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Charlotte's Thunder Road Marathon

FitSugar — Tue, 05 Dec 2006 15:30:00 -0800

Still looking to do a marathon before 2007? Charlotte's Thunder Road Marathon (Marathon, Marathon Relay, Half Marathon and 5K) is this weekend on December 9th!

From the time the green flag drops on the starters until the checkered flag falls on the final finisher (this race is race car themed), you will experience a unique race enjoying the sounds of music from the Southeast provided by local bands and DJs as you race. The Thunder Road Marathon will feature a mixture of the old and the new in Charlotte. This race is a Boston Marathon qualifier. But hurry, you must register in person by December 8th! For more information, visit the Thunder Road site.

Learn to Love: Exercising in the Rain

FitSugar — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:00:00 -0700

Even though Summer air is so hot and humid, I still try to exercise outdoors. The other day as I set out for a run, I noticed a light sprinkle in the air; I was so relieved. Rain can definitely keep you cool, and it can also be more challenging than exercising in dry weather. So here are some tips for working out in the rain:

Stay near your home or office when working out in case it starts to downpour and you need to head inside.
Slip on a lightweight rain jacket or some kind of waterproof layer that will repel the raindrops. You want the water to bead off you and not get absorbed in your clothes (extra water weight makes moving harder). If it's too hot to even think about wearing long sleeves then find a sleeveless top made of waterproof material.
The same goes for your bottoms. Wear some shorts or pants designed to repel water.
Cloudy weather darkens the sky so whatever you wear, be sure it's bright colored or reflective. If it's really gloomy out, wearing a headlamp greatly increases your visibility to cars and other people.
When it comes to your feet, slip on some wicking socks to absorb any wetness. Purchase some waterproof sneakers, too. If splurging for a pair isn't in your budget, just avoid puddles since wet feet is a major cause of blisters.

To hear other helpful tips read more.

I always wear sunglasses when it's raining to prevent water from pelting me in the eyes. A hat is a good idea too since it shields water from your eyes, face, and neck.
If you listen to music, cover your iPod or whatever you use with a waterproof case. If you don't have one, a Ziploc bag is a great alternative. You'll also want to use a set of waterproof headphones. Look for other waterproof rain gear designed for the activity you plan on doing. A mudguard for your bike is one example.
Avoid exercising on busy roads to prevent whizzing cars from splashing puddles all over you.
Don't be too hard on yourself. You may not be able to exercise as long, as far, or in certain places, so just enjoy the time you have and don't try to set any personal records. Be proud that you chose to exercise in the rain, since most people use that as an excuse to skip out.
A little rain can't hurt, but lightning is another story. If you see flashes or hear thunder then head indoors. Hit the gym, pop in an exercise DVD, or do some strength training instead.

Source

Tips For Running in the Summer Rain

FitSugar — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 03:00:00 -0700

Since it's been so hot and humid, I was psyched the other day when I was about to set out on my run, and noticed a light sprinkle falling from the sky. While it's true that the rainwater can keep you cool, running in the rain isn't any easier. It can be more challenging since the water can add extra weight and get in your eyes.

Here are some tips for running or jogging in the rain:

Wear a rain coat or some kind of waterproof layer on top that will repel the raindrops so the water beads off you, and doesn't get absorbed in your clothes. The extra water weight will make moving harder.

Wear bright colored clothes or a headlamp so other cars and people can see you.
Don't wear cotton shorts or pants that will absorb the rain. Instead wear lightweight bottoms that will repel water.
Cotton socks are a no-no too. Find ones made out of wool or some other wicking material. Also steer clear of puddles - wet feet can cause blisters.
Get yourself some waterproof sneakers. If you don't want to buy a whole new pair, just use an old pair.
If you listen to music, cover your iPod or whatever you use with a waterproof case or if you don't have one, just use a ziploc bag. Poke a little hole in the back so the clip can sneak through. No it's not the coolest thing, but it's way better than having to buy a new Nano. Also get a set of waterproof headphones. If you see any signs of an electrical storm take those ear buds out of your ears.

Want to hear the rest? Then read more

Wear sunglasses to prevent water from pelting your eyeballs. A hat is a good idea too. It can shield water from your eyes and your face.
Try to stay away from roads. Cars whizzing by can splash puddles onto you so not only will you be soaked, you'll be thoroughly annoyed too.
Don't be too hard on yourself. You may not be able to run as long, as far, or in certain places, so just enjoy the time you have and don't try to set any personal records. Just be proud that you're out there in the first place.
You're not going to melt in a little rain, but lightning is another story. If you see flashes or hear thunder, the safest thing to do is get inside. You can work on strength training or stretching instead.