February 6, 2008 - My favorite running book.

Yo run gang,

I run, I read, I write. Im a big fan of novels that have a running theme as part of or the entire story; unfortunately, they are few and far between. I also like a good psycho book and never pass up a new Steven King, go figure. Anyway, my favorite book of all time was Once a Runner by John L. Parker. Parkers novel captured the essence of training and racing like no other.

All of a sudden everyone thinks this is the greatest running book ever. For proof, Google Once a Runner and see if you can buy a tattered copy of this out of print book for under $300, you cant! You can try the library but Ive checked several and all copies of this valuable book have been stolen. The reason for this new found fan club is the recent release of my new favorite running book of all time, the sequel to Once a Runner, Parkers new book Return to Carthage.

Not to sound like Im giving you a stock tip but may I suggest you grab a hard cover copy of this first edition while they exist, weve ordered in several at Running Fit and they disappear fast. The truth is, you should keep and cherish this book even if it becomes valuable! Before reading it I suggest you get a hold of a copy of Once a runner and read that first. The rumor is a new printing will soon be out, Im sure that is true now that the demand is stupid high.

Anyone interested in buying some beanie babies?

Get out and run!
Randy Step

For more Run Reading, click here: Once a Runner (Randy Steps Edition)

January 30, 2008 - The rule: Never let the weather affect your planned run.

Yo run gang,

Im sure you can relate I put off the Monday morning run at 20 degrees opting for the day end run with a predicted high of 40. The morning was still, clear and the sun rise was beautiful. I ran that night in the dark, pouring rain and perhaps mid 30s. Each foot fall was a cold wet shock, you get the picture. The rule: Never let the weather affect your planned run, when race day dawns, you have no choice in the matter and you better be ready and know how to dress and run in all conditions. Not to mention, there are a ton of things that will come along to thwart the days run, weather should never be one of them. If the rain had been in the AM, I should still have headed out. Didnt I just say that?

No excuses, last years Super Bowl 5K was held in 5 degree weather with a stiff wind. In 06, race morning dawned with about a foot of new snow, memorable stuff, dont miss this year! Im coming for the finishers pint glass and post race hot wings and not just because theyre being served by the Hooters girls! 5K not long enough? Run a second loop with me, by then youll know the course! Enter at www.runsuperbowl.com.

A trick to get past the midwinter slump almost like magic is a trip to Running Fit for new shoes. At this time of year, the stores are slow and you can take your time trying on everything with our lonely staff members who are excited to talk about your running. Best yet, the 08 spring shoes just came in, new models like the Kayano 14, Nike Structure Triax 10 and Brooks Adrenaline GTS 8. Shameless plug? Well maybe, but Ill soften it up, bring this email in for $10 off any new shoes and fire up the magic!

Get out and run!
Randy Step

For more Run Reading, click here: Running Adventure!