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The Extra Mile November 15, 2016
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Get Faster by Running Less
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 Training through the New England Winter is not easy. It takes fortitude and a little crazy to face whatever nastiness Mother Nature tosses our way like darkness, bitter cold and the fact that our normal training routes have become a skating rink speckled with snow drift speed bumps. We struggle to maintain our fitness with many of us succumbing to hibernation, only to face the frustration of starting at Square One come spring.
This winter, I am going to share some magic with you. Magic so powerful that you will become a faster, stronger, healthier runner despite decreasing your mileage and being able to laugh at whatever Mother Nature is brewing outside. Magic that will add spice and excitement back into your training yet fulfill the competitive nature inside you. Magic that requires sweat equity, but is oh so worth it! The magic of cross-training.
Cross training is an essential element of running. Every movement you make starts from the core. Develop a strong core and you will not only see improvements in performance, but it can help prevent injury which allows you to consistently train harder and build upon your successes. Great things happen when you focus on becoming fundamentally strong. For proof, read about these "regular" Fleet Feet peeps who found success on the run in the gym:
 "Coach Doyle at CrossFit Hartford found out I was a runner and that I planned on running the Providence 1/2 marathon. He gave me a challenge to let him coach me with all strength and conditioning work and no running. I accepted, and trained his way for 3 months with barely any running, never going over 3 miles the few times I did run.
"I ran the race in 1:44 minutes, a 9 minute PR over my previous time. The biggest result that I found was I was mentally tougher than I had ever been. When I wanted to slow down, my coaches mental training kicked in and I didn't. My last mile was quick!" --Betsy Udal
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 "Running is my passion but I had hit a wall of sorts, both physically and mentally. I just wasn't seeing the benefit from the miles I was logging. I needed something different and challenging at the same time. I joined WIP Fitness in the winter to supplement my running. Cross training is always beneficial and being in a warm gym with other like-minded people was preferable to running the through the cold winter streets by myself.
"The more classes I attended, the stronger I became. Running was suddenly fun again as I saw improvement in both time and endurance. I was also elated when my clothes started to fit better as the pounds and inches dropped away. On October 8, I completed The Hartford Marathon and managed to take 20 minutes off my previous marathon time. I am still a "Work In Progress" and thanks to Fleet Feet and WIP, I am achieving my goals." -- Karen Randazzo:
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 The combination of Fleet Feet Training Program + Anytime Fitness West Hartford = PR's and no injuries! Small group training, group classes, yoga, nutrition, tune up and stretch classes have all contributed to me being in the best running shape of my life. I have PR'd at every race distance (5K, half marathon and marathon) since joining ATF in 2014 - including smashing my Boston Marathon qualifying time by 11 minutes!
The trainers and instructors, who lead the workouts and classes are very knowledgeable and supportive, and the camaraderie amongst and between the trainers and members is very special. Reminds me of the FF training programs! --Kitty Horigan
One common thread in each of these success stories is that they had professional help guiding and pushing them in their fitness journeys. We are very fortunate to have a fantastic variety of high-quality gyms and coaches in the Hartford area who cater to runners. Even cooler is that a few of our favorites have agreed to extend special offers to Fleet Feet Peeps this winter.
Take a few minutes to read about each gym/coach and find the one that speaks to your soul. Reach out to them to plan your first visit. With the holidays fast approaching, there is no better time to get started than this week. Don't be scared. You'll only be a stranger to them once. After that, you'll have a new tribe to keep you motivated all winter long.
Be Strong. Live Fit!
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Nancy's Picks - Cozy Hoodies
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My running may have taken a backseat this week as I am enjoying my new granddaughter, Audrey, but my go-to wardrobe still includes these comfy running tops like the wool-blend Ridge Runner & butter-soft Run Strong hoodies from Saucony and the all-new Nike Thermo-Sphere Element top featuring a high-tech "sphere" fabric that creates air space to reduce cling and increase insulation. Paired with my favorite leggings and I'm ready for marathon snuggles with Audrey!
I am SO excited about two of our doorbuster deals this Black Friday - and I know you will be too! The items are from two of your favorite brands: Under Armour and The North Face. One is a FF-exclusive for just $25 (62% off!) and the other is THE jacket to have this year at an unbelievable price. Limited quantities available. To be the first to know - and see - the deals, click here.
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Holiday Sparkle
Ladies, make your workouts and runs shine with our fun selection of tops and bottoms featuring sparkles. Choose from the outrageous black and gold from Nike, silver shine from Craft or more subtle sparkles from Brooks and The North Face. It's like formal-wear for athletes!
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Ink'NBurn Holiday:
Rock the Ugly Sweater Run (use code FLEETFEET to save10%) with this fun ensemble. The shirt looks like that itchy sweater grandma gave you and the leggings like cable-knit , but both are really super silky, moisture-wicking fabrics that are soo cool! Super limited quantities. |
Holiday Socks:
Get into the spirit of the holidays with fun socks from Sock Guy. Choose from turkeys, ugly sweaters (including one featuring T-Rex!), Santa or Sock Monkey. All Sock Guy socks are non-cotton and designed for blister-free performance (and a few laughs). Perfect stocking stuffers!
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Addaday Echo Oscillator:
OMG!! We ask our muscles to do a lot. Thank them with this vibrating massager that can be used alone or inside a hollow roller. Three speeds vary the intensity, allowing you to massage both big and small muscle groups. Back, legs, foot, shoulders... The perfect holiday splurge for the runner who has everything ($90)
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Garmin Deals:
Give a Garmin this holiday. With savings of up to $125 during our Fitnatic Weekend spectacular, you can even treat yourself! Choose from activity trackers like the Vivoactive HR, performance running watches like the Forerunner 235 (get the exclusive FF colorway!) or the mac-daddy Fenix
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GripShield:
Whether you are rowing, swinging kettlebells, power lifting or even raking leaves, don't let sweaty hands affect your performance. Get a long-lasting grip without the powdery mess of chalk. GripShield quickly dries hands and creates a moisture barrier that works even in rainy or humid conditions.
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Save 20% with the WeCare Card
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Get a head start on your holiday shopping & not only will you save big, but you'll be helping a local organization in need (FoodShare).
Just purchase a WeCare Card for $50 (which, in turn, will be donated to FoodShare), and you will save 20% at your favorite retailers and restaurants in West Hartford (including both the main Fleet Feet store and our Women's Annex!). Good karma all around!
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Winter Half Marathon Training Program
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Want to train through the winter? Here are 3 secrets to success:
- Don't stop running outside. It's easier to acclimate to running in the heart of winter when you do it consistently through the fall.
- Pick a race. Like the Colchester Half Marathon on February 25.
- Train with a group. Whether they are old buddies or strangers, by the end of the winter, they will be among your favorite friends!
Join our Winter Half Marathon Training Program and your odds of success will increase even more! The 12-week program begins on Saturday, December 10 at 8am and culminates in the Colchester Half Marathon. What are you waiting for? You CAN do this!!
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There's always something going on at Fleet Feet and in our Running Community - visit our online calendar to keep up with the latest.
Weekly Events:
- Wed Fun Runs (6:30pm at the store) - Free
- RunFree Hartford Workout (6:30am at Riverfront Park) - Free
- Sat Injury Assessments w/Select PT (9:30-11am at store) - Free
- Sunday Yoga & Mobility w/Meghan (5:30pm at the store) - $15
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Special Events:
- WeCare Card - Save 20% off apparel shoes & accessories - Now thru Sunday, Nov 20
- Fitnatic Weekend Sale (fantastic specials & exclusive gear) - Nov 25, 26 & 27
- Stuff-a-Cruiser Boot Collection - Saturday, Nov 26
- The Ugly Sweater Run packet pick-up - Friday, Dec 2 from 2-7pm
- Saucony Freedom Launch Party (win a free pair!) - Sun, Dec 4 @ 11am-5pm
- Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run packet pick-up - Thurs, Dec 8 @ 4-7pm
- Half Marathon Training Program Begins - Sat, Dec 10 @ 8am
- Cold, Colder, Coldest: Dressing for Winter Runs Seminar - Tues, Dec 6 @ 7pm
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Meet Cheryl - our in-house massage therapist
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We are pleased to announce that we now have an in-store massage therapist. Cheryl Guertin is a licensed, hospital-affiliated massage therapist with 14 years of experience. She specializes in deep tissue for athletes, prenatal, therapeutic, chronic pain management and medical massage. Massages take place in a new therapy room within the Women's Annex.
To schedule your appointment or purchase a gift-pack of massages for the holidays, contact Cheryl at 860-205-3947 or clguermassage@gmail.com.
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Stuff-a-Cruiser (with Boots) - Sat, Nov 26
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 To find real joy this holiday season, do something that makes a big difference in the life of one person. Donate a pair of boots (all the better if they are gathering dust in your closet, basement or garage).
On Saturday, November 26, we will be hosting our semi-annual Stuff-a-Cruiser event with Officer Jimmy Barrett of the Hartford Police Department. Officer Barrett is an advocate for the city's homeless who has been known to purchase footwear with his own money for the homeless he encounters.
We are hoping to repeat the success of our spring event which enabled us to provide sneakers and foot care for 263 homeless men, women and children. Due to the approaching winter, we are collecting new or like-new boots (hiking, work or snow) that will be distributed at our next Footwear with Care event in December.
Can't make it to the Stuff-A-Cruiser event on November 26? No worries! Just bring your boots to Fleet Feet Sports any day before then.
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Looking for something to fill your race calendar? Try one of these great events:
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Fitnatic Weekend Sale - Fri-Sun (Nov 25-27)
Our elves are excited to help you find the perfect gift for the Fitnatic in your life (even if that Fitnatic is you!). In addition to some exclusive doorbuster deals, you can save on apparel, shoes, Garmin, Camelbak and your favorite socks from Balega, Feetures!, SmartWool and DarnTough VT. Early bird gets the worm!
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The Ugly Sweater Run - Sat, Dec 3 @ 11am
Ready, Set, Ho-Ho-Ho! Grab the ugliest sweater you can find & prepare to be merry. The start line in Bushnell Park includes massive inflatables, photo stations, games and cheerful holiday tunes. Post-run, enjoy hot chocolate (spiked with Kahlua for those over 21), ride a mechanical reindeer or take a family photo in a larger than life snow-globe complete with fake snow! Click here to register - use promo code FLEETFEET to save 10%.
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Blue Back Mitten Run - Sun, Dec 4 @ 10:30am
We are proud to be a sponsor of this great 5k in our backyard! The race starts near Town Hall in West Hartford and finishes in the heart of Blue Back Square. Costumes, jingle bells, Santa hats and Fleet Feet shirts are encouraged! Please bring a pair of new mittens or a winter hat to donate. Kids races begin at 10am
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39th Annual Santa's Run - Sun, Dec 4 @ 12pm
This fun, family-oriented race hosted by the Glastonbury Park & Rec Dept begins and ends at Glastonbury High School which means access to showers, lockers, restrooms and indoor warm-up! Professional timing with clocks at each mile marker and personalized results emailed post-race. All for just $15!
Plaques awarded to all division winners, raffle prizes to random winners and a fun Christmas-themed costume contest. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Glastonbury Fuel Bank.
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Jingle Bell Run - Sat, Dec 10 @ 10am
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Go Far's Jingle All the Way - Sun, Dec 18 @ 12pm
For kids and grown-ups who have been naughty and nice! Come jingle all the way through scenic Middlefield. Starting at the lodge at Powder Ridge Mountain and Resort, this 5k race promises incredible views and all the fun (the coolest homemade awards) that Go Far is famous for.
After the race stay for hot chocolate and holiday cheer! Can't run? Consider being a Volunteer Elf. Click the logo for more info!
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Skillet Green Bean Casserole
Taking on a traditional Thanksgiving dish can be a little daunting. I don't think I've ever had the original version, so it's a little hard to compare the two. This dish, once the beans are cooked, is prepared all in one skillet, on the stovetop and the broiler. I like that all the ingredients are whole foods and not from a can or carton. Any opportunity to get veggies on the table, and into one's belly, is a good one.
Click Here for Recipe
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Store Hours:
Monday: 10am - 7pm
Tuesday: 10am - 7pm
Wednesday: 10am - 8pm
Thursday: 10am - 7pm
Friday: 10am - 7pm
Saturday: 10am - 5:30pm
Sunday: 11am - 5pm
**CLOSED ON THANKSGIVING DAY**
Open Normal Hours Thanksgiving Weekend
or call us at: 860-233-8077
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