. Over time, your arches can fall and your feet can get bigger and smaller, so it's best to double check. Besides, this is their job! If you let a sale associate do their job, they are much more likely to find you what you need. It is not only annoying for the salesperson for you to cut them off every five seconds, but you don't allow yourself the opportunity to relax and enjoy the experience if you are trying to take control of everything. If you are at the proper store, everyone should know how to measure your feet and analyze your gait. But if by chance you get a newbie in training, ask for the manager. A manager or assistant manager must be in the store at all times, and they can take over and assist you in finding what you are looking for.
- Don't be afraid to give them a price limit, they will actually appreciate as much information as you can give them. Most shoe stores will have something just right for you if you are fully open with them about what it is you want. And if they don't have exactly what you are looking for, a good store can either order it in for you or tell you where you can find it.
- Be open to trying everything on. Finding a good running shoe is about comfort and performance, and while nobody wants to wear a shoe they don't like to look at, appearance is not the most important factor. Give everything a chance, even if you think it is hideous. You might just find the perfect shoe that you would've otherwise overlooked. And don't be surprised if it looks better on your foot than in the box!
- If you are a person who likes to browse a little before you go out shopping, Runner's World has just released it's Spring 2011 Running Shoe Guide. Get some great ideas and reviews from other runners, but remember don't get stuck on one particular shoe.
- If you haven't been sticking to your New Year's resolution of eating better, now's the time to start! Finding the best ways to fuel your body pre-workout and replenish your system after will help you get the most out of your run. Check out these tips to healthy eating for runners: The Healthy Runner's Diet. If this is not your cup of tea, I also have previously posted some great articles and links on healthy eating. Just as with running shoes, not every eating plan works for every person. Find the one that fits your lifestyle and your schedule.
- If you're really getting into this running thing you may want to check out these other articles from Runner's World. Learn the keys to Recover Better and Run Stronger. If you constantly deal with tight muscles, find out how you can benefit from Simple Yoga for Runners.
I am looking forward to kicking off this Spring with a bang, and I hope you are too. It's important to be prepared to accomplish whatever goals you have set for yourself this year. Take the right steps, and you will be running like a pro before I can say SUMMER!
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