FitSugar

Running Gal Gift Guide

FitSugar — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 10:00:54 -0800

One of the major appeals of running is that you can just lace your sneakers and go. Although it is not a gear heavy sport, I have found a few tempting and helpful pieces that make perfect gifts. Treat the running gal in your life to some sweet holiday presents from this gift guide. You might even find a few pieces to put on your own wish list this year.
Source: Getty

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Guess Who?

FitSugar — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 10:58:40 -0800

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4 Great Websites For Runners

GeekSugar — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:32:05 -0700

It's marathon season! I have to admit, there is something incredibly inspiring about watching the marathoners in New York City (the race is this Sunday). I love a good run, and whether you're a marathoner-in-training or a recreational runner, here are four sites that will help you train and get prepped for the race!

Do you have an interesting website you want to share? Join the Website of the Day group where you can post your favorite website! And you never know, it could be featured on GeekSugar! Here's a detailed guide to posting questions or posts to groups if you are new to the PopSugar Community.
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Fall Running Gear Essentials

FitSugar — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 04:30:43 -0700

Autumn is by far my favorite season for running, be it on a trail or the road. No matter where you choose to run, there are a few items to make the seasonal transition easier. Cooler weather and shorter days are two elements to deal with, and these five things will help keep you running outside for the season.

If you love running, be sure to join RunningSugar. Our community group for all things running. Source: Getty

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5 Tips For Urban Running

FitSugar — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 05:50:43 -0700

If you're a city gal who still loves to run outside, here are some tips to keep you safe when jogging through the concrete jungle.

Source: Getty

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Shoe Review: Nike Lunar Glide

FitSugar — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 17:23:14 -0700

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5 Running Myths

FitSugar — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 04:30:32 -0700

Many of you are avid runners, but myths persist about this popular form of cardio. Let's review a few of the common misconceptions about running.

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Fittingly Green: Brooks Making Eco-Friendly Sneaks

FitSugar — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 03:22:34 -0700

If you choose to run outside on a trail or sidewalk instead of using an electricity-driven treadmill, you're already doing your part to help the environment. You can do more though, with the help of Brooks. The brand has developed a new racing sneaker called the Green Silence.

This red and yellow shoe may channel Ronald McDonald, but it is actually totally green. The heel cups are made with recycled CDs, and the laces, lining, and stitching are made with discarded plastic water bottles. The outer soles are made from recycled rubber, and the midsole is 100 percent biodegradable. All the soy-based dyes used are non-toxic, and the adhesives are water-based. The collar around the opening of the sneaker is stuffed with foam from old couches. The packaging is also made from 100 percent post-consumer materials. These lightweight sneaks are scheduled to hit stores in February 2010, and will retail for $100, because being green doesn't come cheap.

Tell me, would you buy these eco-friendly sneakers from Brooks?

To see more pics click the images below.

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Fittingly Green: Brooks Making Eco-Friendly Sneaks

FitSugar — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 10:21:56 -0700

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Luke Wilson Joins the Hollywood Runner's Club

FitSugar — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 14:30:00 -0800

Was Luke Wilson's New Year's resolution to start getting healthy? Luke, who we never ever see running, was trying his hand, er feet, at it, and I'm impressed.

Despite there being an ongoing war between runners and joggers, anyone can become either with a little persistence and practice. It looks to me like Luke is starting out with a jog/walk interval workout so I thought I'd make one for you guys in honor of Luke dusting off the old sneakers.

For the workout and to see more pics of adorable Luke jogging in Santa Monica, just read more.

Time	Activity	RPE (1 being easy and 10 being hard)
00:00-05:00	Walk (warm up)	2
05:00-10:00	Speed Walk	5-6
10:00-15:00	Run	7
15:00-16:00	Sprint	8-9
16:00-21:00	Walk	3-4
21:00-26:00	Speed Walk	5-6
26:00-31:00	Run	7
31:00-32:00	Sprint	8-9
32:00-40:00	Walk (cool down)	3

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Flynet

Get in Gear: Nathan QuickDraw Hydration Carrier

FitSugar — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 14:30:00 -0700

When you're running, it's important to stay hydrated, since you can end up sweating a lot. Waistpacks that hold water bottles are great for biking and hiking when I need to have my hands free, but when I'm running, I love the easy access of a hand held water bottle.

Check out this one made by Nathan. This is the 2008 QuickDraw Plus Hydration Bottle. It's got padded and adjustable straps so you can secure it snugly and comfortably to your hand. The water bottle can hold up to 22 oz. of water and there's a zippered pouch to keep small essentials like keys, tissues or a cell phone.

Another thing that's great about holding a water bottle in your hand is that since it's filled with water, it acts as a weight. I switch back and forth between my left and right hand every minute or so to work both arms equally.

The pink version shown here has a tiny pink ribbon on it so you can show your support for breast cancer awareness. Order this hydration bottle ($16.19) from BikeSomWhere.com.

Want to see what other colors it comes in? Then read more

You can choose Yellow, Black, Green or Lime.

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Running Gear Makeover: Sophie Monk's Junk

FitSugar — Fri, 05 Oct 2007 08:45:00 -0700

When Sophie is not hanging out with her fiance's famous brother and his girlfriend (Joel Madden and Nicole Richie), she hits the pavement for a run.

I love seeing people taking a minute for themselves to go for a run, but I can't understand why she's got so much junk with her. If you're like Sophie and suffering from the must-have-my-stuff-at-all-times syndrome, here are some ways to free your hands (and your mind) during your next run.

Instead of a clutch, think about getting a fitness caddy for your small personal items, cell phone, water bottle, etc.
Really looking to downsize? Then get a Nike Running Wallet.
Instead of holding onto your iPod, try a Sport Armband.
Instead of regular old jogging gear, think about getting some stuff with iPod and cell phone pockets built into the clothing. I love Mari Dade's iPod clothes for this.
Instead of wearing big bulky earphones that are soaking up the sweat, think about getting some small ear buds with adjustable sizes like the Creative Zen In-Ear Earphones.

Take it from me, you'll get a lot more out of your run if you are not constantly fumbling around with everything you're holding in your hands.

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Flynet

Funny Moments in Sports

GiggleSugar — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 02:00:00 -0700

The mascots at recent sporting events have been dancing, falling, acting like hooligans, and pretty much stealing the spotlight from the main attraction. Perhaps the following pics will get our eyes and attention back where they should be- that is...on the referee's crotch? (Thanks, eBaum's World!)

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Get in Gear: Nike Free Sneakers

FitSugar — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 14:30:00 -0700

Remember I told you about running barefoot? If you like the idea of your feet being more in control, but are worried about the pain, dirtiness, or risk of injury from running with no sneakers on, you'll love this.

Nike has a sneaker line called Nike Free that's meant to give the user an experience similar to running barefoot. These sneaks have more flexibility, breathability, and a better grip on the ground, so your feet can do more of the work.

They make 3 levels, and you work your way up, increasing your foot strength with each level.

Nike 7.0 - Beginning foot strength training: This is like a regular sneaker, but you'll notice something new - increased flexibility, a more naturally stable feel, and a little better sense of what's going on underneath you. Plus the midsole is lower, so you're closer to the ground.

Nike 5.0 - Increased foot strength training: You'll be able to point your toes and have dancer-like agility when it comes to moving and changing directions. It still offers cushioning for your feet, but the increased flexibility allows every part of your foot to move, which will increase your strength.

Nike 3.0 - Advanced foot strength training: After having trained with Nike 7.0 and Nike 5.0. your feet are strong enough for this shoe. It gives you the most flexibility and freedom so your toes can move and your foot muscles can flex and contract, giving you greater speed and control, improving your overall performance.

The concept for these shoes greatly intrigues me. I can't wait to get a pair on my feet and see what they really feel like. All styles cost $85, unless you want to design your own shoe for $100.

Want to see what Nike Free Sneakers look like? Then read more

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Fergie Ferg's FuelBelt: The Terminator

FitSugar — Mon, 14 May 2007 15:00:00 -0700

Lately we've been seeing Fergie taking her runs and workouts outdoors, which is cool. I like to see a celebrity exercising outdoors. I am chuckling about her giant headphones, but what's with that crazy belt?

Fergie is sporting a 6-Bottle Terminator FuelBelt by FuelBelt ($32.26). While she has the 6-bottle (7 oz flasks), you can get also them in 2-8 bottle sizes as well. Typically people use these sort of belts when they are training for an endurance event like a marathon. You can fill a few flasks with water and a few with gels if you want.

It doesn't really look as though Fergie is training for a marathon (maybe a walk-a-thon), but I could be wrong. She could also just be really, really thirsty. My guess, however, is that Fergie's trainer is having her wear one for added weight (similar to a weighted vest) during her walks -- This way she is killing two birds with one stone, a few added pounds and thirst quencher (or fuel boost). You can do the same, so buy it from GotBody.com.
To see more pics of her out on her walk wearing the FuelBelt, read more

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Source

Get Your Butt in Gear: Victoria's Secret Workout Pants

FitSugar — Tue, 10 Apr 2007 02:00:00 -0700

We all know Victoria's Secret makes some sexy lingerie, but they are now also making great yoga pants. I first learned about Victoria's Secret yoga line from team member CGW when she bookmarked a pair as a Fit Find. They have a ton of different styles and colors to choose from, and they're not at all over-priced.

Although they're labeled "yoga pants," they'd be great for any kind of exercise from walking, to jogging, to Pilates, to kick-boxing, to casual bike riding. Wear them to the gym, on a lazy Sunday, or to relax in at home - they'll add flexibility to your wardrobe. (ha - get it?)

I like the splash of color at the waistband of this Foldover Yoga Pant. They come in tons of color combinations like black/strawberry, fern green/spearmint, and midnight/seaside blue. Nowadays, everyone wears black pants, so it's nice to have something that's a little different and a little more colorful for spring.

Another great thing about these cotton/lycra pants is that not only do they come in sizes XS-XL, but you can also choose whether you want a 30", 32", or 34" inseam. You can get these adorable ultra-low rise pants For $29.

Interested in seeing some other styles? Then, read more

Victoria's Secret Yogawear line includes full length or cropped pants, shorts, capris, and loose fitting or straight leg pants. They also have regular waistbands, as well as the foldover ones above. Check out all the styles.

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How Can I Prevent Shin Splints?

FitSugar — Fri, 09 Mar 2007 03:00:00 -0800

Chances are, if you are a runner, you've experienced the pain of shin splints. It basically refers to the condition called Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS).

When you overwork the muscles in the shin, the muscles exert a great amount of force on the shin bones (tibia and fibula) to keep your foot, ankle, and lower leg stable. This excessive force can partially tear the tendons away from the bone (the tibia, which is the one on the inside of your leg). Shin splints aren't caused by running, but rather by the impact force associated with it.

Here are some tips to prevent shin splints.

Before going out for a run, warm up and do some gentle calf stretches, which will prevent injury.
If you are new to running, start off slowly. Too much too soon will cause shin splints or other injuries.
Along the same lines, if you've taken a break from running, gradually work your way up to where you were.

There's plenty more tips, so read more

Avoid running on hard surfaces like concrete whenever you can.
Avoid running on uneven surfaces - it makes your tendons work harder to stay balanced and keep your bones stable.
Avoid running downhill if you can - try running on a diagonal instead of straight down. You can also try doing the grapevine down the hill. Imagine you are Rocky practicing your foot work.
Run with correct posture - don't lean forward or backward as you run, make sure your toes are pointing forward and not out to the sides.
Wear sneakers specifically made for running - they have extra support and shock absorbers.
Your sneakers should fit you well, keeping in mind whether you have high, low, or no arches, or wide or narrow feet.
Get a new pair of sneaks every every 350-550 miles. Use the twist test to see if your kicks have had it.

Fit's Tips: If you are experiencing shin splints, don't run through the pain. You need to rest, apply ice to reduce inflammation, stretch, and rehabilitate your lower legs first. If you choose to run with shin splints, you could further injure yourself.

Here are some great stretches for your shins and calves to help prevent shin splints.

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Athleta: Beautiful Clothes for the Activities You Love

FitSugar — Mon, 29 Jan 2007 11:30:00 -0800

Athleta (pronounced more like athletics than athlete) makes amazing clothes for your workout.

Designed for specific activities, the clothes are tested by real ladies who are super active in a specific sport. The testers give feedback and Athleta alters their designs so the form of the clothes serves the function of the body in the activity. The end result is workout gear that is comfortable and supportive as well as super cute and stylish.

They make workout clothes for just about every sport of physical practice, including: yoga, running / walking, swimming (great for surfing), Pilates, golf, tennis, hiking, climbing, skiing, and snowboard.

Want to see a few of my favorites? Then read more

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They also have some decent sales going on, so definitely check the sale / outlet page on the Athleta website.