FitSugar

Get in Gear: Polar Bike Computer

FitSugar — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 14:00:00 -0700

A computer for your bike? I know you may be thinking, "I ride my bike to get away from my computer!" Don't worry because a bike computer is just the name of a handy little device you can attach to your bike that gives you all kinds of cool info.

How do they work? A magnet is attached to your bike's front wheel (on a spoke), and a magnet pickup is attached to the fork (the bar that holds your wheel). With each tire revolution, the pickup is triggered. Based on the calibration you set for your bike (stats about your bike like tire size), the computer calculates the distance you've traveled, your speed, and other measures, depending on the sophistication of the computer.

I found one that's not too expensive called the Polar CS 100b Wireless Bike Computer ($85).

It's wireless, so you don't have to deal with securing wires around the fork of your bike. The mount attaches to your bike stem or your handlebars, and the computer attaches to the mount. It's simple to use and the large display is easy to read. Instantly, you can look down and find out how fast you are going, how long you've been riding, and how many miles you've biked.

This bike computer is water-resistant, so it can take rain and a few splashes if you are riding in puddles. It uses a CR2032 battery, which you can replace yourself. There's even a low battery indicator that'll tell you when you should replace it.

I'm a huge fan of keeping track of your workouts. It motivates you to workout and allows you to chart your progress. When I run, I use the Nike + Sports Kit for my iPod Nano, and when I bike, I use a basic bike computer like this one made by Polar.

NikePlus.com Motivates Me to Exercise

FitSugar — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 14:30:00 -0700

People exercise for different reasons, and everyone should be exercising regularly. That's easier said than done. You definitely have to have a few tricks up your sleeve to help you stay motivated. Here's one of mine.

I bought an iPod Nano ($150) and Nike + iPod Sports Kit ($30) and I use it every time I go for a run or walk. Basically you plug the receiver into your Nano, and attach the sensor to your left shoe. Nike makes special Nike + sneakers (of course), and the sensor fits snugly in the shoe under the foot bed. I like to wear whatever brand of sneaker I want, so I just use a RunAway ($7.99) - it's a waterproof capsule that holds your sensor and attaches to your laces.

Want to know how it works? Then read more

When you go for a run or walk, the sensor on your shoe monitors your time, speed, distance, and how many calories you've burned (just wish it had a heart rate monitor too). If you hit the center button on your Nano, you'll hear a voice tell you all that info (very cool). Then when you get home, just plug your Nano into your computer and all your data automatically gets sent to NikePlus.com. It keeps track of all your runs, so you can track your progress.

You can even set goals for yourself, like run 12 times in 4 weeks, or run 20 miles in 4 weeks. I set a goal to burn 1800 calories in 4 weeks and when I reached my goal I got a "Congratulations," and a little award in my virtual trophy case. It's kind of like those gold stars I put on my calendar - a little silly maybe, but very motivating.

The bottom line is you need to find what motivates you. Tracking my progress online really gets me on a regular exercise schedule, and because I can see my stats in stone, it motivates me to keep pushing my personal limits.

Spring Running Tip: Set a Goal

FitSugar — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 03:30:00 -0700

Maybe you're new to running, or maybe you've been running for years. Whatever your experience is, everyone can benefit from setting a goal. Here are some ideas for personal goals you can set for yourself. I recommend that you make them reasonable. They should be challenging enough to make you work hard, but not so difficult that they'll never be achieved.

Run a specific distance - Maybe you have a goal that every time you run, you go for 1 mile, or 3 miles, or 10 miles. However far you choose to run, start off with a doable distance and then gradually work your way up.

Run for a specific amount of time - If you are just starting out, set a goal of let's say 5 minutes. As you run more often, and build up your endurance, you can increase the amount of time.
Run at a certain pace or run faster) - For some people, their speed is important to them. You can challenge yourself to run faster at a constant rate.
Run to burn calories - If you're running to lose weight, you may want to measure how many calories you're burning each time. You can set a goal, so that each time you run, you burn X amount of calories. The Nike + iPod that works with an iPod Nano will tell you how many calories you've burned. Some pedometers will also give that kind of info, as do heart rate monitors.
Run to raise your target heart rate - Maybe you're running to improve your heart health and circulation. You may want to purchase a heart rate monitor to measure how hard your heart is pumping.

Want to see the other goals? Then read more

Run more often - If you have a running regimen that involves running once a week, you may want to run more frequently, and increase your running to twice or four times a week. Make sure you can fit it into your work or family schedule.
Train for a race - This year I'm setting the goal to sign up for a 5K. There are tons of races, half-marathons and marathons out there - just check the races in your area to find one that's right for you.

Fit's Tips: Once you set a goal, and then accomplish it, make sure you celebrate in some healthy way. Buy yourself a new sports bra or new music to run to. You'll feel much better about treating yourself in a way that supports your active lifestyle.

Map My Run

FitSugar — Fri, 15 Dec 2006 03:30:00 -0800

Do you run in a city (or anywhere in the USA) but have no idea how far you're actually going on your exact route? If you're like me you just assume it's a mile or so.

MapMyRun.com is a cool online tool that enables you to type in your starting address and map out your run from start, through every twist and turn, to finish. The whole thing is a little difficult to use but once you figure it out, it's great.

I found out that my usual run home from work is 1.83 miles and that my walk to the grocery store is about .68 miles (there and back).

Check it out! How far are you actually running (or walking)? Let me know below!

How Do You Re-Fuel When Long-Distance Running?

FitSugar — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 03:00:04 -0800

FitSugar reader AZDaisy posted this question in the RunningSugar community group.

Hey everyone! So I've been running off and on for years now, but I just started getting serious, and I'm running my first half marathon this February! The longest I've run before was 7 miles . . . so replenishing my energy mid-run has never been an issue thus far. But I've read that for every hour you work out, you need to eat something, and that's where the gels, gummies, and bars come in. However, I've also read that you need to drink water when you eat these things, and where I run there's typically no water source, nor do I like the idea of carrying a water bottle with me on my long runs. I'm just curious . . . what do you long distance runners do when it's time to boost your energy mid-run?

If you love chatting about running or have a question, then post your thoughts to the RunningSugar community group. Not a runner? Then take a look at our other community groups - there's something for everyone. If you want to see your health or fitness post featured on FitSugar, then private message me here to pitch your ideas.

Best Sneakers for Long Distance Running

FitSugar — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 03:00:00 -0700

If you're upping your running mileage to tone up, to cross-train for another endurance sport, or if you're training for a marathon, then you're going to need a quality pair of sneakers. There isn't one brand or style of running shoe out there that is considered the ultimate shoe, because everyone's feet are different and so is the way in which they run. Here's some criteria you should look for in a shoe:

The sneaker should be lightweight and breathable. After continuously pounding your feet on the ground for almost an hour, you want as little weight on your feet as possible to avoid injuries to your joints and to conserve energy. Running for long periods of time will also raise your body temperature, so you want a shoe that has some type of ventilation (sweaty feet can cause blisters).
The sneaker should be made for your type of foot. Flat-footed people who overpronate when they run need extra arch support. If you have high arches and underpronate, you'll need extra cushioning. If you're not sure what type of foot you have and where you fall on the pronation scale, go to a specialty running store for expert advice.

For more great tips read more.

The sneaker should be made for the type of surface you plan to run on. If you're jogging on dirt, uneven, or wet terrain, make sure the sole of the shoe is meant for that, and the frame is sturdy.
Go for comfort, not appearance. Your feet could care less if your sneaks look cute with your new running skirt. So make sure they offer optimum cushioning and support. Finding the best fit is the point, so try on every brand and style of shoe in the store (even if they're hideous).
Don't be afraid to put down the dough. A solid pair may end up costing around $150, but it's totally worth it since you'll be spending a lot of time in them. If your feet are protected, it'll help avoid injury and improve your performance.

If you're at a loss for which ones to try out here's a list recommended by Consumer Reports: Nike Air Zoom Vomero+ ($120), Nike Air Pegasus+ 2007 ($65), Puma Complete Infinitus ($85), and Reebok Premier Hatana ($89).

Source

You Asked: Burning Lungs From Running in the Cold

FitSugar — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:50:49 -0800

Hi Fit,
I recently started running outdoors and am really enjoying it. It's started to cool off, and breathing in the cold air really burns my throat and lungs when I jog. Is there anything that can be done to prevent this?
- Winter Runner

Ahhh, the cold weather is moving in, and I give you credit for continuing your outdoor runs even though the temps have dropped. Running in the crisp air can be so exhilarating to your body and your mind, but your lungs are another story. I have some ideas about how to make your respiratory system happier, though, so continue reading

The Skinny on Swimming Terms

FitSugar — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 14:37:05 -0700

If you feel like you're underwater when it comes to pool distances, swimming lingo, and lane etiquette, then here is a short primer for you. I have put together a few swimming terms to help you navigate poolside life.

Distances

Length = Swim one length of the pool
Lap = Swim down and back, or two lengths
Swimmers mile = 1500 meters or 1650 yards
30 laps in the 25 meter lanes
33 laps in the 25 yard lanes

Lingo

Split a lane: Two swimmers share a lane, splitting the lane down the middle.
Circle: When three or more people share a lane, they swim down one side of the lane and back on the other. At most pools this is done in a counter clockwise direction.
Pull: Put a buoy between your legs and just use your arms to "pull" yourself through the water.

Learn some etiquette too.

SheROX - Danskin's Women's Triathlon Series

FitSugar — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 05:50:00 -0700

She swims. She rides. She runs. She rocks! Danskin sponsors the longest running women's triathlon series in the US, and the races are fast approaching.

If you've always wanted to do a triathlon, these sprint distance triathlons are for you. Here's the lowdown on the distances: .8K (.5 mile) swim, 19K (12 mile) bike, 5K (3.1 mile) run. Not only are these races fun and friendly, but Danskin also has a mentoring program to help newbies from the start (as in the first day of training) to finish (when you cross the finish line). I must say, doing a triathlon is one of the most empowering experiences - physically, mentally, and emotionally. Plus they have many different waves. The elite pros start first, followed by the amateur elites, and then groups separated by age. There is also a wave for cancer survivors and a buddy wave, if you want to compete with a pal in a different age group.

The first race is May 9 in Arizona, which means you need to start training now. These races are very popular and some races are already sold out, so if you're interested in trying a tri you should sign up soon. To see the race dates, just read more.

Tempe, AZ - May 9

Orlando, FL - May 10 (SOLD OUT)

Miami, FL - May 31

Austin, TX - June 7

Aurora, CO - June 28

New England/Webster, MA - July 26

Philadelphia - Aug. 2

Seattle - Aug. 16 (SOLD OUT)

NY Metro - Sept. 13 (SOLD OUT)

Chicagoland - Sept. 27

Los Angeles - TBD

Click here to start the registration process. Let me know in the comments section below if you are planning on doing a Spring distance triathlon this year.

Indoor Cycling Just Got Better: Schwinn Training Bike

FitSugar — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:00:52 -0800

Winter rain and snow means it is indoor cycling season: I'm talking about spinning. Equinox has filled its Cycling Studio with new spin bikes by Schwinn. The bikes are pretty dang sweet.

I rode one during 45 minutes of Sports Cycling, and the ride was smooth and comfy with so many different hand grips available - the handlebars are tilted for ergonomic placement. The tension on the fly wheel is created by magnets too, ensuring that all the bikes in the room create the same tension across the board. Best of all the bikes have console computers, which not only work with most heart rate monitors, but also measure miles per hour, cadence, distance, and watts. The pedals have cages, if you don't have cycling shoes, and the pedals are compatible with road bike cleats as well as mountain bike cleats - very versatile.

These indoor cycling bikes will arrive at Equinox gyms starting now throughout early Winter. They are exclusively at Equinox for the time being, but these bikes can only spell upgrades for most gyms. Tell me, do you spin?