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 I love when little kids come into the store to get new sneakers. They take it so seriously - knowing that they aren't supposed to pick shoes based on looks alone. They know it is about fit and performance. After dutifully trying on each pair of shoes selected for them and taking them for a test run, they usually report back in a very serious tone that one pair of shoes is definitely faster than the others. When they wear that shoe, they can do just about anything (like beat their parents in a race). They believe in the magic of shoes.
I think kids are right. The right shoe can be magic. They make running more enjoyable and can make you feel like you are gliding over the ground. They can keep injuries at bay. They can help you fit into that favorite pair of jeans (even when they are fresh out of the dryer). Just the sight of your shoes, especially today's brightly colored sneakers, can make you smile and WANT to wear them.
You can do anything you set your heart and mind to when you wear the right shoe. Just ask Dave Cilley who's trusty red AdiZero Mana's helped him run a PR, sub 3-hour marathon at Hartford. Or new runner Caroline Nower who ran a breakthrough 34 minutes on Monday and now has the confidence to run her very first 5k. Or Tracey Collin (pictured above with fellow NoBo Melissa), who first joined our No Boundaries Beginner running program in 2009 and completed the 2011 Hartford Half Marathon. After the run Tracey told me that the best thing she's ever done for herself was walk into Fleet Feet and get fitted for a pair of sneakers.
Where will your shoes take you?
Be Fit,
Steph |
| Schuyler's Shoe Review: AdiZero Mana 6 |
Less mainstream than the standby Supernova Sequence and Supernova Glide, less flashy than the Marathon world-record setting AdiZero Adios, it can be easy to ignore the humble Adidas AdiZero Mana. The Mana has a loyal following, however, now updated to its sixth edition.
Bridging the gaps between racing flats, minimalist shoes, and lightweight trainers, the Mana 6 has a lot to offer all three types of runners. For racers, the Mana weighs in at a feathery 9.1 ounces. At this weight it can help you PR in your upcoming 5k road race while still providing enough cushion to last up to half-Marathon or even Marathon distance. A springy, responsive forefoot provides amazing energy return when running fast (or trying to).
 Minimalist runners, or those making the transition to more of a midfoot strike, will appreciate the 6mm heel-toe drop. While tradition running shoes are around a 12mm drop, the most minimal models drop between 0-4mm. The 6mm drop is a good change for someone starting out, as it still provides enough heel for those times when your form is less than perfect. A series of parallel flex grooves molded into the forefoot ensure that there is still enough flex to provide good surface feel.
For runners who want a lighter weight daily trainer, the Mana 6 sees its biggest upgrade in the amount of cushion in both the heel and forefoot. Under the foot is a noticeably more padded ride, which along with the very slight medial post can provide enough cushion and stability for neutral runners or mild over-pronators to get some miles in. A shoe also like this works well in rotation with a slightly more substantial stability shoe.
Rounding out the upgrades is a slightly wider toe-box. For runners using the Mana 6 day-to-day or racing distances of half-Marathon and up, this tiny increase to width means more accommodation for foot swelling. This also makes it easier in the winter months to wear a sock that is thicker and warmer than the standard ultra-thin racing sock. And comfort on your feet works well whether you're racing or putting the miles in on a sub-zero day. |
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Amy's Gear Corner | |
Did you see the forecast for Thursday night? Yup, snow! Time to break out the warm stuff. It's only going to get colder from here!
Mizuno Breath Thermo Gear: It is that time again: time to get your Mizuno Breath Thermo gear! If you do not know what Breath Thermo is, prepare to be amazed. Breath Thermo is a revolutionary thermal material which takes moisture from the body or Mother Nature to create heat. You read that right: your sweat, rain, sleet, fog and snow activates the material to produce heat. Gone are the days where you shiver and shake because your clothes are damp.
Ask us for a demonstration the next time you are in the store - it's incredible! And it's stink-free thanks to Breath Thermo's anti-bacterial and deodorizing properties.
Now available in Breath Thermo are gloves (wind block and regular thermo), arm warmers, socks, hats, caps with ear/neck warmer, headbands, long-sleeve crew tops, half-zips with extended cuffs and thumb-holes, tights and pants for both men and women. Whew, as you can see, we love our Breath Thermo!
 Holiday Socks: Add a little flair to your runs this fall with fun Halloween and Thanksgiving Day themed tech socks from SockGuy. We've got socks that say "Boo!", orange-and-black stripped Jack O'Lantern and a turkey on the run (perfect for Manchester)! With a no-slip supportive cuff, a double-stretched heel and toe, cool airflow mesh for maximum ventilation, these socks are as functional as they are festive. Limited stock available so don't delay, come today!
Darn Tough VT Socks: We think these are the best wool socks for running, walking, skiing and hiking on the market (and they are made in VT!) - and now, we're excited to carry DTV's new lifestyle line featuring thick stripes, thin stripes, polka dots and cool patterns galore! Quality + Style. DTV uses 100% fine gauge Merino wool-creating a breathable, itch-free sock that is perfect for ALL seasons. These socks stay put; they do not slip. Say goodbye to bunching, blisters, hot spots and boring white socks.
 Manchester Road Race: A Seventy-Five Year Celebration: This wonderful special-edition book commemorates the 75th anniversary of the famous road race right here in Manchester, CT. The 174-page book features countless photographs and personal accounts that capture the action, excitement, festivity and rich history of this wonderful Thanksgiving Day race. Price for the book is $29 with all proceeds from the purchase going to the Manchester Road Race.
 Manchester Road Race T-Shirts: Get your official Manchester Road Race Tee tech tee at Fleet Feet while supplies last. This year's long-sleeve shirt is a bright yellow ($25) and the short-sleeve shirt is a light blue ($18). In addition the regular unisex shirts, this year the MRR is proud to debut women-specific shirts that feature a rounded collar and tapered fit. All proceeds from the shirt sales go directly to the Manchester Road Race.
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| The Little Manchester Road Race | |
 Fleet Feet Sports is proud to partner with the Manchester Road Race Committee and Henkle to host the 2nd Annual Little Manchester Road Race - a miniature version of the famed Manchester Road Race just for kids on Saturday, November 19 at 10:00am. This free, non-competitive run is open to all kids aged 12 and under and features three separate races: � Mile, 1 Mile and 2 Miles. All pre-registered kids will receive a sweatshirt, medal and post-race treats.
The races will start and finish at the Bennet Academy soccer fields in Manchester - just 1/4 mile away from the Manchester Road Race Expo which is also being held that morning. Parking at and around Bennett Academy and their fields are plentiful.
Registration will be capped at 500 kids (over 250 kids have signed-up to-date) so parents are encouraged to pre-register their child to guarantee entry (the run is expected to fill to capacity so don't wait too long to register). Click here to register your child(ren) or learn more about this fun run by clicking the logo above.
In lieu of an entry fee, kids are encouraged to help us fill the Manchester Food Bank's pantry by bringing 2 canned goods with them on race day. |
| Predict the Snow - Win Breath Thermo! |  Can it be true? Snowflakes in the forecast on Thursday night?!! Winter is fast approaching which means it is time to kick-off this year's edition of our famous "Predict the Snow, Win Mizuno Breath Thermo" contest!
To participate, email me your best prediction of when Fleet Feet Sports West Hartford will receive its first inch of snow - month, day, hour and minute (example, December 2 at 4:13pm) in the Subject Line of your email. Snow depth will be determined with my state-of-the-art snow gauge (aka ruler) on my special 2'x2' "snowboard" so we're official.
Just like the Price is Right, the winner will be the person with the closest time without going over (e.g. if you predicted 8:59pm, you can't win if the time is past 9:00pm). The winner will receive a Mizuno Breath Thermo top to keep you warm and toasty during your winter adventures. The contest is free and open to anyone but you only get one prediction so make it a good one!
Predictions are due by Midnight on Tuesday, November 1, 2011.
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Featured Races - Flag Run & Jamie's 5k |
Jamie's Run
Sunday, November 6 - Old Wethersfield, CT
Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to help Build a Cure for children's cancer at the 2nd annual JK 5k. The 5K run, 3K Charity Walk, and 1K kid's fun run aim to raise money to support the construction of the new Clinical Care Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Connecticut Children's Medical Center. Last year over 700 attended and $36,000 was raised. The event is an official race with a certified course and is a Manchester Road Race qualifier. Professional, amateur, and all levels of runners and walkers and invited to participate.
Race founders Kurt and Kelly Knotts of Vernon, CT lost their 5 � month-old daughter Jamie to a rare liver tumor in 2010. To honor Jamie's memory and to recognize the exceptional care she received at Connecticut Children's Medical Center, the couple has established the JK 5K to help fund the construction of the state-of-the-art Clinical Care Center at Connecticut Children's. The hospital has outgrown its space and needs an improved facility to provide children and their families with the best possible care and treatment.
Jamie's Run will follow a picturesque course that starts and ends at Cove Park. The course runs through the quaint village of Old Wethersfield, passing historic homes, churches, and businesses. The kids 1k starts at 11:00am with the 5K race and 3K walk beginning around 11:10am (once the kids run is finished). Families can enjoy a post-race celebration with refreshments, kid's activities, and music.
For information about Jamie's Run and to register for the race, click the logo above. For more information about the hospital and its building campaign, click here. |
| Got Race Tee's? |  If you are like me, you probably have a closet full of race t-shirts that you can't bear to part with. Give new life to your favorite t-shirts by sending them to Ariela at stitch'T who will convert them into a cool - and very comfy - quilt, pillow or wall hanging! It is a great way to recycle your shirts, de-clutter your closet and create a custom keepsake of your race memories.
Sitch'T is the perfect gift for the runner or triathlete in your life who has everything...especially too many shirts! When placing your order, tell Ariela that you are a Fleet Feet West Hartford Peep and she'll take 30% OFF Your Order. Sweet!
For additional information about stitch'T and a gallery of images, please visit their web site: www.stitchT.com |
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Pumpkin Seeds
By Aubrey Schulz | |
With Halloween less than a week away, those lumpy, orange fleshed gourds are ready to be carved into perfect works of art. As you are hallowing out your pumpkin take the time to save the seeds to roast them into crunchy, salty snacks.
Pumpkin seeds are filled with a wide range of nutrients. They are very good sources of the minerals; manganese, magnesium and phosphorous and a good source of zinc, iron and copper. The seeds also supply a good amount of vitamin K and protein (8.5 grams of protein per quarter cup). With the strong nutritional profile, the seeds are linked to supporting bone health, reducing arthritis inflammation and lowering cholesterol.
Use this recipe throughout the fall. Try saving the seeds to those big wonderful fall squashes, you see turning up at farmer's markets in the dwindling days of harvest. My CSA share ended with an assortment of winter squashes (Red Kuri, Hubbard, Acorn and Carnival). I intend to save the seeds and roast them playing with different flavor combinations.
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Lime and Garlic
Ingredients:
- Pumpkin or other squash seeds
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- Zest from 1 lime
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375. Rinse the seeds in a colander, removing any attached fibrous flesh. Remove as much water as possible and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Toss the seeds with the remaining ingredients.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the seeds out in a single layer.
- Roast for about 15 minutes, stirring once or twice. The seeds are done when they are golden, dry and sizzling. As they cool, they will get crunchy. Once cooled sprinkle with a little more salt if desired.
Recipe source: www.inpraiseofleftovers.com
---------------------------------- 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
Phone: 860-233-8077
www.fleetfeethartford.com | |
EVENT CALENDAR
All events are at Fleet Feet Sports unless otherwise noted. | |
Wed, Oct 26 @ 6:00am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Wed, Oct 26 @ 6:30pm
Evening Fun Run
& Halloween Costume Contest
Prizes & Treats!
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Thurs, Oct 27 @ 6:30pm
Track Workout under the lights
Saint Joseph College
All abilities welcome!
Sat, Oct 29 @ 8am
Informal Old Wethersfield 10k Training Group
Pace Range: 9-11min/mile
Sat, Oct 29 @ 9am
Run/Walk Meet-Up
Meet New Training Partners
All abilities welcome!
Mon, Oct 31 @ 6am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All Abilities Welcome
Wed, Nov 2 @ 6:00am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Wed, Nov 2 @ 6:30pm
Evening Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Wed, Nov 2 @ 6:30pm
Ladies Night Luau at
Newington Bike
RSVP here
Thurs, Nov 3 @ 6:30pm
Track Workout under the lights
Saint Joseph College Track
All ages & abilities
Tues, Nov 22 @ 6:30pm
Newton Natural Running Clinic
FREE |
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Newton Natural Running Clinic
Tues, Nov 22 @ 6:30pm |  |
Newton Running Educator Michael Blanchard will be hosting a monthly clinic on Natural Running every fourth Tuesday of the month at 6:30pm. The clinic is designed for those who have recently purchased a pair of Newton Running Shoes or are interested in trying the shoes out (Mike will have shoes available to demo).
During the FREE clinics, Mike will cover the basics of foot biomechanics, how to achieve natural running form and explain the science and technology behind Newton Running shoes. Learn how you can run faster, stronger, more efficiently and with less injury! |
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Racing the Planet
Film & Speaker
Nov 3 @ 7pm |  |
Samantha Gash, a 26 year old Aussie, is the youngest athlete and first woman to complete the grueling "4 Deserts Grand Slam" in a single year. The Grand Slam is comprised of four-155-mile ultra-marathons in the driest, hottest, windiest and coldest 'deserts' in the world including Atacama Crossing in Chili, the Sahara in Egypt, the Gobi in China and Antarctica). Her feat was made into a documentary by award-winning filmmaker, Jennifer Steinman.
Samantha and Jennifer will be at Valley Regional High School in Deep River, CT for a special free health fair and movie screening (doors open at 6:15pm, presentation begins at 7pm). After the movie, Samantha will talk about her mental and physical journey as well as the training and nutritional support it took to complete the races. The evening's events highlight ordinary people doing extraordinary things and will inspire you to get up, get moving and dream big!
The event is sponsored and hosted by Juice+ which Samantha used to help achieve her amazing feat.
For more information, contact Jenn Tassmer at 860-575-2478 or jhtassmer@hotmail.com |
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Pilates for Runners
Free Classes |  |
You can't run your best without a strong core (think abs, lower back and glutes). Core strength is the primary force that controls motion in the hips and spine when you run. Weakness or lack of sufficient coordination in the core muscles can lead to less efficient movements, compensatory movement patterns, strain, overuse and injury.
Improve your running performance and take a special "Pilates for Runners" class with Personal Trainer and Pilates Instructor, Deanna Dorman. In this specifically designed class, she will focus on strengthening the core, increasing flexibility and improving posture. Through this cross-training program you will also strengthen the diaphragm and stretch tight rib muscles to improve breathing - all of which help every runner run longer with less effort.
As a Fleet Feet Peep, Deena invites you to join her class for FREE during the following dates/times.
- Wed, Nov. 9 @ 7pm
- Sat, Nov. 12 @ 8am
- Wed, Nov. 16 @ 7pm
- Sat, Nov. 19 @ 8am
All classes are taught at the New York Sports Club in Blue Back Square. For more information contact,Deanna Dorman at
(860) 462-9750 or deannadorman8@yahoo.com |
| 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. Now that it is dark when we run, please wear reflective gear and lights so everyone is seen and safe!
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 9am |  |
Every Saturday we will open our doors at 9am 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.
For more information, check our official "Meet-Up" group web site. |
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FREE Injury Assessments | |
Injured? Don't know whether you can run/play sports or if you should really see a doctor? Contact the Select Physical Therapy Free Injury Hotline.
The hotline is staffed by Stacy, Select PT's Sports Medicine Director and licensed athletic trainer, who, depending on the severity of your injury, may give you instructions on how to care for your injury at home or direct you to one of Select Physical Therapy's 30 clinics in CT for a free evaluation.
Call or email Stacy at Select's FREE Injury Hotline:
1-877-MOBL-MED
(1-877-662-5633) | |
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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 |  |
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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Save
50% on Summer Gear |
Use this coupon to increase your discount to 50% off the original price on all summer apparel, mesh hats and Montrail Recovery Sandals. There is no limit on the number of items you can purchase with this coupon, though, this offer is not valid on previous purchases. All sales are final and no other coupons or discounts apply. | | Offer Expires: Monday, October 31, 2011 |
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