Running marathons is set deep in Long Beach culture. With so many races nearby, including the LB Marathon in our backyard, is it any surprise? Many adults choose to run a marathon at some time in their life, and it’s a passion of mine to help them reach their goals. Many folks come up short with injury, or are sidelined after their first race, never to run again.
Speaking on injury prevention at a local Long Beach marathon training group called Sole Runners, I found myself extremely impressed with their program. Steve Mackel and Gary Smith, directors of Sole Runners, bring nutritionists, yoga practitioners, and sports doctors in before training sessions every week and finish each session with a Yoga cool-down.
Another huge bonus is that the group offers Chi Running training. Founded by Danny Dreyer, Chi Running combines the tenants of Tai Chi with its focus on moving from our “center” or core, with postural foundations found in sports medicine. I’ve found it to be a great program for runners to help them run with less wear and tear on their bodies, with greater overall enjoyment.
Running marathons properly I find is a microcosm for living life with health. When you treat you body with a holistic perspective with proper nutrition, sleep, balanced workouts, quiet time/introspection, and a good health care team you are setting a recipe for success!
You can find more about the program at solerunners.net.