New Places and New Faces

I met with my running group again this Saturday. Once again, I had a great time. We ran through some neighborhoods that I hadn't seen before and it was fun to see all the beautiful houses. It was also nice to chat with other runners...it's makes the time go by quickly. A unique aspect of the Fleet Feet training program is that I get a couple of emails each week from one of the owners of the store, Tim, and my running coach, Angi. The emails are both informative and motivational. Meeting with the group is more than just having running buddies, it's actually helping me become a smarter and more efficient runner. Below is an excerpt from Angi's email.

"What are you doing to enhance your running?

We talk about mileage, and yes you need the base miles to build your endurance. And we talk about cross training, but what kind of cross training do you do? Swimming and biking are great for your cardio, and they save your legs from additional pounding on the pavement, but nothing beats good old fashioned crunches. Crunches, planks, and resistance workouts are the best things you can do for your core muscle groups. And when you have a stronger core you run more efficiently. You are able to hold yourself up straighter thus getting oxygen deep into your lungs. You prevent slumping which just tires you out and slows you down; and when your core is stronger you run straighter, correcting those muscle imbalances that can lead to an injury."

I know there are a lot of opportunities out there to train with a group. Fleet Feet is starting a "couch to 5K" program really soon (I think next week). If you're lacking motivation, set a goal, sign up and achieve your goals.