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Fit Tip: Mix Up Your Terrain

FitSugar — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 14:30:00 -0700

If you walk or run regularly as your form of cardio, it's important to exercise on all types of surfaces. Doing so offers varying degrees of shock absorption for your joints and feet, so mixing your exercise terrain strengthens the muscles around your hips, knees, and ankles in different ways. Instead of sticking to the treadmill all the time, try to alternate your workouts between pavement, grass, dirt trails, sand, track, and your beloved treadmill.

Source

Get Your Butt in Gear: Isis Zip Neck Fleece

FitSugar — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 02:30:00 -0700

Even though the Chicago Marathon was marred by scorching temperatures, I am still thinking about layering for cooler weather. You want extra layers that will keep you warm without adding unnecessary bulk to your frame.

Check out the Ella Zip Neck from Isis. Don't they just scream fall? I love the gorgeous and soothing colors this fleece pullover comes in.

Since it's designed by Isis, you know that it's made to fit a woman's body and her active lifestyle. The 9" zipper can be pulled all the way up to keep your neck and chest warm, and it can be pulled down to cool you off. It's made of microfleece, so it's warm but not too bulky. It can be easily tied around your waist or stuffed in a pack to save when you need it.

This fleece is soft and cozy enough to wear alone, but can also be layered over a tank top or baselayer. Once winter comes, you can also use it as an extra layer under your coat. I love the feminine contoured fit and it's only $65. Order it from Isis.

Track, Treadmill, Trail, or Sidewalk?

FitSugar — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 03:00:00 -0700

I wasn't born a runner, but now that I've been doing it for a while, I crave it. Even when I get on my sneaks to go for a walk, I get this surge of energy and inspiration to run instead. Running gives me an incredibly strong feeling inside and out. It helps me clear my head and work my heart.SourceMy favorite place to run is on a trail because it's so quiet. I love being surrounded by trees and all the sticks, hills, rocks and toads (I saw one on the trail yesterday) make an interesting obstacle course. Running on a trail in the woods is more fun and it makes the time go by really fast.What about you? When it comes to running, what's your preference?

Track, Treadmill, Trail, or Sidewalk?

Track - I like to "track" my laps

Treadmill - It is so dependable

Trail - It's pretty and peaceful

Sidewalk - It's right outside my door

I do NOT run!

Other - Tell me below!

Get it Up, Your Heart Rate That Is: Treadmill Series

FitSugar — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 07:30:00 -0700

Looking for something new to do on the treadmill that will get your heart rate up but not leave you feeling so bored? Try this fun interval walk/run workout the next time you're at the gym.

00:00-05:00 Warm-up, Walk 3.0 mph, Incline 1
05:00-10:00 Run 5.0 mph, Incline 1
10:00-15:00 Walk 3.5 mph, Incline 12
15:00-20:00 Run 5.5 mph, Incline 1
20:00-25:00 Walk 3.5 mph, Incline 12
25:00-30:00 Run 6.0 mph, Incline 1
30:00-35:00 Walk 3.5 mph, Incline 12
35:00-40:00 Cool-down, Walk 3.0 mph, Incline 1

Let me know what you think. The incline walking is a sure way for working that booty, which is always good. Does the above workout look too hard for your fitness level? Then for a slightly more beginner version, just

OmniDirectional Treadmill

FitSugar — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 08:45:00 -0700

When the weather is bad, or you don't feel safe running or walking outside, treadmills are great. The only thing that's bad is that you are doing the same repetition of motions over and over again. You use all the same muscles, which is very unlike moving on actual terrain outdoors (and very boring too).

Check out this omnidirectional treadmill. A clever little Michigan-based company called Virtual Space Devices, Inc., has been working on this since 1996. It's a self-contained unit that allows you to walk or run in any direction you choose, without actually going anywhere. It will allow you to move with freedom, and say goodbye to the repetition of basic treadmills.

This could also be used for virtual video games, so kids (and adults) can get off the couch and be part of the game (while burning calories too). I'm not sure this will be hitting gyms or living rooms anytime soon, but just the thought of it is exciting. Check out the video - it's truly amazing.

5 Stretches: Before and After a Run

FitSugar — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 13:30:00 -0700

We all know how important it is to stretch out our muscles, especially after a run, but I also stretch before to warm up my hips and hamstrings. I often walk briskly or jog slowly for about 5 minutes to get the blood flowing before stretching. You just have to be careful to move slowly with complete awareness since your muscles are usually tense and tight in the beginning. Here's a series of 5 stretches I like to do before and after a run.

Kneeling Hip Flexor Stretch - From a Down Dog position (this is a great stretch for your calves too), step your right foot forward between your hands. Lower your left knee onto the ground (make sure it's a padded surface - fold up a towel or use a thin block if you're on bare floor). Bring your hands to your front knee, pressing your shoulders back to increase the stretch in the front of your left thigh.

Take 5 or more deep breaths, then plant your hands down, step your right foot back, then step your left foot forward and do the other side.

Hamstring Stretch - Once again start in a Down Dog, then step your right foot forward about halfway between your hands and feet, so your feet are about 3 feet apart. Keep your torso low, and walk your hands back toward your feet. Place your hands on your front leg, ankle, or if you can reach, place them on the ground. Try to keep your front leg straight to stretch your right hamstring.

Stay for 5 or more breaths, then plant your palms, step your right leg back, then step your left leg forward and do the other side.

Want to see the 3 other stretches? Then

Do You Listen to Music When You Exercise Outside?

FitSugar — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 07:30:00 -0700

Sometimes, going for a run is just an excuse to listen to my favorite playlists on my iPod. The beat of the music keeps pushing me along and the lyrics entertain me. Other times, I like to run without music and listen to the birds chirping, my stride and my breath. I feel more aware of my surroundings too. So I want to know...Source

Do You Listen to Music When You Exercise Outside?

Yes - I always listen to music when I workout outside. It's a MUST!

No - I love to hear the sounds of nature, and be aware of my surroundings.

It depends - explain below.

Got Allergies? Don't Get Mad - Get HOT

FitSugar — Fri, 04 May 2007 12:30:00 -0700

Spring has bloomed all over and when I went to pick up my allergy medicine from the pharmacy yesterday, they were actually all out! You know that's because tons of people are suffering and reaching for drugs to deal with their symptoms.

Allergies affect people differently, so if you get a stuffy nose, congestion in your sinuses and fluid in your lungs, you could take decongestants, but they'll end up drying you up everywhere (even your lady business). Plus they can make you feel kind of spaced-out and tired.

Using a neti pot like the Rhino Horn can be really helpful at clearing your nose and sinuses, but if you're majorly plugged up, the water won't be able to flow from one nostril to the other.

You've got to get your heart pumping, girl! Doing any type of cardio consistently for at least 20 minutes (or more) will heat up your body, get you sweating, and get that fluid and congestion in your face and chest moving.

Running, biking, hiking, swimming, Ashtanga Yoga, using cardio machines, or taking cardio classes (like kickboxing) are all great choices.

Fit's Tips: Whatever you do, make sure you pack some tissues so when your nose starts to run; you can blow it (don't sniff it back in). If you've got congestion in your lungs, you'll end up coughing up some mucus too (I know that sounds gross but it's better to cough it up than have it sitting in your chest, right?). Staying hydrating will help too.

Source

"ACT"ivisim: LIVESTRONG Challenge

FitSugar — Fri, 13 Apr 2007 15:45:00 -0700

The 2007 LIVESTRONG Challenge is the Lance Armstrong Foundation's signature fundraising event, inspired by one of the toughest cancer patients on the planet. This annual series of cycling, running and walking events takes place in the following cities this year:

Philadelphia, PA - August 25-26
Portland, OR - September 29-30
Austin, TX - October 12-14

These events allow anyone to walk, run, ride, or volunteer to support people affected by cancer. To join the race, you must pay a registration fee of $50. In addition, you must also raise a minimum of $250 for the Lance Armstrong Foundation. You can sign up in a team, join an existing team, or go as an individual.

If you can't make it to one of these events, you can always show your support by purchasing LIVESTRONG gear - all the proceeds go to support cancer programs. Whether you just want to help out of the kindness of your heart, you know someone who has had cancer, or you yourself have, you can also donate money directly to the Lance Armstrong foundation.

Listen to the Lance Armstrong Foundation's Manifesto and there's no way you won't be able to join the fight against cancer.

"ACT"ivism: Outrun The Sun Run/Walk

FitSugar — Mon, 09 Apr 2007 02:30:00 -0700

Looking for a race in the Indianapolis area?

The 2007 Outrun the Sun Race supports melanoma education and research initiatives at Outrun the Sun, Inc. (The race was started by two families who lost loved ones to melanoma.) The event includes a 5-Mile competitive run, 5K non-competitive run/walk and a 1-Mile non-competitive fun walk. The course takes participants in and around the streets of downtown Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Canal Walk and the campus of Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. The event is on Saturday June 2, 2007 at 7:00 pm. Why so late? Well this is a race to fight skin cancer, so it is only fitting that participants run while the sun is not at its peak. Visit OutRuntheSun.org to register online and for more information on the event.

Spring Running Tip: Set a Goal

FitSugar — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 03:30:00 -0700

Maybe you're new to running, or maybe you've been running for years. Whatever your experience is, everyone can benefit from setting a goal. Here are some ideas for personal goals you can set for yourself. I recommend that you make them reasonable. They should be challenging enough to make you work hard, but not so difficult that they'll never be achieved.

Run a specific distance - Maybe you have a goal that every time you run, you go for 1 mile, or 3 miles, or 10 miles. However far you choose to run, start off with a doable distance and then gradually work your way up.

Run for a specific amount of time - If you are just starting out, set a goal of let's say 5 minutes. As you run more often, and build up your endurance, you can increase the amount of time.
Run at a certain pace or run faster) - For some people, their speed is important to them. You can challenge yourself to run faster at a constant rate.
Run to burn calories - If you're running to lose weight, you may want to measure how many calories you're burning each time. You can set a goal, so that each time you run, you burn X amount of calories. The Nike + iPod that works with an iPod Nano will tell you how many calories you've burned. Some pedometers will also give that kind of info, as do heart rate monitors.
Run to raise your target heart rate - Maybe you're running to improve your heart health and circulation. You may want to purchase a heart rate monitor to measure how hard your heart is pumping.

Want to see the other goals? Then

Get Your Butt in Gear: prAna Sugar Mini Skirt

FitSugar — Fri, 16 Mar 2007 12:17:27 -0700

When I go for a run or hike, nothing bothers me more than my shorts riding up into my lady business. I'm constantly having to pull fabric out of places it shouldn't be in the first place, and it's more than annoying - it's quite uncomfortable too.

Check out the Sugar Mini Skirt from prAna. Could the name be any more perfect? I want to get one for all the Sugar gals.

It's got an elastic waistband and built in spandex shorts, so they'll stay put when you run. Plus, I know I don't feel comfortable running out in public in shorty shorts or tight spandex, so the skirt part will cover your booty, but will be short enough (they've got a 3 inch inseam) so you can run freely.

They are made out of New Viana® performance fabric like many of their other prAna products. This material is awesome because you can wash it over and over again, and it looks just like the day you bought it every time. So your black skirt will stay black, and it won't pill or change shape.

The Sugar Mini Skirt fits at the hips then flares out at the bottom. It's 12 1/2 inches long and comes in black, banana, and seafoam. If you want a running skirt in other colors, then check out the SkirtSport.

Fit's Tips: You can order one from prAna directly for $45, or you can check out the fitness and gear stores around you. Many of them carry prAna products.

Rock 'n' Roll Marathon

FitSugar — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 14:00:00 -0800

Get ready for the Rock 'n' Roll Marathon on June 3, 2007. This marathon is renowned for the more than 40 bands that play live music along the 26.2 mile tour of beautiful San Diego, California.

If you register online between now and April 20, it costs $90. Register between April 21 and May 25, it's $100. Or you can sign up right before the big day for $120.

The marathon weekend also includes a 2 day Health & Fitness Expo where you'll find the latest in gear, services, and apparel.

Get those sneaks warmed up because if you've ever thought about running a marathon, this one was voted "Best Race" and "Best Post-Race Party" by Competitor Magazine. It's fun because it combines running with entertainment - you can't go wrong.

Trail Running

FitSugar — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 13:00:00 -0800

I'm hearing a lot about how you ladies love running. I do too. I love it because it's hard, and I can really push myself, and feel every muscle in my body pumping. And afterwards, I feel amazing.
For many, running on a treadmill just isn't an option. Either you think it's lame because the whole point of running is to get outside and breathe in the fresh air. Or maybe you despise going to the gym, or don't own a treadmill because they are way too expensive.

Trail Running is like running on a road or track, but instead, you run on - you're so brilliant - trails. Anywhere that you hike, you can go trail running. Even in the winter.

Running in the woods or charging up a mountain is like going through a giant obstacle course. You've got to watch out for loose rocks, mud, and dog poop. You've got to dodge fallen logs and sticks in your way.

And what else is great? There aren't many other people around. It's just you and nature.

When I go running in the woods, the trees just absorb all my thoughts and worries. When I'm done, I feel refreshed, relaxed, and totally pumped at the same time.

Want to know what you'll need to go trail running? Then

Unleash the Fury - Exercise With a Dog

FitSugar — Wed, 24 Jan 2007 15:15:00 -0800

Okay, so you want to start running but refuse to use a treadmill because you believe breathing in the fresh air is half the point of going for a run.

But you're also nervous about running alone (your neighborhood is not the greatest).

Ever consider getting a dog? You'll both benefit from the exercise and companionship. A dog has to go out at least 3 times a day to relieve themselves - it'll be great motivation to get your butt off the couch, and get you both outside. Plus there is a new study that shows that dog owners are healthier than folks without pets.

You want to choose a dog that prefers an active lifestyle. And you should be committed to taking care of your dog for the rest of your life. This means giving your pet all the love, healthy food, and exercise it needs, because if you don't, your pet might get bored and look for other ways to keep busy and be "athletic" (aka - destroy your home).

Very important: Before getting a dog, you need to love running or jogging, and being outdoors first. Know that your dog will need to be trained to run, jog, or play with you. They'll also need to be at least 2 years old, because puppies shouldn't run long distances.

Want to know some great high-energy breeds to choose from? Then

Luna Bar Women's Triathlon

FitSugar — Wed, 24 Jan 2007 11:35:00 -0800

The Luna Bar Women's Triathlon is back for its 4th year at Rancho Seco Park.

They're having the same friendly 1/2-mile swim in Rancho Seco Lake, followed by a beautiful scenic 16 mile bike ride on closed roads in the park, and it finishes with a fun 3 mile run.

The race is not until Sunday, August 26, 2007 - So you'll have plenty of time to start training for it.

You can register online - if you're in a relay team of 2 or 3, it costs $110, or $70 if you're doing the whole race solo. Check out the website for rules and details.

If completing a triathlon is top on your list, this would be a great one. Plus, all athletes receive a goody bag filled with Clif Bar products. Sounds good to me.

Vermont City Marathon

FitSugar — Wed, 10 Jan 2007 02:30:00 -0800

Was running a marathon one of your New Year's Resolutions?

Many marathons, like the Boston Marathon, require qualifying times. Women ages 18-34 need to have run in another marathon with the same rules, and finish in under 3 hrs, 40 minutes.

The Vermont City Marathon counts as a qualifying race for those other big city, fancy pants marathons. Anyone can register, so if you're interested, sign-up immediately because slots are filling up.

The run takes place in beautiful Burlington, Vermont. The city closes its streets making a scenic loop that wraps around its well-known downtown area, Battery Park, and shimmering Lake Champlain.

The marathon takes place on Sunday, May 27th, 2007 - Memorial Day Weekend. Burlington is an amazing place to visit for a nice long weekend. So after the race, you can enjoy yourself on the lake, shop, relax at a sweet cafe, take in some live music, or just take a leisurely stroll down Church Street.

Since you burned all those calories running, why not enjoy some Ben & Jerry's ice cream? You'll truly deserve it.

Fittingly Mad: Can't a Girl Go For a Run? Geez

FitSugar — Sat, 02 Dec 2006 08:30:00 -0800

Here's the deal. This actually happened. No joke. I was out running the other day and some guy yelled from his porch, "Hey baby. Why are you running away? Why don't you run over here?" I wanted to run a mac truck over him.

It was as if my baggy sweatshirt, said "Rude comments welcome?" Why do guys feel like they can hoot and holler at anyone with boobs? Do they think they are being funny? Sexy? Motivating? My response was run even faster to get away from the idiot.

Now I'm not saying all guys are to blame. But it's that one sleazy guy who can ruin a run and running alone in general. Don't let him ruin it for you though.

Fit's Tip: If you run alone keep the volume low on your iPod so you can still hear what's going on around you. If you run in the dark, use well lit streets. Or call up your best friend and run together in a girl pack.