Operation: Brighten a Life |
It is humbling how quickly your world can change. For many Sunday, October 28 consisted of household chores, church, football games and homework. By Monday evening, their homes were gone. The routine of daily life now consists of waiting in line at the shelter for food and supplies, sorting through the wreckage of their homes hoping to salvage a few precious memories while guarding their homes from looters and meeting with insurance adjusters and FEMA officials to file the appropriate paperwork that would give them financial aid - aid that may not come for many weeks.
I'm hoping that you will join us and help provide a little relief to those in need. Our goal is to create 100 Care Packages that will be distributed to families in some of the hardest hit areas in NJ and give them a reason to smile - even if for a few minutes - because they will know that someone cares about them.
We are making packages specifically for adults, kids and babies that each include a useful item, snack and a gift card so that each member of the family can get one. Adidas has generously offered to supply the bags for our care packages and help us deliver them.
To help, please choose one of the age-groups below and bring your items to the store by 7pm on Tuesday, November 20. Additionally, we ask that you include a note of strength/care, a favorite quote or a picture from your child in your bag to help personalize the bags a bit more.
Adults:
Useful Item: socks, hat, gloves
Snack: nutrition bars, gum, chocolate
Gift Card: Wal-Mart/Target, Home Depot, Gas Card
Kids:
Useful Item: puzzle book, small game, stuffed animal
Snack: nutrition bars, fruit snacks, crackers
Gift Card: Wal-Mart/Target or Toys R Us
Babies:
Useful Item: baby blanket, toy
"Snack": teething ring, pacifier, bottle
Gift Card: Costco, Wal-Mart/Target, Babies R Us
Don't want to go shopping? We will also be accepting cash donations which will be used to purchase gift cards. 100% of the items and money collected will be donated to victims of Superstorm Sandy.
Thanks for helping to help make the world a brighter place (besides wearing reflective clothing when you run in the dark).
Be Fit!
Steph |
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Join us on Thursday, Nov 8 from 5-7pm for a special event with Brooks to celebrate National Running Safety Month & their famous Brooks Nightlife collection. All Brooks apparel and accessories will be 20% off from 5-7pm.
Additionally, at 6pm, several brave Peeps will model the latest Brooks apparel as we all learn what to wear in "Cold, Colder & coldest" weather.
From 6:30-7:00pm, we'll head out for a 3 mile run - demo'ing pieces from Brooks Nightlife collection. Thirty participants will win a long-sleeve glow-in-the-dark tech tee and 20 will win a Brooks String Bag. Everyone will get a Run Happy lighted key chain!
Runners and walkers are encouraged to come dressed to the nines in their flashiest, brightest running outfit. Awards will be given to the winners.
Be Safe. Be Seen. Run Happy!
* Discount is valid on in-stock apparel and accessories only. Not valid with other discounts or on previous purchases. | |
Schuyler's Shoe Review: Nike Victory Elite |
Tracksters Rejoice! We have the exclusive Nike Victory Elite spike. This track spike isn't just elite-level, it's Olympic-level.
Nike mid-distance and distance athletes were wearing the Victory Elite on the track in London, including Leo Manzano, silver medalist in the 1500m. The Elite is one of the first spikes ever to feature a carbon-fiber spike-plate to enhance energy return and efficiency. Additionally, Dynamic Flywire provides for a contoured, snug fit at just 3.7 ounces. Just holding it in your hand makes you feel fast!
Attention High School Tracksters & Coaches: mark your calenders for our Indoor Track Spike Night - Tues, December 4. Discounts on spikes & trainers, free shirt, food & fun!
Secret Sale on XC Spikes: The great thing about spikes is that they don't deteriorate as quickly in your closet as regular running/training shoes do which means that if your spikes are trashed after this past XC season, you can get a sweet deal on a new pair of XC spikes and be ready to go next year. Just tell us you read about the sale in the newsletter, and we'll give you 40% off any in-stock XC spike. Hurry, supplies are limited! |
Stacy's Sports Medicine Corner:
Chronic Injuries: Excessive Pronation...butt that's not all! |
If you have experienced chronic plantar fasciitis, runner's knee, Achilles tendonitis, or shin splints and nothing seems to completely get rid of the pain, you could be focusing on the wrong body part. You might have heard the term "pronation" as a cause of your issues.
Pronation is the natural rolling in of the foot as it strikes the ground. While pronation is normal and necessary, excessive pronation can contribute to many running related injuries. The key is to address what is actually causing the excessive pronation and correct that.
Treatment of these injuries is usually focused on the area of pain. We start with looking at footwear, inserts, stretching & strengthening of the involved area, ice, heat, ibuprofen, rest, etc. The injury usually gets better, but then comes back again once we start increasing mileage or intensity.
If this sounds familiar, it might be time to look further up the kinetic chain, and focus on the gluteals! While things such as footwear and proper stretching and strengthening of the involved area should be addressed, the treatment should not stop there.
Weakness of the gluteal muscles, specifically the gluteus medius, can be the cause of a lot of leg injuries that are attributed to excessive pronation. [Click Here to read more...] |
Amy's Gear Corner: |
November is National Running Safety Month!
Daylight savings time combined with the shrinking daylight of winter means that more of us are running and walking in the dark. Dressing like Johnny Cash in all black makes you difficult to see and easily overlooked by drivers which can be hazardous to your health. Take the initiative to make yourself stand-out by wearing brightly-colored, reflective clothing and accessories.
And don't forget to join us on Thursday at 6pm to see the latest apparel and accessories and how to dress in Cold, Colder & Coldest conditions. You'll be rewarded with 20% off all Brooks apparel and accessories (including the items highlighted below) and you'll get a free Run Happy Flashlight key chain!
Nightlife Jackets: In the low-light hours before dawn and after dusk, these jackets from Brooks provide essential visibility and critical reflectivity thanks to high-contrast colors and strategic retro-reflectivity that reflects light back to the source, creating minimal scattering. These sharp, bright flashes of light on key areas of the body catch a driver's eye and make you more noticeable - even from a distance. Add flattering seams and design and these pieces become a truly stylish safety option.
Pulse Light Glove: Time for new gloves! Brooks updated their lightweight, breathable running glove to make it lighters and more comfortable, earning it Runner's World magazine's "Most Minimalist" running glove. It is perfect for cool-weather runs with its barely there feel and "just enough" warmth. If your hands get hot and sweat, the technical fabric wicks moisture away to keep your hands dry so they stay the perfect temperature longer. The black gloves have either bright yellow, orange or pink stripes to keep you visible.
Adapt Glove: These gloves rock! They have an easily-stowed water-resistant "windshield" that can be pulled over your fingers for added protection. They are light-weight, reflective and are touch-screen compatible so you can keep your fingertips coverred while scrolling through your playlist. If the forecast calls for misty, cold adventures, this is your glove. Note: these gloves do run a little small, so you may need to size-up.
Infiniti Headband: Highly visible! Fast-wicking! You can always use a performance headband, to cover your ears and keep sweat (and hair) out of your eyes. This fitted, retroreflective headband are great for men and women alike - especially if you don't like wearing a hat.
Hydro Flask: OK, so this stainless steel, insulated bottle won't keep you visible, but it will warm you up after a cold run. We first tested this bottle over the summer and were amazed by the results - even after sitting in our super-hot car for 9 hours, our ice water still had ice! Yesterday, we tried it with hot tea and sure enough, at the end of the day, the tea was still steaming hot. Plus, it's easy to clean and won't hold odors/tastes. Perfect for anyone who likes to hydrate on the go! |
Boston/Spring Marathon Training Program |
We are proud to partner with Adidas to host a special training program and VIP package for those who are running the 2013 Boston Marathon.
For $295, you will get a 16-week training program, highly-qualified coaches (Aubrey Schultz and Bill Honek of Get Out N Play), a private party in Boston the Friday before the marathon, a special "Insiders-Only" tour of Boston on Saturday and a private bus to the Start from downtown Boston. You can stay on the bus until minutes before the start - and whatever gear you leave on the bus will be taken back to our private suite by the Finish Line where your can meet your family and enjoy free post-race food, drink and massages. Yes, you will be a Boston VIP!
Want to qualify for Boston 2014? This same program is also training folks to run the Charlottesville, VA marathon on April 6. We will help arrange travel, meals and accomodations so you can be as stress-free as possible on race day.
For more information, email Coach Aubrey at [email protected]. |
Featured Race: Go Health & Fitness 5k |
Before your Thanksgiving feast, make a difference in the lives of CT cancer patients by participating in the GO Health & Fitness 5K to benefit the Connecticut Sports Foundation. You'll enjoy this flat and fast course that starts and ends at Go Health & Fitness in Farmington as you sprint or "Gobble Wobble" your way to the finish!
Race starts promptly at 7am on Thanksgiving morning. Your $25 race registration fee ($30 on race day) includes a t-shirt and prizes will be awarded to the top male/female as well as to all age group winners. Click here to register or contact race director, Sharon McHale for more details. |
Yoga for Runners: Sunday's at 5:30pm |
What Now?
Most athletes in our area are finishing up their racing season. Often, we are left with a feeling of "What now?" You may need a break, but may be hesitant to do so because you are already thinking about 2013 races. Or you just may be sick of running in general and need to do something else, but don't know what to do. I can relate to both of these!
Most importantly- always listen to your body! If you are feeling something wrong, or the beginnings of an injury, get it checked out.
Sometimes, it is our mind that needs a break. The monotony needs to be broken up. This is time to do something different. You can continue running, but take a few days a week to do yoga, cycle, swim, or whatever else you didn't have time for in the past few months. Have fun! Enjoy the season change. Check out a running group. You will NOT lose fitness by breaking from running and cross training.
It is important for our bodies to get balance as well. Engaging in activities that differ from your normal routine will help to strengthen and balance your body. When we are not racing we can push ourselves harder.
Bottom line, maintain some base mileage but mix it up. Enjoy yourself. If you exercise in not fun, then you are doing it wrong.
Meghan is a certified yoga instructor and a certifiably crazy ultra-runner. Catch up via her web site, blog, Facebook page, Twitter (@MegColFanning) or email: [email protected]
Just $10/class - A portion of the proceeds will go to FoodShare
Please bring a Yoga mat, blanket or towel, and wear comfortable clothes. |
Baked Potato Soup
By Aubrey Schulz |
When the weather forecast is dark and stormy, this soup is incredibly comforting. I make it a few times during the colder seasons and every time I forget just how good it is. That first spoonful of creamy buttery goodness just warms me to the core. It's a hearty soup that begs to be enhanced with toppings. Use the soup as a base and let your family customize their bowl to suit their tastes.
Baked Potato Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 head garlic
- 3 Tbsp butter
- 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts halved lengthwise, washed and chopped small
- 5 - 6 cups chicken or veggie broth (you can use the 6th cup after pureeing if you'd like a thinner soup)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt
- 2 � lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into � inch cubes
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- Ground black pepper
Toppings, optional:
- Minced fresh chives or scallions
- Crumbled bacon
- Sour cream
- Grated cheddar
Directions:
- Remove any grit or loose papery skins from the head of garlic. Cut off the top third of the garlic bulb. Set the bottom two-thirds aside. Remove the garlic tips and mince them.
- In a soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the leeks and cook them until soft, about minutes. Add minced garlic and cook another minute. Add the larger part of the garlic head (whole, not chopped), broth, bay leaves and � tsp salt. Reduce heat and simmer until the garlic is very tender, 30 to 40 minutes.
- Add potatoes and continue to simmer, partially covered, until potatoes are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Discard bay leaves. Remove garlic head. (You can find another use for the inner garlic). Add sour cream to the soup and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
- Adjust seasonings, adding more salt and pepper to taste. Using an immersion blender (or food processor or blender), process soup until creamy-chunky, leaving lots of potato texture intact.
- Serve with whatever toppings make you desire.
Source: www.smittenkitchen.com
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Aubrey Schulz is a certified nutrition and triathlon coach with Get Out N Play . She works with clients to help them reach their nutritional and athletic goals, both in the kitchen and out on the road. This winter she is teaming up with Lake Terramuggus Triathlon Director Bill Honeck for a destination marathon training program. The group training program begins in November and culminates with a March marathon. |
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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
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EVENT CALENDAR |
All events are at Fleet Feet Sports unless otherwise noted
Wed, Nov 7 @ 6am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All Abilities Welcome
Wed, Nov 7 @ 6:30pm
Evening Fun Run/Walk
3-5 Casual Miles
All Abilities Welcome
Thurs, Nov 8 @ 6:00pm
Brooks "Switch on Your Run"
See below for details
(& how to get 20% off)
Thurs, Nov 8@ 6:30pm
Track Workout
at Univ. of Saint Joseph
All Abilities Welcome
Sat, Nov 10 @ 9am
Good Form Running Clinic
& Fitness Run
at Live Every Day PT
in Simsbury
Sat, Nov 10 @ 9:30-11am
FREE Injury Assessments w/Select PT
No appt necessary
Sun, Nov 11@ 5:30pm
Yoga for Runners
bring a Towel or Mat
$10 - portion goes to
FoodShare
Mon, Nov 12 @ 6am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities Welcome
Wed, Nov 14 @ 6am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All Abilities Welcome
Wed, Nov 14@ 6:30pm
Evening Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All Abilities Welcome
Thurs, Nov 15 @ 6:30pm
Track Workout
at Univer. of Saint Joseph
All Abilities Welcome
Thurs, Nov 15 @ 7pm
Sports Nutrition Seminar
w/Pam Rosow
Sun, Nov 18 @ 5:30pm
Yoga for Runners
Bring a Mat or Towel
$10 - portion goes to
FoodShare
Tues, Nov 20 @ 4-6pm
Meet & Run with Olympian Deena Kastor!! |
Corporate Lunch & Learns
Schedule Yours Today! |
Did you know that the experts at Fleet Feet Sports offer free presentations and workshops that are perfect for corporate wellness Lunch-and-Learn series?
Choose from a variety of topics including Injuries & Proper Footwear Selection, Core Health, Minimal Running, Intro to Triathlons and an on-site Fit Clinic. We can also assist with starting a Running and/or Walking Program to help you and your co-workers live fit!
For more information and to schedule a lecture, check out the Community Section of our web site. |
Stacy's Office Hours for
FREE In-Store Injury Assessments |
We now have a Sports Medicine Director & Certified Athletic Trainer in the store! Stacy will be available during the below hours to offer free injury assessments and help fit customers with medical issues and injuries. Appointments are encouraged, but not necessary.
To contact Stacy, call 860-233-8077 or email her at [email protected].
Learn about common injuries and treatments in Stacy's Sports Medicine section on our web site.
Mon: 2-7pm
Wed: 2-7pm
Thurs: 10am-2pm
Fri: 10am-2pm
Sat: 9am-Noon
(every other Saturday when Select PT is not present) |
FREE Injury Assessments
Sat, Nov 10
9:30-11:00am |
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 and see one of Select Physical Therapy's certified Athletic Trainers.
These free clinics will be offered every other Saturday. No RSVP necessary - but you can call us to reserve a time (860-233-8077).
Can't make the clinic or need an assessment sooner? Call and leave a message or email Brian at Select's Free Injury Hotline:
1-877-MOBL-MED
(1-877-662-5633) |
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Good Form Running Clinic
& Fitness Run
Sat, Nov 10 @ 9am |
Living Fit doesn't mean you have to struggle through another monotonous workout. Join us for a morning of Fun & Fitness at the new home of Live Every Day Physical Therapy in Simsbury (the new yellow house by Dunkin Donuts at 138 Hopmeadow St - parking is available at the old Pool Barn building).
The fun kicks off with a Good Form Running Clinic taught by Sean Burris, New Balance guru and coach of Olympic Steeplechaser & 1500m runner Barbara Parker. Good Form Running is designed to teach runners of all ages and abilities the four key steps of running more comfortably and efficiently.
Next, Sean and Matt Calendrillo, physical therapist and owner of Live Every Day PT, will lead us on a 3 mile fitness run/walk along the adjoining Rail Trail where we will practice our good form and encounter fitness challenges designed to strengthen our core along the way. We will follow an out-and-back course on the Rail Trail so you can make the run/walk shorter (or longer) if you want. Or you can skip the run completely.
We will finish back at Live Every Day PT for stretching, light refreshments and socializing.
This clinic is free but is limited to 50 participants so please RSVP to Stacy to reserve your spot. |
Free Nutrition for Runners Lecture
Thurs, Nov 15 @ 7pm |
Join us for an informative lecture on the connection between nutrition and running by Pamela Rosow, a registered dietician and nutritionist at Elite Sports Medicine in Farmington. Pam will cover specific topics such as:
- Hydration - what & when to drink
- Carbohydrates, protein and their role in stamina and muscle building
- Why fats are necessary
- Planning meals & snacks for runners and active individuals
- Q & A
Pam is a UConn graduate and a member of the American Dietetic Association. Her experience includes Chief Dietician at St. Francis & Bristol Hospitals, as well as Clinical Dietician and manager at Hartford Hospital. She is also a Consulting Nutritionist for public and private schools in the area and has worked with recreational and elite athletes in a variety of settings.
The lecture is free, but please RSVP to Stacy if you would like to attend. |
Meet & Run with
Olympian Deena Kastor
Tues , Nov 20 @ 4-6pm |
Olympic Bronze Medalist (Athens Marathon) Deena Kastor is this year's honorary chairwoman for the Manchester Road Race. In partnership with the MRR, Deena will be visiting Fleet Feet Sports on Tuesday, Nov 20 from 4-6pm.
At 4pm, Deena will share stories & wisdom, give inspiration and answers questions.
At 4:30pm, we will head out for a casual run (well casual for Deena - the rest of us will be sprinting)around the streets of West Hartford.
From 5-6pm, she will sign autographs (we will have free posters of Deena courtsey of Asics) & pose for pictures. |
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! If you don't own any reflective gear, we have a limited supply you can borrow courtsey of Pearl Izumi!
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 | |
Only 2 more Track Workouts left this year. Come improve your speed & run with us under the lights
Check us out on NBC30!
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. Last week we had almost 100 people - from beginners to more experienced runners!
Join us every Thursday - 6:30pm at the University of Saint Joseph 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 receive his Weekly Workout email so you can still get your speed-fix in! |
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! |
Be Safe - Carry ID
on your Run or Ride |
| click to order your ID | |
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