Worth Reading

 * Ready for a new challenge? Try reverse running.

* Outside magazine puts Tough Mudder’s First Death Into Context.

* Beautiful with brains: Why the whole concept of a bikini body is bunk.

* The running racket: How big business wrecked the marathon. “The average entry fee for the top 25 U.S. marathons has gone up 35 percent since 2007, to $112—three and a half times faster than inflation—according to the industry association RunningUSA.”

Video of the Week

Friend and fellow runner, Rob Frank, and his crew — including runner Matt Kleck, filmed this awesome Beast on the Bay promo video during the 3-mile trial run:

HOWEVER…..there’s an even BETTER one of Matt Kleck doing a total face-plant in the lake. His “friend” Robb slowed down the video and added sound…it’s hilarious.  If you know Matt or Rob or work out with Steve Krauza and his Team Adrenaline gang, ask them about it, and I’m sure they’ll share it with you.

Here’s a screen grab:

Poster of the week

FACT:

T-Shirt of the Week

Available here in various styles starting at $14.99

 Worth Reading

* Jezebel: The People Who Watch Marathons

“One of the many puzzling aspects of yesterday’s attacks was the question of what, exactly, the perpetrators thought they’d accomplish by targeting what basically amounts to a celebration of human tenacity. If anything, the tragedy in Boston will further solidify the bond between runner and spectator. And when the Chicago marathon happens this October, I’ll show up to run harder, and they’ll show up to cheer louder. If anyone thought this attack would discourage the runners or the watchers, they’ve clearly never been to a marathon.”

*Washington Post: ‘If you are losing faith in human nature, go out and watch a marathon’

* I’m not even going to pretend to understand this, but I know some of you will and are really into this, so…here you are, eggheads: How to Improve your VO2 Max.

* Short on cross training time. Try this 30-minute bodyweight workout.

 Video of the Week

This guy — Carlin Isles — is jaw-droppingly amazing: (And, why aren’t we into rugby here in the USA — looks like a fun sport to watch!).

Worth checking out

* Tips for a successful first marathon (some good tips here)

* Did you wear too many layers? Here’s how to carry your jacket without looking like a superhero.

* Check out this new concept for a key/cash running wristband that even a guy would wear. I actually want one of these.

* The Runner. A profile of 101-year-old marathoner Fauja Singh by ESPN Magazine.

* Jim Lang from Big White Trailer race timing, reminds us that the Bemus Point triple crown series starts this weekend.

Yep, pretty much.

Video of the Week

Stupid, but entertaining:

T-Shirt of the Week

Available here for $30.

Worth Reading

* I switch back & forth between at least two. Do you? Here’s why you should.

* Outside Magazine: Yes, you can run a half marathon.  “The half marathon hits the sweet spot between being manageable and being a challenge.” (I <3 the half).

* This isn’t running related, but it’s too good not to share: 1 Thing You Must Stop Doing to Be Happy.

* Food is not a moral issue. Food is just food.

Video of the Week

I’ve posted a video about Dozer before, but I recently stumbled across this and had to share:

Tshirt of the week

This has absolutely nothing to do with running, but it made me laugh:

Available here for $23.

Oliver says:  Neither one of you is getting out of here without me. Why should Sam have all the running fun?

Waaah? You never heard of the Michael Greenblatt’s long-distance running partner?

Worth Reading

* The secret to a faster 5K

* 12 Apps for Health Nuts

* And…speaking of apps, 2013 brings us a new & improved RunKeeper.

Video of the Week

Tshirt of the week

After this holiday season, I can sure appreciate the sentiments on this shirt!

Available here for $18.95

* One Running Shoe in the Grave (Not sure I’m buying this, but…food for thought)

* 10 Strange but Effective Tips for a Better Marathon (I am, in no way, endorsing these methods because some of them are just…um, gross).

* Fartlek, Temp and Interval runs explained

* Instant motivation (bookmark this website!)

* Preparing for the Victoria’s Secret Show compared to training for a marathon (I’d much rather run a marathon…and you know how much I hate the 26.2)

Video of the Week

Runners sum up their performance in one word or less after racing the USATF-NE XC Championships.But…um…most couldn’t.

Tshirt of the Week

Available here for $26.

GoErie.com’s “Random Mike” was talking turkey with some of the ERC Turkey Trot participants on Thursday.  It’s a pretty funny video — check it out here.

Also….there’s a short video that Andy Colwell from the Erie Times-News shot at the Turkey Trot, too.  See it here.