Running the Marathon: Do I Run to Compete or Run to Finish?

I came across this article from the New York Times today about the Modern Day Marathoner. With convenient training programs, accessible information, and inspiration from celebrity marathoners, more runners than ever before are taking on the 26.2 mile journey. This article discusses the evolution of this idea and compares the current marathon training regime to how legendary runners trained in the past.

So, what do you think of this recent craze of "normal" folks taking on the marathon? I personally get inspired by everyday people who want to take on the challenge. It shows me, if they can do it, then why can't I?

What is the best way to train for a marathon? The convenient 3 to 4 day a week running jaunts (even long walks?) or the twice a day high impact runs of the 1970's? If you are an experienced or new marathoner, let us know your thoughts...

Cross Training for Better Workouts!

While running is a popular way to keep in shape this summer, it's important not to forget there are many other activities out there to keep you toned. If there are days during the week where you need a break from running those extra miles, try swimming, biking, or playing team sports.

Check out this article on Cross Training from the latest edition of Runner's World magazine. Read up on tips to improve your cross training workouts!

--Cassie

Memorial Day Free Shipping!

Celebrate Memorial Day weekend with NBwebexpress.com!

Now through May 28th get free ground shipping on everything - no minimum purchase!

Shop for grads, dads, and anyone else in need of fitness gear for the summer months ahead.

--Cassie

New Balance Donates to the YMCA

New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. has just donated $500,000 to the West Suburban YMCA. The YMCA plans to upgrade and renew its Newton facility, and expand current youth/family programs. Read the article for more details.


--Cassie

NBwebexpress.com 48 Hour Sale!

The clock is ticking! Now on NBwebexpress.com get 10% off plus free ground shipping on all orders over $50!

Take advantage of this opportunity to save on New Balance gear for the entire family!

But hurry, this sale ends at 11:59 PM ET May 22!

See site for details.

--Cassie

The Women's 882 has Arrived!

If you were a fan of the New Balance 881, take a test run in the 882.

New Balance has kept some of the same features such as a wider toe box, and a full length of ABZORB® FL cushioning. But there are many new note worthy features including: Ortholite® foam inserts, N-LOCK™ midfoot support, and the Sure Lace™ supportive lacing system to keep your laces tied and ready for miles.

If you are a loyal New Balance 881 wearer, let us know why that shoe works for you...or if you happen to already have a pair of the 882's post your own reviews...we want to hear from you!

--Cassie

New Balance Sports Monitors

New Balance Sports Monitors are here! New Balance has partnered with High Gear USA and developed a new line of sports monitors. These monitors all have something new to offer the everyday athlete just looking for an edge in their workout routine.

If you are training for a competitive event, (marathon, 5K race, 10K) sports monitors can really help with setting a pace or keeping track of your time goals.

But sports monitors aren't just for runners; New Balance also carries a line of pedometers that offer specific features; fat burning (keeps track of calories burned), alarm/alert pedometers for safety, and basic pedometers that keep track of your steps throughout the day. Whatever your fitness goals, sports monitors can make a big difference.

Check out this blog post about New Balance sports monitors in the PluggedIn Blog featured on PittsburghChannel.com. Here you can read even more information about the benefits of New Balance Sports Monitors. You can also take a look at this video by WTEA-TV Pittsburgh Channel highlighting even more benefits of working out with a sports monitor! (Be sure to drag the video to your play list to start the short clip.)

So, how many readers out there have tried one of the New Balance Sports Monitors? What did you think? I have personally tried the HRT Mini (for cardio workouts) and the Vent Mini (for running)...both really surprised me. I had never ran with a monitor before, not to mention worn a monitor for any other activity, and after I got the hang of it (which buttons to press, learned which function did what) they really opened my eyes to what training could be. Instead of just guessing my time or keeping an eye on the clock in the gym as I ran on the track, I had an accurate account of my entire workout...not a bad deal for a runner with a time crunch!

--Cassie

Look Great, Perform Even Better

When you head out to the gym or out for a run, what are you wearing? Do you grab an old T-shirt and pair of gym shorts or do you have clothes just for your workouts? What about fit? support? How does it hold up in the wash?

When I ran competitively, I had special outfits for certain workouts and weather, but with motherhood and lack of time I used to just grab whatever "seemed" clean in the laundry room.

Just recently (within the last 8 months I'd say) I have discovered the beauty of fitness apparel. There is really nothing like a great looking outfit just for a workout. It's not just the look either, the materials and fabrics really do keep you dryer than those old cotton tees. And guys aren't immune to this trend of functional fitness fashion either, my husband just tried the New Balance short sleeve Ultra tee and Jersey Shorts, he swears by them. He is not a runner, but this outfit works for his weight lifting workouts.

I came across this very interesting article on Shape.com that discusses the importance of fashionable workout apparel. If you look good while working out, you just might work out more often. This article features some tips on what to look for in fitness apparel and how to dress for certain activities. And it's not just for women, men should feel good while breaking a sweat, too.

So, what is your favorite workout look? I'd have to say mine is the Bonita Run Skirt and Tempo Tee There is just something about looking good while you run, you just feel more in shape.

--Cassie

Top it Off! Free Ground Shipping on all Performance Tops!

Top it Off on NBwebexpress.com!

Now thru May 22, get free ground shipping with any performance top purchase!

Great Fit for Women

It's hard to find workout apparel that truly fits right...if you are a woman seeking the right fit in workout apparel, check out the new women's page on the New Balance website. You will find all sorts of useful tips on finding your right fit...no matter what sports and activities are in your workout routine - from running errands and chasing after little ones to marathon training.

Don't miss out!

Enter for your chance to win a FREE spa weekend in Arizona!

--Cassie

Runner's World Editor's Choice - New Balance 902

If you're like me, when hot weather hits it's time for new running shoes. In the fall and winter I tend to stick to more of the standard running shoe; with a leather and mesh upper, something with stability, and a shoe that is just more equipped for colder weather. But once summer is here, it will be time to pick something fun, lightweight but still supportive...after all my knees aren't what they used to be.

The New Balance 902 was named Editor's Choice by "Runner's World" magazine. While the 902 is lightweight and supportive, it is not for every runner. Runner's World magazine explains; "We recommend the shoe for lightweight runners with normal arches looking for a training or racing shoe."

So if it's time for a new pair of summer running shoes, and it seems like the 902 could be what you are looking for, check them out while supplies last!

Your opinion matters!
If you are a runner who has tried the 902, post your review on our blog and let us know how it performs.

--Cassie

Much Ado About Shoes...

Sometimes it's hard to find the perfect shoes. With so many things to consider and styles out there, how can anyone make up their minds anymore? I came across this article today that gives an easy set of guidelines to help you find the right shoe. The article "Much Ado about Shoes: When Choosing Shoes, Shop Smart, Not Cute" by Amber McDonald was taken from The Daily News, www.delmarvanow.com.


Hopefully, this article will lend a hand (or foot!) to find your perfect pair!

Kids and 5K's - More and More Children are Lacing up Running Shoes

About two weeks ago, I ran my first 5K race in nine years. My husband and dad woke up at 5:30 AM and braved the cold and rain to watch me run 3.1 miles.

At the start line, I was pretty amazed to see people of all ages, sizes, and in all different types of running gear waiting for the gun. Now, when I say ages, I mean all ages; a huge number of young children were running the race as well. There were parents, PTA members, and teachers of area middle schools holding up signs to show children their start group. Not only was the Spirit of St. Louis 5K an adult race on this cold and chilly morning, it was also the "Read, Write, and Run Marathon" for St. Louis area schools. Kids all over St. Louis had also been training for their race debut.

But once the gun went off, we were all runners. Once I reached the first mile marker, I noticed more and more middle school age children were passing me. My stubborn twenty-something mind thought "I have to beat these kids!" But I soon learned their victory was short lived. While the young kids passed me at first, I would see them a couple yards a head huffing and puffing because they had just sprinted for almost a half mile.

As the last mile approached, you could see the kids were all learning how to run a race, pace themselves, and how to work as a team. I saw several packs of middle schoolers running together and encouraging each other. It was touching to see thirteen and fourteen year olds working hard as a team to do their best.

At the finish line, I spotted my husband and dad. They were shivering and yelling at me to put a coat on. But after a half hour of running in the wind, cold, and rain you just can't feel it once you stop. Not to mention the endorphins of the race kicked in, I thought everyone did amazing and kept telling other runners at the finish line "WAY TO PACE, MAN!" and "You looked AWESOME out there!"

I also saw kids and their parents at the finish line. Some parents were even brought to tears seeing their children win medals and reach their goals. Most of the kids snapped pictures of each other holding their medals. I saw a few great family portraits taken at the finish line.

All in all racing is an incredible experience and I will be running my second 5K September of this year. I hope to see more and more young children participating, it's inspiring to see runners of all ages cross the finish line.

--Cassie

Mother's Day is Right Around the Corner!

Mom's are tough people to shop for. What do you give the one person who gives so much? Why not get her something she can wear all weekend? Or shoes for her first marathon?

Celebrate Mother's Day on NBwebexpress.com!
Save 10-30% on select gifts for mom.


Plus, don't miss the New Balance Lace Up for the Cure collection!
Now through May 13 enjoy free shipping with any Lace Up for the Cure purchase*!

*see website for details.

I Run Because...

Running for some is a way of life. For others running keeps them in shape, healthy, and full energy. For some it is a job.

For our readers and runners out there, why do you run? Being a novice runner myself, I run to keep healthy. There is a history of diabetes and heart disease in my family and I want to steer clear. I also run to keep off the baby weight I gained having my first child...any other moms out there doing the same!?

So, why do you run? Post your comments and let us know!

--Cassie