Advantage - Local Running Stores

Training and fitness programs are everywhere. Tonight I went to my local Fleet Feet store and checked out their fun run. Today they had a Nike rep at the store demoing new shoes. I tried out a pair and learned about the cushioning and stability of the shoe and the importance of finding the right shoe for my running needs. It was enlightening to talk with an expert in fit and technology. Although I didn't purchase any shoes tonight, it is nice to know that next time I am in the market for a new pair of kicks the experts are right next door.

If you are new to running, or even if you have been doing it for years, it is best to check out your local running stores for an exact fitting. The great thing about small, local running stores is that they cater to you and your needs. They sponsor and train for local races and employ real runners that know what they are talking about. They can answer your questions and they know the right questions to ask to get you into the right shoe and gear for your runs. Plus, my local Fleet Feet store has weekly fun runs, nutrition sessions, and giveaways! Who doesn't love free stuff?

I also picked up a few training cards advertising running and triathlon training programs. I think my next challenge will be a triathlon. I just have to pick a program and set my mind to achieving success. I'm looking forward to next weeks Tuesday night event. 

Momentum Swings

Despite my desire for Rafael Nadal to win the Australian Open it was not to be. Minutes blended into hours and from the time the first point began at 12:30am to the last ball struck nearly 6 hours later - this match was nothing short of remarkable. It had dramatic points, net cords, shifts in momentum, and most of all just this incredible drive and desire pouring off the players. The court was dripping with emotions, most of which were channeled into amazing and dramatic points coming from both players racquets. Unfortunately, there could only be one winner and Djokovic was that winner today.

The 6 hour match today gave me time to think. A match like this brought to mind my determination and the momentum shifts in my workout routines. I may start off strong on Monday and then have a rough go of it the rest of the week. Some weeks my workouts seem to be going just as planned and other weeks my motivation is lacking. The important thing to remember is to keep going and never give up. No matter how tough the workout is just keep pushing through. The end result will always be worth it. Pain is only temporary, but victory lasts forever.

Nike Blog Feature

Nike did a special feature on my half-marathon run this last weekend with them. You can check it out at the blog on NikeWomen.com. They were kind enough to feature two runners participating in the virtual race and I was one of the lucky ones chosen! Not only did I receive a Nike+ kit, but I also got the chance to share my experience with all of you great ladies who follow Nike Women. 

This half-marathon was great and I hope you all get a chance to participate in one at some point. The feeling of accomplishment when you finish those last few miles just can't be beat. I have been resting some this week, I only went running once, but I have been working a lot on my strength training and stretching. I have also been keeping up with my Nike Training Club workouts that I love so much. If you haven't gotten the app yet you should really check it out! 

I've also been watching a lot of tennis this week with the Australian Open going on so that has cut into my workout time. The final is Saturday and I couldn't be more excited. I'm ready to get my cheering mode on and cheer for Rafa Nadal and Maria Sharapova. Time to make every move count! 

Conquer Your Dreams

Conquer. This is one of my favorite words. It speaks volumes for pushing me to work towards my goals. Conquer your fears, conquer your dreams. Conquer your enemies. There isn't anything in life that shouldn't be conquered with guts and passion. If you want something bad enough you should work hard to learn everything you can about it and apply this knowledge to conquering it.

Those that succeed and conquer their careers have worked hard to become the best. They are experts. Jillian Michaels is an expert at helping morbidly obese people lose weight. Warren Buffet has conquered investing. Steve Jobs mastered the digital world. What do these innovators have in common? They all found their passion and conquered their dreams. They have a passion for what they do and have sought out the knowledge and know how to become experts in their field.

I plan on working hard this year to conquer my dreams. What are you doing to conquer your dreams?

Winning Wozniacki

Caroline Wozniacki is at the top of women's tennis. While some have criticized her for her inability to win a Grand Slam, they have failed to focus on the things that she does well. Wozniacki hits the ball hard, she hits it deep, and she does not make mistakes. She is consistent and she knows her game. She plays a winning game, a great game, and a game that is exciting to watch if you stop criticizing and start appreciating her talent.

On Sunday night she took her game to Jelena Jankovic - winning the match and a spot in the quarterfinals by a score of 6-0, 7-5. She didn't just win this match, she dominated the first set. After a few hiccups in the second set she proved why she is a deserving number one. No one can ignore her passion for the game. Nor can they disregard her desire to win that elusive Grand Slam title. This is her year.

The Australian Open provides the perfect platform for Wozniacki to win this first slam. She made the semi-finals in 2011, is playing a strong game and has a supportive team, complete with new coach, on her side. She is hitting the ball with more passion and more drive than ever before and has made it so far without dropping a set. Has she had some tough moments? Yes. Has she proven that she has the fighting spirit to win this tournament? No doubt. As long as Wozniacki can maintain her current form and keep fighting like a champion she will be hoisting the 2012 Australian Open trophy next Sunday and finally silencing her critics. 

Nike Fuel Band

Tracking for every move I make and seamless integration with my iPhone to count my calories burned, steps taken and activity for the day is just what I need. Nike never ceases to create a product that I hope to use to enhance my training! This past Thursday they introduced the Nike Fuel Band, when worn on your wrist throughout the day it tracks your calories burned, steps taken and allows you to set goals for the day and then to #makeitcount. I would love to have one.

This year I am training for so many races and working to improve my strength. The fuel band would be beneficial to be able to see my calorie burn every day and track my progress easily online. It may just be a dream for me for a while, but perhaps at some point I will get one and see if it is as great as it looks. I will be sure to keep you posted when I do.

At the Nike launch in New York employees got to test out the band all over town. They even tested it by playing a tennis match in Grand Central station. Tennis in Grand Central station, really? What I wouldn't do to be able to do that.

Only time will tell how effective and accurate the fuel band is, but I have faith and will continue to keep it at the top of my wish list.

Australian Open 2012

The Australian Open has been causing me sleep deprivation all week. Don't get me wrong, I love this tournament. It is my favorite Grand Slam and some day I will make it to Australia to see it. I just can't seem to turn off the TV and go to sleep when there are still matches going on. I'm hooked! Even when I finally convince myself to turn off the TV at midnight California time, I still lay awake wondering about the scores and who will win the match.


I tend to get overly involved in the players successes and failures. Rooting for my favorites to win, come on Federer, number 17 please! Caroline Wozniacki, now is your chance to win your first Grand Slam! I just can't seem to shake the feeling that if I am watching and cheering my favorite players on that they will win the tournament. I know it's just my own hopes, but I think that someday soon Wozniacki will show the world why she has been number one for so long and I see no reason why it can't be at this Australian Open.

I'm a huge tennis fan and I love playing at my local tennis club as well as watching the pros play. I get caught up in the spirit of the matches, the intensity of the players, the shifts in momentum. It all adds up to a recipe for hours of entertainment and this 2012 Australian Open has not ceased to provide drama, upsets and triumphs yet. I've been hooked since day one and I will just have to accept the fact that for one more week I will have to become comfortable with surviving on little sleep.