Weekly Running Roundup: BE MORE EFFICIENT

In an attempt to force some structure on my blogging habits, I've decided to start posting a weekly roundup of any interesting/life changing running articles, news, workouts, or events. Get ready to be bombarded with KNOWLEDGE, whether you like it or not.

For those wary of the barefoot running trend, a new study from the University of Wisconsin found that simply shortening your stride can increase running efficiency and prevent injuries - similar perks to running sans shoes but minus shelling out $80 for a pair of Vibrams. Also, I would just like to note that I totally beat UW to the punch back in March. BOO YA!

However, the 12+ hours spent in my cubicle may thwart any gains made by even the best running form. According to Pete Pfitzinger, co-author of Advanced Marathoning, sitting at a desk from 9-5 causes "the hamstrings [to] become short and weak and the core muscles do not have to work as you lean back in your chair." Oh, and sitting in a cube also increases vulnerability to ITB syndrome. Fantastic. Maybe Citi will dish out for one of these?

But when in doubt, you can always let external stimuli propel you into better running. NYT's Well blog reports on the interplay between music and exercise. Unsurprisingly listening to up-tempo music often motivates and tricks the body into working harder, performing faster. What better excuse do you need to download La Roux's new album, blast Cascada with pride, or go with some old school Matchbox 20 (oddly enough they're on ALL my running playlists)? Although, there is definitely some merit to unplugging the iPod now and then on your run. Running with just the thoughts in your head can be wonderfully refreshing even if you're not maxing out your speed.



Speaking of speedy runners, three of the world's top marathoners, Samuel Wanjiru, Tsegaye Kebede and Robert Cheruiyot, just announced that they'll be joining the already stacked elite field at Chicago's Bank of America Marathon. With several marathon championships and sub-2:06 records under their belts, these three runners are guaranteed to give spectators a great show at the Chicago marathon, which is renowned for being one of the fastest courses in the world. Greg, you'll be right up there with them right?

Hope you enjoyed your lunchtime information spam; obviously I had a productive morning at the office. Definitely let me know if there are any topics that YOU'D like to read about - clearly this is an evolving project!