I thought we would go down the path of the use of "contrasting" within your current workouts.
Over the history of fitness in America, there are many fads or remakes of the same idea. Like "Plyo-metrics are the only way to go to train for power," "The stability ball is the best thing ever," "Pilates is the way to go,"' "Free weights or it isn't training," we have all heard that some type of training is the silver bullet to success. We believe the truth lies somewhere in the middle. Each type or method of training will produce different results, create a different way to challenge the body and has strengths and weaknesses.
Most athletes would benefit from the use of different methods in their training program. Simply going down the line of machines at the club just will not cut it over the long haul. A small change in your training can make the world of difference in your results.
This is where CrossFit has entered. They use multiple different training methods and place them into a short, intense 30 minute workout. For further research, check out their site.
So why not "contrast" your workouts to include one exercise from one method and pair it with a second exercise from a different method and see how your body responds.
I realize this is a very broad sweep at the concept and may create strong opinions, I would love to hear your take on the idea.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Tuesday, November 01, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
Friday Afternoon Post
Good morning,
Friday's are great. The end of the week has arrived. Anticipation of a Saturday morning workout, a coffee from Starbucks and time spent with friends. Always a great time in life.
Just a couple housekeeping things for today.
As previously mentioned, we are running the 20% off over $50 promo through next Monday. Check out the details below.
Secondly, I would like to thank everyone for the feedback related to the flexibility post. It was great to hear the stories and the science of each one. I will venture to challenge current thought and hopefully, it will help you with your long term performance.
It is always hard from this side, you sit in a bubble and sometimes you don't hear all the trends in thought or new areas that are being explored. From that perspective, What other subjects would you be interested in seeing in the future? Let me know your thoughts.
Well, that should about do it for today. Have a great weekend.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Westcomb Outerwear Review
Today we are going to look at Westcomb Outerwear.
I posted this comment last week on Westcomb:
Westcomb: A relatively new player with some of the highest quality products in the market today. They are made in Canada, so the workmanship is far above other mainstream brands. The fabrics they use are the same you have come to know and love. But the big difference is in the colors. They use these really cool pigmented highlights that really make them different than the rest. And when you pick up the pieces you really can see the quality of the components and feel the workmanship.
So here are some additional thoughts and images. The jacket pictured is the the Westcomb Cruiser in the color Vivid.
The zippers are high quality and you can feel it when you use them. Secondly, the smooth outer part of the zipper is amazing. The Event fabric has been used for this jacket
Another really cool feature is the pattern in the fabric. It really does set the jacket apart from the other brands. It is both fashionable and functional. The Cruiser has a checkerboard pattern. Other pieces have a pattern and a pigment to enhance the color.
Lastly, the internal jacket pockets show the solid workmanship and are well placed. You can also see the taping on the internal seams. Very well done.
All the gear from Westcomb has the same workmanship and high quality components.
As far as negatives, only one that comes to mind is that sometimes they run out of colors and models in middle of the season.
On the positive side, they are one of those companies that has not sold out to making the most money. They are throwbacks to the old days when quality made a difference and you don't comprise this principle. Great Warranty, when needed. Outstanding people. They are truly committed to the outdoor industry and all that it embodies They are one one the future pillars of the our world.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
I posted this comment last week on Westcomb:
Westcomb: A relatively new player with some of the highest quality products in the market today. They are made in Canada, so the workmanship is far above other mainstream brands. The fabrics they use are the same you have come to know and love. But the big difference is in the colors. They use these really cool pigmented highlights that really make them different than the rest. And when you pick up the pieces you really can see the quality of the components and feel the workmanship.
So here are some additional thoughts and images. The jacket pictured is the the Westcomb Cruiser in the color Vivid.The zippers are high quality and you can feel it when you use them. Secondly, the smooth outer part of the zipper is amazing. The Event fabric has been used for this jacket
Another really cool feature is the pattern in the fabric. It really does set the jacket apart from the other brands. It is both fashionable and functional. The Cruiser has a checkerboard pattern. Other pieces have a pattern and a pigment to enhance the color.
Lastly, the internal jacket pockets show the solid workmanship and are well placed. You can also see the taping on the internal seams. Very well done.
All the gear from Westcomb has the same workmanship and high quality components.
As far as negatives, only one that comes to mind is that sometimes they run out of colors and models in middle of the season.
On the positive side, they are one of those companies that has not sold out to making the most money. They are throwbacks to the old days when quality made a difference and you don't comprise this principle. Great Warranty, when needed. Outstanding people. They are truly committed to the outdoor industry and all that it embodies They are one one the future pillars of the our world.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Monday, October 24, 2011
Increase Flexibility, Decrease Performance? Feedback
Good morning,
I want to thank everybody who passed along their thoughts on the subject of flexibility. Posted below are a couple of them.
Please pass along your thoughts and we will continue the discussion.
Have a great day.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
James from Carson City, NV:
There was an Australian study on this basic subject published a few years ago. The conclusion was that stretching before engaging in athletic activities, running, cycling, etc., prevented one from suffering a sports injury every twenty-seven years. Essentially, stretching has little value. Being lazy, it suits me just fine. I get on the bike, pedal a bit slowly for a block or two and then it's flat out. For those who like to stretch, go for it. Age 74 in case anyone cares.
Tjader from Huntington, CA:
It depends on the definition of "Performance" and whether the discussion is of athletic performance or performance of a singular activity? While a muscle or joint may well weaken with elongation, energy as used for athletic performance is generally an equation that equates to velocity. For instance, Usain Bolt's legs don't turn over at a more rapid rate than his competitors but because his legs are longer and will therefore extend/stretch farther the energy transmitted into the ground is greater which propels him faster/harder than his competition.
If his legs were shorter or he less flexible, with the same turnover rate, he would have to generate more energy into the ground than he currently does to run the same speed.
Joint flexibility is a whole different subject as that, I believe, speaks to joints that essentially absorb energy and lengthen reaction time.
Alex from Ortonville, MI:
Flexibility training is one thing, but stretching is different. I will say certain muscles sometimes don't like stretching after a workout and others will sometimes injure if you don't. I've experienced both.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
I want to thank everybody who passed along their thoughts on the subject of flexibility. Posted below are a couple of them.
Please pass along your thoughts and we will continue the discussion.
Have a great day.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
James from Carson City, NV:
There was an Australian study on this basic subject published a few years ago. The conclusion was that stretching before engaging in athletic activities, running, cycling, etc., prevented one from suffering a sports injury every twenty-seven years. Essentially, stretching has little value. Being lazy, it suits me just fine. I get on the bike, pedal a bit slowly for a block or two and then it's flat out. For those who like to stretch, go for it. Age 74 in case anyone cares.
Tjader from Huntington, CA:
It depends on the definition of "Performance" and whether the discussion is of athletic performance or performance of a singular activity? While a muscle or joint may well weaken with elongation, energy as used for athletic performance is generally an equation that equates to velocity. For instance, Usain Bolt's legs don't turn over at a more rapid rate than his competitors but because his legs are longer and will therefore extend/stretch farther the energy transmitted into the ground is greater which propels him faster/harder than his competition.
If his legs were shorter or he less flexible, with the same turnover rate, he would have to generate more energy into the ground than he currently does to run the same speed.
Joint flexibility is a whole different subject as that, I believe, speaks to joints that essentially absorb energy and lengthen reaction time.
Alex from Ortonville, MI:
Flexibility training is one thing, but stretching is different. I will say certain muscles sometimes don't like stretching after a workout and others will sometimes injure if you don't. I've experienced both.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Friday, October 21, 2011
Is the Size Chart Accurate
You spend 2 hours researching the right gear, study the size chart for accuracy, and then pull the trigger. You receive your gear and you can't get it over your shoulders.
First question... I followed the size chart. Why doesn't it fit?
This is a very common occurrence in endurance sports.
Here are a couple scenarios to prove a point. A traditional endurance athlete has strong legs and no shoulders. On the other side, a swimmer will have broad shoulders and no legs. They have the same height and weight. Can you see the reason for your frustration?
Secondly, your body type will work better for one brand versus another. Using our two athletes from above, 2xu will fit the traditional athlete and the Synergy will fit the later. Each sport has specific brands that follow the same guidelines. In cycling, Assos is the extreme euro cut and Skins is the broader cut.
Here are a couple rules for you to follow for your next gear purchase.
1. Each brand has a certain type of athlete that will work the best
2. Add your torso length and width into the discussion.
3. There are always special cases related to an athlete's body composition.
And remember fitting gear tight to the body is an art form, not a science. What one person thinks is the right fit, another will feel is too tight.
Hope that helps and give me a call if you have any questions.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
First question... I followed the size chart. Why doesn't it fit?
This is a very common occurrence in endurance sports.
Here are a couple scenarios to prove a point. A traditional endurance athlete has strong legs and no shoulders. On the other side, a swimmer will have broad shoulders and no legs. They have the same height and weight. Can you see the reason for your frustration?
Secondly, your body type will work better for one brand versus another. Using our two athletes from above, 2xu will fit the traditional athlete and the Synergy will fit the later. Each sport has specific brands that follow the same guidelines. In cycling, Assos is the extreme euro cut and Skins is the broader cut.
Here are a couple rules for you to follow for your next gear purchase.
1. Each brand has a certain type of athlete that will work the best
2. Add your torso length and width into the discussion.
3. There are always special cases related to an athlete's body composition.
And remember fitting gear tight to the body is an art form, not a science. What one person thinks is the right fit, another will feel is too tight.
Hope that helps and give me a call if you have any questions.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Is the Size Chart Accurate, Part 2
What are the special cases and are there some additional rules to follow?
The answer is yes.
Rule #1 Take into account your body composition. Fit in this order: torso, legs, arms.
Rule #2 Be accepting of the fact that your gear will fit 90% perfect.
Rule #3 Choose comfort over the sizing chart.
Rule #4 Where possible, eliminate one piece garments.
Rule #5 Plan your purchase far in advance of your deadline and allow time for returns.
Here are few examples and their solutions:
1. Short Torso, Long Legs: The big problem will be the distance from the shoulders to pelvic area and you need extra length on the bottom. Making the top too large if you fit your legs. Solution: A two piece system. If none available, then fit your legs first and realize your top may be a little big. With some gear, like a triathlon wetsuit, it may be best to fit the torso and live with short legs.
2. Broad Shoulders/Back: Probably the hardest situation to gauge because how broad is broad. Solution: Make sure the brand will accommodate your body. Fit your shoulders foremost. Be accepting of the extra material around your waist and lower body. Your comfort is more important than the garment fitting your whole body.
3. Longer Torso, Short Legs: Fit the torso first. Legs second. Solution: Two piece system. If none, realize that you will have extra material on your legs.
4. Longer Arms: Decide which body part is more important. Torso or arms. More times than not, torso will win. Hopefully, you have a long torso with long arms.
5. Claustrophobic: Sleeveless gear might be the quickest solution. Or size up and a little extra material will go a long way to taking away that feeling.
6. Over 6" Tall or Over 200 lbs: 80 to 90% of the gear is not made to fit your body. Realize that you are not able to buy any brand in the market and once you do find a brand that works well for you, don't change. Then follow the rules based on body composition.
Remember sizing is an art form and your comfort is worth the extra time and effort.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
The answer is yes.
Rule #1 Take into account your body composition. Fit in this order: torso, legs, arms.
Rule #2 Be accepting of the fact that your gear will fit 90% perfect.
Rule #3 Choose comfort over the sizing chart.
Rule #4 Where possible, eliminate one piece garments.
Rule #5 Plan your purchase far in advance of your deadline and allow time for returns.
Here are few examples and their solutions:
1. Short Torso, Long Legs: The big problem will be the distance from the shoulders to pelvic area and you need extra length on the bottom. Making the top too large if you fit your legs. Solution: A two piece system. If none available, then fit your legs first and realize your top may be a little big. With some gear, like a triathlon wetsuit, it may be best to fit the torso and live with short legs.
2. Broad Shoulders/Back: Probably the hardest situation to gauge because how broad is broad. Solution: Make sure the brand will accommodate your body. Fit your shoulders foremost. Be accepting of the extra material around your waist and lower body. Your comfort is more important than the garment fitting your whole body.
3. Longer Torso, Short Legs: Fit the torso first. Legs second. Solution: Two piece system. If none, realize that you will have extra material on your legs.
4. Longer Arms: Decide which body part is more important. Torso or arms. More times than not, torso will win. Hopefully, you have a long torso with long arms.
5. Claustrophobic: Sleeveless gear might be the quickest solution. Or size up and a little extra material will go a long way to taking away that feeling.
6. Over 6" Tall or Over 200 lbs: 80 to 90% of the gear is not made to fit your body. Realize that you are not able to buy any brand in the market and once you do find a brand that works well for you, don't change. Then follow the rules based on body composition.
Remember sizing is an art form and your comfort is worth the extra time and effort.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Is the Size Chart Accurate, Part 3
The area I would like to cover today is.... Which brand will fit my body?
One disclaimer before we get started.... The categorizations that follow are generalized statements. Each brand does have different pieces that will fit different athletes. We just need to make sure that we make the adjustments as mentioned in the previous posts.
With that said, we go to ranking the brands....
For the sake of simplicity, we will have 3 categories:
A: Smaller shoulders, Tight lower body. Euro cut.
B: Bigger shoulders, Average lower body, but could go either way.
C: Larger shoulders, Loose lower body. Traditional Cut
Triathlon
1, 2xu - B
2. Synergy - C
3. Orca - A
4. Blue Seventy - B
5. TYR - A
6. Desoto - C
Outdoors
1. Westcomb - C
2. Icebreaker - A
3. Mammut - A
4. Smartwool - B
Cycling
1. Assos - A
2. Capo - B
3. Castelli - A
4. Showers Pass - C
5. Skins - C
Well, that should about do it for sizing. If you think of any additional questions you would like to see in our posts, let me know.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
One disclaimer before we get started.... The categorizations that follow are generalized statements. Each brand does have different pieces that will fit different athletes. We just need to make sure that we make the adjustments as mentioned in the previous posts.
With that said, we go to ranking the brands....
For the sake of simplicity, we will have 3 categories:
A: Smaller shoulders, Tight lower body. Euro cut.
B: Bigger shoulders, Average lower body, but could go either way.
C: Larger shoulders, Loose lower body. Traditional Cut
Triathlon
1, 2xu - B
2. Synergy - C
3. Orca - A
4. Blue Seventy - B
5. TYR - A
6. Desoto - C
Outdoors
1. Westcomb - C
2. Icebreaker - A
3. Mammut - A
4. Smartwool - B
Cycling
1. Assos - A
2. Capo - B
3. Castelli - A
4. Showers Pass - C
5. Skins - C
Well, that should about do it for sizing. If you think of any additional questions you would like to see in our posts, let me know.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Inov8 Running Shoes In Stock
Inov8 running shoes have arrived. I have used a pair for the last year or so, they are very comfortable and withstood the daily beatings. Also, I have slight pronation that makes some running shoes very uncomfortable, but the Inov-8 230's foot bed and overall stiffness almost solve the problem.
The brand is of the minimalist thought process. Very low stack height and a little stiffer foot bed that leads to more comfort than most running shoes.
Here are a couple links to all the technical info:
1. Overall Technology
2. Biomechanics
3. Comfort
There is an abundance of information on Inov-8's webpage. Check them out.
So the next time you are in the market for some trail running or workout shoes, I would give them some serious consideration. We will do a more in depth review of the models we carry in the next couple days.
Secondly, we will be running a sale for till month end. See the details below.
Have a great weekend.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
The brand is of the minimalist thought process. Very low stack height and a little stiffer foot bed that leads to more comfort than most running shoes.
Here are a couple links to all the technical info:
1. Overall Technology
2. Biomechanics
3. Comfort
There is an abundance of information on Inov-8's webpage. Check them out.
So the next time you are in the market for some trail running or workout shoes, I would give them some serious consideration. We will do a more in depth review of the models we carry in the next couple days.
Secondly, we will be running a sale for till month end. See the details below.
Have a great weekend.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Inov8 Bare Xlite 200 Running Shoes- In Stock
Today we are going to take a look at the Inov8 Bare Xlite 200 trainers. They arrived in the US within the last couple weeks.
Here are a couple thoughts:
1. At 200 grams, when you pick them up you can feel the difference.
2. The Inov8 lacing system has been included for a comfortable fit.
3. No major seams internally to cause friction.
4. Great insert for additional comfort.
5. Sizing is a bit shorter than traditional, so move up an 1/2 size,
Overall, great fitting shoes that are ultra light and sturdy. What is amazing is that there is at Bare Xlite 150 that is even lighter.
Check them out. Have a great day.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Here are a couple thoughts:
1. At 200 grams, when you pick them up you can feel the difference.
2. The Inov8 lacing system has been included for a comfortable fit.
3. No major seams internally to cause friction.
4. Great insert for additional comfort.
5. Sizing is a bit shorter than traditional, so move up an 1/2 size,
Overall, great fitting shoes that are ultra light and sturdy. What is amazing is that there is at Bare Xlite 150 that is even lighter.
Check them out. Have a great day.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
News Update on Winter Cycling Shoes
Over the last couple days, the winter shoe orders have started to roll in. We ran out of a couple sizes and needed to add to our inventory, so we placed an order with Northwave. No big news there, but we found out that they are already out of stock of some sizes. I almost fell out of chair!! It is mid-October!! They also said that they will not be receiving any additional shoes this season. With Lake not making shoes this year (last year's industry leader) and Northwave already in short supply, there will be a shortage of winter shoes in the US market this year.
So if you are in the market for winter shoes, I would do it earlier than later.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
So if you are in the market for winter shoes, I would do it earlier than later.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Winter Cycling Shoes
Hello everyone,
Today's post comes from one of our customers in Michigan. Irwin has been cycling in the winter for over 30 years. Last week, he sent me the following email. So I thought it would be great information to pass along.
Secondly, if you have any additional thoughts to pass along. Please do. We certainly don't think we are the only one with original thoughts.
Enjoy,
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
Post on Winter Cycling:
Electric socks and hand warmers are okay for light outdoor activity. There is a lot of "toy grade" outdoor gear that leaves a bad impression. As a consequence it's easy to write off some of the more serious and expensive solutions that do work.
The problem with all shoes is that the extremities - hands and feet just do not get enough circulation. These areas do not generate sufficient heat by themselves. Insulating materials that create a sufficient barrier tend to be larger and cumbersome.
Irwin from Western Michigan
There obviously are outdoor boots that work in the winter but they are not "bike rider friendly." The ski industry has confronted the issues we are talking about. These are sports enthusiasts that are active in seriously cold conditions and at similar 15-20 mph speeds. They have developed solutions which utilize small, lightweight, battery powered devices to heat the hands, feet, and even the chest area.
Personally I find the chest area rarely be a problem. Electric socks are good for large boots. Close fitting bike shoes and sky boots require a solution that works with those size constraints. Removing the orthotic spacer and replacing it with one that includes a heating element does not change the fit. A little wind protection such as a Goretex shoe cover keeps things comfortable without overworking the battery.
Gloves have come a long way especially with the development of small lithium batteries. They utilize a some insulation and have an exterior Goretex wind shield cover.
With the shoe inserts I usually end up turning the heat up towards the end of a winter ride. On the other hand I turn down the glove heat as the ride progresses and my workout heats my chest and head core areas.
As I mentioned I have been a road rider for over 30 years - I am 59. My typical winter ride today is 90+ minutes and I end the ride comfortably. Before the use of battery gloves and shoe inserts I was limited to 45 minutes and I was often frozen. As I warmed up my toes would feel like they were on fire. Those ride conditions led to the Raynaud's which affect my feet today.
There are other positive comments that I have heard about for the hands. I have heard positive reports regarding the neoprene handlebar covers which fit over the brake/gear shifter area. Let's face it the hands really suffer in the cold wind.
Here are the links for inserts and gloves that he uses:
Hotronics
Gerbing
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Today's post comes from one of our customers in Michigan. Irwin has been cycling in the winter for over 30 years. Last week, he sent me the following email. So I thought it would be great information to pass along.
Secondly, if you have any additional thoughts to pass along. Please do. We certainly don't think we are the only one with original thoughts.
Enjoy,
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
Post on Winter Cycling:
Electric socks and hand warmers are okay for light outdoor activity. There is a lot of "toy grade" outdoor gear that leaves a bad impression. As a consequence it's easy to write off some of the more serious and expensive solutions that do work.
The problem with all shoes is that the extremities - hands and feet just do not get enough circulation. These areas do not generate sufficient heat by themselves. Insulating materials that create a sufficient barrier tend to be larger and cumbersome.
Irwin from Western Michigan
There obviously are outdoor boots that work in the winter but they are not "bike rider friendly." The ski industry has confronted the issues we are talking about. These are sports enthusiasts that are active in seriously cold conditions and at similar 15-20 mph speeds. They have developed solutions which utilize small, lightweight, battery powered devices to heat the hands, feet, and even the chest area.
Personally I find the chest area rarely be a problem. Electric socks are good for large boots. Close fitting bike shoes and sky boots require a solution that works with those size constraints. Removing the orthotic spacer and replacing it with one that includes a heating element does not change the fit. A little wind protection such as a Goretex shoe cover keeps things comfortable without overworking the battery.
Gloves have come a long way especially with the development of small lithium batteries. They utilize a some insulation and have an exterior Goretex wind shield cover.
With the shoe inserts I usually end up turning the heat up towards the end of a winter ride. On the other hand I turn down the glove heat as the ride progresses and my workout heats my chest and head core areas.
As I mentioned I have been a road rider for over 30 years - I am 59. My typical winter ride today is 90+ minutes and I end the ride comfortably. Before the use of battery gloves and shoe inserts I was limited to 45 minutes and I was often frozen. As I warmed up my toes would feel like they were on fire. Those ride conditions led to the Raynaud's which affect my feet today.
There are other positive comments that I have heard about for the hands. I have heard positive reports regarding the neoprene handlebar covers which fit over the brake/gear shifter area. Let's face it the hands really suffer in the cold wind.
Here are the links for inserts and gloves that he uses:
Hotronics
Gerbing
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Outdoor Brands Review
Good morning,
This week we are going to change directions from sizing to outdoor gear. We are going to look at the top 3 outdoor brands in our company.
1. Westcomb: A relatively new player with some of the highest quality products in the market today. They are made in Canada, so the workmanship is far above other mainstream brands. The fabrics they use are the same you have come to know and love. But the big difference is in the colors. They use these really cool pigmented highlights that really make them different than the rest. And when you pick up the pieces you really can see the quality of the components http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifand feel the workmanship.
2. Mammut: High quality. Company has been around for over 100 years. Made in Europe. Everything you could ever want in an outdoor brand. High tech fabrics. Serious functionality. Quality workmanship. Exclusivity. The only downside is the sizing. For sure a euro cut, so plan accordingly.
3. Icebreaker: Best in class merino wool apparel. They have been able to make merino wool http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.giffashionable, comfortable, and functional at the same time. Fantastic colors. For increased warmth, different thicknesses. Again the only downside is euro cut sizing.
Well, that should about do it for the intros. In the next post, we will tackle the specifics of each brand.
Lastly, a reminder that we are running an October Sale until the 31st. You can pick up some of the gear mentioned at a great price as well.
Thanks
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
This week we are going to change directions from sizing to outdoor gear. We are going to look at the top 3 outdoor brands in our company.
1. Westcomb: A relatively new player with some of the highest quality products in the market today. They are made in Canada, so the workmanship is far above other mainstream brands. The fabrics they use are the same you have come to know and love. But the big difference is in the colors. They use these really cool pigmented highlights that really make them different than the rest. And when you pick up the pieces you really can see the quality of the components http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifand feel the workmanship.
2. Mammut: High quality. Company has been around for over 100 years. Made in Europe. Everything you could ever want in an outdoor brand. High tech fabrics. Serious functionality. Quality workmanship. Exclusivity. The only downside is the sizing. For sure a euro cut, so plan accordingly.
3. Icebreaker: Best in class merino wool apparel. They have been able to make merino wool http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.giffashionable, comfortable, and functional at the same time. Fantastic colors. For increased warmth, different thicknesses. Again the only downside is euro cut sizing.
Well, that should about do it for the intros. In the next post, we will tackle the specifics of each brand.
Lastly, a reminder that we are running an October Sale until the 31st. You can pick up some of the gear mentioned at a great price as well.
Thanks
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Increase Flexibility, Decrease Performance?
Good morning,
In today's post we are going to deviate from the traditional path of gear reviews and such. Let's move over to a subject related to performance, flexibility. My goal with this edition is simply to challenge the status quo. If you have some additional research, I would be open-minded to receiving it.
How many of you have heard that if you increased your flexibility, you will perform at a higher level. I think most of us have heard this our whole life.
A couple years ago, I went down to the University of Minnesota to talk with a PHD on staff. And one of the subjects that came up was the value of traditional stretching in human performance. She said that she did not believe that the use of stretching would increase performance. The use of a dynamic warm-up and participating in your sport would produce the necessary flexibility. I almost fell off my chair!! It seemed almost Un-American to say that stretching or increased flexibility would not improve your performance.
Then 2 months ago, I came across the following post, "Running Economy: Increased joint flexibility may damage your distance running performance" Click here.
Let me know your thoughts.
Have a great weekend.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
In today's post we are going to deviate from the traditional path of gear reviews and such. Let's move over to a subject related to performance, flexibility. My goal with this edition is simply to challenge the status quo. If you have some additional research, I would be open-minded to receiving it.
How many of you have heard that if you increased your flexibility, you will perform at a higher level. I think most of us have heard this our whole life.
A couple years ago, I went down to the University of Minnesota to talk with a PHD on staff. And one of the subjects that came up was the value of traditional stretching in human performance. She said that she did not believe that the use of stretching would increase performance. The use of a dynamic warm-up and participating in your sport would produce the necessary flexibility. I almost fell off my chair!! It seemed almost Un-American to say that stretching or increased flexibility would not improve your performance.
Then 2 months ago, I came across the following post, "Running Economy: Increased joint flexibility may damage your distance running performance" Click here.
Let me know your thoughts.
Have a great weekend.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Thursday, July 08, 2010
Lifetime Fitness Triathlon and Expo this weekend!
Gear and Training will be at the Lifetime Triathlon Expo this Friday, 7/9 from 10 am-8 pm at the Minneapolis Convention Center! Come and check out the gear we'll have there to purchase, which will include items from K-Swiss, Skins Compression, and Thorlos socks.
Matt Reed, the accomplished elite triathlete (he'll be one of the pros racing in the Lifetime Tri), will be at our booth to meet fans and answer questions...he's sure to be an inspiration for your athletic endeavors!
And whether you are participating in the race or are there to cheer on others as a spectator, be there on Saturday, 7/10, as the race kicks off at 7 am at Lake Nokomis!
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Matt Reed, the accomplished elite triathlete (he'll be one of the pros racing in the Lifetime Tri), will be at our booth to meet fans and answer questions...he's sure to be an inspiration for your athletic endeavors!
And whether you are participating in the race or are there to cheer on others as a spectator, be there on Saturday, 7/10, as the race kicks off at 7 am at Lake Nokomis!
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Gear and Training to be at Grandma's Marathon
Come and check us out this Thursday and Friday (6/17 & 6/18) at the Expo for Grandma's Marathon in Duluth, MN! The race on Saturday is a world-class event, attracting elite athletes from all over the planet, first-time marathoners and everyone in between!
We will be featuring Skins Compression products along with Thorlos socks-buy one pair of socks, get one 1/2 off!
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
We will be featuring Skins Compression products along with Thorlos socks-buy one pair of socks, get one 1/2 off!
Gear and Training
"Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001"
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)