running

2 Ways to Prevent Pesky Joint Pain

Prevent pesky joint pain

When runners work to prevent injury, it is often the muscles we think first to protect, stretch and roll out at the end of a long day out on the roads or trails. Though we should always focus on being proactive and protecting our hard-working muscles, there is another part of the body that we may not be focused on enough: our joints. There are 143...

5 Reasons to Run Your First 5K

5 Reasons to run your first 5k

If you’ve always dreamed of being a runner or completing a race but have felt too intimidated by the idea of extreme distances and tough training, fear not!  A 5K is the perfect race for beginners and is surprisingly easy to prepare for. Here are five reasons you should conquer 3.1 miles. 1. It doesn’t discriminate The beauty of the 5K is...

Failure Re-Framed: The Upside of Finishing Last

The upside of finishing last

I love running, but I wouldn’t say I’m great at it, or a natural by any means. I’m “middle of the pack” when it comes to speed, and I’ve worked hard to get there. As a teenager running high school cross country, I was consistently the last female across the finish line at races and invitationals. It sucked. I wanted to quit. My dad...

5 Kettlebell Exercises for Runners

Kettlebells can be intimidating. They look heavy and the exercises are odd. But here’s a little secret—they’re actually easier to lift than dumbbells and work multiple muscles at once. Kettlebells have gained popularity over the years and for good reason: They are effective and efficient. You can burn up to 20 calories per minute. So a...

3 Ways to Lace Up Your Running Shoes

3 Ways to Lace Up Your Running Shoes

Shoelaces come untied, loosen, bind and can be a knot in your stride. Too loose makes for sloppy striding, too tight and shoes bind and pinch. Here are three lacing methods to keep you running in your sweet spot. (Step-by-step directions courtesy of Women’s Running, via Ian’s Shoelace Site.)   1. LYDIARD LACING Also known as “straight...

It’s National Running Day! Here’s How to Celebrate

Yep, that’s right! Today is another “When did this become a holiday?” holiday. But unlike all those other special days, you won’t have to side-step cupcakes in the break room or feel guilty for forgetting to send mom a card. Today is a day made just for you and your most comfortable footwear! Need a little motivation to get the party...

Ultra Runner Dean Karnazes On Why Speed Matters

Train like a pro with Dean Karnazes and Fitbit

If you’re preparing for your first race, you probably already have a good sense of what you need to do to get to the finish line. You’ve likely invested in a good pair of shoes, and you’re probably tracking your progress with some of the great technology available today, like Fitbit Charge or Surge. But you may not be mixing up your...

Fitbit & Destination Races Want to Get You Running

Dean Karnazes runs through Death Valley

Race season is upon us! If you’re feeling inspired to sign up for a race this year, or are simply looking to up your step count, we’re here to help. Fitbit is the official fitness tracker of Destination Races. Destination Races is the visionary producer of the Wine Country Half Marathon Series offering unforgettable race weekends for...