As if marathons were not long enough, some runners crave a challenge even more monumental, more painful, more satisfying than trekking the 26 miles to a well-earned finish. Instead, the newest breed of runners, referred to as ultra runners, has taken the concept of distance running to an all new level. And, while numerous events exist around the world that eclipse the 100 mile mark, only one can truly claim that it spans an entire country.

Britain's Coast to Coast Ultra Marathon, which resides in the country's northern section and begins on the Irish Sea Coast and concludes near the North Sea in Northumberland, entices runners to cross the 170-plus mile course over a six day period. While each day concludes with a relaxing camp, a good rejuvenating meal, and a sound night's sleep, participants can bet that the competition is fierce and the terrain is as challenging and awe-inspiring as can be.

Navigating the largely untouched, untrodden landscape near the Scottish border, Coast to Coast takes runners through a piece of England's most storied and historically significant countryside. While pushing through everything from gravel roads and rocked trails to wet marshes and muddy bogs, those running will be rewarded by sights such as King Edward I's place of death, Carlisle Castle, and endless ruins and remnants of the Roman occupation, the farthest westward point of the Roman Empire.

Unlike traditional running, competitors must bring with them all essential equipment, except for tents, and they must navigate for themselves from check point to check point. Although this is an individual endeavor, the camaraderie established with other participants will motivate and inspire, for merely finishing a stage is accomplishment enough. With all of the mental, physical, and emotional struggles the runners will face, relying on each other for strength may not only be essential for the race itself, but it stands also to change the lives of those involved.

Thus, if you can train for it and desperately want the ultimate experience, set a course for northern Britain.

Monday night was sort of a milestone for me: I ran 3 miles. Given, some of it, I did have to walk. I'm still getting winded every time I end up on a big incline, but I made it nonetheless. I know that 26 or 13 mile runs are a ways off from this, but it's a start, and I'm not discouraged! One thing that I find that motivates me: Air Drums.

I have been playing Air Drums since the age of 5, and I've found that if I listen to some killer music and jam along with it, sometimes even beating on my chest when the time is right, really motivates me to kick it on down the road a little quicker. If you give me a good Bo Diddley beat, I'll run from here to Texas!

Although the art of the air drums can make a run go fast and be the inspirado needed for a mental and physical *kickstart to your heart, there are a few guidelines to follow.

1. Avoid tree limbs. When you run into them with your face/head/body, that's no good.
2. People passing in automobiles are going to be under the assumption that you're mentally ill. And they are just going to have to get past that.

So, Day 4 is tonight, I'm going for 3 miles again, with little or no walking.

Playlist for Day 3:

• Creative Screenwriting Podcast: (500) Days of Summer
• Van Morrison (Astral Weeks)
• More Ben Harper....can't get enough of this Relentless 7 album!

The mundane daily run, the one that passes the same houses, businesses, parks, etc., can become a true drag on a runner's much needed enthusiasm. Likewise, the identical race series than follows the paths and streets run down the previous years simply fails to stimulate a runner's spirit. To reinvigorate your soul and challenge your every physical fiber, collect your loose change, pinch your pennies, and make your way to the Swiss Alps and Glacier 3000.

Entering its third year and boasting a starters' list that eclipses over 500 athletes, the 26 kilometer run covers each type of terrain known to man, thus making it as spiritual and meaningful as it is physical. Beginning in the small village of Gstaad that sits 1,050 feet above sea level, the race climbs its way almost 2,000 feet through Feutersoey, Gsteig and Reusch to Glacier 3000. Beginning on asphalt roads and rocky trails, the race transitions to soft forest paths, gravel corridors, old cart tracks, and steep mountain ridges, with the final 500 meters covering the ice and snow of the Tsanfleuron glacier. The beautiful landscape passed will engage your mind and motivate your weary legs as they attempt to defy that desire to quit, that point each runner confronts, and upon conquering, makes him feel untouchable. Knowing that running is a physical activity guided by a mental toughness, you will experience a pure euphoric feeling when crossing the finish line seemingly on top of the world. And this will happen regardless of where and when you complete the course; after all, the race's motto is "the path is the goal," so everyone wins.

With a supportive competitive environment full of people very proud to run, the event offers everything a runningenthusiast could wish for: challenge, beauty, and pride. So, if your wallet agrees, book those tickets and begin training. Like any true test in life, you'll walk away a better person inundated with lasting memories and a rewarding sense of who you are. What more could you ask for?

Sunday was Day 2 for Brett's training for the Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas Marathon. He's sore..and sweaty...and his knees are swollen. And he's wondering if this is normal?

Playlist for Sunday:
Allman Brothers Band
Derek Trucks Band (Best slide guitar player in the business!)

Oh boy, oh boy...I'm out of shape, ladies and gentlemen. I set my sights on trying to run 3 miles today...I barely got to 1.5 and was seriously winded. I ended up running 1 in the morning and 1.5 in the evening. I've received a lot of advice from people inside and outside of Zappos, and they keep telling me to start small, and tomorrow I shall take note of that. It's been so long since I've ran any sort of distance. (I think the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles might have actually been quite popular near the last time)

So, I'm 30 years and 1 week old, and I'm trying to remember stretches from my Sixth Grade Gym class with Mr. Wells. Maybe I should call him for advice...he was always a great help. So, we're sure I can't just do jumping jacks and watch Jane Fonda videos for training for a marathon, correct? (Not her exercise videos...her dramas. Nothing inspires me to bust out the door in a full sprint like On Golden Pond. But, digress I do...)

So, tomorrow is another day. Only 3.85 months until race day. Let's rock and roll.

P.S. I keep forgetting to order my new shoes, so below is a photo of a pair I forgot that I had....love the Asics, yo.

August 1 Playlist:
-Ben Harper and the Relentless 7
-Ralph Stanley and Friends
-Slate Political Gabfest Podcast

While triathlon, a sport that has its roots planted squarely in the idea of camaraderie, seems on the exterior to be an entirely individual sport, the preparation for one requires the help of others. Searching out those people who have the same passion as you can go a long way in making your training, not to mention the overall experience, rewarding and safe.

However, many new participants actually shy away from groups, primarily out of intimidation and insecurity. They see those who have competed as too good to work with, and they feel inferior because of their lack of experience. Nothing could be further from the truth. No other sport in society is as supportive and welcoming as triathlon, and those who endure have an endless desire to usher in new people to share in the enjoyment and further the popularity of the sport itself.

Yet finding training partners can be a true challenge. So, consider the following list when trying to discover valuable people to help you on your way to meeting your goals, whatever those may be.

Health Clubs and Gyms: Naturally, social environments and community places such as gyms are destined to have traithletes walking around. Spin classes can be a great resource for meeting people, and, if your club has a pool, then you may find a few floating about.

Group Swim Workouts: Normally held at local YMCAs, health clubs, community pools, or in the open water at area beaches, these groups want people to belong, so all you have to do is ask. While some may be less formal, most have a Masters swim program that offer formal instruction.

Group Riding and Running Clubs: Every community has small packs of people who meet in local parks in the evening to run or ride, so take a ride and find some of these groups.

Formal Triathlon Clubs: Most towns and counties have an established group that organizes and sponsors the sport. Find these people, as they will have access to endless resources.

In the end, working with others will not only give you confidence and a chance to learn, but also it will keep you committed to the sport and your goals.

The Denver area is home to many marathons. One quickly gaining momentum is the Colorado Colfax Marathon. The Colorado Colfax Marathon runs along Denver's famous Colfax Avenue, starting at Denver City Park, circling through an area just past Wadsworth Avenue in the city of Lakewood, and ending up back at the City Park Pavilion in Denver. The full marathon is about 26 miles long. There's also the option of running the half marathon. Kids in K - 8th grade also can run in the non-competitive Colorado Kids Marathon Mile.

All Colorado Colfax Marathon races are open to varied levels of expertise. Using the relay team strategy is welcome for those running for fun, for a business, or for a charitable cause. This is where friends or business partners team up and tag each consecutive racer at certain intervals of the race.

Terrain for the Colorado Colfax Marathon races is mostly asphalt, since the whole length of the main race extends down Colfax Avenue. In this race, suitable for beginners, expert training is not required. However, before running any race, of course, a person should always check with their physician, as well as prepare their body for the new physical activity.

Denver's weather is a bit unpredictable in the Spring, when this event is usually held. Weather could be sunny and mild or it could even be raining or snowing. If you're coming from out of town to participate in this race, be sure you have running gear suitable for varied weather conditions. Running shoes should have slip-proof technology (in case of rain or snow) with traction that is suitable for flat terrain. They also should be lightweight, so that feet and legs don't tire easily. A windbreaker also is a good idea, in case it gets breezy.

SOURCES
http://www.coloradocolfaxmarathon.org/

Lake Tahoe Marathon Week is full of excitement. If you're an outdoor adventure and race enthusiast, this is the event for you. It happens once a year, so if you plan in advance, you'll have plenty of time for training. Events at Lake Tahoe Marathon Week include running, jogging, walking, swimming, kayaking, paddling, golfing and biking. Some races are for fun, while others are very competitive. This is an event for everyone, including kids, people with strollers and those in wheelchairs.

Even if you'll be doing the fun races, it still is a good idea to train yourself and prepare your body for the day of the marathon races. This way, you can be sure your body is ready. Now's the time to get out your favorite pair of running shorts (or buy a new pair), running shoes and moisture-wicking shirt. Don your gear and get training.

Just walking, jogging or running around the neighborhood is a great way to get started. You can later add more intensity to your training, depending on your plans for the marathon. Always remember to stretch and warm up before starting the more vigorous exercises. Hopefully you've timed it so that Lake Tahoe Marathon Week begins soon after your training is done. That way your body is in optimal shape to complete the marathon activities you have chosen.

Before heading to Lake Tahoe Marathon Week, be sure you've got some great running shoes to match your event. A good, all-around shoe for this event is one equipped for walking, running, jogging, biking and boating. It will be difficult to change shoes if you transition from one even to the next, so be sure to pick a shoe that is good for all of your events.

Look for shoes that not only have good traction but also have excellent shock absorption. The traction is needed for the foot action, as well as the biking and boating. The shoes also need to be lightweight for easy movement. A variety of running shoes will fall in this category. Just be sure to pay attention to all the features.

Source:
http://www.laketahoemarathon.com/indexframes.html

Running a marathon is not always for the professionals. Beginners also can get in on the fun. A good starter marathon is the Newport Marathon on the Oregon coast. While this is a good qualifying race for the Boston marathon, the Newport Marathon is calm enough for novices. This race is mainly on flat terrain, with just one small hill that's about 40 feet high. The path is pretty much asphalt. In this simple, but fun marathon, runners can experience the great scenery of Yaquina Bay State Park. The supposed haunted lighthouse is another popular feature. This is where the race starts.

Since the terrain is not exactly rough, the best shoes are those that are designed for asphalt and city life. They also should be lightweight, durable enough for running, and should have an active, but comfortable fit. High performance walking shoes often will work for a race like this.

Getting back to the race, runners can expect very short hills through the city of Newport. Run from the bay to the neighborhoods. City houses, shops, as well as a fishing village all are a part of the interesting scenery to be encountered. The Newport Marathon race is a loop around the city. Therefore, the start and the finish are essentially in the same location. The river estuary provides for a great view while participating in the race.

Weather for this race averages around 50 - 60 degrees Fahrenheit. A windbreaker would be a good idea in this type of racing condition. Since running requires plenty of movement, the windbreaker should be loose enough for movement, but snug enough to stay in place. Basically, look for a perfect fit in this case. Bulky clothing could get in the way during running, so be sure it also is lightweight.

Once the race is over, many like to enjoy the various restaurants located along the marathon course. If energy levels are still up, consider a walk along the water's edge to enjoy the bridge, the lighthouse, and other natural beauty. If all you want to do is rest, instead consider a picnic in the beautiful Yaquina Bay State Park.

SOURCE:
http://www.newportmarathon.org

For the average weekend warrior, or for those just entering the sport, throwing on a pair of sneakers and lumbering through a local 5k on a Saturday morning with the primary motivation of the free juice and bagels at the finish is enough. However, for those who experience the "itch," the continuous desire to get out and run, the sport becomes a healthy obsession. Runners begin to scrutinize each detail in an effort to streamline their performances, so finding legitimate ways to go faster becomes a priority. For some, the answer comes in the form of racing flats.

Yet before whipping out the credit card in hopes of shaving off a few precious seconds, consider a few ideas. First, how experienced are you? If you are just beginning, you will see no real difference, as your strength and endurance simply do not yet exist, not to mention the fact that you may very well injure yourself with a smaller, less supportive shoe. Second, think about your goals. Do you run to finish, or do you compete to cut time? Third, what distance do you want to run? Shorter events tend to favor the racing flats, whereas normally only elite runners can manage these shoes over a marathon distance.

If racing flats fit what you want, there are distinct advantages. Initially, you will feel psychologically quicker. Warming up in trainers and then putting on what will feel like feathers will do wonders for your confidence. Aside from the mental boost, racing flats will actually make you faster. Approximately one second is gained per mile for each ounce you subtract from the shoe. Since the average racing flat is roughly five ounces lighter than the standard sneaker, you should save about five seconds per mile. Multiply that over your desired distance and you will see a considerable improvement.

Take the time to decide if they are right for you, but remember that racing flats do not take the place of trainers. Flats should only be used on race day or for short jogs to break them in. Best of luck.

"Practice makes perfect" is a statement we've all heard since childhood. Our mother said it to us when we were memorizing our ABC's. Then, a music teacher reminded us later that practice makes perfect as we were trying to learn a song. And finally, we reiterated this statement to ourselves as we tackled a challenging task at work. Well, this statement holds true for many aspects of life including training for a marathon.

It seems simplistic to tell anyone who is willing to run a marathon to train for it. Yet, whether you are a new or seasoned runner, you can make a mistake when it comes to training for a marathon. For example, if you are new, you might not train regularly or rigorously enough. Conversely, if you are a seasoned runner, you may over train and hurt yourself. So, it's important to really think about the marathon you want to run and to do a few things. Here are a few helpful tidbits:

#1 - Go to the Website of the marathon you plan on running and get tips on how to train. Most marathon websites have them, so take advantage of the help.

#2 - Train on a course similar to the one you will run in the marathon. So, if you have to run up steep hills, train on them. If you have to run on a flat course, train on them. If the weather is rainy throughout the upcoming marathon, learn how to run in the rain.

#3 - Ask a running coach to help you create a running schedule. It should be customized to your level of fitness. Weak runners should start training for a marathon at least six months in advance in order to build endurance. Strong runners can start training for a marathon four months in advance in order to learn a different running course.

#4 - Tweak your training as time goes along. If you hurt yourself, don't run for a few days until you feel better. If you can't seem to get up a hill, focus more on tackling it. In other words, change how you train as necessary.

These four tidbits will help you "perfect" yourself for the marathon you plan on running. Make them part of your training regimen and you'll have great success and be able to tackle many types of marathons.

For someone who has run marathons before and may need a bit of a challenge, the Grandfather Mountain Marathon may be the perfect choice. Held annually in North Carolina, this marathon is definitely not for beginners. The 25-mile track offers quite a challenge.

The Grandfather Mountain Marathon has runners racing up the mountainside to an elevation of 4,279 feet. A race such as this requires extensive pre-training and probably a good amount of prior experience running mountainous races. The Grandfather Mountain Marathon has strict time limits. Therefore, runners must be certain they can finish this race.

Because this is an extreme sport, it's also going to require some extreme footwear. Running shoes for a mountain adventure should also be equipped to handle trails and mountainous terrain. Look for a durable, but lightweight design with good traction, cushioning, bounce and flexibility.

Footwear is not the only thing to pay attention to in a marathon. Clothing is also of importance. Marathon runners should be wearing clothing that will help keep them cool, as well as help wick away moisture. Clothing for running should be flexible but not loose. It also should be made of breathable fibers. Chafing prevention also is a good idea.

A good watch, as well as a compass, may be a good idea. A combination piece is even better. This way if you accidentally get off track, the compass and a good map of the location can help you get back on track. The watch, of course, will let a runner know how they are doing on time, such as whether to maybe slow their pace or pick it up some to finish on time.

Some runners also may choose to wear a hat for sun protection. The hat chosen should be thin, as well as something that that will not fall off the head easily. Otherwise, it may be a distraction during the race. Some good, moisture-wicking running socks will also be a good idea. Gatorade and water will be supplied at various checkpoints throughout the race.

Source:
http://www.hopeformarrow.org/gmminfo.htm

Think you can run a marathon or triathlon? How about the *Rock n' Roll marathon*? This event in San Diego, California, features bands and the chance to dance at various points throughout the race. There also are cheerleaders along the way to keep the runners and dancers motivated.

This annual event is for runners of all experience levels, so don't let inexperience stop you if you're revved to go. Those 2,000 cheerleaders and the 19 aid stations will help keep you going. Can't run? That's alright. This race also is open to walkers. The point of this race is to have fun while also supporting a cause. To run a race like this, don't forget that you're going to need some practice ahead of time to warm your body up, especially if this is not something you do on a regular basis.

Since you're going to be doing a combination of dancing, walking, and running, be sure your footwear will be helpful for all three of those. Running socks are a great choice, as they help draw moisture away from the body. They also can be treated with antibacterial properties to keep odors and fungus at bay. Because you will be running, dancing and walking, you'll want a shoe that not only is built for running, but is lightweight and flexible enough for the dancing and walking. Generally, you should look for running shoes, but they should be a variety that is lightweight, flexible and contain plenty of shock absorption and support.

Once you've chosen your ideal socks and shoes for the event, also be sure you've got some good running clothing. It should be lightweight and breathable, built to wick away moisture. All that running, walking and dancing can build up quite a sweat, but if you wear the right clothing, much of that can be prevented.

For pre-practice, consider jogging around your neighborhood, stopping at intervals to dance to your favorite MP3s. Neighbors might point and stare, but so what? If so, let them know what you're doing and invite them along. The more, the merrier, right?

Sources:
http://www.rnrmarathon.com/home.html
http://www.active.com/page/Event_Details.htm?event_id=1609224&assetId=d1f56a35-41da-435a-b3cb-4140d3aeb602

Remember when you were a kid and you were facing off with another kid at the dodge ball pole? Your friends were cheering you on, and it energized you. It made you feel like you could win even if you'd lost every prior game to your opponent. This kind of support is important in every area of sports - including running.

When you train for a marathon, it's important to build up a support team. You need at least one other person to encourage you to prepare and finish the marathon you plan on running. This person doesn't have to be another athletic individual (although it helps). They just have to be someone that you respect and won't be afraid to be honest with you. Here's a list of folks to ask and how they can help you:

1) Your spouse can help you get up and do early morning runs and eat healthy.
2) Your best friend can run with you on a few days (or ride a bike) and make training more fun.
3) Your favorite sport's store clerk can give you advice on what kind of clothing and shoes to wear while training and running for the marathon.
4) Your doctor can give you a check up at the beginning of your training to make sure you're in good enough health to run a marathon.
5) Your personal trainer can help you plot out how many miles you should run a day in order to build up to the marathon.
6) You can help yourself stay encouraged to run by getting enough sleep and staying positive.

As you see, there are many ways people can support you in a marathon. In order to improve your chances of actually applying for, starting and finishing one, it is in your best interest to unite them all together. You'll see that success will be much sweeter in the company of your friends.

Ever think about running in a marathon or triathlon? One of the world's most popular multisport events is the Speight's Coast to Coast in New Zealand. In it, competitors participate in three sports. Running, cycling and kayaking are all a part of this world sporting event.

This is a rigorous event that calls for some heavy-duty training before attempting to participate. Participants must be trained in outdoor survival skills, and I'm not talking camping in your backyard watching the stars. This requires some real wilderness skills, which includes bush craft and river crossing expertise.

In addition to skills, it also requires lots of equipment. Some of the things you'll need are basic survival items such as hats, gloves, knit tops, first aid kits and survival bags. Another thing to remember is that because this is a multisport event, it requires a few different types of footwear.

For the running portion, you'll want to pack a good pair of running shoes. There are races of varying lengths, making it easier for racers of varied levels to participate. A pair of good running shoes should offer good bounce, comfort, durability and breathability.

Since there also will be some climbing and travel over terrain, it would be wise to use a pair of cross country shoes. This way, you have footwear for all types of terrain and are equipped for running. A good pair of cross country shoes should have all the great features of running shoes but with added traction and waterproof protection.

Footwear for kayaking should be lightweight, waterproof and have skid-proof technology. Breathability is also very important, because it can speed the drying process if the kayaking shoes get wet. Skid-proof technology is very important in these types of shoes, because it can become slippery aboard a kayak or other types of boats.

The most important thing to remember when participating in a marathon or triathlon is to be prepared. Sporting events, like the Speight's Coast to Coast, can be very fun and rewarding. However, getting injured or disqualified can take the fun away. Be safe, be prepared and have a blast.

Sources:
http://www.coasttocoast.co.nz/
http://www.kmsevents.com.au/