Shaking Things Up

Let's face it, we all get into our own little "training ruts".

We're guilty of consistently running the same routes, doing the same exercise classes, using the same weight machines, etc. Human nature dictates that when you "find a groove" in a routine that's comfortable, you stick with it! But you defeat the purpose of making your body more fit in this circumstance because it becomes too efficient at doing the activities you're pursuing.

That's why I found this post by Iron Mom to be a great inspiration toward eliminating the classic case of "training rut" -- http://tinyurl.com/yzravgz. The author shares her experience of doing a run/exercise routine with some "muddy buddies" at a local disc golf course.

This morning, one of my training pals told me she was going to spend the afternoon snowshoeing or sledding at a local golf course known for its big hills. What a great idea! Here in Iowa, we've had snow, lots of snow, on the ground since before Christmas.

So, if you're stuck in the snow, here's a great opportunity to mix up your training routine with some fun new activities. Check into cross-country skiing as well.

Review of Jillian Michaels Program

With all of the hype following the television show, Biggest Loser, I thought I'd share this post from That's Fit.

Martha Edwards posted this article about a woman's use of the Jillian Michaels' "Cleanse and Burn" program - http://tinyurl.com/yl797yr.

There's no doubt that much of what Michaels professes is a great help toward healthier lifestyles. And when "celebrity" is involved, many times folks follow the advice whether it benefits them or not.

It's important to do your homework and embrace health and diet routines that work for you. We're all different and what works for you may not benefit others. This critique will help you determine if this program is right for you . . . or not.

Running Shoe Testing

If you're a Runner's World subscriber, you may not find this post that interesting.

For those of you who are not; however, test results on 27 shoes that Runner's World recently conducted was shared with the world through the Everymantri blog. As warmer months INCH closer, perhaps you're doing some shoe shopping and will find this helpful. Take a look at this post - http://tinyurl.com/ykr5e5h.

Runner's World regularly conducts testing on LOTS of new pairs of running shoes and gains "everyman" runners' feedback on many of them. Just click the "shoes and gear" link at http://www.runnersworld.com/ any time you're looking for the latest.

A Half Versus A Full

A few weeks ago, I wrote about the benefits of considering a half marathon instead of the full marathon.

There is no doubt that a lot of personal achievement and fulfillment can be gained from training to do a marathon and completing it. However, competition in this grueling event does not come without its toll.

So, if you're someone who's made completion of a marathon a goal, but you're having second thoughts - this is worthwhile reading.

Jess writes the Run Girl Run blog and she put up a great post analyzing the issues associated with this dilemma. Check it out at http://tinyurl.com/yjmezql.

This is MUST reading if you're still on the fence as to which event may be right for you.

Local Man Makes Good With Yoga

I was surprised, but thrilled to see a man training professional basketball players about the benefits of yoga.

But I was even more surprised to see he was a local Des Moines man AND his brother coached my son in basketball for a few years.

I digress.

Check out the story of Kent Katich from Lynn Hicks and David Elbert at the Des Moines Register - http://tinyurl.com/yks2nla.

He's appeared on ESPN.com and made quite a name for himself training professional athletes and developing a line of yoga products.

Learn More About CrossFit

The story of Hector Delgado is not only inspirational, but it also serves to teach about another great fitness program.

As a Navy corporal, Delgado suffered terrible injuries in 2003. His weight ballooned and he was looking for ways to get himself back into shape. One of his friends mentioned a vigorous cross-training routine called CrossFit. He mentioned it was often used by military special forces.

CrossFit was designed in the 1980s by California trainer Greg Glassman. Delgado was enticed by the workout's intensity and variety, and liked the camaraderie of the exercisers.

He now works out five times a week and keeps a strict eating regime. His 5-foot-6 frame is down to 149 pounds, and he now has the strength to walk short distances unassisted.

Check out James Wagner's piece from the Wall Street Journal on this great story - http://tinyurl.com/y886kjj.

The Secret Of Hidden Fat

This is bound to be controversial.

Check out this article from the Wall Street Journal's Ron Winslow --
http://tinyurl.com/ye8shl8.

The article spells out the results of an interesting study where the results show you can be normal weight, but actually have "hidden fat".

Interesting to note that you can try to be healthy, but are we really?

Some New Yoga

If you've kept up with my posts you know that I'm a fan of yoga!

It is a great, reduced-impact workout that really helps you relax.

Here's a new pose "crescent to warrior" http://tinyurl.com/ygh5vrx. This post features a video. Give this one a try from http://www.thatsfit.com/ to tone and strengthen your glutes and legs.

If this works for you, check out the Fit Mom's Blog at http://tinyurl.com/ygsehg5 to learn more about Trudie Styler's "Warrior Yoga" video. Looks like a great workout!

Want To Get Faster?

Interval training is the key to making yourself faster - no matter what the sport.

This post by professional triathlete Jessi Stensland at http://www.active.com/ makes the philosophy behind interval training very easy to understand. Check it out - http://tinyurl.com/ybz7khn.

Interval training is great if you're truly looking to improve speed and it's a great concept to apply to your athletes as you're coaching them toward improvement!

So You Want To Be A Fitness Trainer

Just doing some exploring about fitness training and I came across some interesting information.

If you are interested in seeking employment in the fitness area, there's some great information available on the American Council of Exercise site - http://www.acefitness.org/. In addition to the information you'll need about various certifications that are available, you can look to see which schools in your area have classes to assist you in this quest.

The Aerobics and Fitness Association of America also has certification programs available that you can check out at their website http://www.afaa.com/.

See what options are available in this rewarding area of work!

Taking Your Cycling Training Indoors

One of the things I really hate about Midwest winters is not being able to ride my bike outdoors.

There are plenty of options around this like spin classes, trainers and other stationary cycling activities. Somehow these options don't measure up to a bike ride on a beautiful day outdoors, but I need to stop whining now.

The folks at http://www.active.com/ have put together several articles that will help provide direction for indoor cycling options. Check out this link http://tinyurl.com/yjabmuh for more information on winter riding alternatives.

Check Out IntenSati

I have to admit that I had not heard of IntenSati until I read a recent article in the Wall Street Journal.

Developed and trademarked by fitness instructor Patricia Moreno, it is a tremendous workout combining yoga, martial arts and strength training. Here's the article by Jen Murphy --http://tinyurl.com/yeu4co9.

Here's a link to Moreno's website to learn even more -- http://www.satilife.com/.

A Motivational Read

I've written about this book in the past, but it's worth repeating.

If you're an endurance athlete of any kind, Dean Karnazes' book 50/50 is a "must read". It's the story of his amazing journey to run 50 marathons in 50 consecutive days.

The people he meets, the stories he shares and the shear magnitude of the feat make this a very motivational read.

But don't take my word for it. Check out this post from the Happy Runner blog -- http://tinyurl.com/yhmjsep. She gives it the same endorsement!

What About A Half-Marathon?

So, let's assume for a moment that about a month ago, you made yourself some promises. These promises you make to yourself are referred to as "New Year's resolutions".

If you're like most people, you don't usually meet all of your New Year's resolution goals. But there is still plenty of time. Let's assume for moment that one of your resolutions was to run a marathon. Let's further assume that you're in shape, but you've never run in a race event beyond a 10K. Well, maybe you can reconsider your resolution and compete in a half-marathon.

The half-marathon event is much more manageable than a marathon. It doesn't require the same amount of training miles, time or "wear and tear" on muscles and joints.

This post from Christine Luff at About.com http://tinyurl.com/ykn9csh offers some guidance for half-marathon training preparation. If you're worried you're not going to be able to meet that marathon new year goal, check this out as the next best alternative.