by John Stanton
When shopping for running gear, you’ve likely seen or heard about “moisture wicking” as a desirable feature. But what does that term really mean, and will wearing this type of clothing actually help your training? Don’t sweat it—we’ve got a quick lesson for you about this impressive textile technology. Continue reading “Moisture-Wicking 101”
The annual Guardians Half Marathon & 5K is the signature provincial run for the Law Enforcement Torch Run, in support of Special Olympics. What started in 2017 with 350 runners and $25,000 raised, grew to 450 runners and $32,000 raised in its second year. We are very excited for year three and hope to continue this incredible growth, supporting a cause that impacts so many lives every day. Continue reading “Guardians Half Marathon and 5K”
by J.B. O’Reilly
The bad winter weather of 2018-2019 made life challenging for many Canadians, including those enrolled in the Half Marathon training program at the Running Room location in Kingston, Ontario.
Despite the crazy weather conditions we encountered week after week, the good-natured personality of instructor Alexander Molnar made our clinic an enjoyable experience. Continue reading “Instructor Profile/Alexander Molnar–Kingston, ON”
Race: Foodfare-WPS Half Marathon
Charity: The Canadian Cancer Society
Funds raised in 2019: over $2 million
by Nick Paulet
For the 15th year, participants from across Manitoba and beyond gathered to celebrate personal goals as well as community service. On May 5, the 15th annual Foodfare-Winnipeg Police Service Half Marathon was held in support of the Canadian Cancer Society. Continue reading “Race Giving”
Recently, there has been a recent surge in research, magazine articles, and blogs about stride rate. Let’s take a look at the science behind this commonly misunderstood biomechanical factor.
How fast you run is a function of two factors: (1) the length of your stride and (2) the frequency at which you take those strides—known as your stride rate. To run faster, either factor has to increase. For the past 30 years, the magic number of 180 steps (beats) per minute (bpm) has been discussed as the goal. This arbitrary target number has been seen as a method to increase running economy and potentially reduce joint loading during running. Continue reading “The Science of Stride Rate”
Family members of all ages thrive on unstructured “playtime.” This is especially true for Canadian families, as longer days bring extended outdoor play hours. Here are some ideas to help your family get moving and play together this summer:
Active Training. If you missed out on a community run/walk or charity event in the spring, consider signing up for one. Take the family to a free all-ages event like the Running Room 20 Minute Challenge— it might be the springboard for a more active summer ahead. Continue reading “Summer Play”
by Christopher Redford
Hamilton’s Around the Bay Road Race, established in 1894, is the oldest road race in North America, three years older than the Boston Marathon. The race remained closed to women for 85 years, until Tersilla Komac came along. Born in Castelfranco Veneto, north of Venice, Tersilla had no time for running in Italy. She was too busy working on the farm. Coming to Canada in 1954 at the age of 22, she married Emil Komac and set about raising three children in Burlington. Continue reading “The Woman and the Bay”
by John Stanton
It’s summertime, and the living is easy—but a casual approach isn’t wise when it comes to exercising in hot weather conditions. To help you stay safe in the heat, here are my responses to common questions about summer running.
How much water do I need to drink?
As summer temperatures soar, proper hydration becomes a top priority. You need to drink frequently before, during and after exercise. Plan to drink at least two cups (500 mL) of water in the hour prior to your run. During your workout, sip (don’t gulp) water every 15 to 20 minutes, and be sure to re-hydrate once your run has concluded. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty, because at that point you may already be dehydrated. For normal fitness activities, plain water is your most effective drink. For workouts or races over three hours, a sports drink can help replace lost electrolytes. Continue reading “Summer Running FAQ”
Exercise creates inflammation in the body, through the act of doing work and producing heat. Runners also have the effect of the impact of our feet striking the ground. In moderate amounts, inflammation a good thing, as it stimulates healthy immune responses in the body that actually make our cells stronger and more prepared to protect themselves. However, repeated long duration exercise, coupled with other environmental and internal stressors, can have the opposite effect and actually contribute to the breakdown of the body tissues Continue reading “Are there any food choices that can supply some natural anti-inflammatory benefits for runners?”
by Marjan Ashrafi
My depression and anxiety started back in 2004, when I lost my only sibling. My young and beautiful sister died in an accident. After her death, I began to notice myself worrying and overthinking everything. Crying became a daily part of living. I didn’t have any motivation for anything. I felt my medication wasn’t helping enough. I hated myself and my life.