Shoes or No Shoes?

I would have to say that one of the biggest debates in the running world at this time (and likely in times past) is this whole philosophy and science around the idea of barefoot running (that would be running without shoes).  ARice Junior recently read (and highly recommends) a book entitled Born to Run by Christopher McDougall (click here to see info regarding this book: Born to Run) who writes partially about this whole barefoot running thing.  I've just ordered the book and can't wait for it to arrive.  For those of you that may prefer the Coles notes version, this little 4 minute video featuring McDougall and "The Roving Runner" (New York Time running blogger- obviously he stole my job- hmph) is interesting.  Very, very interesting...Running Barefoot Video

So?  Can we weigh in on this please?  Shoes?  Or no shoes?  And how might this barefoot thing work on a chilly January day in the frosty north?

2nd long run of training for me today...EXCITING!  And its sunny and beautiful to boot...EVEN MORE EXCITING! 

And just in case anyones wondering, I will be wearing shoes on this long one...

Pet Peeves

I have to be honest, people.  This little gem of a toque- NOT MEANT TO BE WORN IN THE GYM!  It's meant for outside, yes?  In the -30 temps and wind and snow, yes?  Then why, for the love of all things, do people insist on wearing toques in the gym during their workout?  Is there some scientific reason that I am not privy to?  If you are aware of such a reason, please, do enlighten...because I am starting to feel rage when I see people wearing toques at the gym.  The kind of rage that may force me to jersey a few people, steal their touqes and run away.

And I should mention that I would be tough to catch thanks to all my speed work on the track! 

P.S. I signed up to volunteer at the Calgary Marathon today.  I am going to do race package pick up and finish line duty!  Anyone else interested? Click here to get the form!  Calgary Marathon Volunteer Form

Triple C

I know some of you are a bit crazy for calorie counting and I've come across this lovely little tool on the Runner's World website...

Runner's World Calorie Counter

It will give you an idea of the calorie burn on different types of runs.  If you're anything like me, this will give you free license to chow down! 

Also- for those that don't want to take the time to input the numbers, here is an article that gives a general idea of those calories burned on different runs.  Keeping in mind of course that every body is so incredibly different that this is just a general average. 

Runner's World Calories Burned While Running

And 1 more small tidbit...

I love this ad campaign...LOVE it.  It captures exactly the reason why I log miles and miles and miles.  Nice work Asics!

Second Rice Defeat

It's true.  My sister was recently tricked by Vince and the Motley Crue into thinking her liver was half its age. The result?   Copious liquor consumption (sadly though, no Durangos) followed by defeat via snowbank wipeout and a hangover.  I, on the other hand, have been defeated by bronchitis.

My doctor has banned me from running. B-A-N-N-E-D.  In his more than most serious manner (and this is one stoic dude) he informed me that running, in no uncertain terms was the worst idea possible.  Then he loaded me up with steriods and antibiotics.  Truthfully, I have followed doctor's orders given the fact that I am simply too sick and therefore don't even feel like running (CRAZY) because my bod is screaming at me to rest and heal.  However, I am starting to feel the itch...the weather is getting better...and I want to be out there!  Again, I have to remind myself that this rest is very, very good for me and is the best present I can give myself.  Maybe Sunday might be the day to get back out there...we'll see...

And back to my previous thoughts...really Durangos?  Flavoured beer?  Yuck.  But maybe a tasty treat when we were 16.  Way back in the day when these dudes were way more cool...and less puffy...

Rock on.

Peace out.

In Case of Confusion

Just in case anyone is slightly confused...thank-you Wikipedia...

"Running is a means for an animal to move on foot. It is defined in sporting terms as a gait in which at some point all feet are off the ground at the same time. This is in contrast to walking, where one foot is always in contact with the ground, the legs are kept mostly straight and the center of gravity rides along fairly smoothly on top of the legs. The term running can refer to any of a variety of speeds ranging from jogging to sprinting."

People- both feet off the ground at the same time.  Got it?  Good.

Superbowl weekend.  In my crystal ball I see the Saints winning.  I also see myself consuming a few Summer in a cans and some salty snacks.  Which means I better get my butt out there and partake in the aforementioned definition. 

Peace out.

Look out Chicago!

It's official!  Look out Chicago!  I am invading your city to pound the pavement on the 10th of October.  Which I just realized is 10-10-10.  I believe this bodes well for me...I happen to like even numbers.  EXCITING!

There is just something about running a marathon of this magnitude that really gets me excited about running all over again.  In fact, I get downright tingly.  All over.  From the top of my head to the very tips of my toes.  There is just something so magical about running a 26.2 with 45 000 other running crazed lunatics.  I dare say there will be an awesome energy in and around the city and its participants on that day.  I'm also very excited to have travel buddies for this one!  That's right- "TG" will be in attendance for the marathon and will be in fine form, no doubt.  I know we're ready for Chicago...but if Chicago is ready for us I cannot say.  And one final note...just a quick mention so as to not shift the cosmos too terribly much...it appears that there is not ONE, but TWO members of "TG" registered for this running event...

I know- it's only FEBRUARY and I'm not one to want life to pass me by...but...
HURRY UP OCTOBER!