Head Be Stronger!
What you need to know to run smoother, stronger, further and faster...
Maxfit Run/Walk FAQ: Many new members have lots of questions their first season. Check here for answers to FAQs. If you still have questions, contact your coach. They will be happy to answer any of your questions.
Q: When are the long runs?
A: The group meets Saturday mornings. Starting times vary based on the distance of the run for that day.
Q: Help! I need the information that was handed out at registration. How can I get a copy?
A: Download the 2010 MaxFitness Training Season Keeper. It has a lots of information you
will need throughout the program.
Q: How will I know where to turn around for the long runs?
A: Make sure you know the distance from the statue. Download this file for the Lakefront Trail Mile Markers.
Q: I heard that hydrating properly is important for participating in the program. Is it really that important?
A: Yes, yes, yes! Hydrating is important. Throughout the season keep these points in mind:
- Drink before, during and after you workout.
- Alternate water with a sport drink (Gatorade, Powerade, various all natural sports drinks).
- You are hydrated when your urine is a light color.
Q: I see people on the lakefront carrying water bottles. Where can I get one? How do I carry water while exercising?
A: Running stores and sports stores have lots of hydration systems available. Visit a store and try them out to see what works for you.
Q: Why do athletes drink sports drinks like Gatorade?
A: In addition to water, sports drinks have sugar and electrolytes which are important to replenish what has been depleted in your body during your training sessions longer than 60 minutes. For training runs longer than 60 minutes, you will need more than just water. So be sure to take along a sports drink;your body will thank you for it.
Q: What other sports drinks are available?
A: There are tons of sports drinks available, Gatorade and Powerade are two popular brands. Other drinks include Endurox, Accelerade, and All Sport. At the end of our long runs we will usually have Gatorade waiting for you. If Gatorade doesn't work for you, don't be shy about trying other sports drinks. Some of our members have turned to natural alternatives. Check out this article called Perfectly Natural Fuel on Active.com's website.
Q: How do I breathe when I run or walk?
A: Rule number one is to BREATHE! That may seem like a silly answer but you would be suprised at how many new runners forget to breathe when first starting out. Beyond that, practice the following to make sure that you are breathing correctly to finish your runs comfortably:
- Chin should be slightly lifted (off of the chest)
- Relax your jaw
- Breath in through the nose (if possible) and breath out through the mouth slowly
- Check here for more information on breathing.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Dressing properly will not only provide a more enjoyable workout but it is also important to stay cool and comfortable. Follow the following tips:
- Do not over dress, you should be slightly chilly before a run/walk
- Wear sports specific light weight fabrics e.g. Dri fit. Cotton will chafe your skin, especially during the longer workouts.
- For the ladies, wear a good supportable sports bra that is made of a high performance fabric.
- Wear running shoes. That means shoes that a made specifically for running. Cross-trainers and tennis shoes are not an appropriate substitute for running shoes. You should replace your running shoes at least one per year.
- Anti-blister socks. Do not wear cotton socks.
- Use Vaseline, Body Glide Aquaphor for your feet and sensitive parts and other places where the sun don't shine! Make sure to protect the most sensitve areas such as the chest and inner thighs.
