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 My love of running started in kindergarten. We lived just a few blocks from school so Mom would instruct my older brother, Tom, to walk with me. Of course, Tom would have nothing to do with that (what would his friends think!) so as soon as we turned the corner just out of Mom's eyesight, he'd take off running. I tried to catch him, but he was too fast - plus, I was usually wearing a dress, ruffled socks and patent leather shoes.
After a few weeks, I didn't care that he would leave me in the dust. I looked forward to my solo runs to and from school. Sometimes, I'd challenge myself to see if I could do it in fewer steps than the day before. Other times, I would time my stride so I never touched a crack in the sidewalk or try to make it home before the Bell Tower Carillon finished its 12 gongs signaling Noon. I think my fastest time in grade school was 2:17. Not that I was ever competitive about it...
Running was always a part of my life until I was diagnosed with Lupus in 1995 when the doctor told me that I probably shouldn't tax my body by running. Maybe a little jogging and walking, but "rest would be best". I followed his advice until my younger sister, Carrie, started running marathons in the late 1990's. It wasn't until I actually cheered her on during a marathon that I realized how amazing her accomplishment was. I was so inspired by her - jealous too! I wanted to be labeled a "runner" again since runners are healthy and strong. I wanted to challenge myself to go the distance and prove that I could still run.
When I told Carrie this, she said, "Why not? You CAN do this. I'll help you." That was the summer of 2002. About 20 weeks after my first 2-mile training run (a horrible slog at that), I crossed the finish line of the Marine Corps Marathon with my dad and sister by my side. I was a mess of emotions: joy, disbelief, relief, pride, empowerment. It was one of the best days of my life!
As I handed-out medals at the finish line to the nearly 500 participants of our Weight Watchers Walk-It 5k this weekend, I saw the same emotions in many of the walkers as they realized the magnitude of their accomplishment over the past year. Many participants had lost significant weight - some over 100 pounds including our special guest starter, Brian, who looked phenomenal.
When I asked folks what inspired them to join Weight Watchers and take on the Walk-It Challenge, they had various responses: to fit into their clothes again, look good for bathing suit season, keep up with their kids/grandkids, reduce their risk of heart disease and accomplish a long-dreamed about goal before a milestone birthday. All of them added that they got more than they bargained for - not only did they lose weight, but they got healthier and happier. They can now do things they never thought they could do. And it all started with a little inspiration.
Getting started is always the hardest part of doing anything. The best starts are ones fueled by inspiration because inspiration creates momentum and drive. It gives you a reason to do what might be painful and uncomfortable. It gets you through the tough days. Need proof? Check out this video Staffer/Tri Coach Amy shared with me. It's about Ben and his "120 Pound Journey". Amazing!
It's never too late to be inspired. As Ben said, "If you want to do it, all you have to do, is do it."
Be Fit,
Steph
P.S. According to a recent Harvard University Study, you will gain about two hours of life expectancy for each hour of regular exercise, even if you don't start until middle age. How's that for inspiration! |
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Schuyler's Shoe Review - Asics Updates |
Asics is known for their industry-leading stability shoe, the GT-2160, as well as their top-of-the-line Kayano, now seventeen years strong. The brand is just as strong in their neutral line-up. This month's introductions of the new Cumulus 13, Landreth 7 and Nimbus 13 prove that Asics can stand up to any brand on the market for neutral cushioning across a range of feet and surfaces.
Across the new line-up, you can find a few characteristics unique to Asics. Each shoe has a snug fit from heel to toe, great for runners and walkers who want to feel a secure fit. The Guidance Line, a groove in the outsole of the shoes, can now be found across the entire range of shoes. This feature allows the forefoot to flex more naturally with the foot, ensuring an optimal transition from heel to toe. Each shoe's Space Trussic System, the rigid plastic below the arch that provides structure to the shoe, is gender-engineered to ensure that men and women get a perfect ride.
 The Cumulus, once Asics' entry-level neutral shoe, is now a formidable neutral equivalent to the GT-2160. The new version features increased Gel cushioning in both the heel and forefoot for an overall softer feel than its predecessors.
 The Landreth 6 featured a revolutionary separated-heel design to prevent slipping. The new Landreth 7 improves on this design by reducing its bulk and lowering the weight back to the 11 ounces of the Landreth 5. The overall feel, like the Cumulus, is softer and more plush. A newly incorporated stretch-mesh forefoot window makes the Landreth one of the only shoes in the Asics line to accommodate bunions.
 The Nimbus sees the fewest changes across the Asics neutral range, maintaining the plush, high-end cushion and seamless asymmetrical lacing that follows the contours of the foot. The only change here is a great new color selection. Keep an eye out for limited-edition colors available later in the summer.
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Amy Gear Corner | |
 Nike 2-in-1 Shorts (Men): Whether you are going the distance on the roads or in the gym, you should try this best-selling short. It provides a comfortable, chafe-free fit and is available in two inseam lengths: 4" and 7". The built-in inner-brief is actually a pair of Nike Dri-Fit compression shorts that offer support, comfort and coverage.
Nike Gingham Tempo Shorts (Women): These hugely popular shorts are back with a playful print! Black, pink, purple or blue gingham designs are available to spice up your shorts collection. These shorts are sure to give you a little more zip of energy! Besides being cute, they will keep you dry with its Dri-FIT technology and keep you comfortable with its elastic drawstring waist and built in briefs. And, there even is a little pocket on the inside for keys, gels, money or chapstick.
 Nike Airborne Long Bra (Women): This awesome product is called a sport's bra, but it might be better to call it a tank with a supportive built-in bra that is functional. Yes, functional! The inner-bra is not one of those flimsy shelf bras - no, this one has molded cups for support, lift and coverage (no more show-thru). It also features slimming lines and flattering fit that is as perfect for running as it is biking, yoga or errand running.
 No Sweat Laundry Detergent: Blast odor. Banish stains. Protect fabric. Preserve Fit. You've invested in great technical gear for your workouts - don't shorten the fabric lifespan by washing it with regular detergent that strips the technical fibers away. No Sweat is a green detergent that uses a high impact/low intensity formula with a unique active ingredient called Bio-Blast that eliminates odor caused by bacteria and oil that lurks in your clothes after a good sweat. That means unsightly pit stains, ring-around-the-collar and that stench disappear. It even works in cold water and is available in unscented or mild citrus in three sizes: travel (2 washes), 500ml (16 uses) and 2.95L (93 uses).
 CT Walk Book: This is THE guide to the blue-blazed hiking trails of Connecticut. These trails are unique in the region for being well-marked, usable for hiking and trail running, and maintained entirely by volunteers. The territories in the Walk Book East and Walk Book West are divided by the Metacomet/Mattabesett Trails, which are featured in both books. Each book is bound in a binder-format so that maps and guides can be removed for easy carrying.
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| Support Your Girls & Save 20% |
 Whether you run, walk, bike, horseback ride, strength-train or even garden, you need a good sports bra - preferably one that actually fits (no chafing, no poofing, no needing to wear 2+ bras at the same time) and one that is made from a moisture-wicking fabric.
It's important to wear a proper-fitting sports bra for both comfort and health reasons. Comfort because a poor-fitting sports bra can make your workout miserable. A tight bra can chafe and restrict your breathing, while a loose bra can lead to permanent stretching of the Cooper ligaments which can lead to sagging over time (and the only solution to sagging is surgery).
Nearly 80% of women are currently wearing the wrong sized sports bra - even more are wearing bras that are too old and have lost their support. Ideally, your sports bra should never have a birthday since the fabric breaks down and loses its support due to sweat, detergent and dryers.
If you are in the majority, make time this week to get fit for a new sports bra. To help show your girls some love, we're offering 20% off all in-stock Moving Comfort bras. Also, call the store to make an appointment with a Bra Fit Specialist, and you will get a special free gift in addition to your discount! We refreshed our inventory with almost 200 Moving Comfort sports bras last week so you will have a great selection.
 This special promotion runs from May 25-May 31, 2011. Call 860-233-8077 to schedule your appointment (walk-ins welcome too). There is no limit to the number of bras you can purchase, but the 20% discount does not apply to special orders or on previous purchases. Other coupons or discounts (except your Personal Rewards certificates) cannot be used with this promotion either.
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Featured Race: Amica Iron Horse |
 Bart 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 5 and plan on meeting at the Bandshell on Iron Horse Blvd in Simsbury. 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, ¼ 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 May 31or you can register on-site from 6-7am during the morning of the race. With so many distances to choose from, the Amica Iron Horse is a great event for the whole family! |
| National Trails Month - Special Offers | |
 Did you know that June is National Trails Month? Fleet Feet Sports and the Connecticut Forest and Park Association are partnering to raise awareness of Connecticut's blue-blazed hiking (and running) trails. CFPA volunteers maintain over 825 miles of trails in the state of Connecticut and were instrumental in advancing recreational liability legislation that will keep areas like the MDC reservoirs open for public use.
If you buy a pair of trail shoes at Fleet Feet Sports, you will be automatically entered into a raffle to win a copy of the Walk Book East, Walk Book West, or a one-year CFPA membership. The Walk Books, a comprehensive guide and maps to the blue-blazed hiking trails of Connecticut, won the 2007 National Outdoor Book Award. You can buy one today at Fleet Feet Sports and hope to win the companion volume with a trail shoe purchase.
You can save even more while helping our state woodlands by joining CFPA. Anyone who joins CFPA during the month of June will receive a coupon for $10 off any pair of trail shoes at Fleet Feet Sports. There is no better way to support Connecticut's trails and then go out to enjoy them. |
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Running Vacation - Only 8 Spots Left | |
 Last summer my sister and I took our summer vacation on a beautiful wooden schooner out of Rockland Maine. The Stephen Taber has been sailing since 1871, making it the oldest sailing vessel in continuous service in the US. While it is a National Historic Landmark, it has been updated with modern amenities like electricity, running water, bathrooms and cozy private cabins.
 Perhaps the best feature on board is a vintage woodstove that produces five-star meals at the hands of a talented chef. We're talking handmade breads, soups, risotto, gnocchi, roasts and delectable deserts - complemented by fresh ingredients from local gardens and the sea. There motto is to error on the side of decadence. It's no wonder Rachel Ray is a huge fan! We would have surely gained 10 pounds if it wasn't for Captain Noah rowing us ashore to picturesque villages and pristine coastlines along the Maine coast to go for a run.
Which is how the idea for a "Running Cruise" began. I am thrilled to say that we've gone from idea to reality: our first Running Cruise has been scheduled for August 16-20. Four days and nights of running, sailing, eating and relaxing. It is the perfect combination of adventure and pampering. It might just be the most fabulous vacation you have even taken.
 This trip is open to everyone 18 years and older. The trip fee is $825 and includes everything -like an all-you-can-eat lobster feast, wine with dinner and a commemorative running jacket.
To be tempted even more, check out the Stephen Taber's web site. When you are ready to make your reservations and join me, call Captain Jane at 1-800-999-7352 or email info@stephentaber.com. Be sure to mention that you want to reserve a spot on the Fleet Feet Running Cruise.
Run, Sail, Eat...Repeat! |
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Sweet Treats
By Aubrey Schulz | |
I am often asked "Are energy bars healthy?" My answer is usually, "It depends." A conversation then ensues to determine how the energy bar fits into their lifestyle. If you make your own energy bars, you control the ingredients and can create versions which provide you with a net gain of nourishment and sustainable energy. This elevates energy bars to healthier level.
I recently started making my own energy bars or truffles. With a food processor, it an easy and quick process. It works great to make a large batch and freeze them individually. They do not freeze solid, so you can eat them right out of the freezer. In warmer weather, cold energy bars can be very refreshing.
You can form bars by pressing the mixture into an 8x8 baking pan, chilling it for two hours and then cutting into rectangles. To create balls or truffles, simply roll a tablespoon of dough into shape with your hands. Freeze the energy bars until you are ready to enjoy them.
Use this recipe as a template to get you started. Have fun trying out different combinations of tastes of these no-bake, high energy treats. If you are a chocolate lover, check out this recipe for Brownie Truffles.
Coconut Date Truffles
Ingredients
- 10 dates, pitted and soaked
- ¼ cup raisins, soaked
- ½ cup mixed raw nuts, toasted and cooled
- ¼ cup coconut flakes
- 1 Tbsp chai seeds
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350. Toast the nuts on a cookie sheet for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown. Be careful not to toast too long. Allow them to cool on a plate.
- Soak the dates and raisins in warm water for five minutes. Drain, rinse and dry thoroughly.
- In a food processor, pulse nuts until smooth. Add in dates and raisins and pulse all together.
- Add the coconut flakes and chai seeds and pulse briefly until just combined.
- Form into balls and freeze
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Aubrey Schulz is a certified nutrition and triathlon coach with Get Out N Play. Aubrey works with clients to help them reach their nutritional and athletic goals, both in the kitchen and out on the road. |
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STORE HOURS
Mon-Thurs: 10-7
Fri: 10-6
Sat: 10-5:30
Sun: 12-5
Closed Memorial Day!
Phone: 860-233-8077
www.fleetfeethartford.com | |
EVENT CALENDAR
All events are at Fleet Feet Sports unless otherwise noted. | |
Wed, May 25 @ 6:00am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Wed, May 25 @ 6:30pm
Evening Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles &
Adidas Faster 5k Program
All abilities welcome
Thurs, May 26 @ 6:30pm
Track Workout
at Saint Joseph College
All abilities welcome!
Sat, May 28 @ 9:30-11am
FREE Injury Assessments
by Select Physical Therapy
Sat, May 28 @ 8am
Run/Walk Meet-Up
Meet New Training Partners
All abilities welcome!
Wed, June 1 @ 6:00am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Wed, June 1 @ 6:30pm
Evening Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Thurs, June 2 @ 6:30pm
Track Workout
at Saint Joseph College
All abilities welcome!
Sat, June 4 @ 8am
Run/Walk Meet-Up
Meet New Training Partners
All abilities welcome!
Sat/Sun, June 4-5
National Trails Day
Click here for details
Sun, June 19 @ 8-11am
8 Furlongs Classic
Mile Race thru WH Center
FREE Nike Tech Tee |
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FREE Injury Assessments
Sat, May 28 - 9:30-11am | |
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 11).
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| Adidas Faster 5k Program |  |
Starts Wed, May 25 @ 6:30pm: Want to get faster this summer? Whether you are looking to break 20 minutes or 45 minutes, this program is for you! We are proud to partner with Adidas to present a cool new program to keep your summer running fresh, fun and fast!
The program will take place in conjunction with the Thursday Night Track Workouts (6:30pm at Saint Joseph College track) - but also offer an optional "tempo run" on Saturday mornings at 8am from the store, as well as a suggested training plan for the rest of the week. We will train for the Canton Lobster Loop 5k on Saturday, August 20.
Our first practice will be on Wednesday, May 25 at 6:30pm at Fleet Feet Sports. We will run a timed, "race-effort" 5k in order to better determine your training pace zones. If you are unable to attend this first practice, we will use your most recent 5k time (prefer that the race has occurred within the past year).
To sign-up for this FREE program, email Schuyler with "Faster 5k" in the subject line. In addition to the training program, you will have access to special Adidas demo nights and cool surprises. |
| Murphy & Scarletti's Fundraiser |  | |
Thursday, May 26 @ 5pm: Murphy & Scarletti's Fundraiser for "Miles for Melanie": Each year, the wonderful folks at Murphy and Scarletti's adopts a charity for their annual Charity Night celebration. This year, they have selected "Miles for Melanie" - a charity with a 5k road race that is raising money for the Melanie Rossini Memorial Fund which hopes to build a permanent program pavilion at Southington YMCA's Camp Sloper in Melanie's memory. Tickets are $25 and include an all-you-can-eat buffet and live music.
Melanie was just 21 years old when she died suddenly last year of a pulmonary embolism. Growing up, Melanie frequented the YMCA and Camp Sloper and worked there as a teenager. She loved working with children and was studying to be a teacher. Her family wants to honor her memory by donating an activity center building to Camp Sloper for kids to enjoy for years to come. Melanie's mom, Lynn, is a big supporter of the running community and has helped to raise thousands of dollars for other charities through Team MAD. I encourage you to show your support and help make Lynn's dream a reality.
To purchase your ticket(s) for the Kick-Off Celebration at Murphy & Scarletti's on May 26, click here. (click on the purple box with Melanie's name in the lower right-hand corner)
To learn more about the Miles for Melanie 5k on June 28, click here. |
| Wed Night Fun Runs
6:30pm (at the store) |  |
Join Duncan & 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.
Note: Fun Runs are canceled during snow and thunder storms and when roads/sidewalks are too icy and dangerous. Check our Facebook page on Wednesday's for status of run.
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| Thursday Night Track Workout |  |
Track Workouts are Back!
Join us every Thursday - 6:30pm at Saint Joseph College Track. Please park in the upper parking lot (NOT the O'Connell Gym lot or we risk losing our permit to use the track).
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 subscribe to his Weekly Workout email. 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. |
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Run/Walk Meet-Up Group: Every Saturday at 8am |  |
Every Saturday we will open our doors at 8am to runners and walkers looking to meet-up with others. We will have a place to hold your keys and change of clothes, as well as provide a bathroom, water and a book of routes ranging from 1-18 miles for you to select from. Our goal is to help match people of similar paces and training distances so no one has to run alone.
There is no charge to participate in the Meet-Up. If you already have a group of friends you run with, you can still take advantage of using Fleet Feet Sports as your meeting location from anytime between 8-10am.
Attention Walkers! Join our Calhoun Walk Club and train to walk the Jim Calhoun Cancer Challenge Walk on June 11. Top fundraisers will attend a UCONN men's basketball practice and meet Coach Calhoun. Go Huskies!
For more information, check our official "Meet-Up" group web site. |
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The 8 Furlongs Classic
One Mile Race & Nike High School Elite Mile |  |
Join us from 8-11am on June 19 in West Hartford Center for a one mile road race with a party atmosphere!
Eight furlongs is the equivalent to one mile - or, back in medieval days, it equated to the distance that a team of oxen could plough without resting. The mile is one of the most exciting distances to race - but when is the last time you raced it? Which is why we partnered with Nike to bring back this celebrated distance and make it a fun event for the whole family.
Our race will take place on Father's Day with the first of 9 waves kicking off at 8am. In addition to a family wave, men/women's master waves, men/women's open waves, there will be a special high school team competition and the Nike High School Elite Mile featuring the fastest kids in New England. The first 1,500 people to register get a sweet Nike Dri-Fit shirt - and the winners (overall and age group) will walk away with significant cash or Fleet Feet gift certificates. So brush off your racing flats and start training.
Join us for what promises to be THE racing event of the summer. Click here to register.
We'll see you at the Classic! |
| 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 |  |
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! |
| 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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