Running at Night

My internal clock has a preference for working out in the evening. And for years, I've noticed that my running is more productive and enjoyable at night in the dark! I just read this article in Runners World about running in the dark.

Here's an excerpt from the article:
In fact, Youngstedt says that some athletes may benefit from evening workouts, citing recent research among a group of swimmers whose performance peaked between 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. Although the responsible mechanism isn't yet understood, Youngstedt says there are several potential contributing factors. One is body temperature, which tends to be higher later in the day and has been linked to increased strength and reaction time. Another is the release of two hormones important for energy metabolism, cortisol and thyroptopin, which are at their highest levels in the evening. "We all have internally generated body rhythms that dictate when we feel and perform our best," Youngstedt says. "You have to find what works for you."

To read the entire article, go to http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-238-267--10838-0,00.html

Of course, I run on a well lit paved running path, wear my cute reflective vest. Now I just need to remember to add the headlamp.

Night running in the rain

Sometimes I surprise myself. After a long day, I headed out at 8:40 pm for a run into the dark, rainy night. Turns out I had the best run in a long time. In fact, I think I prefer running at night and in the rain. Could it be there are fewer people on the running path? I don't want to be noticed as the slow runner? Of course it helps that I have a constant view of a lit up downtown Seattle while running on Alki.

Crashwear Reflective Vests - Safety with Style

Reflective vests that are attractive and stylish now available at www.wahinesport.com. No more construction safety vests.

Founded on the dark and slippery streets of Seattle, Crashwear creates fun, modish reflective vests for people on the move - whether by bike, motorcycle, scooter or on foot.

Robin Freedman, the creator and designer of Crashwear, found that she wanted to wear something more visible while zooming around on her scooter, having too many close calls with over-caffeinated and hyper-cylindered drivers. Trouble was, none of the safety gear out there matched her trendy taste and urban style. As a cool mom, she knew she needed to wear something to avoid a crash, without making her look like a school crossing guard or construction worker!

Thus, Crashwear was born. Constructed for the discerning buyer who appreciates both modern and retro designs, the nylon rip stop vests with serious reflective features are perfect for scooter commuters (and beyond) who are ruling the streets. Owning a Crashwear vest is a statement of your style, independence and individuality. It's where safety and style collide.

Remodeled Bicycle

My TREK bicycle has been with me for awhile. I can't even remember when I purchased it brand new--at least 15 years ago?! Anyway for 15 years my hands would go numb while riding. Kinda numb on short 1 hour rides and very numb on full day rides. I just sort of put up with it. Until I met Eric at Belltown Pullapart. Belltown Pullapart is a Seattle bike shop that custom builds and repairs bicycles using recycled parts. I casually mentioned my problem to Eric one day and he suggested all I needed was a shorter stem for my handlebars. He found the necessary parts right away and voila--a freshly remodeled bike! No more numbness in my hands. I can't believe I put up with that for so long.

I would highly recommend repairing your existing bike with recycled parts OR if considering a custom built bike, have it built with recyled parts. And visit the guys at Belltown Pullapart. They are friendly, knowledgeable and truly support green and sustainable. An added bonus is being greeted by the friendly four-legged employees, Chich and Pork Chop. www.belltownpullart.com

FREE Shipping for Holiday Shoppers

Free shipping on all activewear and accessories for the entire month of December. Plus, we have great sale prices on most of our activewear! Check it out www.wahinesport.com