Becoming a runner can be a rewarding and transformative experience. Still, it also comes with its own set of challenges and quirks that can be hard to understand until you actually become a runner yourself. Here are a few things that you may only understand after becoming a runner:
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It’s that time of year again: the start of a new year, a chance to reflect on the past and set goals for the future. If you’re like many people, you’ve probably made a New Year’s resolution or two, with the best of intentions to follow through on them. But if you’re also like many people, you’ve probably struggled to keep those resolutions in the past.
Here are some tips to help you stay on track with your resolutions and make real progress in the coming year:
Read the rest of this entry »The last time I ran a half marathon was over 6 years ago at the Rock ‘n’ Roll Nashville half marathon. My expected and actual finish time surprisingly matched at 1:40. With all of life’s challenges and the level of effort to run consistently, I’m quite proud of my results for this race. Official results: 1:45:03 (8:01 min/mile), Age Group: 9/66, Overall 110/923. Read on for details on training, race day, and post-race thoughts.
Read the rest of this entry »Disclaimer: I received an entry to the Thrive San Diego Half Marathon to review as part of being a BibRave Ambassador. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Ambassador, and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews!
The Kaiser Permanente Thrive Half Marathon and 5K is the perfect way to celebrate six years of giving back and staying active in the community. The scenic loop course starts and ends at Vacation Island in Mission Bay, making this race perfect for runners of all skill levels. Age group awards will be awarded to the top three finishers in each age group.
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Disclaimer: I received an entry to the Hot Chocolate 15K/5K to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews!
It’s been a few years since I last ran the Hot Chocolate 15K/5K but was definitely looking forward to this year. The initial plan was to run the 5K but I decided to try running the 15K instead. The training leading up to the race was pretty limited, mostly 3 mile runs with a few longer runs here and there. If anything, I would have used this as a long, training run for another race in the future. The event was very well organized, there were safety precautions at the race expo and all the different booths and stations were spread out the morning of the race. When you register for the race, you choose your estimated pace/finish time which then places you in a specific corral for the start of the race. None of the corrals were too crowded which was good to see. Here are the official results: 9.3 miles, 1:12:18, 7:46 min/mile. 45 out of 1,841 place overall, 28 out of 601 place for men, and 5 out of 72 place in my age group.
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You should understand the risks of running during a thunderstorm and decide if it’s worth the risk for you. There are certainly risks to running during a severe thunderstorm warning. However, as long as you take precautions and know what to look out for you will be better equipped to deal with severe conditions.
If you choose to run in a thunderstorm, remember to keep track of the weather. Particularly avoid thunderstorms with the risk of lightning, and please be aware of the differences between severe thunderstorms and regular ones.
Runners are a determined breed who, oftentimes, are not deterred when their plans are interrupted by inclement weather. But sometimes good judgment should rule overdetermination, and in the case of practice during severe thunderstorms, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Below we lay out precautions you could take if you find yourself caught in a storm while running.
Thunderstorms are common in the spring and summer. While it may be safe to go for a run during most thunderstorms, there is a risk of being struck by lightning or flash floods. Be aware of weather conditions before you head out and use your best judgment.
Did you know that only 69% of people on New Year’s Day make a resolution to improve their health or live a healthier lifestyle? The remaining 31% of us are back at square one. There is nothing wrong with accepting responsibility for your own health and well-being, taking action to improve your life, and approaching it from the mindset that there is no finish line. Define where you want to go and how you plan to get there and look for resources and inspiration along the way.
To become stronger, fitter, and healthier in the coming year, remember that intentions are important, but they are not enough. Having a plan is also essential. What works for some people might not be right for others, as every individual is different. To ensure success, perhaps one of the above options could help you develop your own program and personalize your New Year’s resolution to improve your health and fitness routine this coming year.
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Staying active is a lifestyle choice, and we recommend making it one that you stick to throughout all four seasons. But, of course, that’s easier said than done for everyone all the time. There are always going to be factors, like weather conditions like snow or ice. So before you let the winter weather get you down this year, follow these tips to stay motivated and on track during the winter months. Whether you live in a warmer climate or just need some motivation to take walks outside again and get back into your daily workouts routine, these tips can help you stay active through the off-season.
Read the rest of this entry »You are probably familiar with the usefulness of carrying around a quality, high-powered flashlight. However, have you considered the benefits of owning a headlamp as well? A headlamp has similar uses to a flashlight, with the added benefit of being hands-free. Read on for five things you need a headlamp for.
If you are someone who goes on week-long backpacking adventures or someone who would rather go car camping, you need to come prepared with a headlamp. If you are backpacking long distances, you may sometimes end up carrying your things early in the morning or into the evening. While carrying all of your supplies in and out, it’s important to keep your hands as free as possible to help you climb or catch your fall in case you trip on something. If you are camping out of your car or a cabin, you may overlook the need for a headlamp. However, headlamps are extremely useful when you are cooking breakfast or dinner around the campsite.
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The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in gyms and fitness classes pausing all operations. The threat of COVID-19 infections and deaths, loss of jobs, and the uncertainty of normal living has led to an abundance of stress across the globe. With gyms closed, consumers began purchasing exercise equipment to work from home. Running is one of the cheapest forms of exercise since all you really need is a pair of running shoes. Unless you are buying used exercise equipment, they can get very expensive. Anyone can get into running, they can start by walking, work their way to jogging then running. Running helps release endorphins and stress that has been building up since the pandemic began.
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