TGIF

TGIF...

Yes, its Friday today! Hurray! That means we run tomorrow...

Be reminded about Sat's run.

- Same meeting venue: Westlake Ave road junction Click Here to see Map
- Same meeting time: 6.30am
- Running route: about 14 km
West Lake -> Upp Thomson -> Upp Peirce -> SICC -> 3km trail -> West Lake

You can always run 2-3km extra at the 3km trail along the broadwalks!

Meanwhile, I'd like to share something I read on line recently about Belly Breathing.
As the name already suggests, it is to use your belly to breathe. It is perhaps one of the more challenging techniques to master for a new runner, yet helpful helpful it will be even if you are only able to mildly execute it.

When running or doing any sport for that matter, it is certainly important to maximize the amount of oxygen drawn into our lungs with each breath. Why not call it Lung Breathing, you ask? Because, that's why. Anyway, here's how you do it. Roll your shoulders forward slightly (also known in stuffy circles as slouching) and let them relax. As you breathe in, push out with your stomach and at the same time push down and out with your diaphragm. This allows maximum room for your lungs to expand and draw in precious oxygen.

If you're not sure where and/or what your diaphragm is, its somewhere above your stomach and under your lungs. I recommend you check an anatomy book for better clarity. Once you get comfortable with how this feels, focus on how many strides you can cover between inhales. Initially, four strides (eight total steps, two steps per stride) will probably be just about your limit, but after a little practice you should be able to reach eight strides. Give it some time, it will start to feel more natural. And if you have problems with side cramps, this technique will put an instant smile on your face. :)