We are proud to be aligned with the latest in zero-impact running innovation with the launch of the new Zero Runner by Octane Fitness. As many runners can attest to, pounding the pavement over and over can take a significant toll on the joints and may lead to injuries, so it is imperative to have cross-training options available to help ensure successful running performance over time.

Due to the damaging nature of impact over time, runners try to manage impact by running on treadmills versus outside, or choosing to run on gravel or sand versus cement, for instance. And runners use ellipticals and other fitness equipment as cross-training devices to give their bodies a break from all that stress. But some runners shun cross training on machines because they say that nothing else feels like running, and they worry if they are really benefiting from different workouts.

What’s exciting is that more tools are available today to help runners cross train and manage impact better, yet still reap the performance benefits of running. These options offer excellent conditioning and running-specific benefits:

Zero Runner – The first-of-its-kind indoor training option that replicates a real running motion. It’s different than an elliptical, because it has knee and hip joints so that you can kick up your heel and activate your hamstrings – just like you would outside. And the heel kick is critical to a runner’s development. Unlike a treadmill, on the Zero Runner, you can really use your typical stride, which feels much more natural. And it has a gait tracer, which can help you monitor the health of your stride throughout runs. This machine is worth checking out, as it can help you prepare for longer races, incorporate active recovery and ultimately prolong your running career. See the details here.

Elliptigo – This is similar to the Zero Runner but it’s an outdoor option. It’s a cross between a bike and an elliptical that allows you to pedal in a running motion without any jarring to the joints. While it may look kind of funny, many people like this machine. That includes Meb Keflezighi, the 2014 Boston Marathon champion, and the first American to win the Boston marathon since 1985, who cross trains with an ElliptiGo. Check out elliptigo.com for more information.

AlterG – While this is typically only an option for commercial athletic training and rehab settings due to its hefty price tag (starting at $35,000), the AlterG is like training in outer space. It is an anti-gravity treadmill that unweights a percentage of your body so that you run on it carrying only a portion of your actual body weight, which significantly reduces the impact and stress to the joints. You feel lighter, and potentially faster. While it’s definitely not as accessible as the Zero Runner or Elliptgo, the AlterG is a great option if you ever get the chance to try one. Take a look at it here.

Be sure to check out the Zero Runner if you are serious about taking care of yourself and following a safe, proper training regimen. There’s just nothing else like it available, and it can revolutionize your training – whether you’re a recreational or ultra-competitive runner. See Octane Fitness on Facebook as well by clicking here.

This weekend it was back home to celebrate the High Holy Days in the Paper City and to take part in the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Road Race. This race is the pinnacle of good racing in the area and is complete with a challenging course, elite runners, casual runners seeking to gain their personal best and those runners who are tackling their first 10k ever. (Disclaimer: If this is your first 10k, they are not all this hilly; but they are also not all as awesome!)

Race morning left some lingering snow falling upon the Pioneer Valley and the streets of Holyoke and the temperature was quite chilly. Picking up the race bibs that morning, a quick stop at Holyoke Sporting Goods needed to take place to pick up an extra pair of gloves and a hat for the run as it was much cooler than anticipated. However, the luck of the Irish prevailed at race time and the sun came out about an hour before the run just as the famed mummers were striking up their music on Maple Street before the run.

This year was the 40th anniversary of the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Road Race and Boston marathon icon and past winner of the Holyoke race Bill Rodgers was a featured runner at the race. In addition, Team Hoyt inspirations Dick and Rick Hoyt took to the course and joined the runners for another Holyoke race.

This year the course seemed to be noticeably more crowded with fans out cheering runners on particularly around Mile 2 and Mile 3 with a normal thick crowd just shy of the Mile 5 marker outside The Yankee Pedlar. Coming into downtown, the usual crowd outside of Griffin’s cheered runners into the finish line on what turned out to be a great running day. Extra kudos go out to all the families and supporters along the course who set up water tables, Gatorade tables and even an Irish beverage table for those wishing to partake! The course support was absolutely perfect and helped runners of all caliber along the way.

The hilly Holyoke St. Patrick’s Road Race course is always a course that is going to test you and I was pleased to finish with a time of 51:35, good for 8:18/miles. Though I finished just a smidgen behind the Ethiopian runners who took home the grand prize, it was a great day not just for the Irish but for all of those who headed to Holyoke to partake in the 40th running of the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Road Race. Needless to say, I’ll be back for future years!