|
|
 This Valentine's Day I'm breaking up with my mate. Our relationship has gotten old and stale. I just don't feel the same joy when we're together that I used to. The bounce in my step is gone and, quite frankly, my mate isn't nearly as attractive as when we first met. I've hung on as long as I could, but now the effects are impacting my health and happiness. It's time...
...time for new sneakers!
 I am terrible about replacing my sneakers within the recommended time frame, which is odd considering I'm surrounded by over 4,000 pairs of new sneakers on a daily basis. I've had my beloved Saucony Peregrine trail shoes for over a year. Like a baby's blanket, they are tattered and torn. The cushioning and tread are worn thin so I feel every pebble, and my pinky toes are exposed to the outside elements despite layers of Shoe Goo used to patch the tears.
I always feel sad when I retire a pair of shoes. So many memories...so many miles of fun including run-in's with snakes, rivers of mud and stinging nettles. Runs in temperatures extremes ranging from minus 0 to over 120 degrees. Through sand, snow, and raging creeks, over mountains and into the Grand Canyon (and back again). Oh the places they have taken me!
 But then our shipment of the brand new Saucony Peregrine arrives and my sadness and guilt are replaced with longing. The shoes look so sleek and fast. The colors vivid and vibrant. I think to myself, "these shoes are going to make my feet look so cool!" and envision myself leaping over fallen trees and bounding up Talcott Mountain.
Then I lace them up. OMG, so cushy - goodbye burning feet! I test them on a patch of ice - traction without having to completely activate my core. Whoa! I forgot how amazing new sneakers feel. It's almost like I'm cheating by wearing them. I think these beauties will single-handedly break me out of my winter slump even if the Groundhog predicted six more weeks of winter (and the weather folk are whispering about the potential for "the Big One" this Thursday).
Yes, this Valentine's Day my soles will be falling in love with their new mates...and justify me enjoying the homemade whoopee pies from Bella Sophia Baking Company that we'll be giving away as part of our "Love Run" with Hoka One One this Saturday!
Live Fit!
Steph
|
|
Sports Medicine Corner
Foam Rolling Benefits - even for healthy runners
|
Do you generally feel fine after your runs? No real aches or pains, or at least none that are limiting your running? A frequent question that I get asked is, if I am feeling good, why should I use a foam roller (or other massage tool)?
The benefits of foam rolling have to do with the mobility of the fascia. Fascia is a fibrous layer of connective tissue that surrounds all of the muscles in our body.
fibers of the fascia become cross linked and they bind to muscles and nerves, inhibiting normal motion and causing pain. Many runners will stretch to try to keep their muscles healthy, but is stretching really enough?
Stretching may be more beneficial if foam rolling is done prior to the stretch. A recent study (Foam Rolling and Static Stretching on Passive Hip Flexion Range of Motion) that was accepted for publication in the Journal of Sport Rehabilitation in January of 2014 measures the effects of foam rolling prior to static stretching. The authors found an increase in hip range of motion after rolling on the hamstring then stretching, compared to stretching alone. Increase in flexibility was thought to be from increased blood flow and an increase in intramuscular temperature, both of which increase the viscoelastic properties of muscle.
Much of the research is suggesting that static stretching prior to exercising is not beneficial and could actually be injurious. Many people suggest that static stretching be performed after exercise, when muscles are relaxing and returning to their normal length. The results of the aforementioned study suggest that it might be even more beneficial to precede that post exercise static stretch with a form of Self Myofascial Release (SMR) such as foam rolling.
There are a few reasons why SMR can benefit you. To learn more and to find out how a metronome can help you with your foam rolling, click here.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Stacy Provencher is a certified Athletic Trainer and Fleet Feet's Sports Medicine Director. She conducts free in-store injury assessments and helps fit customers with medical issues and injuries. To contact Stacy, call 860-233-8077 or email her at
Learn about common injuries and treatments in Stacy's Sports Medicine section on our web site.
|
|
Judd's Shoe Review:
|  Spring is coming upon us soon (despite what the weather has been like)! That makes February the month of shoe updates which makes the Shoe Geek in me a very happy boy! Here's the inside scoop on three big debuts, including two brand new shoes and one big update: Brooks Transcend:  This shoe is made to be the ulti mate cushion from Brooks running. It features a "Super-DNA" midsole, giving it the highest concentration of Brooks' patented cushion technology than ever. The real story, however, is the Guide Rails that are a lighter, more effective replacement to the traditional stability "post" that most stability shoes use. The Guide Rails only activate when necessary, which is meant to not change your stride, but help correct you when your feet start getting tired on longer runs. That also means the shoe is appropriate for neutral all the way through moderate stability runners. All of this is packaged in the most plush, thoughtfully-designed upper ever. This shoe is really made to float you through any amount of running you want!  Hoka Conquest:
We're proud to be hosting a launch party with Hoka One One this Saturday to introduce this shoe that has generated an enormous amount of buzz amongst runners (particularly ultra and "broken" runners). Hoka has been a relatively small company that specializes in maximal/ultra-marathon level cushion. The challenge was that the max cushioning made the shoes feel huge and heavy. Enter the Conquest! It provides ultra-cushion in a responsive ride. With the lightest upper and a new form of EVA midsole, with architecture to decrease weight, it is the fastest Hoka yet, without compromising cushion.  Nike Flyknit Lunar2: Nike's Flyknit technology earned "Best Invention of 2012" honors from Time Magazine. Nike's new Flyknit Lunar2 pairs two of their best innovations together in one package. You get the responsive, fluid ride of Lunarlon cushioning with this amazing, light but supportive upper through Flyknit. Think of Flyknit thread like a gossamer strand of spider's silk, yet it is stronger than steel. The Flyknit thread is then specially woven to create an upper that supports, stretches and provides ventilation where your foot needs it most. It's like wearing a sock! The other cool feature is the heat-cut outsole that makes it extremely flexible in all the right spots thanks to the integration of pressure map data Nike's researchers collected so the outsole patter more closely matches how the foot naturally moves through its stride. In short, this technology enhances the cushioning properties of the shoe and delivers greater flexibility. It's a lightweight neutral shoe that is built for runners from elite to beginner. Other notable shoe updates include: Brooks Ravenna 5 - A new Biomogo DNA midsole, giving it a more cushioned feel, while being more responsive. Saucony Hurricane 16 - A tuned upper featuring less overlays for a lighter shoe that doesn't compromise support. Saucony Peregrine 4 - Steph's new fav. De-coupling flex grooves on the forefoot for WAY more flexibility, especially when your trail run encounters pavement, as well as cool new color combos. Nike LunarEclipse - Borrows the foot-mapped outsole from the Flyknit Lunar2 for increased forefoot flexibility in a shoe designed for those who need stability. Looking for a deal? We have limited sizes of older models on sale. Give us a call (860-233-8077) and we'll be happy to hold the shoe for you for a week if we have it in stock. |
|
Casey's Favs: Valentine's Day Gift Ideas
| |
Chocolate? Flowers? Candy? Valentine's Day is Friday which means it is time to start thinking about what to get for that runner in your life on this special day. While others may choose to take the traditional route, I'm here to help broaden your horizons. As they say:
Give your love some chocolate...they'll smile tonight.
Give your love running gear... they'll smile across the finish line (and look good doing it!).
I've collected some of the staff's favorite items as well as some brand new items now available and categorized by dollar amounts to help you find that perfect gift.
$25 and Under
 Shwings: available in a variety of shapes and colors these sweet shoe accessories are sure to jazz up any sneaker - Sweaty Bands: who doesn't love accessorizing or glamming up their running outfit? Not only are these headbands super cute but they don't slip!
- Darn Tough Socks: guaranteed to keep your feet comfy and dry even in the most unforgiving climates. New colors now in stock!
- Brooks Pulse Lite Glove: the perfect transitional glove from winter to spring. Lightweight and breathable, they are perfect for racing!
$50 and Under
 Brooks Utopia 3-in-1 Mitten: They say "warm hands, warm heart". Smart layering to keep you running longer with this mitten shell /glove liner combo.
- Addaday Ultra Roller: All the benefits of a soft/deep tissue massage to roll out sore muscles and smooth kinks.
- Orange Mud Transition Towel: you're dirty...keep your car purdy! This well designed wrap stays up when changing underneath and hooks over the top of your car seat so it won't slide.
- Brooks EZ T: softer than cotton, this fantastic moisture-wicking short sleeve comes in fun colors and prints that read "Love to Run"
"Luxury" -
 Sunglasses: Snow glare got you squinting? Treat their eyes to designed-for-athletes sunglasses from Tifosi and Nike. Ladies will love the stylish new Excellerate! - Trigger Point Starter Kit: have an ache or pain you can't shake? This awesome kit features key self-massage tools to release tension and strengthen the body's foundation
- Foot & Calf Massager: Ahhhh-mazing! Technically, this machine decreases recovery time between workouts by reducing lactic acid and increasing foot and calf flexibility and circulation - but honestly, it's like your own personal masseuse. Special Valentine's Offer: Save $50 when you mention this newsletter (normally $375).
|
|
FREE "Intro to Trail Running" Program
|  Are you interested in trail running, but were too intimidated to start? Or maybe you just don't know where to go and don't want to get lost? Well, have no fear, we've got a fun - and FREE - mini trail training program just for you! Join us each Saturday morning starting February 15th at 8 am in Penwood State Park for our eight week "Intro to Trail Running Program." Come experience what's great about trail running and learn all you need to know to complete your first off-road race. While the program will build each week, you do not need to attend every clinic to be a part of this program.  The trails are a great alternative to those road miles with no cars to worry about. Plus views like this...
Who's IN? Questions? Email Coach Brian. Hope to see you this Saturday for our first clinic! |
|
Peanut Butter Pie
By Aubrey Schulz
| |
A popular combo is the perfect pairing of chocolate and peanut butter. For some this is an irresistible combination. This easy recipe with its no-bake filling is dense and luscious, reminding me of the center of a peanut butter bon bon.
Make this for your special Valentine and they'll likely be appreciative of your efforts and thoughtfulness.
You can substitute almond butter in place of the peanut butter.
Peanut Butter Pie
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 8 oz chocolate wafer cookies (about 30 cookies)
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 Tbsp sugar
For the filling:
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter (preferably natural style) at room temperature
- 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream, cold
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips or chopped honey roasted peanut, for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350 and generously butter a 9 inch pan.
- To make the crust, crush the cookies into crumbs using a food processor or place them in a plastic bag and roll over them with a rolling pin until crumbled. Mix the cookie crumbs with the butter and sugar until thoroughly combined. Press the mixture into the prepared pie pan, going up the sides as far as possible. Bake until the crust is firm, 8 to 10 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.
- To make the filling, using an electric mixer, cream together the peanut butter, cream cheese, sugar and vanilla. In a separate bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form. Using a spatula, fold the cream into the peanut butter mixture until completely combined. Scrape the filling into the cooled crust and smooth with the spatula. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips or chopped peanuts.
- Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or overnight before serving.
Source: Melissa Clark's In the Kitchen with a Good Appetite
---------------------------------------------
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...and in the water. You can reach her at aubrey@getoutnplay.biz.
|
|
|
|
|
|
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, Feb 12 @ 6:30pm
Evening Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All Abilities Welcome
Sat, Feb 15 @ 10am
Hoka Conquest Shoe
Launch & LOVE RUN
Wear Red if you're in Love
Yellow = "just looking"
Green = Ready to meet the LOVE of your life!
Homemade Whoopee Pies & Giveaways!
Sat, Feb 15 @ 9:30-11am
FREE Injury Assessments
w/Select Physical Therapy
No Appointment Necessary
Sun, Feb 16 @ 5:30pm
Yoga for Runners
Bring a Towel, Mat & $15
Wed, Feb 19 @ 6:30pm
Pearl Izumi "Dress as Your Fav President" Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All Abilities Welcome
Prizes for best costume
Sun, Feb 23 @ 5:30pm
Yoga for Runners
Bring a Towel, Mat & $15
Wed, Feb 26 @ 6pm
Foam Rolling Clinic
with Stacy
&
Spring Triathlon Training
Program Info Night
|
|
FREE Injury Assessments
Sat, Feb 15 - 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 certified Athletic Trainers from Select Physical Therapy.
These free clinics will be offered every other Saturday. No RSVP necessary.
Can't make the clinic or need an assessment sooner? Email or call the Select PT FREE Injury Hotline:
1-877-MOBL-MED
(1-877-662-5633)
| |
|
|
Ladies Afternoon Delight
Sat, Feb 22 @ 1-5pm
($5 Tickets Offer!)
| |
Ladies, this event is just for you! Join us for a unique fundraiser for Connecticut Children's Medical Center on Saturday, February 22 from 1-5pm at CrossFit Relentless (635 New Park Ave in West Hartford).
Ladies Afternoon Delight is dedicated to celebrating ladies' delights including talents, trades, achievements, beauty (inside & out), intelligence, love and empowerment. It's an opportunity for ladies to take the afternoon off and hang out with besties, sisters, cousins, and moms within a fun environment filled with music, munchies, cocktails, shopping, fitness demonstrations, 50's pinup models, makeup samplings, complimentary mani's, fab frocks, party photos and a hot car that goes boom. All while supporting a great cause!
Fleet Feet Sports will be one of the 30+ local businesses offering fun, treats and eats (our exhibit will help you "support your girls"). We'll be joined by other great businesses like City Steam Brewery, RIPE craft juice, Whole Foods Market, Bear's BBQ, NoRa cupcakes and Jewel Photo. Admission is $10/person, but click here to take advantage of Cupid's special and pay just $5/ticket!
|
|
|
Spring Triathlon
Training Program
Info Night:
Wed, Feb 26 @ 6pm
| |
Join PBM Coach (and former Fleet Feet staffer) Amy D'Anna and Race Director Bill Honeck for Spring 2014 Triathlon Group Training! This year's session has been developed for those who want to drop their times and get faster, "Tri Harder" and those entertaining the idea of doing their first race, "Give it a Tri." Each group will have their own individual training plan and meet together for clinics and timed workouts.
An information night will be held at Fleet Feet 6:00 p.m. Wednesday February 26th and at Newington Bike 6:00 p.m. Thursday March 6th. The 13-week course requires athletes to be able to swim, have access to a functioning road bike and the ability to manage time. The cost of the course is $189.
Each week will focus on a specific task building your knowledge base and fitness preparing you for the June 19th Marlborough Sprint Triathlon. Simply stated Group Training works. Athletes are more committed, workout harder and have more fun when they are part of a group. If you have been racing for a few years and would like to become faster join us! If you have always wanted to try racing but have never made the leap, come on out! If you have any questions please contact billy@pigironsports.com or amy@pbmcoaching.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 3-5 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. Runners are required to wear reflective gear and lights when it's dark (we have gear for you to borrow) 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.
|
|
Thurs Track Workout
|  |
On Hiatus until
March 6, 2014
|
|
Yoga For Runners
Sunday's @ 5:30pm
$15/Class
For Competitive People Who Can't Touch Their Toes!
| 
Stop Stretching It! Those that I coach and teach typically have SOMETHING going on with their bodies. It may be an injury, soreness, or a general discomfort. The typical first response to this is to stretching it out. STOP!!!! Your body has restricted your movement for some reason. Stretching is not always the most appropriate response. Injuries usually result from lack of strength, lack of mobility, and/or lack of flexibility or proper range of motion. It is very important to understand why you have this injury and what is going on with your body. If you stretch and attempt to lengthen muscle or connective tissue that is damaged, it may cause further weakness and injury. It may be more appropriate to focus on strength and restoration of mobility. In our Yoga for Runners class we explore STRENGTH, MOBILITY, AND FLEXIBILITY. We do this very mindfully in a relaxed environment. You are always welcome and encouraged to speak up, ask for help, and ask questions. Bring me your injured, tired, and weak . . . let's explore and get you functional, strong, and energized. Come check out our class - Sundays at Fleet Feet 5:30p! We are very informal and we laugh as much as we can. Let me know if you are a beginner, have any injuries, and where you are in your training cycle. |
--------------------------------
Meghan's Web Site
Twitter: @MegColFanning
|
|
Study Participants Needed
| |
Participants are needed for a research study at Hartford Hospital examining the effects of cholesterol-lowering medications on exercise performance in athletes. Individuals over age 40 who train in endurance activities at least 5 hours per week and take cholesterol-lowering medications called statins (examples are Lipitor, Zocor, Crestor, simvastatin, atorvastatin, etc.) are needed.
We are primarily seeking recreational and competitive runners, but also swimmers, triathletes, and other active individuals. The protocol involves 4 visits to Hartford Hospital. Subjects will be compensated $100 for their time and receive valuable health information, including VO2max testing.
If you are interested, please contact Dr. Kevin Ballard at kevin.ballard@hhchealth.org, or (860) 545-4257.
|
|
Corporate Lunch & Learns
Schedule Yours Today
(Free!) |  | |
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. |
|
Resources for
Heathcare Providers
|  |
We like to work closely with area healthcare professionals to find solutions for people who have injuries or foot problems because, oftentimes, a multi-faceted approach is needed to stop the cycle of injury.
We are proud to offer a variety of services and products to help you treat your patients and get them on the road to recovery.
|
| 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! |
|
|
