Training Tools

It's always good to learn about new tools to use for training.

This post from Mackenzie Lobby Havey will tell you about 10 tools you can use indoors to enhance your training activities.

Climbing And Endurance

Are you looking for some climbing and endurance tips to improve your biking?

Check out this post from www.active.com that provides a variety of tips and workouts from former Tour De France champion Greg LeMond.

Marathon Training Questions

If you are in the early stages of training for a marathon or preparing to train for one, you probably have some questions in your mind.

This is pretty natural . . . and there is plenty of help available to answer those questions.  Check out the Carrots 'N' Cake blog for answers to common questions from a seasoned marathon runner.

You might also check out www.halhigdon.com for answers to questions on a variety of marathon or other distance race training questions.

Be Safe Out There

It's not hard to forget about safety in your running and biking activities.

This post from the Jill Will Run blog reminded me of the importance of using common sense when we're running and biking at times when motorists might not see us.

I know I get "brave" or I just lose concentration and safety practices get lax.  The best rule of thumb for me is making sure you make eye contact with a motorist prior to moving out into a line of traffic.

These common sense safety rules are magnified when you are out at hours where it's dark.

Which Activity Tracking Device?

Are you considering wearing an activity tracking device?

They have become very popular recently. Personally, I do not use one, but many of my friends do and find them beneficial.  This post from the Des Moines Register appeared very helpful in determining pros and cons as well as pricing on some of the more popular devices.

Wine, Food And Biking

This chef of a well-known California restaurant has it figured out.

Check out this story from the Wall Street Journal about how Michael Chiarello has successfully mixed his passions for good wine and good food with his passion for good cycling.

Getting Healthier

This was a post from the Des Moines Register about making yourself healthier in the new year.

However, the recommendations apply at any time.  Take a look and see how they can help make YOU healthier.

Stairs Anyone?

This year, I have tried my hand at stairclimbing.  Trust me, THIS is a workout.

It's helpful if you have a friend who has access to the tallest skyscraper in your community, but any good set of stairs will do.  In the building where we train, 43 floors -- one flight up and back down equals about 1,800 steps.

This will help strengthen your hips and calves.  Look for your calves to burn 24 to 48 hours after your first try, so LOTS of post-workout stretching recommended!

Try This Workout

Looking for a workout that will make you sweat?

Try this one.  It's billed as a holiday workout, but this will work about any time I suspect.  It will make you sweat. 

This workout is courtesy of the "Run To The Finish" blog from Taylor Ryan, a certified trainer from Charleston. 

30-Minute Or Less Workouts

Looking for a decent workout in 30 minutes or less?

Whether it's the holidays at the end of the year (to which this article refers) or you're just caught up in a busy time of here, there are 30-minute run, swim and bike workouts that will work for you. 

Check out this post from www.active.com that offers you effective 30-minute or less workouts that will help keep you fit . . . and meet your schedule demands.