Fact or myth: static stretching is essential for runners. The notion of static stretching is ingrained for many runners; however, research and practice indicate that static stretching may not be as beneficial as we once believed - and could even be detrimental for runners in some circumstances. Static stretching lengthens the muscle to the point of tension and then holds, without any movement, for 15 seconds or more. Static stretches often isolate a single muscle group. The goal of ...
How to Dress for Winter Runs
Winter running follows the old adage: there is no bad weather, only bad gear. (However, ice or temperatures well below zero are bad running weather!) If you do not dress correctly, you will either be uncomfortably cold or sweating heavily (which in turns causes you to be uncomfortably cold as sweat dries). Learning how to dress for winter runs makes them significantly more comfortable - and more enjoyable. The key to how to dress for winter runs? Layers, functional fabrics, some ...
Team Norris Running: Year in Running 2020
2020 will be known for many things; for runners, it was the year without races. High stress, stay-at-home orders, Covid-19, and other circumstances disrupted the normal flow of training and racing. However, even the most tumultuous years have bright spots. The runners on Team Norris Running put forth their best effort in this hard year, through virtual races, time trials, personal accomplishments, overcoming unexpected injuries, and making the most of running during a pandemic. I asked ...
How to Incorporate Supplemental Training into Your Running Plan
We all know that, in order to be a better runner, you need to run more. However, a runner is not built by miles alone. In order to be a better runner, you must also become a better athlete. Strength training, yoga/pilates, and cross-training can all be part of your training to improve general athleticism. But just how do you balance those with running? Strength Training Is It Necessary? Absolutely. Strength training improves your running by preventing injury, increasing force ...
Your Body Provides the Best Feedback – Not Your GPS
Imagine this scenario: You are in the middle of a run and feel good now that you are fully warmed up. You are enjoying the run and your stride is smooth and relaxed. The purpose of this run is simple: one hour easy. Then, your watch laps a mile and you look down to read the data output. You notice your pace is slower than your previous few easy runs, that your cadence isn’t as quick as you’d prefer, and so on. These numbers upset you and suddenly the run doesn’t feel as smooth and comfortable: ...
2020 Holiday Gift Guide for Runners
It feels strange to talk about something as trivial as holiday gifts when Covid is running rampant throughout the country. However, we could all use a little respite and a reminder that, even if we are celebrating with just our immediate families, the holidays are still worth celebrating. Celebrate this holiday season with some gifts for the runner in your life! Coros Pace 2 I recently converted from Garmin to Coros (the Pace 2) and could not be happier with the decision. The battery ...