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Aimee's Soapbox!
May 2007: The "Must" List for Runners!

Beginning Groovesters, this one’s for you! What follows is a basic outline (literally) for living La Vida Groova. I’ve highlighted three basic areas—footwear, apparel, and lifestyle—and given some pointers for each.

Now I’m not saying that following these pointers will make you lose weight, attract fabulous available men/women, or increase your income. But you might, just might, feel better, stand taller, and become the envy of all your non-groovy friends. Without further ado, then, is The Must List:

SHOE TECH

A. Running Shoes are Separated into Categories based on Foot Biomechanics
1. Trainers are categorized as Neutral, Stability, and Motion Control
2. The category for YOU is determined by what your foot and arch do when in motion
3. Generally, racing flats and spikes do NOT have these options

B. Trainers have about 400-500 Miles in Them
1. Save your running shoes only for running
2. Can have 2 pairs which you alternate
3. Running Shoes are not sized like Everyday Shoes; Expect to go up at least a Half Size

APPAREL TECH

A. Cotton is not your friend
1. Choose wicking materials instead of cotton; helps move moisture away from skin
2. Cotton socks are a big cause of blisters

B. In colder weather, remember to layer
1. Base layer should be tight fitting, next-to-skin (lighter fabric)
2. Second layer is for warmth
3. Outside layer protects against wind, water
4. Mom is right; wear a hat and gloves

C. For Races, Under-dress slightly (if you are warm at Start Line, you will Overheat)

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

A. Garbage In = Garbage Out
1. If you eat junk, you will perform like junk
2. Choose whole foods, not processed
3. Organic is Groovy

B. Stay Hydrated
1. Baseline for H2O intake is half your weight in ounces daily (e.g., if you weight 100 lbs, you need to drink 50 ounces daily)
2. More exercise = need for more water
3. Colas are HUGE calorie bombs with no nutritional value! So are fancy caffeinated drinks from the local coffee shop and even sports drinks when they aren't being ingested specifically for your sports activity (i.e. Gatorade is not a snack!). Don't forget that caffeine is a diuretic so while it can give a boost, it can also dehydrate you if you take in too much!

C. Mind, Body, Spirit: It’s all Connected
1. Yes, stress will manifest itself physically (that means that it WILL show up in your body)
2. Honor Your Self
• Negative thoughts and words are reflected in your body
• The Karma Train DOES come back to the station—what you send out is what you get back (e.g., if you think “I am dumb/slow/fat” this is how you WILL become)

D. Injury Prevention
1. Overtraining is a waste of time (you will get injured and then have to take time off)
2. Stretch PROPERLY (we recommend Active Isolated Stretching)

To sum it all up into a Runner’s Mantra, just remember to “Train Smart, Eat Clean, Drink Up, Think Happy Thoughts!!!” Enjoy a great day!

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Runaway Success  36 Chestnut Road Paoli, PA 19301  610-296-2868
©2006 Aimee Louise, Printed with Permission