Blair’s Weekly Update 04-25-10

Doc’s Talk by Bev Major

Dr. Scaff reviewed the natural foot anatomy of the Igorots of the Philippines and last week’s guidance to run RST: relaxed, silently and tall.

He then went on to explain the resiliency of the body and its ability to adapt and modify itself to different conditions. Moderation in exercise is the key to success. Shin splints—the tearing away of muscle tissue from the bone–are the result of overdoing it and a message to back-off, reduce pain, regroup and gradually return to running.

Next week’s before run topic will be weigh; perhaps a good thing because after our run we will have a potluck picnic. Please bring your favorite dish and $1.00. Those 12 and under are free.

Picnic – this Sunday!

Let us taste your latest creation or, share with us your “ole standby broke da mouth” dish! Please come and join in on our potluck Spring Picnic! Soft drinks and chili and rice will be provided by the clinic; a $1 fee is assessed per person. We will have ice chests for food storage while we all go out for our run. The picnic will start after all of the groups have returned from their training runs. This is a great way to get to know more about your fellow runners and eat some great food!!! “We run to eat!”

Table Duty

Thanks to Staffers Sandi, Tony and family. All of the refreshments were terrific but the banana bread was onolicious! Due to popular demand, Sandi is allowing us to post her recipe. Stay tuned! Continue reading

Blair’s Weekly Update 04-18-10

Doc’s Talk* by Bev Major

In the absence of Dr. Scaff, Senior Staffer Roger Kobayashi gave the group a valuable mantra: RST.

R stands for relaxed and easy running. S reminds us that silent running is stress less and much easier on our bodies than noisily pounding the pavement. T is for tall and upright running which supports us structurally.

If you have any more questions on this topic, feel free to talk with Roger.

*Bev, an “ole friend” “volunteered” to help us to synopsize some of Doc’s talks. I hope your “twisted arm” doesn’t hurt too much.

Table Duty

Thank you Cliff and Tony for the great food and drink!! Continue reading

Blair’s Weekly Update 04-11-10

Doc’s Talk

Doc spoke about the “folks” who have the perfect feet for running – no not Peter or Norm or Rosemary or even Guru Sam. According to Doc, the Igorots of the Philippines possess this rare peculiarity. The Igorots live in a very remote village “untouched by civilization”. Shoes seem to be the “culprit” for our foot and leg problems.

Shoe Talk

50+ runners attended a most informative talk about shoes by Running Room store assistant manager, Gaston. Gaston, who ran a 3:10 marathon last year, spoke eloquently about the different shoe styles that accomodate the various “footstrikes” of runners.  Since the audience was comprised of Intermediate and Advanced runners, he answered a question about “racing flats”, shoes used for races while keeping another pair for training as well –  apparently, a very popular trend for more “serious” runners. Another interesting question regarding “cross dressing” (mainly for fit and comfort) was answered most diplomatically by Gaston – he has sold “flowery” women’s shorts to men and men’s shoes, shorts and shirts are very much in demand by women clients. All attendees received a very special offer on shoes from the Running Room but, “you had to be there” to receive the offer.

Table Duty

Much mahalo to staff leader and Boston Marathon veteran Kozo, for manning the table today. As usual, your refreshments were generous and delicious. Continue reading

Blair’s Weekly Update 04-04-10

Shoe Talk April 11th

Second shoe talk is scheduled fort this coming Sunday; geared for Intermediate and Advanced runners but everyone welcome to attend. Group leaders, please schedule your runs accordingly; perhaps only a 4 – 5 mile run. The talks start promptly at 9:00 a.m.

Table Duty

Thanks to “walking marathoners” Luanne and Susan for covering the table today. Everyone should get some insight from them about walking the marathon.

Luanne mentions that by the time they get toward the latter part of the marathon, the water stations are already shut down and water and Gatorade cups are just laid out on the road; and, very few spectators to cheer them on. Continue reading