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THE EXTRA MILE 
Issue #52
 
 May 25, 2010

Memorial Day

  Tent Sale
Clearance Shoes: $49.99
Winter Apparel: 70% off
Spring Apparel: 50% off
Suunto HRM's: 25% off
This Saturday, Sunday & Monday!
Running is Never Lonely
The Wave!One of my favorite posters shows a woman running along a lake by herself with the words, "Running is never lonely, because I really like the woman I run with". 
 
To an outsider, running may seem like a lonely sport, but for those in the know, it is quite the opposite.  Even when you are running alone, you are not really alone.  You are always part of a greater community that is so accepting and supportive.  The proof is in "The Wave".  You know that slight wave of the hand or head nod you give/get when you pass another runner.  Even when no words are spoken, you can't help but smile and feel connected. 
 
The neatest thing happened last week during our No Boundaries practice.  Even though these beginners have been training for 5 weeks, I don't think they considered themselves runners yet.  As we ran our laps counter-clockwise around Bushnell Park, we kept passing a trio running clockwise.  One the first loop, the NoBo's gave the trio a tentative "wave" and were surprised when they got one back.  On each subsequent loop, The Wave became bigger and soon words of encouragement were exchanged until cheers erupted on our last loop.  I think it was at this moment that they realized that they all were, in fact, runners!  
 
Something similar occurred on the Vernon Rail Trail last Sunday when an informal group of runners from the store met for a long run.  Despite everyone not knowing each other and running different paces, those who finished first hung out in the parking lot to cheer home those who took a bit longer to run.  There was almost an hour between the first and last runner, yet no one complained or left early.  How awesome is that?!
 
As my friend Connie used to tell the girls on our Girls on the Run team that we coached together, "It doesn't matter how far or how fast you go, just that you go!" 
 
Be Fit!
Steph
Schuyler's Shoe Review
Schuyler
PI SyncroFuel: Pearl Izumi, long the top brand in cycling and triathlon footwear and apparel, is still a relatively new player in running footwear. But they may soon become a major player as they easily take the crown of the fastest-growing brand in our store. New shoes like the SyncroFuel are bolstering a strong line-up of shoes that boast a unique fit and even more unique looks.
 
Pearl Izumi Syncro Fuel for WomenDesigned for the runner looking for fast shoes without sacrificing protection, the SyncroFuel flew off our shelves when we stocked the men's version a few months ago, prompting us to carry the women's as well. The substantial toe-spring (how much the toe rolls up to aid in faster running) gives the shoe a noticeably nimble heel-to-toe transition. At the same time, the heel and forefoot Skydex is left unchanged from other Pearl Izumi models. This padding resembles two opposing layers of bubble-wrap, creating a firm cushion that provides excellent ground response, as well as a protective layer from rocks. A deep heel cup accommodates most orthotics.
 
Pearl Izumi Syncro Fuel - MensThe upper of the shoe is snugger than many other Pearl Izumi models, but opens up in the forefoot with seamless mesh to allow for movement of the toes and unimpeded comfort for bunions. A recycled polyester mesh wraps the arch, printed via dye-sublimation with a Pearl Izumi logo to avoid the seams of a stitched-in logo, saving on materials and on irritation to the foot. If you want to run fast and look great without sacrificing cushion, the Pearl Izumi SyncroFuel will power your running engine.
Sarah A's Picks of the Week:
Nike iPhone Arm BandNike Sportband  for the iPhone: Run, rock out and stay in touch with Nike's new iPhone armband. The moisture resistant casing keeps your phone safe from sweat while the wraparound band features perforations in a light weight material to keep you dry and cool as well. This one size adjusts to all band is soft, comfortable and an easy hands free way to take your music and contact list with you on the run. 

Amphipod Snap FlaskAmphipod SnapPod: Attach this Pod to any 1.5-2 inch belt for easy access to all your on-the-run snacking essentials. Fill it with gel packs, trail mix, cookies (Fig Newtons!) or your favorite mid run fuel. The wide mouth design conveniently locks in both the open and closed position so you don't have to fumble to reach inside or spill while you are running. Amphipod also made this new product BPA free ,and the best part, it's top-rack dishwasher safe. 
 
Nike's Sphere Top for MenNike Sphere Short Sleeve for Men:  Don't let the color fool you, this non-cling Nike top will keep you cool and comfortable on any run. Because of strategically placed mesh areas and DriFIT material the shirt is lightweight and breathable. A hint of bold color and reflective patches along the front make runners easy to spot roadside. Nike thought practicality when they added a headphone loop at the top back of the neck, no tangles, no fuss.
 
Saucony Cha-Cha Long ShortSaucony Cha Cha Long Short for Women: This semi-fitted long short will win you over after one wear. For a little more coverage and support Saucony has included a wide waistband and 10.5 inch inseam in addition to stretch fabric and wicking material. The extra length and quick dry features make it perfect for walks and yoga.
Featured Race: Iron Horse Half, 10k & 5k
Amica Iron HorseBart Yasso, Runner's World's Chief Running Officer, picked the Amica Iron Horse Half Marathon as one of his "favorites".  Maybe it's because the scenic two-loop course winds its way along the picturesque Farmington River and Simsbury farmlands.  Maybe it's the live music by Gene Donaldson & the Stingrays, the great post-race food (brats, hamburgers and pancakes) grilled by the Simsbury Boy Scouts or the FitKidz zone?  Or maybe it's because there will be close to 100 Fleet Feet Peeps of all ages living fit and pursuing their goals?
 
Whatever the case, mark your calendar for Sunday, June 6 and plan on meeting at the Bandshell on Iron Horse Blvd in Simsbury.  You can drop your stuff at the Fleet Feet Sports tent and join in our post-race celebration afterwards.
 
The 10k kicks-off the day's festivities at 7:30am, followed by the 5k and Half Marathon at 7:45am.  There will be three fun runs for kids (50 yard dash, � mile and 1-mile) beginning at 10:30am (entry fee for the kids is $10 and includes a t-shirt and a finisher's medal).
 
You can register online by clicking here until June 1 or you can register on-site during the morning of the race. 
 
For more information, click the logo above.
Track As Art
Fleet Feet Peeps are invited to several special events in conjunction with a neat, run-inspired interactive exhibit at Real Artways in Hartford called "Limited Run".  The exhibit, designedby artist and West Hartford native Laura Nova, consists of a miniature indoor track that is constructed within the confines of the gallery walks.  Visitors are encouraged to run or walk around the track to examine the nature and dimension of the space.  A bell rings as people complete a lap.  
 
Monday, June 7 at 1:00pm, there will be a matinee screening of Chariots of Fire followed by a post-film discussion with Laura.  For just $8 ($5 for members), you get refreshments and admission to the movie and discussion.  It's like a book club, except you get to watch instead of read!
 
Also, on Monday, June 7 at 6:00pm, join the Fleet Feet "Track Group" for another "Walk & Talk" with Laura Nova.  Email Schuyler ([email protected]) if you plan on attending so we can carpool and make plans to visit a local establishment after the event.  
 
Friday, June 11 at 5:00pm is a special event just for Fleet Feet Kids.  As part of the grant that brought this exhibit to Real Artways, Laura wants to study the interaction of kids with the track.  In addition to being able to run, walk, skip and jump around the track, the kids will get to meet Laura.  It's a great, hands-on way to introduce kids to art!
 
If you can't make it to one of these events, the exhibit does run through Sunday, July 3.  Visit Real Artways for more details.
Running the VT Marathon?  Read This!

Key Bank Vermont City MarathonIf you are running in the Key Bank Vermont City Marathon this weekend in Burlington, VT, we invite you to join us at the corner of Sherman St. and North Ave. (across from the porta-potties) at 7:15am for a group photo and some pre-race psyching-up!   Look for Schuyler and his omni-present camera! 

 Good luck Runners!
Conditioning for Student (& Adult) Athletes
Ladder Exercises are Fun!While the best way to get better at a sport (including running) is to do that sport as often as possible, it is also smart to work on your core which includes your abdominals, obliques, low back, hip, and glutes.  Improving core strength and flexibility translates directly into improved performance and decreased chance of injury - which means you can play harder, longer.  It can also correct the issues that cause chronic, nagging pain and "itis's" (e.g. bursitis, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis).
 
Especially for high school and college-aged athletes, the summer is the perfect time to add core conditioning to a workout routine.  A good conditioning program, though, is more than just going to the weight room and lifting.  It should be a customized, sport-specific routine that includes strength, flexibility and dynamic/plyometric exercises that work together to improve the efficiency of the motions used in your sport and prevent injury. 
 
This summer Select Physical Therapy, who provides athletic trainers for over 20 area high schools, will be offering a special "Summer Conditioning Program" out of their West Hartford Office.  The program is designed and staffed by the athletic trainers at Hall High School and Northwest Catholic High School who are both NSCA certified strength and conditioning specialists and understand the special needs of student athletes and a wide-range of sports including football, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, baseball and cross country/track.
 
Cost is just $35 for each one-on-one training session, though multi-session and partner packages are available.  These workouts are the perfect complement to the sport-specific skills honed in camp/practice and will give you an advantage this fall.
 
For more information, please email Stacy Ciarleglio, Sports Medicine Program Director at Select Physical Therapy and Athletic Trainer at Hall High School.  Stacy is also an avid runner and an RRCA-certified running coach who has developed a great core-conditioning program specifically for runners.  Guaranteed to make you sweat and your muscles burn like never before!
Summer Training Programs - Register Now!
Summer is almost here!  It's not too late to follow-through on your new year's resolution to get fit.  We are offering three levels of training programs this summer (5k, 10k and half marathon).  So whether you are an aspiring, beginning or experienced runner, I invite you to come run with us!  

Run Motivated

"No Boundaries" 5k Program sponsored by New Balance:  Our popular "Learn to Run" program is designed for people who don't run, those who have a hard time sticking to a running program or are unsure what to do.  We use run/walk intervals and slowly ramp-up the time spent running and distance covered until you can complete a full 5k (3.1 miles).  For those who have successfully completed a 5k before, we will offer a separate training program for you designed to help you run faster and more comfortably.

The 10-week program officially begins on Wednesday, June 16 at 7:00pm with a Kick-Off/Meet the Coaches Event and Shopping Night (discounts to all registered runners!).  Our first practice is Saturday, June 19 at 9am (meet at the store).  We will meet every Wednesday evening at 6:30pm and Saturday morning at 9am for group runs until our graduation race, the Old Wethersfield 5k on August 29.  You do not need to make every practice in order to successfully complete the program.
 
No one is too old or too slow for this program so be courageous and join us!  Register online or in the store.  Program fee is $95.  

Fleet Feet Training Programs

10k (6.2 miles) "Next Steps" Program: We will also be hosting a 10-week training program for the Old Wethersfield 10k beginning with the Kick-Off/Meet the Coaches Event & Shopping Night on Wednesday, June 16 at 7pm.  Your practices will be on Wednesday's at 6:30pm and Saturday's at 8:30am.  You do not need to make every practice in order to successfully complete the program.
 
This program is designed for our No Boundaries graduates and anyone who can currently run between 2 and 3 miles.  We will help you over the "4-mile barrier" and into distances that you need two hands to count as we train to run the Old Wethersfield 10k on August 30.  Cost for this program is $100. 
 
To register, complete this Registration Form and bring it into the store.
Yeah Mom!Half Marathon (13.1 miles) Training Program: Are you ready to go the distance?  We will be offering a comprehensive 12-week training program designed to help you complete the ING Hartford Half Marathon on Oct. 9 (you can also use this training program to run any fall half marathon).  Practices will be held on Wednesday's at 6:30pm, Thursday's at 6:30pm (track workout at Saint Joseph College) and Saturday's at 7:00am. 
 
Learn more about the program, meet your coaches and get great deals on the gear you need at the Kick-Off/Meet the Coaches Event on Wednesday, July 14 at 7:00pm (meet at the store).  Your first practice will be on Saturday, July 17.  Cost is $125.  Registration Form will be available on our web site soon.  
 
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Participants in all of our training programs receive:
  • Technical Running Shirt
  • Workouts supervised by experienced Coaching Staff
  • Seminars on relevant topics by area experts (core training, nutrition, massage, Pilates, proper shoe and bra fit, injury treatment)
  • Personalized Training Program
  • Weekly e-newsletters and motivating emails to keep you on track
  • A fun and supportive environment
  • Post race party
  • Special shopping perks at the store!
Got Questions?  Email Schuyler or call us at 860-233-8077.
Store Hours  
 
Mon - Thurs: 10-7
Fri: 10-6
Sat: 10-5:30
Sun: 12-4
 
Mon, May 31 - Memorial Day: 10-4 
 
Phone:  860-233-8077 
Store Calendar
All events are at Fleet Feet Sports unless otherwise noted.
 
Wed, May 26; 6:30pm
Fun Run & Walk
3-5 casual miles
(featuring pace groups
 from 7-12 min miles)
 
Thurs, May 27; 6:00pm
Adidas AdiZero Track Event
Track Workout &
Racing Flat demos
at Saint Joseph College 
 
Sat, May 29; 9:30-11am
FREE Injury Assessments
with Select Physical Therapy
 
Wed, June 2; 6:30pm
Fun Run & Walk
3-5 casual miles
(featuring pace groups
 from 7-12 min miles)
 
Thurs, June 3; 6:30pm
UCAN Taste Test &
Track Workout
at Saint Joseph College
 
Mon, June 7; 1pm
Chariots of Fire Movie Matinee,
Food + Discussion
Real Artways
Cost" $8
 
Mon, June 7; 6:00pm
Walk & Talk w/artist Laura Nova
at Real Artways
FREE! 
 
Tues, June 8; 5-7:30pm
Tri Gear & Course Demo Day
at Winding Trails
 
Fri, June 11; 5pm
Special Fleet Feet Kids Event
at Real Artways
Meet artist Laura Nova
Run on her Track-Art
FREE!
 
Sun, June 13; 8am-5pm
Trigger Point Therapy Certification Class
Cost: $200
Event Descriptions
Calendar
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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 Select PT - Free Injury Assessments
 
Sat. May 29; 9:30-11am: FREE Injury Assessments: Injured?  Don't know whether you can run/play sports or if you should really see a doctor?  Come to our free injury assessment clinic staffed by a certified athletic trainer from Select Physical Therapy.  No appointment is necessary.   

These free clinics will be offered every other Saturday through the year (next clinic will be Saturday, June 12 from 9:30-11am).
 
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Adidas Logo
 
Thurs, May 20; 6:30-7:30pm: Adidas Adizero Demo Night at the Track: Michael McGrane, our favorite Adidas rep and speedster (he celebrated his 40th birthday by running the Boston Marathon in 2:42), is bringing his bag of blazing fast Adizero racing shoes for everyone to demo during the track workout - as well as fun gifts for everyone in attendance.  Lace up a pair of Adizero's and burn some rubber!
 
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UCAN Sport Drink
 
Thurs, June 3; 6:30: UCAN Taste Test (Saint Joseph College Track):
  Shaun Gagnon from Generation UCAN, the sports drink of choice for Meb KaKeflezighi, will be bringing UCAN samples to the track for a taste-test after the workout.  UCAN makes a great recovery product that optimizes muscle recovery and enhances fat burn.  If you use products like Hammer's Recoverite or Whey Protein, you should try UCAN! 
  
******** 
 
Winding Trails Tri Series 
 
Tues, June 8; 5-7:30pm: Tri Demo Day at Winding Trails: Fleet Feet Sports is proud to sponsor the Winding Trails Summer Triathlon Series which hosts a fun sprint triathlon consisting of a � mile swim in Dunning Lake, an 8k trail bike ride and a 5k trail run every Tuesday from June 15 through August 17 at 6:15pm.  Location is the Triathlon Transition Area by Walton Pond. 
 
To jump-start the series, we will be hosting a Tri Demo Day on Tuesday, June 8 from 5-7:30pm.  We will have tri-gear available at great prices and Blue Seventy wetsuits you can demo.  Benidorm Bikes will also be there to demo the latest in bikes and cycle gear, and you can pre-swim, ride and run the courses and get a jump on your competition. 
 
For more information about the Winding Trails Summer Triathlon Series, click here. 
Race Reviews Needed
Thumbs-up!
There's a cool new web site for amateur athletes and weekend warriors called Travlete.  The site, designed by the friend of a Fleet Feet Peep, is like a "TripAdvisor" for running, biking, triathlon and adventure races.  Users submit reviews about an event, focusing on details like the course, logistics, atmosphere, support and the overall experience.  Check it out at http://www.travlete.com.
 
If you have recently completed a race and have a review to share, email Adrian
Wed Night Fun Runs
6:30pm (at the store) 
Staffer Duncan Gerrity
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.  
 
Meet at the store.
Thursday Night Track Workout
Schuyler
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. 
 
Can't make it to the workout? Email Schuyler to get the Weekly Workout email.

Nuun
 
Nuun
is 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.
 
FREE Injury Hotline/Email
Select Physical Therapy
Our friends at Select Physical Therapy have set-up a FREE injury hotline to answer your questions about prevention and treatment of common athletic injuries or conditions.   You can call or email anytime to ask a licensed athletic trainer (usually my friend Eleni will answer) about your injury. 
 
Depending on the severity of your injury, you may be given instructions on how to care for your injury at home or be directed to one of Select Physical Therapy's 30 clinics in CT for a free evaluation.
 
1-877-MOBL-MED
(1-877-662-5633)
 
 
 of CLICK HERE to email Eleni.
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Check out our page by clicking here.
Return Policy
Save $15!
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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