Take Advantage of Summer Sales at Gyms
Tuesday July 14, 2009
My husband and I got a flyer in the mail recently letting us know that a local gym is offering half-price memberships. The bad news for us is that we're already members and therefore not eligible for the reduced price. Ever since then, I've noticed lots of gyms offering similar specials. It makes sense – summer is a slow time for health clubs, so they need to attract more members with enticing specials.
Although summer may seem like the wrong season to start working out at a gym, think about how many times you've missed an outdoor summer run because of rainy or hot weather. Treadmill running is a great option when weather or other circumstances prevents you from running outside. Also, taking advantage of the cardio machines and weights at the gym is perfect for cross-training and injury prevention.
If you're not a member of a gym, now's a fantastic time to look into reduced memberships at gyms and lock in a deal. If you already belong to a gym that's offering a special, see if your gym will offer the reduced prices to you. It's worth a shot, especially if your membership is up for renewal soon. You can suggest that you won't renew unless you get a reduced rate. Even if your gym isn’t currently offering a discount, it's still worth asking for a reduction. Many gyms are suffering from low membership numbers right now, so they may be willing to negotiate with you rather than risk losing you.
More:
Get Through Tough Runs
Monday July 13, 2009
Ever have one of those runs when you feel like your legs could go forever, but you just can't mentally get through the run? It happens to me every couple of weeks. Sometimes it's boredom and other times my mind is just somewhere else and I can't focus on the run.
Even if you're a huge running enthusiast, you may have those days when your body is willing to keep running but your head just isn't into it. Here are some tips to help get through those tough runs:
- Run with others.
Whether it's because of peer pressure, the distraction of conversation, the motivational support, or maybe a combination of all three, runners who buddy up with friends usually find that they can run longer. If you usually run alone, ask a friend or family member to join you, or find a running group near you.
- Change your route. When I'm struggling mentally, it sometimes helps if I switch up my route in the middle of the run. If I already had my route all planned out, the change in my routine helps distract me and renews my interest in the run.
- Use a mantra. Picking a running mantra, or a short motivational phase, that you play over and over in your head while running can help you stay focused and centered. It can be your inner motivation when you need it most. Pick one that fits your running style and personality, such as: "Easy does it" or "Harder, faster, stronger" or "Never give up".
More:
Can I Run a Race With My Jogging Stroller?
Saturday July 11, 2009
I'm a huge fan of
jogging strollers, but when a running mom recently asked about running a race with her jogging stroller, I had to tell her it was a bad idea. I know race directors will agree with me and totally appreciate this PSA because they sometimes have a tough time enforcing jogging stroller bans in their races.
What's wrong with jogging strollers in races? Well, if you've ever run in a crowded race, you know how tough and exhausting it can be to try to maneuver around runners. When someone is pushing a stroller, it's even harder to work your way around them, and it's not fair to other runners to make them have to slow down.
It can also be unsafe for someone pushing a jogging stroller to try to move around other runners. Because most jogging strollers have a stationary front wheel, they can be difficult and awkward to turn. When trying to maneuver them in tight spaces, it's easy to clip someone or unknowingly cut someone off and cause a fall. It's also much harder to stop quickly when you're pushing a jogging stroller, so you run the risk of hitting into someone if they suddenly stop short in front of you.
Make it easier on yourself and run races stroller-free -- you'll definitely run faster. And if you really want to do a race with your little one, look for a walking event that is stroller-friendly.
More:
Slow Economy Leads to Faster Runners
Thursday July 9, 2009
I always read or watch the news hoping to hear something good about this terrible economy. Unfortunately, it's usually all doom and gloom. But I did finally hear about one positive result from this bad economy: More people are running, and they're running faster.
An
article in the Wall Street Journal reports that a recent trend in faster marathon times may be attributed to the high percentage of unemployed Americans. Looking for some structure in their lives, laid-off workers are joining competitive running groups and working toward improving their personal bests.
"With the economy in the doldrums, more people are discovering that without those 12-hour workdays, they're able to pursue fitness goals like never before. Marathons, triathlons and road races are filling up in record time," according to the article.
This article definitely confirms what I've seen on the running team that I coach. I've talked to many new runners who've said that being unemployed finally gave them the time to pursue a long-time goal of running a marathon.
It's really inspiring to hear about people who take a tough situation, like being out of a job, and see it as an opportunity for achievement. Rather than sitting on the couch feeling sorry for themselves, they're running and working toward a goal. It's a smart move for many reasons. I know lots of runners who've made professional contacts on their running teams, which led to job offers. Plus, the self-confidence and positive outlook that comes with training for a race can't hurt when it comes to landing a new job.
Related links:
