"Marathon Training Begins" in Today's Chicago Tribune

In today's Chicago Tribune editions for Glen Ellyn, Wheaton, Warrenville, Winfield, West Chicago -- find my "Red Bandana" article "Marathon Training Begins." Look i the TrtibLocal insert. It ran a couple weeks ago in the online edition.

See it here on page 17: http://readoz.com/publication/embed?p=18269

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Timex T5J031 Unisex Digital Fitness Heart Rate Monitor Watch review: Timex Can Do Better: Never Use at Night

I ask one thing of the Timex T5J031 Unisex Digital Fitness Heart Rate Monitor Watch, and it delivers: count my pulse. What I did not expect is that it would be as accurate as it is.

I compared to various treadmills I run on, including Life Fitness Club Series Treadmill and found the watch more accurate than the handlebar pulse monitors.

* The chest straps fits well enough for me.
* Modes are easy to switch.
* The watch fits fine, but can be a little difficult to take off.
* My average heart rate worked well.
* Easy to use lap function. As mostly a neighborhood street and dedicate running/biking path runner, I use this when I cross the street.
* The Indiglo light is difficult to see - not especially bright, and the button for it is in a difficult to reach spot while running (top left as opposed to front). After a few miles, when I just a quick look, it can be a nuisance while running through a shady area. In fact, while lit, unless in a pitch black environment, the numbers are actually more difficult to see.
* The description says, "The Night Mode feature allows you to illuminate the Indiglo night-light for 3 seconds with any button press, regardless of the mode or function." I was unable to get this to work with any other button.

For the price, I would like to see better engineering. While I understand this is an entry level pulse monitor, set-up is an unnecessary challenge.

Anthony Trendl
http://runnersdilemma.blogspot.com/

Life Fitness Club Series Treadmill: review - Good, But Overpriced Treadmill With Some Frustrations

The most important feature to me on a treadmill is footplant comfort. This nails it. If I run enough miles on a cheap treadmill, my Achilles and knees ache. However, there is more to a solid machine.

The Life Fitness Club Series Treadmill speed eases up smoothly and sensibly. It never jerks. Similarly, the incline is never abrupt. Very nice feature.

The heart rate monitor, the one on the handle bar, is sometimes inaccurate when compared to my Timex T5J031 Unisex Digital Fitness Heart Rate Monitor Watch. While it is only a few beats off, I expect a machine at this level to be better.

The buttons are an issue, reacting in a finicky, frustrating way. My make-do solution is, instead of fumbling with typing in numbers while running, I punch one of the walk-jog-run buttons, which takes me to a given speed. From there, I use the faster-slower button.

Entering my weight and speed and incline and it shows my calories burned. For me, this is just a curiosity, but it shows consistent data.

99% of the time, all I use it for is long long distance, up to 10 miles or so. For this, I am completely happy. There are plenty of other features I never use (the HeartSync workouts, for example). The buttons are a hassle, but once set, I'm good to run.

Anthony Trendl
http://runnersdilemma.blogspot.com/

Life Fitness Club Series Treadmill

Red Bandana: The Colorful Range of Runners

read the last Red Bandana: What Kind of Runner are You?

The 2011 Chicago Marathon expects 45,000 people to sign up. I will be one among the menagerie lining up October 9.


Are you running? I would love to hear from you. Use the comment feature on the right, or e-mail me directly: anthonytrendl@gmail.com

What, did you say 45,000 people? Why, yes, yes I did.

That's more people than live in Kronštadt, Russia (pop. 42,800). Never heard of it? Me neither, but apparently its history is mostly about its involvement in various wars. It is about 19 miles west of St. Petersburg near the head of the Gulf of Finland. Bombed in WWII, a center for the Bolsheviks in the early 1900s, and, way back when in 1703, it was founded by Peter the Great.

Just imagine, then, if every inhabitant of Kronštadt ran with you. A whole city. Add enough volunteers to manage the race and you have, well, a much larger city. I'm not sure if they would wear those funny furry hats or expect vodka at the end of the race instead of beer. I cannot imagine borscht is part of their carbo-loading routine. I hope not.

Maybe it would be easier if I mentioned that 45,000 runners add up to around 4,500 more people than were counted in the 2000 US Census for Carol Stream.

Still a lot of people.

What is beautiful about Chicago Marathon is anyone over 16 years old can sign up. Anyone. In the 2010 race, people of all sizes, ages, colors were running. This not one of those forced politicized diversity efforts, but an organic gathering of like-minded, yet very different people. It reminded me of the old Armour Hot Dog commercial.

"Hot dogs, Armour Hot Dogs
What kinds of kids eat Armour Hot Dogs?
Big kids, little kids, kids who climb on rocks
fat kids, skinny kids, even kids with chicken pox
love hot dogs, Armour Hot Dogs
The dogs kids love to bite!"

What about you? Will you be part of this delicious symphony of average athletes? What are your race plans for 2011? Send me a race report and I will try to include it in an upcoming column. Who is running any of these?

St. Paddy's Day 5K (Naperville) March 12
Lisle Chamber Spring Sprint (Lisle) March 13
Blackberry Farm 5K Spring Gallop (Aurora) March 26
Bloom & Zoom 10K (Lisle) April 16
Fox Trot 5K Run/Walk (Batavia) April 16
Younglife Access 10K/5K (Wheaton) April 16
Valeo Academy 5K Walk/Run for Education (Hoffman Estates) April 16
Husky Hustle (Aurora) April 30
Cosley Zoo's Run for the Animals (Wheaton) June 4
Run for the STARS 5K (Wheaton) June 11

Find information on these races, and others through Chicago Area Runners Association and USA Track and Field websites. Check your local running store for flyers.

Chicago Area Runners Association
http://www.cararuns.org/Racing/Find%20a%20Race.aspx

USA Track and Field
http://www.usatf.org/calendars/

Running Playlist Song of the Week
"I Feel the Earth Move" Carole King
On Amazon: http://amzn.to/eGfJfA

A track from King's incredible 1971 "Tapestry" album — it is raw, spare, minimal with the predominant instrument being her own voice, plus her iconic piano pacing the song. A guitar walks through chords quickly, and real drums (no synth stuff here, kids) and bass undergirding it all make this a true rock song.

Buying the song is not enough, since the album is so completely cool with "You've Got a Friend", "Will You Love Me Tomorrow?", "It's Too Late", "So Far Away", "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" and others all as good. Only "I Feel the Earth Move" works as a running song, but you do more than run, don't you?

"I feel the earth – move – under my feet
I feel the sky tum-b-ling down – tum-b-ling down
I feel my heart start to trem-b-ling –
Whenever you're around."

———————
Writer Anthony Trendl admits he sang (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman at the top of his lungs while writing this column. Contact me to send your favorite tips, songs, recipes, or to tell me about your road race. See http://anthonytrendl.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/anthonytrendl
Blog: http://anthonytrendl.blogspot.com/
Running blog: http://runnersdilemma.blogspot.com/

Chicago Marathon Has Closed Registration

This news just in via e-mail:

Registration Has Closed for the 2011 Bank of America Chicago MarathonRegistration for the 2011 Bank of America Chicago Marathon officially closed today. The 45,000-participant capacity was met in a record 31 days. A limited number of entries remain available through affiliated charities and tour groups for the October 9 race.

More than 90 of the race's affiliated charities have entries remaining for participants still looking for a way into this year's field. By registering through a charity, runners simultaneously become members of a fundraising effort that has generated nearly $60 million since 2002. For more information on entries available through the Charity Program, click here.

Chicago Marathon hopefuls living outside the U.S. also have the option to secure an entry via a number of tour operators offering travel packages that include registration to the 2011 race. For more information on late registrations available through the International Tour Group Program, click here.

Already Registered?
Thank you to the thousands who have registered for the 34th running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. You can verify your entry information and Start Corral assignment online via the Registration Confirmation page.

If you have questions regarding your registration, please contact the event office at 312.904.9800 or office@chicagomarathon.com.

Red Bandana: Marathon Training Begins (Slowly)

Sign up today for the Chicago Marathon
before it fills up. graphic: Anthony Trendl

Read my latest column: Red Bandana: The Colorful Range of Runners

I signed up. Finally. First time. Never before. This is it. Going to do it. No more "thinking about it." Here it is. It is time. Get ready, set, go!

Last night, I attended a meeting at the Glen Ellyn Public Library, hosted by the Glen Ellyn Runners Club. "So You Want to Run a Marathon?"

I have hemmed, hawed, howled and high-tailed the other way whenever the question of running a marathon has come up. I've talked trash, made commitments, and gave excuses. So here I am, a runner who loves long distances, but has no marathons behind him. Hopefully, this will soon be past tense. We will find out in October.

I follow the GERC on Facebook, and saw their event posting for an overview of marathons for first time runners. Carey Pinkowski, executive director of the Chicago Marathon was the featured guest.

Ken Christie, president of the club, spoke enthusiastically and infectiously about his marathon journey. He explained the hopes of the new marathoner, and with this, the challenges. His advice: Don't increase your miles too quickly. Stick to the training schedule. Join a group.

All of these great ideas the Glen Ellyn Running Club offers through its group workouts and other activities. Check them out (links below).

Pinkowski, in turn, spoke from his position as the guy running the big show. Mock-hard-selling the marathon as best he could with a smile, he laughed, knowing he was in a room full of people serious about running. He told us how, in the early days, he was still trying to recruit runners in the fall just before race day. No hard-sell is needed this year, however. The Chicago Marathon is expected to fill up quickly, perhaps as early as March 1.

He talked about improvements for this year, took suggestions and questions, and admitted some frustrations with technology. The tool which sends runner splits via text message is not yet perfect. He, along with race directors at Boston, NYC and other major marathons are searching together for a better solution, he said.

I think Pinkowski mentioned, by the way, they had 3,000 Portajohns last year. There were 45,000 runners and a multitude of volunteers and people cheering. You do the math.

Now, things get serious. October 9, 2011 will come quickly. Getting out of February and through March fit enough to start slowly adding distance will be important. Adjusting my diet, watching my schedule to ensure I am sleeping well, and other details matter.

Are you with me? Are you willing to go the distance? Join me in this adventure. Sign-up today before your spot is filled. It is $145 for most runners. http://www.chicagomarathon.com/  

Let me know if you do: http://anthonytrendl.com/contact.html

Glen Ellyn Runners Club
http://glenellynrunners.org/
http://facebook.com/pages/Glen-Ellyn-Runners/140204837859

Running Playlist Song of the Week
"Sadie" by Son Seals
This classic Hound Dog Taylor Chicago blues song finds pulse and life in Son Seals. The singer, it seems, has made excuses for things he cannot defend. Sadie has left, and he wants her to return, but she is not sure this is a good idea.

"Sadie, will you come back home tonight
Oh Sadie, will you come back home tonight
I love you, and you know I'm gonna treat you right."

Download it free from Amazon.com: http://amzn.to/dLOhwO



———————
Writer Anthony Trendl loves Chicago, blues guitar, and a long run. Contact me to send your favorite tips, songs, recipes, or to tell me about your road race. See http://anthonytrendl.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/anthonytrendl
Blog: http://anthonytrendl.blogspot.com/
Running blog: http://runnersdilemma.blogspot.com/

So Far, So --- 2.25 Miles

2.25 miles run

total: 2.25 miles
course: Home treadmill

Before I ran today, I wondered how long I will stick at it before my knees or other body part shouts back in defense of my couch.

Say no to your couch.

I set my iPod with a 38 minute playlist. I knew, really, I would only do a little over two miles. That's all I should do. More, as short as two miles is, is too much. I want to do more. I need to do more. I looked back at the last two months and fought discouragement.

So what?

Life's like that, isn't it? Looking back has its place, but looking forward is necessary. And forward is October 9, 2011.

Two Point One (Oh) One - 2.1010 miles

2.101 miles run 

total: 2.101 miles
course: home treadmill

Blisters, flu, and knees, oh my. Hopefully, the winter blues and flu are behind me. Having signed up for the Chicago Marathon, I need to build aerobic fitness so I can endure the actual training (starting either in May or June, depending which plan I ultimately follow).

All I gotta do is stay the course.

Red Bandana: Should You Tweet and Run?

Read the latest Red Bandana: Marathon Training Begins (Slowly)


Line me up in a race against the fastest runners on the planet, say, Usain Bolt (Jamaica, 100 meter world record) or Haile Gebrselassie (Ethiopia, marathon world record), and I haven’t a chance to compete. On Twitter, however, I have an opportunity to connect with them on a level playing field.

Just as with any other celebrity, Twitter allows ordinary folks like you and I to mingle with famous people. The great thing about runners is most are not too big for their britches and actually maintain their own Twitter accounts.

It is not just the current runners who are using this unique medium. Carl Lewis and Joan Benoit Samuelson, both gold medal winners in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, are on there. So is writer Hal Higdon.

Some rarely post. Others are full of themselves. A few are promoting causes, books, or their organization. Some, however, just want to talk about their dog, the great run they just had, or how good the steak was last night. Many love to engage with fans.

This interaction can help you keep the fire going, realizing even the most elite runner gets tired, or listens to the same music as they run.

Check out those listed below, and of course, follow me: http://twitter.com/anthonytrendl

Adams, Jenny — http://twitter.com/jennyadams78
Batcho, Zach — http://twitter.com/ZachBatcho
Bingham, John ‘Penguin’ — http://twitter.com/jjbingham
Bolt, Usain — http://twitter.com/usainbolt
Burkhalter, Brooke — http://twitter.com/BrookeBurkhalte
Chambers, Dwain — http://twitter.com/dwainchambers
Clark, Hazel — http://twitter.com/hazelclark154
Clay, Bryan — http://twitter.com/bryanclay
Clement, Kerron — http://twitter.com/KerronClement
Cool Running — http://twitter.com/Cool_Running
Cox, Josh — http://twitter.com/iJoshCox
Demus, Lashinda — http://twitter.com/LashindaDemus
ELITETRACK — http://twitter.com/elitetrack
Falise, Franciso — http://twitter.com/aivala
Felix, Allyson — http://twitter.com/allysonfelix
Fleshman, Lauren — http://twitter.com/laurenfleshman
FloTrack — http://twitter.com/Flotrack
Gay, Tyson — http://twitter.com/TysonLGay
Gebrselassie, Haile — http://twitter.com/HaileGebr
Gill Athletics — http://twitter.com/gillathletics
Glenn, Brianna — http://twitter.com/briannaglenn
Goucher, Kara — http://twitter.com/karagoucher
Hall, Ryan — http://twitter.com/RyanHall3 
Hall, Sara — http://twitter.com/SaraHall3
Hardee, Trey — http://twitter.com/treyhardee
Harris, Tora — http://twitter.com/toraharris 
Hastings, Natasha — http://twitter.com/natashahastings
Hayes, Joanna — http://twitter.com/joannadhayes
Hemingway, Matt — http://twitter.com/matthemingway
Higdon, Hal — http://twitter.com/higdonmarathon
Hurlebaus, Josh — http://twitter.com/Josh_Hurlebaus
Jones, Lolo — http://twitter.com/followlolo
Keflezighi, Meb — http://twitter.com/runmeb
Lagat, Bernard — http://twitter.com/Lagat1500
Lewis, Carl — http://twitter.com/Carl_Lewis
Mason, Germaine — http://twitter.com/GermaineMasonHJ
McKinney, Akiba — http://twitter.com/MsAkiba
Merritt, Aries — http://twitter.com/amhurdlestar
Mort, Ashley — http://twitter.com/mortac8
Norquist, Matt — http://twitter.com/norquist
Pole Vault Power — http://twitter.com/polevaultpower
PreRace Jitters — http://twitter.com/PreRaceJitters
Radcliffe, Paula — http://twitter.com/paulajradcliffe
Ramzy, Bashir — http://twitter.com/b_ramzy
Richards, Sanya — http://twitter.com/SanyaRichiRoss
Ritzenhein, Dathan — http://twitter.com/djritzenhein
Rowbury, Shannon — http://twitter.com/ShannonRowbury
Run Blog Run — http://twitter.com/RunBlogRun
Runner Space — http://twitter.com/RunnerSpace_com
Runners Tribe — http://twitter.com/runnerstribe
Runner’s World — http://twitter.com/runnersworld
Rupp, Galen — http://twitter.com/G_Rupp
Samuelson, Joan Benoit — http://twitter.com/JBSamuelson
Smith, Christian — http://twitter.com/christiansmith8
Sotherton, Kelly — http://twitter.com/kellysotherton
Starkey, Dean — http://twitter.com/deanstarkey
Strang, John — http://twitter.com/JohnStrang
Taylor, Angelo — http://twitter.com/Angelo_Taylor
Teter, Nicole — http://twitter.com/colteter
Thompson, Richard — http://twitter.com/Torpedo989
Track and Field News — http://twitter.com/tandfn
Track Blogs — http://twitter.com/track_blogs
Track Jabber — http://twitter.com/trackjabber
Track News — http://twitter.com/track_news
UCS Spirit — http://twitter.com/UCSSPIRIT
USATF — http://twitter.com/USATrack_Field
Waltz, Ian — http://twitter.com/ianwaltz
Washington, Tyree — http://twitter.com/SNIPEREYES
Williamson, Darold — http://twitter.com/DWill400
Wineberg, Mary — http://twitter.com/wineberg400 

Running Playlist Song of the Week
“Crazy” by Gnarls Barkley
This choice makes it in a sneaky way. At first, it sounds like there is this easy groove, the kind found during long late night drives. Then, it gets going, and you might yourself doing the cubicle strut. Take that strut and run a few miles.

I remember when, I remember
I remember when I lost my mind
There was something so pleasant about that place
Even your emotions have an echo
In so much space

(sources: elitetrack.com, letsrun.com, twitter.com)

———————
Writer Anthony Trendl loves social media, but admits Tweeting is not as much fun as running. Contact me to send your favorite tips, songs, recipes, or to tell me about your road race. See http://anthonytrendl.com/.
Twitter: http://twitter.com/anthonytrendl
Blog: http://anthonytrendl.blogspot.com/
Running blog: http://runnersdilemma.blogspot.com/

Red Bandana: Dashing Through the Snow – Tips for Runners

Not much BBQing happening
on this deck. Post-run stretching?
 photo: Anthony Trendl

Read the latest: Red Bandana: Should You Tweet and Run?

You see the same snow I do: Piled high along roadsides, taking over precious parking spots where you work, and drifting deeply on great running paths like the Illinois Prairie Path. Still, the sun is shining, and sometimes, when the wind is not blowing, it is almost pleasant.

Pleasant? The Great Blizzard? The aftermath of the Snow Which Ate Wheaton? Snowlycow, tsnownami, SnowhogDay, Snowtorious B.I.G.?

Yes, pleasant. Perspective is everything: The flickering, shimmering glimmer of a wandering snowflake resting on a lonely branch. The blue sky swashed with a few clouds, contrasting an Earth all white except for the roads scraped just enough so cars can drive through. The flash of red and blue sleds with children attached, holding on for dear life, rushing down neighborhood embankments.

Have I convinced you that bliss can be found in the brisk winter?

* Run slow, going out against the wind and returning with the wind.

* Bundle up, and realize you are not going to enjoy the fluency of a September run.

* Pretend to smell the roses. Right. No roses in February. Smell them anyway. This kind of snow happens rarely. Soak it in, and tell the tale in 20 years about how you fought through 500 feet of snow.

(more on this: http://triblocal.com/wheaton/community/stories/2011/01/500-feet-of-snow-expected-tuesday-has-been-cancelled-humor)

* Avoid running on streets and sidewalks. The cold ground is unforgiving on your knees, and cars will have a difficult time seeing you behind the snow mounds. Black ice is out there as well. One slip and bad things can happen.

* Running in the snow: If you run in the snow itself (my recommendation), run in a marching style. The high stepping will function somewhat similar to running up the Wheaton College stadium steps with less impact.

* Drink water. Despite all the snow on the ground, there is not much moisture in the air. That healthy sweat you felt while dashing through the snow also needs to be replaced.

* If you are older, be extra vigilant. Cold weather can thicken the blood and cause heart issues. Talk to your doctor.

Tips for the Snow-trapped Runner

What will you are unable to run outside for two days?

* Spend time with family. You hardcore runners are the ones I am talking to here. If you are running under 20 miles a week, your time sacrifice is not tremendous. If you are looking at significantly more than this, your spouse might like to see you again. A full-time job and heavy mileage can severely impact relationships with a spouse and children.

* Eat well. Since you have extra time, and are not concerned about the next morning's run, make a full meal with all of the trimmings. Think of it as Thanksgiving in February. Invite a few close friends and feast!

* Sleep in. Rest is good for you body and mind. If by getting up early each morning, you are only enjoying six hours of sleep, imagine how great you will feel after eight hours.

* Stretch. Take a warm bath and stretch. Stretching slowly and carefully all parts of our body is often ignored by runners. Turn on some soft music and give yourself 30 minutes of this. Remember to never jerk and bounce, but gradually get into position and hold.

* Mall walk. Before you start laughing, think how big the malls are. Parking might be tricky with the massive snow mountains, but the change in pace might be fun. Keep your pace faster than a waddle, keeping good form and a longer stride. Wear your running shoes and loose clothing. However, I do not recommend workout clothes (especially tights). Invite some non-running friends, walk enough laps to equal an hour, then stop by that place which makes the huge cinnamon rolls.

* Nothing. If you have been diligent with your training, logging miles upon miles, consider using this opportunity to let your body take a vacation. A little R&R will allow your body to repair some nagging aches.

Running Playlist Song of the Week
"Let It Snow" Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne
So maybe it is a Christmas song from 1945. It snowed. You can't fight it. Come on, just run with it.

Oh the weather outside is frightful,
But the fire is so delightful,
And since we've no place to go,
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!




———————
Writer Anthony Trendl loves looking at winter from a warm living room. Contact me to send your favorite tips, songs, recipes, or to tell me about your road race. See http://anthonytrendl.com/
Author blog: http://anthonytrendl.blogspot.com/
Author’s running blog: http://runnersdilemma.blogspot.com/

Red Bandana: Fitness Pioneer Jack LaLanne Dies at Age 96

read the latest Red Bandana article: Dashing Through the Snow – Tips for Runners

(developed from a brief blog post)

Jack LaLanne died last week. He was 96. Many of us only know him from his infomercial for a juicer. I have no idea if it is a good juicer. He will not be remembered for it. He will be remembered for his legendary feats of fitness, and for encouraging America to get off their duffs.

He popularized fitness more than Frank Shorter, Jim Fixx, Bill Rodgers and Bruce Jenner combined.

At his most commercial, health was still a forefront of what he was about. Even his late night juicer infomercial ultimately would lead a customer to a better diet. Mostly, his direct impact was before my time, but his influence carried on. By the time I was born in 1966, he was beyond fable, but his story kept growing.

When he was a young man, he did some impressive things. By young, I mean when he turned 40. In 1954, according to his website, he swam the length of the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge underwater with 140 pounds of equipment, including two air tanks. No, I don’t know why, but my jaw drops just the same.

He later swam the length of the Golden Gate Bridge, underwater, handcuffed, shackled and towing a 1,000-pound boat. Pretty cool, huh? Any 40 year-old would be more than impressed with himself. LaLanne this time, however, was 60.

Why he matters to running is that he gave a voice to overall fitness beyond weightlifting and Charles Atlas bodybuilding types. While Atlas certainly addressed and encouraged fitness, LaLanne’s goal was not to build big men, but healthy, strong men through smart exercise and eating. Most of us will never be built like Arnold Schwarzenegger, but we can be fit.

LaLanne started out addicted to sugar and junk food as a child. He watched his father die at age 50, and determined to live better. His philosophy became, “Living is a pain in the butt. Dying is easy. It’s like an athletic event. You’ve got to train for it. You’ve got to eat right. You’ve got to exercise. Your health account, your bank account, they’re the same thing. The more you put in, the more you can take out. Exercise is king and nutrition is queen: together, you have a kingdom.”

His exercise television show, “The Jack LaLanne Show” was originally broadcast from 1956-1970, but books, videos and public appearance kept him in the American eye. Long before Richard Simmons was asking us to sweat to the oldies, LaLanne was showing how to eat right, workout smart, and get fit.

Famous for his phrase: “I cannot afford to die, it will ruin my image,” we know Jack LaLanne lived well. Do a few pushups in his honor this week. Before you give me any lip about being too old to do them, consider that he was 45 when he did 1,000 pushups and 1,000 chin-ups in 1 hours and 22 minutes.

Running Playlist Song of the Week
“American Fast Food” by Randy StonehillWith Jack LaLanne’s view in mind that “physical culture and nutrition — is the salvation of America,” I am pulling out a rare oldie by the very funny Randy Stonehill from his 1983 album “Equator” (most famous for the track, “Shut De Do”) Anyone know this one? Play it just as you start getting the munchies near the end of a long run. Maybe it will inspire you run another mile instead of stopping at Burger King.

“American fast food, what a stupid way to die
American fast food, order me the jumbo fries
Oh, oh, it’s easy
It’s so easy and it’s trouble free
It’s quick and disposable, just like me
If I don’t stop eating this greasy American fast food.”

http://www.jacklalanne.com/
———————
Writer Anthony Trendl loves BBQs, banjo music and porches. Contact me to send your favorite tips, songs, recipes, or to tell me about your road race. See http://anthonytrendl.com/
Author blog: http://anthonytrendl.blogspot.com/
Author’s running blog: http://runnersdilemma.blogspot.com/

Red Bandana: Get Fired Up for Fitness This Winter

Read my latest column: Fitness Pioneer Jack LaLanne Dies at Age 96
Is your fire burning for warm days running outside? Do you long for late sundown runs with the light scent of grilling and the laughter of backyard Whiffle Ball games? Do you look out the window today, the coldest day yet of 2011, and crave for a good run sans ten layers of winter gear?

I do.

Have a Goal: Choose a Race to Run
Running on cold days is hard. The fire in the belly needed for fitness mid-winter needs kindling. Kindling, in this case, is a goal with a date attached to it. To burn hot through March (or April — this is, after all, Chicago, not Miami), we need to think beyond the ice and sub-zero wind chills. Look two or three months, and choose a race.

My goal is in April. That is 9:30 am, Saturday, April 16 to be exact. My eye is on the Young Life Access 10k/5k. Even if I'm chugging my way through all 6.2 miles, I will be fit enough to get it done.

Why this race? The same day, earlier in the morning, runners can join the "Bloom and Zoom 10K" on the Morton Arboretum grounds. It is a well-organized event that will not disappoint participants. The cost is roughly the same, and the natural beauty of the Forest Preserves are no less gorgeous than the expertly manicured Arb. I live equidistantly from each.

All things are not equal, though. The Young Life race is bound to be smaller. They had under 200 runners last year. The smaller crowd will be relaxed, like a big neighborhood fun run. That is good for me as I get back into the swing of things. I do not mind the later start time. That's rare, and, on a cool April morning, I will love to have coffee and watch the sun rise before lacing up. There is no oversleeping this one.

Young Life reaches out to, and builds relationships with teenagers. They say on their website, "This event is a fundraiser to help give students with special needs the opportunity to attend Young Life camp this summer." My $30 race fee will be invested well.

In order to best enjoy that long springtime run, you need to get through the winter in decent shape. Sure, you might tag on a pound or two, but those will melt off as the temperature goes up. Running outside will be fun again, and you might find yourself less likely to play hooky from a workout when there are so many things to see and smell.

Head to the Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) website, and click on their "Find a Race" link. It is easy to find one in your area on a weekend which works for you. Or, stop by any local running specialty shop for race flyers.

Running Playlist Song of the Week"Ring of Fire" by Johnny Cash.
Maybe you heard the Adam Lambert or Alan Jackson version, but the Man in Black is who made it an international hit in 1963. Johnny co-wrote it with his soon-to-be-wife June. Their daughter Rosanne said, "The song is about the transformative power of love and that's what it has always meant to me and that's what it will always mean to the Cash children."

There is are mariachi-style horns and guitar-drum beat which pace this excellently for runners looking for more pep in their step.

"Love is a burning thing
and it makes a fiery ring
bound by wild desire
I fell in to a ring of fire."

CARA
http://cararuns.org/

Young Life Access 10k/5k
Saturday, April 16, 9:30 a.m.
Danada Forest Preserve (near Herrick Lake, but off Naperville Rd.)
3 S 580 Naperville Road
Wheaton, IL 60187
Chris Derfelt, 630-544-6212
http://accessrace.com/

Bloom and Zoom 10K
Saturday, April 16, 8 a.m.
The Morton Arboretum
Lisle, IL 60532
http://mortonarb.org/bloomzoom10k

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Freelance writer Anthony Trendl loves BBQs, folk music and porches. I look to running as I battle midlife and my mid-section. Contact me to send your favorite tips, songs, recipes. See http://anthonytrendl.com/
Author blog: http://anthonytrendl.blogspot.com/
Author’s running blog: http://runnersdilemma.blogspot.com/

Jack LaLanne - Born: September 26, 1914 - Died January 23, 2011 RIP

Jack LaLanne died today. He was 96. Do a few few push-ups in his honor this week.

He popularized fitness more than Frank Shorter, Jim Fixx, Bill Rodgers combined.

Most recently, he made infomercials hawking juicers. At his most commercial, health was a forefront of what he was about. Mostly, his impact was before my time. By the time I was born in 1966, he was a legend.

Why he matters to running is that he gave a voice to fitness beyond weightlifting and Charles Atlas bodybuilding types. While Atlas certainly addressed and encouraged fitness, LaLanne's goal was not to build big men, but healthy, strong men through smart exercise and eating.

 Famous for his phrase: "I cannot afford to die, it will ruin my image," we know Jack LaLanne lived well.

• Revitalize Your Life 
• Live Young Forever: 12 Steps to Optimum Health, Fitness and Longevity 
• Search Amazon.com for Jack LaLanne 

Feats and Honors

From Jack LaLanne's website
1954 Age 40: Swam the length of
the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge underwater with 140 pounds of equipment, including two air tanks… an undisputed world record.

1955 Age 41: Swam, handcuffed, from Alcatraz to Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, CA.

1956 Age 42: Set a world record of 1,033 pushups in 23 minutes on “You Asked for It, a TV Show with Art Baker.

1957 Age 43: Swam the treacherous Golden Gate Channel, towing a 2,500-pound cabin cruiser. This involved fighting the cold, swift ocean currents that made the 1 mile swim a 6 ½ mile test of strength and endurance.

1958 Age 44: Maneuvered a paddleboard 30 miles, 9-½ hours non-stop from Farallon Islands to the San Francisco shore.

1959 Age 45: Completed 1,000 pushups and 1,000 chin-ups in 1 hours and 22 minutes. “Happy” is born and The Jack LaLanne Show goes nationwide.

1974 Age 60: Swam from Alcatraz Island to Fisherman’s Wharf, for a second time handcuffed, shackled and towing a 1,000-pound boat.

1975 Age 61: Swam the length of the Golden Gate Bridge, underwater, for a second time handcuffed, shackled and towing a 1,000-pound boat.

1976 Age 62: Commemorating the “Spirit of ‘76”, swam 1 mile in Long Beach Harbor, handcuffed, shackled and towing 13 boats (representing the 13 original colonies) containing 76 people.

1979 Age 65: Towed 65 boats filled with 6,500-pounds of Lousiana Pacific wood pulp while handcuffed and shackled in Lake Ashinoko, near Tokyo, Japan.

1980 Age 66: Towed 10 boats in North Miami, Florida filled with 77 people for over a mile in less than 1 hour.

1984 Age 70: Handcuffed, shackled and fighting strong winds and currents, towed 70 boats with 70 people from the Queen’s Way Bridge in the Long Beach Harbor to the Queen Mary, 1 ½ miles.

1992 Age 78: Academy of Body Building and Fitness Award

1994 Age 80: State of California Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness Lifetime Achievement Award

1996 Age 82: Dwight D. Eisenhower Fitness Award

1999 Age 85: Spirit of Muscle Beach Award

2002 Age 88: Jack receives his very own star on the Hollywood Blvd. Walk of Fame

2004 Age 90: Jack celebrates his birthday with a major media blitz in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. ESPN Classic runs a 24 Hour marathon of the original Jack LaLanne Shows

2005 Age 91: Received the Jack Webb Award from the Los Angeles Police Historical Society, the Arnold Classic Lifetime Achievement Award, Interglobal’s International Infomercial Award, the Freddie, Medical Media Public Service Award, and he was a Free Spirit honoree at Al Neuharth’s Freedom Fourm.

2007 Age 93: Received the Treasures of Los Angeles Award, Lifetime Achievement Award from Muscle Beach, and the Y.M.C.A. Impact Award.

2008 Age 94: Inducted into the California Hall of Fame, Parker Seminars Award, received the honorary degree of Doctor of Humanities from the Southern California University of Health Sciences, receives the People of Vision Award from the RP International, receives the Heroes Humanity Award, and was inducted into the Gallery of Legends hosted by the World Acrobatics Society.

2009 Age 95: Jack receives Lifetime Achievement Award from Club Industry. Jack LaLanne days were observed in San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Red Bandana: Don't Let Age Cause You To Scream

Read this week's column: Get Fired Up for Fitness This Winter


As I write, Jimi Hendrix's cover of Albert King's song "Born Under a Bad Sign" plays in the background. I don't recommend it for running. It grooves, it moves, it sways, this tune from the guy who is more famous for "Purple Haze," changes pace too often to work.

It is, let me say, perfect for BBQing. The BBQing I'm doing now isn't really BBQing or even grilling. I'm just warming up smoked spare ribs I picked up at Bende's Specialty Foods in Glen Ellyn, IL. Though nationally famous for their salami, smoked sausage, smoked meats, this location is a small grocery store/deli with a full range of imported European foods (address and phone number below).

The ribs are richly smoked. I am going to slather on a tomato-based sauce and see if a new afternoon snack can be found.

What I'm thinking about though is neither Jimi nor ribs. I'm tossing out a salute to Jermaine Townes, a 39-year-old Desert Storm veteran who just made the College of DuPage basketball team. Though 6-foot 4-inch and 200-pounds, he is still 39. More importantly, he's unafraid of getting into shape. The youngin' on the team might run circles around him. They have nicknamed him "Old School."

I'm laughing. "Old School," you see, is five years younger than me. If he's "Old School" then I must be older school. I know that no matter how it I get, any college kid will lap me in a one lap race.

So what?

So what, nothing. Townes likes basketball, and though he might not be on the starting line, he is playing something he loves and getting fit in the process. Way to go Jermaine!

How old are you? Too old to get in shape? Stop that. That's old people talk. Be young, always, even you old people. Chronology will happen, and things will be slower than they used to be. Age is age is age. But, attitude is the better part of age. Respecting our bodies certainly includes careful warming up, walking when necessary, and resting aggressively. It also means never quitting, always exercising, and always knowing when to when at the dessert table. Don't pretend to be 20 if you aren't, but don't acquiesce to a mindset of "too old to" either.

So get out there all you old schoolers. Break out the ugly gray sweats, the 1984 black LOOP t-shirt with holes in it, and an faded red bandana. Load up your iPod with songs too old for the oldies station. Get together with a friend who is equally aging. As your ancient bodies lumber down the sidewalk, feel free to discuss those important questions: Should Ron Santo be in the Hall of Fame? Willis, Sears, Macy's, Fields — does it matter? What's the best hot dog joint in Chicago, and what's a Chicago dog, anyway?

Sort these concerns out while you run. The kids at the college won't have a clue what you are talking about.

Sure, body parts will groan, creak and moan. You probably will too. How great you will feel the next day, and the day after that, as you continue to work through the stiffness of middle age — that's why you are out there. You can do it.

By the way, I tried the ribs with a favorite sauce. Salty and chewy the way a beef jerky is, and I'm not sure it is the snack I hoped for. The very friendly and helpful Trixi behind the counter explained to me most people use it a soup ingredient. It will instead go into tonight's lentil soup. I think I will stick with Bende's extremely delicious Teli salami as afternoon finger food. Try their free samples.

Running Playlist Song of the Week
"The Wind Cries Mary" by Jimi Hendrix
Not all playlist songs need to be fast paced. This is especially true for the long run, sometime in those middle miles when a runner is cruising through. Already warmed up, and looking to maintain a steady, easier pace, I find I like to get lost in an old, familiar song.

Hendrix's sad song of lost love is best followed by something upbeat, but at mile four or five, give it a try.

"Will the wind ever remember
The names it has blown in the past
And with his crutch, it's old age, and it's wisdom
It whispers no, this will be the last
And the wind cries Mary."

Bende's Specialty Foods
444 Roosevelt Rd
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137-5642
(630) 469-6525

———————
Old school freelance writer Anthony Trendl loves BBQs, folk music and porches. I look to running as I battle midlife and my mid-section. Contact me to send your favorite tips, songs, recipes. See http://anthonytrendl.com
Author blog: http://anthonytrendl.blogspot.com/
Author’s running blog: http://runnersdilemma.blogspot.com/

The Red Bandana: Finding Fitness Through the Joy of Running

The Scream, c.1893 Poster Print by Edvard Munch, 24x36