March 1, 2008
The only city in the US I love as much as Chicago is New York. Running in Cental Park is one of the greatest experiences for a runner. The scenery is amazing and the trails are really well designed. Runners generally follow either the Upper or Lower Loop which are separated by the Reservoir. If you have the time, running the entire path is only about 6 miles and it will take you through most of the highlights. The Reservoir track can be entered at 90th Street on the Upper East and West Sides and is only 1.6mi. It is the least visually interesting but not a bad choice if you’re limited on time.
The last time I was there in the Fall (just before the NYC Marathon), I bought a detailed map of the Park (2000 Central Park Running Map) and planned my route. It’s the most detailed pocket-map I’ve seen of Central Park. Streetwise also makes a smaller, laminated version (Streetwise Central Park Map) which is perfect for running. It folds down to 1.5″ x 2″. I have a thing for maps (if you haven’t guessed).
If you’re like me and get to Columbus Circle and discover you’ve under dressed, there’s a very nice running store in Time Warner Center. It’s called, The New York Running Company.
February 29, 2008
I usually purchase all of my running goodies at the Pipers Alley Fleet Fleet in Old Town mostly because my sister-in-law works there but also because they’re really a top-notch operation (especially when it comes to shoe fitting). God knows I spend waaaaay too much money there. I did come across a store in Bucktown, though, that might be worth checking out. Although I’ve never been there personally, their new location is apparently bigger than ever. It seems there’s a trend here…
Running Away Multisport is located at 1634 West North Avenue. They’re also one of the sponsors for the Bucktown 5k in October.
February 28, 2008
Photo of last years early race leaders on Sheridan Road in Lakeview at mile 6.5.
February 28, 2008
Being one of my most popular questions for others when I was trying to decide who to go to for Marathon Training, I thought I might bring up the issue in this Forum for discussion. Although I’ve never personally participated in the CARA Training Program, my understanding is that you don’t really get the same degree of “training” that one gets with CES Training Program. The two biggest decision makers for me were the following:
Weekday Evening Speed Training runs are included in CES’ training program and are not included with CARA. Speed Training isn’t just intended for fast or expert runners. Think of it as the “lab” part of the course where the importance of form, pace, rhythm, breathing and heart rate control are practiced. This training includes Fartlek and Tempo Runs, Negative Splits, Hill Repeats, etc. They also include supervised stretching which is important for first time marathoners. The weekday training sessions occur on Wednesday evenings at the Fleet Feet Store at Piper’s Alley in Old Town.
The second important difference is the method by which the “classroom” part of the program is taught. CARA offers a one-time full day seminar at the beginning of the season addressing all of the critical topics at once. These include: Nutrition, Stretching, Strength Training, Mental Skills, Injury Prevention, etc. CES addresses this a little differently in that all of these topics are covered through a series of 1-hour seminars dispersed through-out the training season. The seminars are held after the weekday evening runs at Fleet Feet. In my opinion, the CES approach is much more effective (especially for novice runners) because it moderates the amount of information better and avoids the “Information Overload” that can occur quite easily before one has even begun the program.
That being said, CARA is huge in Chicago and almost dwarfs CES by comparison. CES is also more expensive. If you want to meet a ton of people and believe that the strength is in the numbers, CARA may be the right choice for you.
February 28, 2008
Fleet Feet Sports (New Piper’s Alley Store) is hosting an introductory informational seminar on 3/9/2008, 530-730p. A panel of expert speakers will be present to answering all of your burning questions. They will be introducing attendees to the upcoming training options available. Don’t let the floating ice on Lake Michigan discourage you!
February 28, 2008
The Shamrock Shuffle 8k race and 5k walk will be held on March 30 and is the biggest 8k of the season with over 20,000 participants. Consequentially, it sold-out early as usual. No doubt last year’s beautiful weather has inspired a few people to come back. If you’re planning to run the Marathon later this year, the last 1/2 mile is the same so it’s fun to let your mind wander ahead to October when a million people will be cheering you on. If this is your first 8k, Hal Higdon has posted a specifically tailored training schedule.
February 27, 2008
I think I’m in a shoe rut. I do love these Asics (I’ve used them for 3 seasons now), do I dare mess and try something new. They really ought to mix it up every couple of years.
Dave K