Running with Gage

  NIKE ZOOMX DRAGONFLY "HYPER PINK"       - $160 from  Nike           The dragonfly is Nike's current top of the line distance track spike, released in 2020. For a pretty hefty price of 160 dollars this spike is packed with Nike's best technologies for the 1,500 meter to 10,000 meter races. Below, I'll cover this tech and what it does.  The Upper      The upper of the spike is constructed of a lightweight and breathable mesh that is almost see through is some areas. This mesh allows for excellent air flow, while not sacrificing durability or adding unnecessary weight. There is some additional padding around the collar of the shoe, along with a cutout in the heel area that helps lock the heel into place and cause the shoe not to slip around on foot.  Another feature I enjoyed about this shoe was the speed laces that are used to secure the upper. These laces do a great job at holding the upper tight and s...

Why Stretch After Running? After a run, your muscles are warm and elastic, making them more responsive to stretching. If you wait too long to stretch after running, your muscles will become cool, and harder to stretch. Stretching helps to: Improve Flexibility: Regular stretching after running can improve your range of motion, allowing for more efficient movement and reduced risk of injury. Reduce Muscle Soreness: Stretching helps to alleviate muscle tension and soreness by increasing blood flow and releasing built-up lactic acid. Prevent Injury: Tight muscles are more prone to injury. Stretching helps increase muscle length and prevents imbalances that can lead to strains and sprains. Enhance Recovery: Stretching aids in the recovery process by promoting muscle relaxation and reducing stiffness, allowing you to bounce back faster for your next run. Promote Relaxation: Post-run stretching can also have mental benefits, promoting relaxation and stress relief by focusing on deep brea...

  The Importance of Nutrition for Runners As a runner, your body needs the right balance of nutrients to perform at its best. Proper nutrition not only fuels your workouts but also aids in recovery, helps prevent injuries, and supports overall well-being. One of the key principles of a runner's diet is to focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods while minimizing processed foods and added sugars. This will give you the most energy on your runs and leave you feeling, and running better. Limiting Sugar for Optimal Performance While sugar can provide a quick energy boost, it's important to consume it in moderation, especially as a long distance runner. Foods high in added sugars can lead to energy crashes and may not provide the sustained energy you need for longer runs. Instead of eating candies and foods processed foods with tons of added sugars, try having full meals with fruits, whole grains, and vegetables. These reliable energy sources not only provide more consistent energy, but...