WoW - What's Up in October?

Saturday, October 11, 2003

It’s a big walking party! Yes, for all those training for the Casino Niagara Half Marathon at the end of October we are planning a pasta dinner in Oakville at Alternatives Health Food Market on Saturday night and a coach ride to the start on Sunday morning. So, if you are one of those walkers who likes company, climb on the bus (yes, there is a washroom on board!). There are a few spots left.
Past, present, and future WoW power walkers are welcome.

The Weekend to End Breast Cancer was another event deemed hugely successful by the WoW contingent. An untimed 60 km walk over two days, the event was blessed with exceptional weather (‘Hurricane’ Isabel really cleared the air!), great food, music, dancing, and an emotional final rally. Apparently, sleeping in tents at Downsview Park wasn’t that bad either!

Just to remind us that loads of fun can be had at smaller events, Lyne, Wendy, RoseAnne (and daughter!) and Angela entered the Bronte Twilight event in the 5km power walk division. They were thrilled to participate in an event sponsored by The Running Company which has been so supportive of walkers…even having prizes ready for the first 3 places! Mark off the first Saturday evening of September 2004 to enter that 5k event.

Marathon season is in full swing and WoW power walkers are proving that sticking to that schedule and working on those intervals and hills really works. At the Scotiabank Waterfront Half Marathon on September 28 in Toronto everyone achieved a personal best! One of the highlights of this event for everyone was hanging around at the finish line to see the 93-year old participant shave 30 minutes off his best time for a full marathon. Now that’s inspirational! To see the amazing WoW power walking times check out our website under Walkers Talking.

Also! More courses starting soon in High Park, North Toronto, and Oakville. Go to www.wowpowerwalking.com and then Group Programs.

WoW Tip! Stre-e-e-tch

For walkers covering some serious ground in preparation for the fall marathons don’t forget to stretch that iliotibial band. The tensor fascia latae muscle that attaches to the IT band works overtime as a stabilizer. This means that as your mileage increases it is stressed! If it gets tight, it can start to pull the IT band which will pull in your knee area. When doing the stretch in the photo below remember to keep both hip bones planted on the ground. If you are crossing the left leg over the right, use the left hand to keep your back straight. Gently pull below the knee to feel the stretch. If you don’t feel the stretch, move your crossed foot further away from the leg underneath. Do not twist!

Look for the next newsletter that will feature a full report on WoW power walkers at the Great Bermuda Walking Marathon!