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Trick-or-Treating = Great Workout |
 Growing up, Halloween was my favorite holiday. It combined three of my favorite activities: dressing-up, running and candy. The perfect trifecta.
Instead of buying costumes, my mom would create something fantastic for me to wear. One year, she stapled leaves we collected to a brown paper bag that had holes for my arms and head so I could be a tree. I remember those staples scratching the heck out of me, but I didn't complain because I thought I was the most beautiful tree ever. Another year she made me a frog head out of felt and foam that was lined with one of her pillowcases. I loved it not only because it was so cool but also because the pillowcase that she lined it with smelled of her perfume. I still have that frog head. I think I'm going to wear it during our Halloween Fun Run Wednesday at 6:30pm.
In my hometown, Halloween night began when the town carillon sounded the bells at 6:00pm sharp. I could barely make it through dinner, I would be so excited! Every year my brother and I would meet up with our best friends, Lisa and Tommy Wuest, leaving our younger sisters at home with our parents so they wouldn't slow us down. Earlier in the week we would have met to plan our route to ensure that we would hit the maximum number of houses. Sometimes, though, we sacrificed quantity for quality to visit a house that was known to have full-size candy bars. Of course, we also nixed houses known to be stingy or give bad "treats" like the dentist who gave toothbrushes.
We always used pillowcases for bags (they held more candy than those little plastic buckets) and wore our sneakers so we could sprint from house-to-house. I'm surprised we didn't start training a few weeks ahead of time to increase our endurance and speed. Come to think of it, trick-or-treating is a great workout: sprints, endurance and weight lifting (hey, those candy bags are heavy!). I think that is great justification for taking the evening off to be a kid again. Happy Halloween!
Be Fit!
Steph |
| Schuyler's Shoe Review |
 Type A3 Racing Flat: Saucony's Pro/Grid technology has brought incredible cushioning and energy return to their footwear line in a surprisingly low profile, replacing the venerable but clunky Grid system. While shoes like the Ride and Hurricane have had Pro/Grid for years now, it has finally arrived in their racing line with the Type A3, a staff favorite racer all but guaranteed to take seconds off your Manchester Road Race time. The previous incarnations of this shoe, the Type A and Type A2, had a higher heel, more weight and greater bulk than a traditional racing flat. The old Grid unit guaranteed that the shoe could not reach the sleekness or light weight of similar offerings from Asics and Adidas. By incorporating Pro/Grid, the shoe not only provides greater energy return at toe-off, but can now compete head-to-head with the fastest shoes out there.  Of course, the fastest shoe won't get you very far if it doesn't fit well around the foot. The Saucony Type A3 follows the trend of the Asics Japan and Adidas Adizero line of a very roomy toebox, inspired by Japanese racing flats. This fit, combined with a lack of overlays and an incredibly soft mesh, provides a great feel around the foot for a 5k or a Half-Marathon (or a 4.74 mile Manchester Road Race). |
| Now in the Store: |
 Runderwear! One of the most asked questions this time of year is what should be worn under winter tops and pants. The answer is runderwear! Runderwear is underwear made of moisture-wicking material designed to keep you dry, warm and reduce chafing. For men, we have boxers and briefs including some with wind-proof panels for extra protection.
 For women, we have underwear and, my personal favorite, shimmels - a full-length bra top that covers your tummy and can be tucked into your pants so cold air doesn't sneak up your shirt. This year we have fleece-lined shimmels from CW-X and shimmels made of Mizuno's breath thermo material that heats up when it gets wet from perspiration and/or precipitation. Runderwear makes the perfect base layer!  Timex Tap Watch: Timex has upgraded their venerable Ironman watch with "tap technology", enabling you to activate the lap functions just by tapping the watch face instead of fumbling with buttons. Cool! In addition to the standard features Timex watches are known for (100-hour chronograph, 150-lap memory and 100-meter water resistance), the Tap watches also boasts new technology like an audible beep that helps keep you on your target pace as well as hydration/nutrition alarms you set to remind you when it is time to refuel and a glowing night mode. The watch is available in both a men's and women's style with a strap that minimizes skin contact to help ventilation and prevent chafing. Timex will unveil the Tap at the New York Marathon Expo this weekend and is available exclusively at Fleet Feet Sports through February 2010.  Halloween Socks: Show a little Halloween spirit when you bike, run, walk or dance with these fun socks by Sock Guy. In addition to the "Jack-O-Sock" featured here, we also have a sock that says "BOO!". The socks are made of a ultra moisture-wicking micro denier acrylic with 10% spandex to provide a snug "stretch-to-fit" sock that won't slip under your heel. The double-stitched toe and heel increase durability so you can wear these socks for many Halloweens to come (or you can be like staffer Kurt and wear them all-year long).  Kids Books: Share the excitement of the marathon and triathlon with these two sweet books for kids by local MA author Michelle Craemer. My six year old nephew Jake is learning to read and was so excited to read this book to his mom and dad after watching them run a half marathon. Both books have a five-star rating on Amazon and feature wonderful illustrations and lessons that kids, as well as adults can appreciate.  Special Event: Join us on Friday, November 27 at 1pm for a special book reading and signing with author Michelle. A fun event for kids of all ages!
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| Manchester Shirts Are Here! |
 The Manchester Road Race is just one month away! Get your shirts now at Fleet Feet Sports. For the first time, the shirts are made of moisture-wicking material called B-dri instead of cotton to keep you dry on the run. The prices remain the same as last year: $25 for the long-sleeve mock turtleneck (with "Manchester Road Race" screened down the right arm) and $18 for the short-sleeve shirt. Both shirts are navy blue and feature the same sharp logo. |
| Featured Race: Race to Fill the Pantry |
 Our friends at the Glastonbury River Runners are hosting another fun family event for a great cause on Sunday, November 15 at 9am. The "Race to Fill the Pantry" features a 5k road race, 2-mile walk and ¼ mile kids fun run. Participants are asked to bring a food donation (e.g. boxed stuffing, canned vegetables, gravy, rice, instant potatoes and muffin mixes) for the local food pantry so they can help provide holiday dinners for those in need. The race takes place at the Riverfront Park in Glastonbury (300 Welles St). The out-and-back course is flat and fast - perfect for a fall PR! Registration cost is just $15 before November 1 (after that the price increases to $20). You can register online, by mail or beginning at 7:30am on race day. The first 150 people to register will receive a commemorative race t-shirt. For more information, click the Glastonbury River Runners logo above. |
| Congratulations Liz! |
 Despite the wind, cold, pouring rain and a wrong turn, Fleet Feet staffer Liz Foster persevered to win the women's division, and place seventh overall, at the Amica Rhode Island Marathon with a time of 3:03:47. Liz ran a smart race, going out easy and picking-up the pace during the second half to achieve a "negative split" (running the second 13.1 miles faster than the first) - something most runners only dream of doing. Even more impressive was that this was Liz's first attempt at the marathon distance and that she squeezed her training in while balancing a full course load at University of Hartford where she is in the physical therapy doctoral program, assistant coaching the school's cross country team and working part-time at Fleet Feet Sports. Liz's fast time earned her an entry into the Boston Marathon in April where she hopes to break three hours and qualify for the Olympic Trials. Way to go Liz, we are so proud of you! Hearty congratulations, as well, to everyone who has gone the distance this fall and best of luck to everyone running New York this Sunday and Philadelphia later this November. |
| Zoomerangs Rock 100 Mile Challenge |
 Our Zoomerangs kicked off Halloween Week with a healthy, fun "Track-or-Treat" run on Monday at the Saint Joseph College track. Many of the kids ran in costume. There were witches, pirates, regular and gothic cheerleaders, a mummy, ladybug, ninja and Johnny Damon (who ran with his bat). You couldn't help but smile as you watched the kids run their laps.
The kids and their families also took part in our first 100 Mile Challenge. Our goal was to run 100 miles as a group. Last week, families submitted their pledges totaling 87 miles so we were a little worried that we might not make it. But the kids (and some moms and dads) ran their hearts out. Within 30 minutes we had reached 100 miles and by the end of practice, our total was 148 miles! We almost ran out of room on our mileage chart. Wow!!
Way to go running rock stars! |
| Volunteers Aged 60+ Needed |
 Dr. Linda Pescatello of the Health Fitness Research Lab at the University of Connecticut is looking for healthy individuals aged 60 years and over to participate in a 6-month study examining the effects of statins on muscle performance. Her team will be examining the effects of six months of Lipitor on muscle strength and endurance and the incidence of muscle pain.
The study involves taking Lipitor or a placebo for six months and several visits to their lab to provide a blood sample, complete a questionnaire and participate in strength and maximal performance testing on a treadmill. At the end of the study, subjects will be paid $720 and receive information on their health status.
To qualify for the study, you must be at least 60 years old, have your own transportation and not currently being treated for high cholesterol.
For more information, please email us at at famussstudy@yahoo.com or call the lab at 860-486-2812 (ask for Justin, Matt, or Katie).
This study has been approved by the University of Connecticut Institutional Review Board; Protocol H08-016. |
| Garmin 310XT - $50 Rebate |
 Just in time for the holidays, Garmin has announced a $50 mail-in rebate on the purchase of their new Garmin Forerunner 310XT (in addition to the $30 gift certificate you earn from Fleet Feet Sports).
The 310XT is brings Garmin's famous GPS technology to the wrist of runners and triathletes so they know exactly how far and how fast they have traveled. The watch is waterproof to 50m allowing it to be worn in the pool or open water, goes from wrist to bike in seconds and is capable of tracking transition times. It is available with and without a heart-rate monitor.
The $50 mail-in-rebate is valid on purchases made between now and December 31, 2009. Rebate forms are available at the store and must be postmarked by 1/30/10. Limit one rebate per customer.
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| Give * Shop * Save 20% |
 Fleet Feet Sports is excited to once again team up with over 70 of your favorite retailers and restaurants in West Hartford Center and Blue Back Square to offer the Center Kidscard - your pass to holiday savings! For just a $50 donation to Connecticut Children's Medical Center, you can use the Kidscard as often as you want between now and November 1 to receive 20% off at over 70 of West Hartford's best stores and restaurants and $2 off parking at any town lot or garage. Stock up on holiday gifts early, spruce up your house, or treat yourself to a new outfit, and feel good knowing that 100% of the Center Kidscard purchase price goes directly to support Connecticut Children's! Click here to see the list of participating stores and restaurants and to get your Kidscard now (you can also purchase the Kidscard at the store). | |
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Store Hours
Mon - Thurs: 10-7
Fri: 10-6
Sat: 10-5:30
Sun: Closed
Phone: 860-233-8077
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| Store Calendar |
All events are at Fleet Feet Sports unless otherwise noted.
Halloween Fun Run
& Costume Contest
(Prize for the best male and female costumes)
Thurs, Oct. 29; 6:30pm
Track Workout
(at Saint Joseph College)
NOTE: The Vibram Five Fingers Demo has been canceled. No reschedule date has been set yet
Wed, Nov 4; 6:30pm
Fun Run & Walk
for all abilities
(3-5 miles)
Thurs, Nov 5; 6:30pm
Track Workout
(at Saint Joseph College)
Fri, Nov. 27; 1-3pm
Author Michelle Craemer's Kids' Book Reading & Signing
Sun, Dec 13; 1-4pm
Coach Al Lyman's
"Run Easier, Run Faster" Clinic
Cost is $75
Mon, Dec 14; 7pm
Experienced Marathon Training Program Information Night |
| Event Descriptions |
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For more events at the store and around CT, visit our online Calendar. For details on any event, call the store at 860-233-8077.
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Fri. Nov 27; 1-3pm: Book Reading & Signing. Join author Michelle Craemer as she reads her award-winning children's book, Pellie Runs a Marathon. After the reading, meet Michelle and have her sign one of her books (makes a great holiday gift for kids of all ages).
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Sun. Dec 13, 1-4pm: "Run Faster, Run Easier" Workshop with Coach Al Lyman: Coach Al is back! Join expert running and multisport coach Al Lyman as he offers another edition of his hugely popular "Run Faster, Run Easier" 3-hour running workshop at Fleet Feet Sports. During the workshop, Coach Al will video everyone's running form and provide you with an in-depth gait analysis within 10 days of the workshop. He will also provide valuable information on how to approach daily training especially as it relates to what is happening through your legs and core. Key core strength and flexibility exercises will be demonstrated so come dressed to workout! Cost for the workshop is $75.00 or $99.95 for the workshop plus a copy of Coach Al's Runner-Core DVD (regularly $39.99). For more information on the clinic or to register, click here.
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Mon. Dec 14, 7pm: Experienced Marathon Training Program Information Night: Are you planning a SPRING marathon and looking for a group training program that will help you get to the starting line in your best shape ever as well as provide you with expert coaching guidance, group runs, free seminars, and a highly detailed 15-week training plan outlining every training session and detail you will need for success?
If so, problem solved! Fleet Feet Sports is teaming with Coach Al Lyman to offer a Spring Marathon Training Program.
This 15-week program is designed for intermediate to advanced runners who are preparing for a spring marathon. The timing of the program coincides with Boston, although you could easily be preparing for another spring marathon, modifying the program schedule to suit your own scheduling needs (with advice from Coach Al). The program will be based out of Fleet Feet Sports, but group runs and workouts will be hosted in various locations throughout Hartford (and possibly a field trip to Boston to run part of the course).
The program officially begins on Sunday, January 3. Cost is $250 and includes a customized 15-week training program written by Coach Al, a copy of Coach Al's Runner Core DVD and an audio CD, weekly group long runs and track sessions, seminars and more.
For more details or to sign-up, email Coach Al or click here. |
| Wed Night Fun Runs
6:30pm (at the store) |
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Join Fleet Feet staffer Duncan and a great group of Fleet Feet Friends for a casual fun run each Wedensday night at 6:30pm. We go between 1-5 miles (a route for all abilities). All paces (including walkers) are welcome to join us.
It's a great way to meet new friends and running partners. Since it's dark at 6:30pm now, please be sure to wear reflective vests or other gear so you stay safe!
Meet at the store. Please bring a light and/or other reflective gear. Be Safe. Be seen! |
| The NUUN Track Workout - Thursday at 6:30pm |
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Do you feel the need for speed? Or maybe your workout routine needs a little spice. Join Coach Schuyler each Thursday for a fun track workout.
These workouts are designed for runners of ALL abilities. The goal is to introduce you to different types of running (intervals, hills, tempo runs) and help you get stronger and faster. This is your opportunity to get professional coaching for free - and meet some great fellow runners.
Nuun is now the official sponsor of our Thursday Night Track Workout! While the track workouts will remain as fun and challenging as ever, they will be made more refreshing with Nuun - a sugar-free electrolyte drink that will keep you hydrated as you run your laps around the track.
In addition to a selection of tasty Nuun at all the workouts, all runners attending five or more will receive a free Nuun water bottle!
Attend any 5 Wednesday Fun Runs or Thursday Track Workouts and get a free drifit "Fleet Feet Sports" t-shirt. Bring a photo of you wearing your shirt in a race and earn $10 off your next shoe purchase. |
| We're on Facebook! |
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Become a "fan" of Fleet Feet Sports Hartford and be the first to know about new events, participate in interesting discussions and view great photos of our Fleet Feet Peeps in action.
Check out our page by clicking here. |
| Return Policy |
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We believe in the PERFECT FIT - it's part of our Fitlosophy. If you are not 100% satisfied with the fit of your shoes, socks, sports bra, insoles, etc, we invite you to bring the item back within 30 days of purchase. Even if you wore the item outside.
Give us an opportunity to find a better solution for you. We want to help you get the proper tools to live fit! | |
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