Category Archives: Running

Trying to run a sub-30 5k? Join the club!

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"The hardest step for a runner is the first one out of the front door."

As I was perusing Twitter the other day, I came across a tweet from Runner’s World promoting a new club set up by RW blogger Ted Spiker. The club is called the sub-30 club and its goal is to help motivate runner’s who are trying to run a sub-30 5K.

“What I’ve come to realize is that even though a 30-minute 5K is barge-like for many,” Spilker writes, “plenty of other runners are working their knickers off in an effort to drop the 3 for a 2.”

This could not be truer. While running a sub-30 doesn’t seem like a huge feat to seasoned runners, for the newer runners out there it is an admirable goal. I just started getting into running in February and while I haven’t run my first 5K yet, it’s my goal to run it in at least 29:59 minutes. To reach my target time, I thought I’d join the club and help out other runners who have the same goal.

So, if you’re trying to run a sub-30, or if you already have and are looking to help motivate some newer runners, join the sub club. We can all use a little extra motivation here and there so I would suggest joining on Facebook at The Sub-30 Club (from RW Big Guy Blog).

(While you’re at it, like my Facebook page to stay up-to-date on Fit Girl Happy Girl)

Boston Marathon Infographic

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I am so sorry for neglecting my blog the past week, school has been crazy busy but don’t fret, I will be back in full force tomorrow with some new blog posts. In the meantime here’s a cool infographic from yesterday’s Boston Marathon. As a Massachusetts native, and the daughter of a former marathoner, Marathon Monday has always held a special place in my heart. My dad ran the Boston Marathon a total of eight times during his running days and I can only hope to run it some day.

Interval training with treadmill workouts to switch up your run routine

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While running outside is probably the most enjoyable way to run, sometimes the weather or other circumstances force me to head to the gym and do treadmill runs instead. Since I started training for the 5k, many of my runs have been on the treadmill because they mostly consist of interval training. Whether you are training for a race or trying to build your endurance, interval training can be a great way to mix up a boring run routine. Also, by trying out some interval runs, you can be sure to be kept on your toes and challenged as you constantly switch speeds and incline levels. I found some really great interval exercises, on the fit blog, Peanut Butter Fingers, to do on the treadmill to help you mix up your normal run.

30-minute Treadmill Workout:

30-minute Treadmill Interval Workout

45-minute Treadmill Workout

Be sure to check out more interval training on Peanut Butter Fingers!

Anatomy of a good pair of running socks

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Do not underestimate the power of a good pair of running socks, they will change the outcome of your run, I can guarantee it. My dad used to be a marathoner and he told me that my mom would meet him at 13.1 miles in just so he could change his socks. Yeah, they’re that important.

I just invested in a new pair of running socks, totaling $12.00 for one pair, but it was so worth it. Whether you’re running a marathon, a 5k or just going for a jog, the cushioning provided by a good pair of running socks will help you to sustain the run. A good pair of socks should be lightweight, cushioned and able to absorb moisture.

Livestrong.com says “The ideal socks for running a marathon will tolerate miles of pounding during training and complement your running shoes ability to provide stability. Livestrong gives three criteria that must be met in looking for a new pair of running socks- material, cushioning and stitching.

  • Material- You want to look for a running sock made out of material that will draw moisture away from your feet and that will be able to withstand the rigors of training and multiple washes. Cotton socks tend to give blisters because cotton absorbs sweat and chafes easily against skin. It’s best to chose a sock made out of synthetic material like polyester and spandex because they are designed to pull moisture away from the foot. Not all natural fibers are bad however. Material such as bamboo can have natural tendencies to pull moisture away.
  • Cushioning- Cushioning in socks is extremely important because it can help stabilize the foot while running. When choosing a sock for running the cushioning depends on your foot type. If you have a high arch you may want to opt for a sock with more cushioning in the center to provide stability. Other socks offer cushioning in the heel and ball of your foot to combat pronation and again to stabilize the foot. It’s best to consult with a speciality running store to determine your foot type and the sock most appropriate for you.
  • Stitching- When running for prolonged amounts of time, it’s important to avoid chafing and irritation that may result in blisters. According to Livestrong “Hand-linked or seamless toe enclosures help prevent chafing at the top of the toes. Look for socks featuring “Y” and “W” stitched heel gores which further improve the socks fit.” This will help prevent the sock from slipping down while running.

Are you guilty of treadmill racing?

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(via Pinterest)

As a new runner, I’m certainly not one who should be openly admitting this but, I will admit that I usually glance down at the speed of the runner next to me on the treadmill. It’s called treadmill racing. It’s petty and I don’t really gain anything from it, but what can I say? I’m competitive.

Since I have been training for my first 5k, I’ve been doing most of my runs on the treadmill because the program calls for a lot of interval training and I find it easier to monitor my time on the treadmill. But I’ve noticed a trend at my gym among the runners to my left and right. Occasionally, my co-runners will glance down at the speed I’m running, and in turn I tend to do the same thing. It’s mostly out of curiosity but I think this bad habit can cause some people to become uncomfortable. For me, when someone next to me is running faster, instead of feeling bad about not going as fast, I use it as motivation for future runs.

However, I also know that some gym-goers can be uber-competitive, making you feel self-conscience of your running. But, keep in mind, you don’t know what they are training for, whether it be sprints or distance, and they don’t know what you’re training for, so be confident in your running!

Women’s Health Magazine suggests setting the time you want to run and then covering the display with a towel to ward off any wandering eyes. Don’t worry about your neighbor’s speed because it’ll distract you from your own run. If treadmill racing is too stressful, opt for an outdoor run, free of competition and numbers. Outside you are running your own speed, and no one can one-up you on that.

Why you should start running

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via Pinterest

As I’ve said before, I was never really a runner, but every day that passes while I continue my running routine I am started to love it more and more. I’ve started to look forward to running each day and miss it on my days off. Here are some of the top reasons you should start this amazing confidence-boosting, calorie-burning, envigorating exercise.

  • You can run anywhere and everywhere because there is no equipment necessary.
  • No gym necessary so you can save some cash.
  • The running community is open and inviting so it’s a great opportunity to meet new people.
  • You might live longer because runners have fewer disabilities, remain active longer than their less active counterparts.
  • Although I don’t think people should exercise with the sole focus of burning calories, they should exercise to become fit and healthy, running is one of the top calorie-burning exercises.
  • Running helps to boost your metabolism after you’ve finished.
  • You can change up the scenery of your fitness routine- indoors, outdoors, on a treadmill, on a trail, on the beach, wherever!
  • It’s a mood booster.
  • Running solo can help you to focus on your life and maybe even have a moment of self discovery.
  • It reduces stress, fights depression and anxiety, and can even boost your creativity.
  • Running can even invigorate your sex life!
  • Most importantly, running can give you goals to work towards.

There are so many other benefits of running but besides all of the natural health benefits I see running as your “you” time. It’s a time for you to clear your head and do something healthy for yourself. I find that running is a great time to do some thinking, brainstorming or reflection about my day and what’s going on in my life. Also, for me running started out as a goal and as I continue to reach the goals I set each week my goals keep getting bigger.

The ‘Greatist’ Runner’s Guide

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I came across this infographic on one of my favorite fitness blogs, Greatist.com, and thought I’d share it. It’s a clear, concise and visually appealing runner’s guide, that gives you all the information you need about running, from finding the right shoe for your running type to eating the right foods to enhance your performance.

More Health and Fitness News & Tips at Greatist.

The makings of a “runner”

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(via Pinterest)

“Congratulations! You can now call yourself a runner!” Betty told me as I finished my run today, sending me into the final third of my 5k training program. Betty is the British woman who narrates my running workouts on the “Get Running” app I downloaded two months ago. I felt pretty good after she reassured me that I was actually a runner, but why now? Why wasn’t I already a runner? What makes a runner, a “runner”?

Granted I’ve only been really running consistently for the past two months. I ran in high school when I had to for varsity sports but I never ran for fun. Now that I’ve gotten back into running all I want to do is become really good at it but I know I have a ways to go. What I’ve come to realize however is there are so many different categories of runners- there are marathoners, sprinters, trail runners, distance runners, triathletes, joggers, beginners, professionals, recreational runners, and so many more. While these categories separate runners, they don’t mean that one category is better than the other.

In an article on Active.com, freelancer, Anne Kymalainen, writes, “To me, the true definition of a runner is not necessarily only that person with the thin legs and the short shorts running the sub-six-minute miles but a person who honestly feels a pull of sneakers to the road or trail.”

I cannot agree more. There is such an emphasis sometimes on speed and distance in running- runners who can run a sub-six-minute mile are “real” runners- but I think a “real” runner is anyone who can get out on the open road, pace themselves, be confident in their stride and feel good about the miles they ran, no matter how long it takes them.