Dont talk about it be about it!

Lets be honest a lot of us in the exercise world wether going strong for years or just starting out have at one point tried to do to much. This is no ones fault or something that you may be doing wrong. In fact research shows that we as humans try to make up for or take on too much at once. It is just something we do and is no different in our exercise/training. My thought is keep it steady once you find out what works for you. Once you find your rhythm/routine stick with it. Over time slowly progress while listeaning to your body and trying to follow some idea of healthy eating. Its not healthy for your mind or body to rush along or push yourself. Take the time to grow, learn and completely understand who you are and where you are in your journey. Take the time do the research and dont push it let it come to you over time. We have to understand that as we put in the effort and work that the gains will come. 

Well I have to say this is a difficult one for me based on the idea alone and what it potentially says for running. I read an article in a magazine recently about someone submitting a false time for better seeding in a big run. This event was and is a premiere event that attracts hundreds of thousands. Based on the quantity of participants there has to be multiple waves based on times. This is where my issue comes in simply that its not fair along with inconsiderate of others. I have ran many runs where they ask you to stage in the group of the time frame you think you might finish. Every time I end up running behind/passing people who started and did not belong up front. Let me state that I fully understand the new wave and idea that everyone is awesome and can do as they please. My issue is I believe in common sense and integrity so if I am running a nine minute mile then thats where I start. Big picture is this (in my personal opinion) everyone's a winner does not mean a twelve min mile runner should hinder the efforts of eight minute mile runner. The idea that we are all out there as equals carries weight to an extent. Yes we all paid and yes we all out there usually really early but did we all travel the same path to get there? The answer is no not everyone did and this shows in the results at the end of the day. So I come to the question of why is fair for A to hinder Bs performance based on the “we are all equal” idea? Personally I do not feel this fair or ethically right I know this is probably just a personal thing for me but Its how I feel so be it. I do not think this will ever change because the idea of everyone being the same or the Dead Freaking Last idea is gaining speed. Again im not bashing anyone's efforts or goals I am just looking for a little more consideration in seeding yourself for a run. If you are running to take pictures and skip along thats fine its your money and your prerogative. Not everyone takes these events lightly a lot of us train extremely hard and want the most bang for buck out our performance. 

Boom there it is plain and simple cut and dry the answer to physical growth and exploration. As a runner I long ago discovered that mental toughness is a necessity. As I grew in my physical activity/performance I soon realized this to be the truth across the board. Whether you do Crossfit,Cycling,Swimming, or any other type of activity your mind does matter. Personally I feel like you mental toughness is 80% of your training and overall success is whatever it is you are doing. The big question is well how do I mold my mind to become an impenetrable fortress? That is a dam good question and honestly I have no clue I just know what i went through and the outcome. Please do not take my advice to heart because I have no research or no degree that makes makes me smart in this area. In my eyes its like this spend time getting to know your limits and weaknesses then exploit them. If it takes talking to yourself so be it, if you have too sit alone in a quite environment then go for it. I figured out that by freeing my mind on my runs I became able to achieve some of my best results. I think music is a great tool for most of us because we get into a zone and just do work. Try doing a workout without music just you and your thoughts, see how this goes and use it as a gauge. I had trouble with my Mp3 player last week threw it on the counter took off for 4.5mi no prob. Find your comfort spot whatever you have to think of focus on to tune out the outside and all distractions. You can spend time and money trying to figure out how to build a stronger mind but my advice is explore yourself inside and out. Find out what works for you and the best way to mold your mind. Please keep in mind this takes time and effort this is no overnight success.  Take its slow and stick with it like you do your workouts and results will follow! 

Once again its that time of year again when the weather outside changes and we start logging longer/harder runs. What is this season called you ask? Well friend it goes by the name “Running Season” , this is when runners are out in flocks and herds. This is the time of year when we focus more on or workouts and miles because of cooler weather conditions and yes races. During the summer for a lot of us we cut back of take a break from our running due to the heat. This completely normal and understandable after all who wants to run in 90-100 degree weather? At the end of this post I will add a link which is a favorite of mine to find runs of all distances and locations near me. For a lot of us we have done our research or have certain races we just enjoy doing. Then there are those who are looking to tackle new distances to see if all of our training has paid off. Me personally next year i'm shooting for 4-5 triathlons and at least 2 half marathons. Goals like these are really helpful in motivating and pushing you to meet the race distance or requirements you need. There is no real science to the process of picking a run just go with whatever distance you feel comfortable with. See its that simple but also make sure travel will not be an issue and if you can try to have a spouse, friend etc go with you . As you progress and grow in your running you will find runs you absolutely love and are doing yearly. Please do yourself a favor do not over think it just have fun with it and use it a measuring tool to see where you are in your training. http://www.roadracerunner.com/ mikeyv83 myfuelup

For most us it is that time of year when temperatures rise, and exercise activity go down. While running, bike riding, or any kind of outdoor activity you will feel the effects of the daily heat. Most importantly, remember that you know your body best, so listen to what it tells you.But to help you along, here some tips I've found helpful. First and foremost HYDRATE! I can not stress this enough if you plan on surviving the heat without doing damage to your body during so. Personally, I refill 32oz sport drink bottles that I have collected and use them daily. I drink 3-5 of these filled with water daily along with my water bottle I fill up and use at home while just hanging out. I think it’s pretty well known that our bodies perspire to keep cool and avoid any kind of heat illness. The best way to stay fueled for body temp regulation is hydration.  Another good idea is do your exercises in the morning when its dark out or late evening when the sun is going down. I know, I know, 4am weekday runs or 5:30am Saturday morning bike rides sound like so much fun... said no one ever. Fact is if you are serious about your training or a goal you have set, then you will find a way to alter your schedule/routine to get your training in. A bonus to this is that studies show if exercise is down before a work day we have a touch more energy. I personally stay away from sport drinks during the super hot days of training mainly because of the sugars they have in them. My final tip would be to shorten the length of your routes or workouts and cut your pace back a little. No need to kill yourself by overdoing it. Let the heat try to do it for you. Just kidding. 

As I type these words, my calves are sore and I'm aware the cupcake I just ate won’t help matters. I have been running for three years now, and have done 5k,10k,15k,13.1miles, Mud Runs and Triathlons. On a normal week I run 5-6 days a week mixed with biking and various cross training to compliment my running. Nick why are you telling me this? I tell you this to tell you that when you start out with running or any form exercise you will be sore and want to give up. What I have found, is that the rewards take too long for most to see. It took me six months to a year to see the benefits of constant running mixed with a decent diet. Wait, keep reading, because there is an upside, I promise. These days I run any distance and speed I like, simply because I can. I get weird looks wearing a weight vest doing hill workouts, but I do it because I can and once could not. This post is not to pat myself on the back, but to encourage you. Exercising and improving yourself physically is not for everyone and requires a change in lifestyle. Once you realize that you have passed the I want to quit stage, you see results on the outside and the inside. Suddenly you have to buy smaller clothes and co-workers compliment you, asking if you have lost weight. Whether your goal is weight loss or running a half marathon, you will see the results of your effort in time. So after your first week, when you hurt and want to give up, keep going because you get out what you put in.