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Lead Stories: Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Braving Boston: Amy’s Journal for First-Time Marathon Runners [Part I]

Posted January 16th, 2008 at 11:56 AM by Katie Drummond

Section: Running & Training, Motivation, Training Tips

Meet Amy Hinrichs - part student, part writer, part comedienne - and part marathon runner. This April, Amy will embark on her first ever Boston Marathon. Whether you run ‘em, or only dream about it, join Amy on her training adventure as she prepares to join the thousands of intrepid runners in treading those incomparable 26.2 miles.

female runner at dusk The joy of training for a marathon. (Yes, I promise you that the words” joy” and “marathon” may be found in the same sentence. You might have to dig beyond those extra glucose stores to find it, but it’s there. It’s possible.) Now I know what you’re all thinking. “This woman has got to be crazier than Britney Spears shaving her head if she thinks there is anything joyful about running 26.2 miles in the same day, let alone training for it.” – Well, I am here to inform you that running 26.2 miles in the same day is possible, and what better way to do that than to include you in my training plan?

Readt the rest of this entry at our partner site: HerActiveLife.com

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What You Need to Know When Starting a Running Routine

Posted September 20th, 2007 at 8:00 AM by Jamal Walker

Section: Running & Training, Training Plans

jogger Why run?

Running carries with it the same benefits of all cardiovascular exercise: it helps reduce stress, strengthens the heart and lungs, reduces risk of certain diseases, increases confidence, brightens your mood, helps you sleep better, gives you more energy, and, in general, provides a better sense of well being. It is also a great way to burn calories.

How many calories do you burn running a mile?

Conventional wisdom says that, for every mile you run, you will burn 100 calories. But other factors play into the equation as well, including your running speed and your body weight. Generally speaking, a 135 pound person will burn about 100 calories per mile. A 200 pound person, running at the same speed, may burn 150. Obviously, the faster you run, the more calories you will burn.

Starting to run

Running can be stressful on your body, particularly on your leg muscles and knees. But you can minimize your risk of injury by following a few, simple tips.
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Rookie running guidelines for long-term fitness

Posted January 9th, 2007 at 2:30 PM by Christopher Jack

Section: Running & Training, Nutrition, Healthy Eating, Health & Fitness, Exercise

The passing of another year means it’s that time again; time to look to the future and resolve to create that better you. For many, personal health and fitness become the centerpiece of their New Year’s Resolution.

Running can be an ideal and long-term means to those ends as long as you follow these simple guidelines:

Set a goal. The downfall of many beginners is setting a goal that is too high considering their running experience and fitness level. Starting small and building up can protect a new runner from injury and the frustration that may accompany failure.
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Beginner’s guide to
running apparel

Posted January 5th, 2007 at 7:00 AM by Jenna Sumara

Section: Running & Training, Gear & Apparel, Apparel

You’ve heard that clothes make the man … or woman. Well, when it comes to running, clothes absolutely make the runner. But in the world of running, the emphasis isn’t on being a fashion plate (despite what that Paris Hilton look-a-like at the gym thinks). The emphasis is instead on functionality. This may seem a daunting task to a new runner, but not to worry - TFS has prepared this simple, beginner’s guide to help you make the right choices.
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How to Start a Running Program

Posted October 14th, 2006 at 1:03 AM by Adam Jacobs

Section: Running & Training, Training Tips

This post contains very pertinent and wise advice for true beginners. It is written by Dr. Gabe Mirkin and was originally published on his blog: “Fitness & Health with Dr. Gabe Mirkin”.

If you think you would enjoy jogging or running, here’s how to get started. First, check with your doctor and get a good pair of running shoes. Start out by jogging slowly until your legs feel heavy or hurt or you feel tired. Then stop for the day, even if you have taken only a few steps. Do this every day or every other day. You should be able to work up to the point where you can jog slowly for at least 20 minutes. If you’re happy with this program, you don’t have to go any further. However, if you want to improve, follow the training methods that competitive runners use.

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The Trail From Beginner to Boston

Posted October 5th, 2006 at 12:01 AM by Jim Fortner

Section: Running & Training, Injury & Rehab, Motivation, Training Tips

Jim Fortner is a weekly, guest contributor to TFS. Make sure to also check out his own personal running and advice site: “Jim2’s Running Page”.

In order to qualify for Boston, it is necessary to be able to do two things…..run long and run fast…..and both in the same race. The qualifying time for females under 35 years of age is 3:40, or 8:24 per mile. For men under 35, it is 3:10, or 7:15 per mile. Neither is easily done. But, with the right combination of desire and my three P’s…..Patience, Perseverance and a Plan…..many runners can get there. Those who have formed the Boston Training Group have certainly demonstrated the strong desire. Your Patience and Perseverance will be tested over the next year or more. What is needed now is a long range Plan.

The plan should extend at least a full year to allow a buildup to a fall marathon. It should be designed to develop yourself in progressive stages to the point where you can take on a marathon program. Read the rest of this entry »

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