You Asked: Pulled Calf Muscle?


Updated 09/21/09 3:35 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 4 comments

You Asked: Pulled Calf Muscle?

Dear Fit, I overdid it running on the treadmill a couple of nights ago. I ran hard and was in a rush so I didn't stretch or cool down. Then I put my heels back on to go to a cocktail party. When I got home, my right calf was aching. It hurts a bit when I walk and feels really tight. I think I pulled it. What can I do to help it heal quickly? Do I ice it? Do I heat it? I haven't worked out in a Read more

High Heels Can Give You Barbie Feet


Updated 01/26/12 12:45 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Study Shows High Heels Damage Leg Muscles

High heels. You either love them or hate them, but you can't deny they are chic. We love the height boost and illusion of longer legs they offer, but we do realize they're not the best things for our feet. Unfortunately, recent research shows that these lovely shoes may be worse than previously thought. In a study of longtime high heel wearers, published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, Read more

From the Community: the Best Exercise You Aren't Doing


Updated 01/23/12 10:28 AM · Posted by Fit Community · 1 comment

Heel and Foot Stretches For Injury Prevention

FitSugar community member (and fitness instructor) livinginthin has shared a how-to on an overlooked exercise that everyone should be doing. Running, cycling, squatting, jumping, curling, crunches, and lunging — you do it all, right? Well, the one move you aren’t doing is probably the one that can keep you doing all those things (and more), pain and injury-free for a lifetime. What is it? Read more

RX For Shin Splints: Ice Massage


Updated 01/20/12 12:07 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Treat Shin Splints With Ice Massage

Shin splints are the bane of many new runners. The tight calves that accompany mileage increases can spell pain for the lower leg. If running causes any discomfort, take time off to allow your shin splints to heal. But you need not sit idle on the sidelines while you recuperate: ice massages help, too. A serious runner, my Equinox trainer reminded me of the healing combo of ice and massage to Read more

Check Yourself: Running Form To-Do List


Updated 01/19/12 4:30 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 15 comments

Simple Tips to Improve Your Running Form

Whether you're new to running since Jan. 1 or just trying to find your fitness groove, running can be difficult to love 24/7. When my affection for running wanes, one thing that helps bring back the love is technique. When out for a run, I go through this simple list to check my form. It makes me a mindful runner, which helps not only avoid injury but also helps me find my stride once Read more

Your Winter Workout Woes — Answered!


Updated 01/13/12 11:27 PM · Posted by Fitness Magazine · 2 comments

How to Work Out Outside in Winter

We are excited to share one of our fave stories from Fitness Magazine here on FitSugar! Baby, it's cold outside! But for those of us training, sans gym membership, or just yearning for some fresh air, we can't let the chilly weather keep us from an outdoor workout. If you find your morning runs too cold, have achy joints, or just want to make it through a run without wiping out, we hear you! Read more

How to Run a Faster 5K


Updated 11/09/11 1:25 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

How to Run a Faster 5K

You've been running regularly for some time and have completed a few 5K fun runs. But now it's time to step it up and take this distance seriously. Here are some tips to help you beat your personal record when running 3.1 miles. During Training Add speedwork: If you want to run a faster 5K, you have to practice running faster. Coach Andrew Kastor recommends adding 80-meter sprints into your Read more

Training For a Marathon With Shin Splints


Updated 11/12/11 9:35 PM · Posted by Fit Community · 4 comments

Running With Shin Splints and How to Prevent Them

It's marathon season, and FitSugar reader isureamheather has caught the bug. Unfortunately, she's a few weeks into her training program and experiencing those dreaded shin splints. She posted this question about how to deal in our RunningSugar group. Hi all! I'm new to the group (hello!) and hoping some of you might have some advice. I've recently kicked up my running to start a 12-week half Read more

Silly Injuries That Could Derail Your Fitness


Updated 02/24/11 9:52 AM · Posted by · 4 comments

Silly Injuries That Derail Your Fitness

Part of a fit lifestyle, in my opinion, is living life to the fullest. Taking advantage of each moment and doing something fun is just as important for living a fit and healthy lifestyle as a proper fitness routine. Unfortunately, sometimes those two things get in the way of each other, and the most well-lived moments can turn into injuries that can sideline your workout routine. In the spirit of Read more

Two Reasons to Run Uphill and Three Tips to Get You to the Top


Updated 04/19/11 4:59 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 13 comments

Why Running Hills Is Good Training

Hopefully you have hopped off the ol' treadmill now that it's Spring and are running in the great out-of-doors. A major challenge of taking your running to the streets is hills. Many runners avoid the incline, but here are some reasons why you shouldn't skip the hills and tricks for mastering the climb. Running hills works your upper leg muscles more than running on flat ground. It also Read more