Start Training Now for the 2010 Bellin Run

March 17, 2010

Successful and enjoyable participation in the Bellin Run is often the direct result of training. That’s why Bellin Run organizers are encouraging this year’s participants to get out and start training now.

The 34th annual Bellin Run will take place at 8 a.m. on Saturday, June 12. The 10K (6.2 mile) road race takes participants through streets in the city of Green Bay and the village of Allouez.

Beginning a training regimen now will better ensure a positive Bellin Run experience later, said Nate Vandervest, a strength and conditioning specialist at Bellin Health Sports Medicine. “Spring is pretty much here so the bad weather excuse is gone,” he said. “The main thing is to just get out there and run or walk. Push yourself to start training now.”

Vandervest offers five basic tips for training for the Bellin Run:

1.  Be consistent: Set a running/walking schedule and stick to it. Plan to get out three to five times each week depending on your individual goals and fitness level.
2.  Strengthen your muscles: Work on getting stronger in all the major muscle groups, especially your legs and your core. Getting stronger will help your body deal with the stress of running and will also help prevent injury.
3.  Work on flexibility: Proper warm up, cool down and static stretching are all essential to keeping your muscles loose.
4.  Focus on nutrition: Eat healthier, with smaller portions and more frequent meals and you will be amazed at how much better you will feel.
5.  Select the proper training gear: There are hundreds of running shoes out there, just make sure you are running in the pair that best fits you biomechanically. Besides, buying a good pair of running shoes will make you feel like a runner. That offers additional motivation as you train for the Bellin. Also, try to invest in running shorts and shirts that are high-tech. They do a much better job of keeping you cool and wick moisture away from your body.

Make sure you register soon for this year’s Bellin Run. Visit www.bellinrun.com to register online.