MOMS ON THE RUN

by Carrie Tollefson, Moms on the Run National Fitness Director

Running for me has been my life saver, my solitude, my first love, my sanity. Yes there are days I have a love/hate relationship with it, but at the end of the day, it always makes me feel better, gives me confidence and energy, and makes me a better wife and mom. And the best part? I always enjoy my meal after (have I told you I love to eat?) and that to me makes everything worth it!

If you are new to a run/walk program, Moms on the Run wants to help you get started on your journey. Come run or walk with us and we promise you will have a great time!

Doing some strength training 2-3 times a week will help a runner stay injury free by keeping strong and balanced muscles. Only 10-20 minutes after a run can get you an entire strength workout using bodyweight exercises alone. In addition to injury prevention, strength training will increase both muscular power and endurance, to improve your pace and help your running legs will last longer!

,Hills are no one's favorite, but they do get easier if you focus on great form! It’s important to keep your feet underneath your hips. One tip to help you remember this is to think of your hips as a bowl of your favorite candy. Keep the hips tucked under so you don't spill anything out of your bowl! You’ll also want to keep your shoulders down and back, and pump your arms as hard you can to get up those hills. The harder you pump those arms, the less you will feel it in your legs.

-Kristina Ticknor, Head Coach and Franchise Owner, Woodbury Moms on the Run

This week's training tip is brought to you by Unleash the She. We are proud to be the official training partner for this 5k/10k event coming up this October 15 in St. Paul, MN. Raise money for MOCA and $AVE on your entry fee when you register by 7/2! And don't forget your Moms on the Run promo code for another $5 savings: MOTRLOVE17

This is a great exercise to activate hip, abdominal, spine and pelvic floor muscles.  Add an exhale as you lift and you will also get activation of your diaphragm.

Read the full article "Runner's Six Pack" for additional exercises.