Erik's Weekly Fitness Tip: Techie Tools For Runners

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At the time I was growing up, we didn't have apps, earbuds or armbands to help us train. Instead, my coaches (who competed professionally in the 60s) trained us the old fashioned way.

Since then, I have learned to embrace technology and use it to my advantage. Today, there are many techie tools available that will not only improve your performance as an athlete, but will make the journey more enjoyable in the process.
 

Which One Should You Choose? 

1. You Need Data: If you get pleasure out of these words; distance, heart rate, pace, then the Garmin Forerunner 10 Watch might be the tool for you. There is nothing better than a GPS unit that can track just about anything.

2. You Need Tunes: If you can't imagine training without your tunes, then consider investing in some reliable ear buds.  The Philips ActionFit Earbuds are durable, cheap ($40), and won’t fall out of your ears. 

3. You Need Variety: If you get bored with technology after a few weeks, consider mixing it up by downloading different Apps. Running apps are a dime a dozen these days, so choose wisely. Couch-to-5K is easy to navigate, inspirational, and gives the support you need on your 5K journey. 

There will never be a substitute for hard work, and if running was easy everyone would be doing it. I know firsthand that technology can be overwhelming, but it can also take out the guess work and make your training that much easier (and that much more enjoyable.) 

*image sourced by Elements Global, Flickr


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Erik's Weekly Fitness Tip: The Couch Stretch

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The Couch Stretch

Do you suffer from lower back pain? Do you love watching TV? If you just answered yes to both of these questions, then this stretch might just be the best thing you'll read all day. Before you start channel surfing your way to relief, go ahead and take this moment to grab your TV remote. There, that feels better already. 

How To Do It

Place your right foot on the seat cushions with your laces down, place your left knee down on the floor keeping your shin vertical.  Now, squeeze your left glute (butt) and you will feel the stretch in your quad. Make sure to hold this stretch for two minutes on each leg. This hip flexor stretch (or more appropriately deemed "couch stretch") is great for runners and desk jockeys alike. If you suffer from low back problems you'll probably notice these problems start to clear up. Tight hip flexors can also contribute to lower back issues as well.


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Erik's Weekly Fitness Tip : Got H20?

*photo by Cuba Gallery, Flickr

*photo by Cuba Gallery, Flickr

 

Dehydration Doom

All runners have turned into a hot mess at one time or another. Maybe you had too many glasses of wine the night before or maybe you didn’t hydrate well enough during the week. Not only does dehydration wreak havoc on your workout and performance but it also negatively affects your body on many levels: it increases your core temperature, puts a strain on your cardiovascular system, and increases your risk for heat stroke.

Prepare Yourself

We all know that hydration before and during a workout is a good idea for peak performance but few people know that hydrating after your workout or race is equally as important. Rehydration post-workout should start immediately after you finish. Aim to drink 20 oz of fluid for every pound of weight loss.

Hydration Myth

The most effective way to replace electrolytes is by consuming sport drinks. FALSE. Consuming fruits, fruit juices and other foods (if combined with water) are just as effective at replacing electrolytes as drinking a sports drink is (and you'll be consuming a lot less sugar!)


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