February 8, 2015
I love running, it’s my happy place
Most of my clients know that I love running, it’s my happy place, the space between the stresses of everyday life and freedom from all responsibilities. If going solo, It’s the space where I organize all those responsibilities and “to do’s”, have my most creative thinking time, and let go of anything that is bothering me. If going with friends, it is connection, friendship, therapy. Running is universal, there is no better example of this than the Central Park loop in New York. Running is relatively inexpensive, so you do not need a lot of money to run which is also part of the universal appeal. Another plus, running does not stir up violent tendencies between runners – when was the last time you saw a fist fight break out at the end of a track meet or road race. OK, every sport has their cheaters, and running is no different, but mostly, running is great sport you can do almost anywhere.
Watching some of you go from telling me that you “hate to run” to running your first 5K’s, 10K’s, and Half-marathons has been incredible. Right now, one of my amazing clients shows up early to every class and runs 3 miles before we start. It was just a little over a year ago that she would not run much at all. I love it!!! I don’t think running is meant for everyone and just like I always say the best diet is the healthiest one you can sustain over time, the best fitness program is the one that feels right for you, gives you the results you are looking for – and which you can maintain over time.
So, what’s with all this running talk? I wanted to share with you some of my most favorite runs (in no particular order) with the hope that some of you will try them out, mix up your current routes, or even just be motivated to go out for a short run. Don’t forget, if you take up running, make sure that you start with a couple of short (1-3) mile runs a week and hold that for a few weeks. Then add either another run (2 miles) or add a mile to one of your other runs. You want to increase your weekly mileage no more than 10-15% per week. Too much, too soon, too fast is the most common way to get a running injury. Also, if running regularly, please replace your shoes every 3-6 months. If you want to make it a complete workout, finish your run with 3 sets of 10 pushups, 10 squats, 30 sec plank.
Bay Area Runs- mostly around PV:
Wunderlich Park in Woodside
Windy Hill trails
Toyon trail in PV
Huddart Park trails in Woodside
Huddart to Half Moon Bay
The Dish Loop
Rancho San Antonio Park
Angel Field (Stanford Track) – favorite workout is 1 mile warmup, 6x400m at 80-85% pace with 200m recovery jog in between sprints, 1/2-1 mile cool down
Nashville:
Vanderbilt Loop (sometimes I extend it to include Music Row or the Belmont area) – watch out for crazy drivers!
Percy Warner Park
Around the Parthenon and Centennial Park
Belle Meade Boulevard
Music Row to Riverfront Park
Radnor Lake
We have a full week of classes this week! If you attend a small group class, please go to www.stellafit.com and “sign up” online. You will need to purchase a class card if you do not have one on file. If you currently have one on file, please go ahead and email me if you are coming to class. As your cards run out, you will need to start using MindBody to sign up for class. You can also use MindBody to check the schedule as it is posted online and will stay current.
If you are interested in signing up for Personal Training or Nutrition/Wellness Coaching, you will still need to email me to schedule a time before signing up online. Nutrition and Wellness Coaching are currently listed under Personal Training.
I look forward to seeing you this week!
Cheers!!
Stella