Monument Avenue 10k
Racing Reflection

Monument Avenue 10k Recap: Quite the Monumental Race

Despite nearly two decades of running, I’d never registered for a 10k race. I’ve conquered everything from 5Ks to marathons, yet the 6.2-mile length was the one distance that eluded me. That all changed this past weekend, when I ran Richmond’s Monument Avenue 10k through the scenic streets of Virginia’s capital city steeped in American history.

Beautiful race setting aside, it wasn’t why I decided to run the race. It was another runner—a newer runner—who forced my hand, or, rather, feet into racing.

running shoe foams
Satire Shoes

Comparing the Top Running Shoe Foams: Which Are the Best?

Arguably the most important component of a running shoe is the midsole foam. No one cares about the outsole, upper, and especially not the asinine heel pull tab. I ask yet again: how difficult is it to put on and take off a pair of running shoes? So, how can you choose the best running shoe foams to match your picky preferences? Beats me. However, if you’re looking for descriptions of why the name of every midsole foam is silly, you’ve come to the right place.

post-marathon recovery plan
Reflection Training

My Post-Marathon Recovery Plan: Winging It

It’s been said that marathon recovery is just as important as training. Why don’t I follow a post-marathon recovery plan like I do a training plan? The last thing I want to do after a four-month training block is follow another plan!

I recently recapped my disappointing sixth marathon, the Virginia Beach Shamrock Marathon, and failed second attempt at breaking three hours. As much as I’m determined to find my next marathon and begin a new training plan, I’ve been greatly enjoying a more carefree post-marathon recovery plan: no plan.

New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 review
Shoe Reviews

New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 Review: Rebel With a Cause

Either running shoes have improved dramatically over the past few years or my continued growth as a runner has enabled me to enjoy running in more shoes than in the past. [Insert the “why not both” meme] The two statements aren’t mutually exclusive; both are true.

Case in point: The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v3 was one of my least favorite running shoes in recent memory. I only racked up about 30 miles in the shoe before I racked the shoe on my shoe rack, or, rather, in the heaping pile of other shoes on my closet floor. What a difference a yearly update makes! Find out why v4 has become one of my favorites, in this New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 review.

Virginia Beach marathon Shamrock Marathon
Racing Training

Virginia Beach Marathon Recap: Sub-Three Will Have to Wait

Last Sunday I ran the Virginia Beach Marathon, my sixth marathon and second attempt at breaking three hours. I’m in the best shape of my life thanks to completing the best training block of my running career. However, I finished just under 3:05—barely a PR, but I wanted more. I wanted the race clock to read 2:59:59 or below when I crossed the finish line. I didn’t train for a slight PR—I trained for a big 6-minute PR using the Pfitzinger 12 week/55-70 mile plan.