May 28th, 2009: FLEET FEET Flyer # 38: Are Racing Flats for You? (The Surprising Answer!)
Welcome, Friends!
It's racing flat season, and to celebrate the
need for speed, we're having a Racing Flat Sale! Don't think racing
flats are for you? Check out our feature article-- you just might be
surprised by what you learn!
And if you've been feeling lost since the Sunset Social Runs ended in March, despair no longer! We are proud to announce the start of the Nike Run Club Training Runs every Wednesday evening beginning June 10th. These mid-week training runs start at FLEET FEET Chesterfield and will feature Nike raffles and product trials. (See below for more information!)
And don't forget about our continuing Sunrise Social Runs at FLEET FEET Fenton. Join us every Saturday morning at 7:00AM for a 5-mile run from our Fenton location.
All the best in your running!
Sincerely,
Your Friends at FLEET FEET St. Louis
| Join Our Mailing List |
For Email Marketing you can trust
We are excited to send out the FLEET FEET Flyer, and we would love to hear back from you! Feel free to send any comments directly to me via email. Happy Running!
Sincerely,
Amy Marxkors
Editor
Click here to view past FLEET FEET Flyers!
The science behind the racing flat.
(Plus a racing flat sale you won't want to miss!)
Are racing flats for you? If you race often or do speedwork on a track, a racing flat can be a valuable tool in your running arsenal.
The science is simple. There are only two ways to run faster: (1) increase foot turnover speed and (2) increase stride length. In both cases, you are covering more ground in a given amount of time. (Or, in race terms, taking less time to cover a set distance, such as a 5K.) A racing flat helps a runner accomplish both.
The primary speed benefit of a racing flat is a result of its light weight. While an average training shoe weighs 12.6 ounces, the average racing flat weighs just 8.4 ounces. This 33% average weight reduction allows better foot acceleration and promotes an increased turnover speed. (Quicker feet: Check.)
Racing flats are also constructed with an outersole that provides good traction. While worn-down outersoles reduce speed, increased traction ensures an efficient energy transfer with each foot strike. Some runners prefer flats that are flexible in the forefoot and allow maximum range of motion. Others prefer a stiffer forefoot that provides more leverage. In conjunction with the shoe's lighter weight, both designs help increase stride length. (More ground covered with each stride: Check.)
Studies have shown that racing in a flat can shave between two to four seconds from each mile split. And while the very nature of a racing flat means it has less cushioning, less stability, and less durability than a training shoe (hence you'll want to restrict its use to races and to speedwork on a track), the benefits of a racing flat are well worth considering. (Faster time: Double-check.) If you're looking to streamline your racing time and are willing to trade a little protection for some extra speed, a racing flat is for you!
Stop by FLEET FEET to check out our selection of sale racing flats for just $49.99-- up to $60 off their original prices!* With styles available for everyone from the miler to the marathoner, we can help you find the racing flat that meets your needs. And be sure to check out two of our non-sale styles: Nike's Lunaracer and Zoot's Ultra. On the cutting-edge of racing flat technology, both the Lunaracer and the Ultra offer unique designs for unparalleled fit and function. Finally, we'd like to invite you to wear your racing flats at our Summer Speedwork Sessions. It's the perfect time to try out your new speedy shoes!
Nike Lunaracer: $99.99
Featuring trainer-level impact absorption at racing-flat weight, the
Lunaracer is the paradigm of racing shoe technology. The Lunaracer's
dynamic mesh upper boasts two levels of support: ultra-smooth microfiber
bands on the inside and FlyWire (yes, fishing line) construction on the
outside. What makes the FlyWire so special is its ability to add
targeted support without adding a lot of weight. The result? A
locked-down fit and improved stability in a feather-light shoe. Another
feature that sets the Lunaracer apart from the rest is its high-tech
midsole. Nike has forged new ground in midsole technology with its
patented LunarLite foam. This foam is a revolutionary blend of plush
cushioning, springy response, and stability in a lightweight "unisole"
(read: one-piece). And be certain to look at the bottom of the shoe. The
oversized "Waffle Pistons" built into the midsole absorb the shock of
impact and then spring back to shape for a smooth, responsive ride.
Zoot Ultra: $134.99
Triathletes, say hello to the perfect racing flat. The Ultra racer from
Zoot is all about speed, bringing a new level of quickness and
efficiency to the transition area. The Ultra's seamless, sock-style
interior is ideal for sock-free racing. Finger grabs on the heel and
tongue allow you to pull on the Ultra quickly and easily, while a
self-adjusting, self-locking lacing system cinches up with a
single-handed pull and stays secure. The benefits of the Ultra's unique
design carry over to the run, as well. Constructed with a semi-rigid
plate under the big toe, the Ultra is built for an efficient toe-off,
maximizing the power of each foot strike.
*While supplies last. Selection varies by store.
What: Nike's Official Bank of America Chicago Marathon Training
Runs
When: Every Wednesday at 6:30PM beginning June 10th
Where: FLEET FEET Chesterfield
Who: Anyone!
Whether you're training for the Chicago Marathon, another fall marathon,
or just to run, join us for Nike's Official Bank of America Chicago
Marathon Weekday Training Runs! Beginning June 10th and continuing until
October 7th, the Nike Run Club will meet every Wednesday evening at
6:30PM at FLEET FEET Chesterfield for a 3- to 7-mile training run on the
Chesterfield Levee Trail system and surrounding roads. The Nike Run Club
Training Runs are free and open to everyone. No sign-up is required!
In addition to a 3- to 7-mile run, the Nike Run Club Training Runs will include raffles, product trials, and mingling with fellow runners. The training runs are informal (no pacing provided), complimentary, and open for all! Please contact Kristen with any questions.
You can also visit Nike's website for more information about the Nike Run Club!
The perfect "long short-short" for men.
Guys knew a short like this had to exist. The 5.5" inseam Mizuno Ascend
Short fills the apparent void between basketball shorts and split
shorts, providing the perfect option for guys who aren't fans of
short-shorts but don't want to look like they're headed to the courts to
shoot free throws. Featuring textured shell fabric to prevent "sticky
shorts" and anti-abrasion technology to reduce chafing, the Ascend Short
is ready for even the hottest St. Louis training runs. A side zipper
storage pocket allows you to carry your valuables with confidence.
The Mizuno Ascend Short is available at FLEET FEET Chesterfield, FLEET FEET St. Charles, and FLEET FEET Fenton. Price: $37.99. The Mizuno Ascend Short is also available at our online store.
Ladies, if you are looking for a longer short, check out the 5" Tempo Short from New Balance. The Tempo Short features featherlight fabric and is the perfect length for those who want a bit more coverage in a running short. Colors: Pink and Turquoise. Price: $29.99. Available at FLEET FEET Chesterfield, FLEET FEET St. Charles, and FLEET FEET Fenton. The New Balance Tempo Short is also available at our online store.
Buy a Garmin 405 or Garmin 405CX between now and June 30th and get $50 back!
Save some cash on the new
Garmin 405 and
Garmin 405CX! For a limited time, the industry-leading
405 and
405CX comes with a $50 rebate, making now the perfect time to take
your training to the next level. An essential tool for runners and
multisport athletes alike, the perfect knock-his-socks-off Father's Day
gift, or that new gadget you've just been dying to own, the
Garmin 405 and
405CX
are here and ready to help you reach your training goals.
For more information, visit the store or check out the Garmin 405 or Garmin 405CX online!
Join the L&C Half Marathon Training Team
Who knew training for a half marathon could be this much fun?
Featuring professional coaching, pace-specific groups,
professionally-designed workouts, weekly group long runs, optional speed
workouts, and interactive clinics, the FLEET FEET Training Team is ready
to help you train for the Lewis and Clark Half Marathon. And the best
part? A whole gaggle of friends to run with you and support you every
step of the way. Who knew training for a half marathon could be this
much fun?
The Lewis and Clark Half Marathon Team begins on June 20th. Training Team group long runs take place on Saturday mornings at various St. Louis premier running routes. Optional group workouts will be on Tuesdays and Thursday evenings, coinciding with the FLEET FEET Summer Speedwork sessions. Participants will also receive weekly tips and support from the coaching staff. For more information, visit the FLEET FEET Training Team website. Note: Online registration for the Half Marathon Training Team closes June 16th.
The Half Marathon Training Team begins June 20th! Learn more about the FLEET FEET Training Teams. Click here to register!
A professionally-designed speedwork program: $0
Group track workouts all summer long: $0
Running your best race ever: Priceless.
FLEET FEET's Summer Speedwork Sessions are designed
to help runners of all paces and abilities peak for the fall racing
season and are beneficial for 5K racers and marathoners alike. The
series consists of various interval workouts over three months and
culminates with a one-mile race to end the series. The Summer Speedwork
Sessions are free and no sign-up is required!
Join us every Tuesday (at Francis Howell North) or Thursday (at Marquette High School) between Memorial Day and Labor Day for FLEET FEET's Summer Speedwork!
FLEET FEET Summer Speedwork begins on Tuesday, June 2nd, at Francis Howell North and on Thursday, June 4th, at Marquette High School. Speedwork sessions begin at 7:00PM. Visit the FLEET FEET Summer Speedwork website for more information!
Upcoming Races
14th Annual Hannibal Cannibal
10K/5K
Join Hannibal Regional Hospital for the 14th Annual Hannibal Cannibal 10K/5K on Saturday, July 4th. The 10K/5K run and leisure walk begin at 7:00AM (rain or shine). The Fun Run for children 10 and under will begin at 9:00AM following the Hannibal Cannibal 10K/5K. The Hannibal Cannibal course begins at the Tom & Huck statue in downtown Hannibal, continues south down Main Street to Church Street, and heads to Route 79 south past Mark Twain Cave. Then comes the Cannibal-- a sharp incline at Lover's Leap-- which runners and walkers must master to finish the race!
The entry fee is $20 per person through June 26th. After that, the entry fee increases to $25. The entry fee for the Fun Run is $10 per child. All entrants will receive a T-shirt. This year’s proceeds will go towards Hannibal Regional Hospital Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Services.
Registration forms can be picked up at the Hannibal Regional Hospital Foundation Office located at 175 Shinn Lane; the Information Desk at Hannibal Regional Hospital; and KHMO and KICK-FM studios in Hannibal and Quincy. You can also register online here. Or you can register in person on July 3rd, from 5:00PM to 7:00PM in front of the Tom and Huck statue in downtown Hannibal; and on race morning, beginning at 6:00AM, also in front of the Tom and Huck statue in downtown Hannibal. Packet pick-up will also be on July 3rd, from 5:00PM to 7:00PM, and on race morning, beginning at 6:00AM, in front of the Tom and Huck statue in downtown Hannibal.
Awards will be given to the top three overall male and female finishers, to the top three masters male and female finishers, and to the top three male and female finishers in the following age groups: 15 and under, 16-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-80, and 80+.
In 2008, there were nearly 1000 participants from 26 states, including Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Sponsors this year include the The Riedel Foundation, Lamar Advertising, KHMO, KICK FM, Y101, Sydenstrickers, Comcast, Printex, Hannibal Courier Post, KGRC, KZZK, Terrible’s Casino, Quincy Herald Whig, Media Development, Fleet Feet Sports, KHBL, Pepsi, Hometown Signs, McDonalds, and Culligan.
For more information, please call the Hannibal Regional Hospital Community Relations Department at 573-629-3567.
_________________________________________________________
Firecracker 10K/5K and 1-Mile Fun Run
Looking for a healthy way to kick off your July 4th celebration? Then join us for the 25th Annual Firecracker 10K, 5K, and 1-Mile Fun Run! The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce is proud to host this exciting race! The Firecracker run will be held on the north side of O’Fallon, at the Bank of Old Monroe, on Saturday, July 4th. Both the 10K and the USATF Certified 5K begin at 7:00AM. The Fun Run will start at 7:30AM.
Course roads will be completely closed to vehicular traffic during the race to ensure safety. Awards will be given to the top male and female finishers in the 10K and 5K races. There will also be awards given to the top three male and female finishers in the following age groups: 8 & under, 9-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60 & over. Ribbons will be given for the 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk (8 and under).
Pre-registered racers can pick up their packets on July 1st, 2nd, and 3rd at Snap Fitness. Free parking will be available. Race day registration and packet pick-up will be held at the Bank of Old Monroe from 6:00AM to 6:30AM.
Registration is $20.00 for the 10K and 5K and $10.00 for the 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk. You can register online here. You can also download an entry form here. For more information, email Gena.
This event is sponsored by Ameren UE, Wharf Health Mart Pharmacy, City of O’Fallon, Snap Fitness, State Farm, Sandy Kessler, Angels on Duty, and Big Fun flatables, LLC.
_______________________________________________________