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Run Faster - Go on Vacation |
 By the time you read this, I'll be on an old wooden schooner sailing among the islands and lighthouses of Penobscot Bay, Maine. The schooner was built in 1871 and has a deck length of just 68 feet which doesn't leave much room for running. I am actually looking forward to a vacation from running and enjoying the slow pace of life aboard the schooner that goes wherever the wind takes it. I packed four books (a lofty goal since I have only read one book in the past two years): one on business, two on running, including Born to Run, and one quick-read fiction. That said, I plan to be much faster on the run when I return from the trip - and not just because I'll be well rested. Before I left for Maine, I spent an afternoon with Coach Al Lyman at his cool new performance lab in Old Saybrook. Coach Al and his partner, Dr. Strecker, took me through a full battery of tests to assess my joint and muscle flexibility/strength and my gait both barefoot and with shoes. The results of the tests were eye-opening. They showed that my limited ankle flexibility causes premature heel-off which leads to me jumping up instead of striding out. Just call me Prancer! Coach Al estimates that I could be 10-20 seconds per mile faster if I can keep my heel on the ground longer by dorsiflexing more. He showed me some exercises to increase my ankle mobility that will allow me to do that naturally.
Normally, I find it hard to find time for stretching and strengthening exercises since I'd rather just go for a run, but since I won't be able to run on the boat, it will be the perfect time to get into a good routine. So in between books and taking my turn at the helm, I plan to do those exercises and use my vacation from running to become a better, faster runner.
Be fit!
Steph |
| Schuyler's Shoe Review |
Adidas AdiZero:
For years, Adidas has produced the
fastest shoe in the world-literally. Haile Gebrselassie set his
world record in the marathon, a blazing-fast 2:03:59, in the Adizero
Adios, a racing flat with a larger-than-usual heel cushion to
accommodate his achilles tendon injuries. This shoe is only one of
many minimalist racing and training shoes in the Adizero line, the
largest collection of lightweight shoes from any manufacturer.  In addition to the cushioned, neutral
Adios, the Adizero Mana provides a low-profile, responsive ride for
moderate overpronators. This shoe is a great 5k-half-marathon racer,
as well as a training shoe for minimalist runners. The asymmetrical
overlays in the forefoot accommodate those runners with a wider
forefoot.  For runners looking for an everyday
trainer on the lighter side, the Adizero Boston and Tempo weigh in at
two ounces lighter than a typical training shoe. This makes them
great for day-to-day running or for use as half-marathon or marathon
racing shoes. The neutral Boston is like the sleeker younger brother
of the Supernova Glide, while the Tempo is like a speed-ready
Supernova Sequence. Regardless of your need for racing, tempo run, lightweight, or minimal shoes, the AdiZero line has something for you. |
| Sarah A's Picks of the Week |
Human Race
Running Socks
Designed for the
multi-sport athlete, this sock, created by Glastonbury, Connecticut based 3Athletics, has
really made a conscious effort to build a great sock and be environmentally friendly.  The packaging is made from recycled
paper, recycled plastic and non-petroleum based ink. With high quality CoolMax as the basis and
organic materials used whenever available, the sock itself is also an example
of being earth conscious. Built on a 200 needle machine (higher than most
others at 150) has made for improved lifespan and overall comfort. Also, with
the use of Nylon and Spandex the sock fits more feet with less sizing. It
slipped on easy and snapped on snug when I took them for my run this weekend
and the tab in the back made for easy on and off and no rubbing with my shoes.
SAVE THE MDC
TRAILS T-Shirt
 Everyone's
favorite outdoor enjoyment spot is has been threatened and may close it's
doors. Help support the MDC trails and voice your love for the reservoir buy
purchasing the "Save the MDC Trails" T-shirt for $10.
Running Skirts
Running fashion
has never been so fun! These skirts are comfortable, practical and cute. The
waist band lays flat and doesn't scrunch so there is no pulling on your skin or
 bunching of fabric. This thicker, flatter band also makes it easy to fold over
if you prefer. Underneath the skirts are
built in compression shorts that are made with reverse seems to prevent
chaffing. Don't be shy, running skirts
are a flattering way to work out in style. We have recently gotten some new
colors in stock so come by and check them out!
New Balance 7
Inch Men's Eco Run Short
For all you trails running guys out
there, this one is for you. This New Balance short respects the woods and is made
of all recycled materials (hence the 'eco' in the name). It's light weight but
a bit rougher in texture and durability for use through the thickest of woods
and trails. It is also water resistant and provides UV protection.
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| "Bare it All" 5k Training Program |  Run Bare... or almost there!Curious
about the barefoot/minimalist running movement? Read Born to Run?
Want to try barefoot running but don't know where to start? Our Run
Bare training program is a 14-week coached group to get you ready to
run the Blue Back Square Mitten Run 5k barefoot or in minimalist
shoes like Vibram FiveFingers or Saucony Type A4s. The group will meet
every Wednesday at 6:00pm, beginning on September 1, for 30 minutes
of barefoot running, drills, and education. Runners are then invited
to participate in the Fleet Feet Sports Wednesday Fun Run - using
shoes but practicing barefoot running techniques. Registration
for the program is $50, which includes fourteen weeks of
coaching, a moisture-wicking t-shirt, weekly e-mails with your full
training plan, and a coupon book for great savings. It is
recommended that you have three types of footwear to participate: a
pair of properly fitted running shoes, a pair of minimalist trainers,
and your bare feet! Click here to register or Contact schuyler@fleetfeethartford.comfor more information
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| Featured Race: X-Treme Scramble #3 |
 Sometimes you just need to break away from routine and do something crazy. For runners, that means doing one of the Hartford Marathon Foundation's Thursday night X-Treme Scrambles. Thanks to the great support of the folks at Riverfront Recapture, these 5ks are not your typical road race. No. Sometimes you run across the bridge and down the stairs to Charter Oak Landing. Other times you may climb over Park River or wade along the beach on the river or climb up the Riverfront steps. The HMF warns that portions of the course might get you wet, might make you curse, might make you dirty, but will always make you smile - especially since there is cold Harpoon beer, a Moe's burrito and live music waiting for you at the finish. The last Scramble of the year is Thursday, August 12 at 6:00pm. The course starts at Mortensen Riverfront Plaza. Cost is $28 if you register before August 11. Click here for more information. It's the perfect way to spend a summer evening! |
| Run Hartford with DetermiNation! | |
Training for an endurance event, like the ING Hartford Marathon, is a huge commitment. By training and racing as a part of the American Cancer Society DetermiNation program, you'll receive the support you need to achieve your personal victory ... and you'll have the strength to endure because you'll know with every mile you conquer, you are saving lives.
We know you have what it takes!
As a member of the DetermiNation program, you'll be dedicating your training and participation to creating a world with less cancer and more birthdays. Your American Cancer Society will be with you every step of the way providing you support, training tips, and online fundraising tools.
To learn more about the program (and get your $25 registration fee waived), please join us at one of our upcoming information sessions:
- Tues Aug 3, 6pm - Fleet Feet, West Hartford
- Thur Aug 5, 6pm - American Cancer Society, Rocky Hill
- Sat Aug 7, 10am - Fleet Feet, West Hartford
If you want to learn more but can't make the information session, click the logo above or email Kate Kerrigan - she'll tell you everything you need to know about this great program! |
| Join Team Challenge & Run Las Vegas! |
 Get the ultimate tour of Las Vegas with Team Challenge, the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation's half marathon endurance training and fundraising program! This exciting new program trains you to run or walk 13.1 miles for the Las Vegas Rock 'n' Roll half marathon on December 5, while helping the Foundation raise funds to find a cure for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. When you train with Team Challenge you will receive everything you need to cross the finish line including coaching, group runs at a venue near you, tech shirt for training and a singlet to race in, fundraising support, hotel accommodations at the Mandalay Bay hotel, exclusive invitations to the Team Challenge Pasta Party and a connection with an honored patient.Join us for an information session on Thursday, September 2 at 6:30pm (at Fleet Feet Sports) to learn more about the program, meet the coach, and sign up for what will be one of the best experiences of your life. For more information or to RSVP to this or another information session, contact Mary Grande at 203.208.3130 or mgrande@ccfa.org. Or visit www.ccteamchallenge.org.COACH NEEDED:
Team Challenge is also looking for a coach to support their Las Vegas Rock N'Roll training group here in CT. Your responsibilities will begin in late August and end with the half marathon on December 5, 2010. In addition to leading the Saturday morning group runs, you will be responsible for creating the running routes, setting-up the water stops, organizing educational clinics, and helping to recruit participants.
If you are interested, submit a cover letter and resume via email to Alison Rosenfeld and Mary Grande. Please put TEAM CHALLENGE RUN COACH in the subject line. |
| XC Spike Spectacular - Sun, Aug. 29 |  If you don't think there is anything more exciting than the start of XC season (the mud, the mile markers, your sweat, the hills!), then mark your calendar for Fleet Feet's XC Spike Spectacular on Sunday, August 29 from 3-6pm.
Bring your team, wear your school's colors, and join us for a fun afternoon where we'll celebrate running dirty with a 3 mile fun run, barbeque, sweet gear, discounts, prizes and a few surprises including very cool, limited edition arm warmers for the first 150 kids and a XC Team Flag design competition (we will provide the material for the flags and markers/paint). To add to the fun, the Saucony Sprinter will make an appearance to show off their latest spikes and apparel.
We will also be hosting our famous participation contest which awards a season's supply of Gatorade to the team that has the highest percentage of runners in attendance.
Plus, word on the street has it that there will be a Coach's Relay to determine which school has the fastest coaches. Serious bragging rights are at stake.
Can't make our XC Spike Spectacular? We'll be offering a 10% discount on spikes and trainers for all XC runners during the week of August 29 through September 4. Attention HS XC Coaches: If you would like to receive flyers about this event to pass out to your runners, please email Schuyler. |
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Store Hours
Mon - Thurs: 10-7
Fri: 10-6
Sat: 10-5:30
Phone: 860-233-8077
| | Store Calendar |
All events are at Fleet Feet Sports unless otherwise noted.
Fun Run & Walk
3-5 casual miles
(featuring pace groups
from 7-12 min miles)
Thurs, Aug 5; 6:30pm
Track Workout
at Saint Joseph College
Sat, Aug 7; 9:30-11am
FREE Injury Assessments
with Select Physical Therapy
Wed, Aug 11; 6:30pm
Fun Run & Walk
3-5 casual miles
(featuring pace groups
from 7-12 min miles)
Thurs, Aug 12; 6:30pm
Brooks "Run Happy Relays"
Cool prizes! Family-Friendly!
at Saint Joseph College
Sun, Aug 15-Sat, Aug 21
Tax-FREE week!
No sales tax on shoes
or clothing - plus, we're
giving away a prize a day!
Sun, Aug 29; 3-6pm
XC Spike Spectacular
& Cookout
Food, Fun, Freebies,
Discounts & Team Competition
Wed, Sept. 1; 6pm
"Bare it All" 5k Training
Program Starts
Cost: $50
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| Event Descriptions |  |
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.
Sat. Aug 7; 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, August 21 from 9:30-11am).
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Thurs, Aug 12; 6:30pm Brooks "Run Happy Relays"(St. Joseph College Track): Join us for the second annual "Run Happy Relays" sponsored by Brooks. Instead of our usual Thursday Night Track Workout, we are going to have a series of relay races (4x100, 4x200, 4x400 and a distance medley).
You can participate in as few or as many relays as you want. Teams will be chosen randomly on the night of the event - though, we will pre-divide people into groups based on predicted pace in an attempt to create even teams. Kids are welcome!
Brooks will be awarding cool prizes to each winning team, as well as to folks sporting their favorite Brooks running gear. The top prize is an autographed singlet! |
| Wed Night Fun Runs
6:30pm (at the store) |  |
Join Fleet Feet staffers Duncan, Shannon & Sarah, plus 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 |  |
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. |
| Saturday Fun Runs
8am |  | |
Our friends at lululemon (on LaSalle Rd - across from McLadden's Irish Pub) have begun a Saturday morning Run Club hosted by their Running Ambassador, Sarajean Walsh. All Fleet Feet Peeps are invited to join in this non-competitive run designed for women and men at all levels of fitness. Each run will be safely organized and mapped.
Whether you are training for a specific event or just want to meet some new running friends, join us in front of lululemon every Saturday at 8am. So dust off those sneakers and kick them on your feet! It's time to hit the pavement, sweat, smile and get healthy every day. |
| FREE Injury Hotline/Email |
 1-877-MOBL-MED (1-877-662-5633) -or- 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.
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| We're on Facebook! |  |
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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