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adventX Fit 2 Run – Information session/social evening on Thursday Sept 9.

August 31, 2010
by johncolver
AdventxBook-4096

In just over 12 weeks on the weekend of 27th & 28th of November – the Seattle Marathon, half marathon, 5 k and kids marathon will be taking place downtown Seattle.

This year sees the inaugural 5k race and as well as our half marathon training program (now in it’s 5th year) we will for the first time offer a training program designed to help you train for and run your first 5k event.

The details of the running program are as follows.

1/2 marathon and 5 km training sessions

  • What – a running program using proven training techniques designed to help you enjoy your running experience.
  • When: Sundays @ 9 am and Thursdays @ 6.30 pm
  • Where: All runs begin and end at Road Runner Sports Greenlake.
  • Who: You – ALL levels welcome – even if you have never run before. adventX people come from all walks of life. age range is 14 to …no upper limit.
  • How: Sundays runs get progressively longer each week. Thursday sessions are to build core strength, efficency, speed agilty, balance and coordination.
  • Why: Because it’s better in a group. Last year in the Vancouver half marathon,  25 runners not only finished but broke their personal best times.

Cost: Two options for payment

  • Option 1 is for people wanting to attend both Sunday 9 a.m. and Thursday 6.30 p.m. Training sessions. The cost is $350
  • Option 2 is for people wanting to attend Sundays only. The cost is $250

If you are an ‘all inclusive’ member of adventX – $395 per quarter – there is no additional charge to attend runs. Although there will be an additional charge for book ($15) and Tech Shirt ($25) Please register so that we can plan coaching and logistical needs.

To register please  click here

Instructors: All runs will be lead by adventX instructors and there will be a minimum of 1 instructor per 12 runners. The lead coach for the 1/2 marathon training will be John Colver. Debbie Reber will be lead coach for the 5k training program.

What will I receive?

  • 12 weeks of runs and coaching
  • Race day support
  • Running schedule
  • Injury prevention clinic
  • Nutrition Clinic with Sally Hara
  • Discounts at Road Runner Sports
  • Technical Running shirt
  • A copy of Debbie Reber’s book, ‘Run for your life’
  • Training log/diary
  • The satisfaction and accomplishment of meeting your goal.

adX 4 wk intensive: Tomorrow’s (friday) workout – DAY 3

August 25, 2010
by johncolver

image by Sean Airhart


day 3 thursday august 27.

workout|slow run, sculpt and stretch; targeted conditioning for the ‘powerhouse’ muscles everything from thighs to shoulders.

  • Warm up 5 minutes stairs & Daily Dozen
  • 800 m run (2 loops of track) Moderate (Recovery) pace
  • 30 minutes – 50 sets X 10 reps of core training: shoulders/chest/abs/back/hips/sides/glutes
  • Home stretch
  • Gear: Warm jacket for warm up cool down, water/sports drink.
  • Meet: Greenlake Aqua theater steps
  • Coach – John

day 2 thursday august 26.

workout|warm up/run/abs

  • Warm up 5 minutes stairs & Daily Dozen
  • 5km run (around Greenlake). Individual pace – challenge my choice
  • Finish with knee raises and/or pull ups. As many as we can – to failure.
  • Gear: HR monitor/GPS/Watch optional
  • Meet: Greenlake Aqua theater steps
  • Coach – John

day 1. wednesday august 25.

workout|warm up/run/abs

  • Warm up 5 minutes stairs & Daily Dozen
  • old school adventX class
  • Gear: None
  • Meet: Greenlake Aqua theater steps
  • Coach – John

adX 4 week Intensive Workout Program: August 25 – September 22 Greenlake – 6 till 7 a.m.

August 25, 2010
by johncolver

After training for 6 months, killing 5 pairs of shoes, burning out one Garmin 405 GPS, running 100 miles across Scotland (as race prep), Climbing to the summit of Mount Rainier 7 times in a month, running @ full speed up Muir  snow field (twice), eating so many GU’s I can’t even look at them anymore and getting to the point where a 3 hour run was an easy day, really. Team Stretch/adventX was ready for the Goretex Trans Alps Race next week. However due to an injury sustained by my teammate, friend and physical training mentor – Wolfgang Brolley. We are out for 2010. Are we disappointed? You bet. We’ve never trained so much for a single running event. Ever.

Are we going to sit back and get depressed about it? No. We are going to do something exciting. And here it is.

Image by Sean Airhart

The adX 4 week Intensive Workout Program

For several years I’ve wanted to run an intensive 4 week training program that is geared towards the ‘not faint of heart’, a person who is looking for a full commitment – all business – 6 days a week for 4 weeks – results based training routine. Restoration and recovery are built into the program.

Each day is different. The curriculum is pulled from The Parachute Regiment (UK) candidate preparation program. (It is 16 weeks – we are going 4). The curriculum is balanced to achieve maximal all-body strength and cardiovascular fitness gains along with healthy doses of flexibility, movement skills, agility, coordination drills, balance and some new drills like the ‘heavy bag‘ (you’ll love it).  Will there be stairs? Yes there will.

Today was session one – the regular old school adventX class, Tomorrow is warm up followed by 3 mile run. Followed by knee raises or pull ups. Each days workout is posted the day before, on this blog.  Monday – Friday workouts run from 6 a.m. until 7 a.m. We meet at the boathouse steps at Greenlake. MAP Saturday’s workout is at Discovery Park and goes 2 hours.

The program is designed for current adventX team members but new folks are welcome. There is no pre set fitness level required. If you can punch an alarm clock at 5.30, if you own shoes, shorts and a T shirt and can get to Greenlake at 6 a.m. and motivated to work hard – then you’re on the team. It’s our goal that everyone will see a demonstrable increase in strength and fitness. John will lead the workouts along with support from the adventX coaching team.

If you are enrolled in 10 week program or paid for unlimited quarterly classes. There is no additional charge. If you are new to adventX or returning and want to participate the fee is $300.

To register send an e-mail to info@adventx with 4 weeks in the subject line.

There’ll be some warm bright sunrises. Some spectacular cool autumn days. We are going in all-conditions and no matter what comes out of the sky we are going to have an intense workout for one hour each weekday. There may be some days that are dark, wet, cool, pretty much each day we’ll sweat a liter of fluid, most likely we’ll get dirty too. Don’t wear white.

So those are the downsides. And the upside – is that we’ll feel amazing each morning after training, the work day will be more productive, jeans will fit nice, arms will get buff and if we’re not already – we’ll all be in fantastic shape by end of September.

Hope to see you there. Call adventX HQ @ 206 282 4208 if you have questions!

‘Looking forward to the best autumn training we’ve ever done together,

John.

John Colver. adventX founder & coach

Update: New Outdoor Athletic Movement Series starts Thursday, July 29

July 19, 2010
by johncolver

We are very excited to announce our new Outdoor Athletic Movement 3-week series led by Elia Mrak-Blumberg.

There’s no explaining this class – it must be experienced and we think there’s nothing like it. This class will challenge your strength, cardiovascular system, balance, agility and overall movement skills. It is ‘challenge by choice’ and all levels of fitness are welcome. The background and curriculum designed by Elia is drawn from many activities and sports as wide ranging as; mountain climbing, running, basketball, football, cycling, skiing, windsurfing and no small measure of Elia’s professional dance instruction. The program is led to music, is fun, and very energizing.

When is it? The class begins Thursday, July 29 for three consecutive Thursdays. The class is from 6:30pm to 8pm.

Where to go? Click here for a MAP of the class location. Or call for directions: 206-282-4208

What is it good for? The training will improve movement skills, balance, strength, flexibility and coordination.  You can also be sure that workshop will make you sweat and send your heart rate up so you’ll definitely burn some energy.

Who does it? The program is designed for any athlete wanting to see cross training strength improvement in their main sport or activity. The workshop will also appeal to anyone who enjoys classes like high intensity circuit training and Zumba.

What to bring? Wear normal gym or outdoor training clothes and shoes. If you want to get some designer grass marks – wear your best white T-Shirt, otherwise wear something you’ll be comfortable getting close to the earth in. A sports drink is a good idea.

This series is offered for $25 per class or $60 for the series, and for those adventX unlimited members there is no additional charge. This is open to everyone so invite your friends and family to join the fun!

The class is limited in size so sign up now. Contact Kellie at kelliemorrill@adventx.cominfo@adventx.com, or 206-282-4208 to get your name on the list.

For any questions about the class; contact Elia at Elia@adventx.com or info@adventx.com.

-The adventX Team

ATTENTION: WEDNESDAY GREENLAKE CLASSES CANCELLED

July 13, 2010
by johncolver

We apologize for the short notice, but the 6am and 10am classes tomorrow will be cancelled. All other classes will continue as scheduled.

The adventX Team

Summer sessions start July 7th

July 5, 2010
by johncolver

Our summer sessions are here! The first classes to get moving will be 6am and 10am 10-Week Fitness Challenge at Greenlake Community Center this Wednesday, July 7th. The Endurance Cross-Training at  Discovery Park begins Saturday July 10th.

Check in tomorrow for a complete calendar of all current classes and keep checking for our exciting new classes that are coming soon.

For any questions, contact us at info@adventx.com or john@adventx.com.

Get fit. Stay fit. Have fun!

Athletic Movement Class: Greenlake 6.30 – 8.00 pm Thursday June 17.

June 15, 2010
by johncolver

We are very excited to announce and invite you to our brand new class led by Elia Mrak-Blumberg.

There’s no explaining this class – it must be experienced and we think there’s nothing like it. We want you to come and learn just how this class will challenge your strength, cardiovascular system, balance, agility and overall movement skills. It is ‘challenge by choice’ and all levels of fitness are welcome. The background and curriculm designed by Elia is draw from many activities and sports as wide ranging as; mountain climbing, running, basketball, football, cycling, skiing, windsurfing and no small measure of Elia’s professional dance instruction. The program is led to music, it is much fun and very energizing.

Where to go? Click here for a MAP of the class location. Or call for directions 206 282 4208

What is it good for? The training will improve movement skills, balance, flexibility and coordination but you can be sure it will also make you sweat and send your heart rate up. So you’ll definately burn some energy.

Who does it? Primarily the program is designed for any athlete wanting to see cross training strength improvement in their main sport or activity. However it will also appeal to anyone who enjoys classes like, high intensity circuit training, Zumba, certain types of Yoga (Although expect a more dynamic and vigorous session than most types of yoga)

What to bring? Bring yourself – and a friend. Wear normal gym or outdoor training clothes and shoes. If you want to get some designer grass marks – wear your best white T-Shirt otherwise wear something you’ll be comfortable getting close to the earth in. A sports drink is a good idea. Afterwards we’ll head over to Greenlake Bar and Grille for snacks and drinks so if you’d like to join us – bring a spare shirt to change into.

This demo is offered as a one time chance to explore how this class can be a great addition to your weekly training. It’s a $25 value and for current adventX members there is no charge. If you are not a part of the adventX team you may sign up for a free week trial and attend.

In July we will offer a summer session for this class starting on July 22nd for three consecutive thursdays. The class will be limited in size and we have started a list for people interested in that program.

For any questions; contact Elia at Elia@adventx.com or John at john@adventx.com

Camping: 10 tips on staying (and getting) dry during wet weather camping.

June 3, 2010
by johncolver

June in the Cascade Range is wet. Sometimes it’s a 30 minute shower and sometimes it’s all day. Camping adds a level of complexity in that it’s difficult to dry clothes at camp unless the sun is shining. Some preparation goes a long way to maintaining your energy, staying warm and being happy. As we all know hiking in rain is fine, its what you do when you stop that can either leave you miserable or as happy as a clam.

Some thoughts on weatherproofing yourself:

1. Waterproof raingear, boots, hat, gloves and gaiters by first washing with TechWash by Nikwax then proofing with TX Direct also by Nikwax. It’s available at Second Ascent and REI. Note; if you wash your goretex in household detergent, it will strip away the water-resistant coating and if you use fabric conditioner it will make the material more porous – these two things together will turn your rain-gear into a sponge. An alternative to the wash-in treatment  are any number of spray on waterproof agents. However I like the Nikwax products as they effectively make your old goretex garments work like new again.

2. Take extra trash compactor liners – I like the trash compactor (Fred Meyer has them) bags as they are thicker 0.3 mm and will not tear. Use one to line the pack, another to contain things in your tent (Rain on the tent leads to condensation so its important to keep your gear in a bag while inside the tent). Bring an extra 1 or 2 bags. Use Gallon sized ziplock bags to contain smaller items.

3. In heavy rain put your pants over the outside of your gaiters (otherwise the water will funnel into your gaiters and boots).

4. Get a water resistant running hat; they dry quickly and the brim will keep the rain off your face.

5. Consider using the shells of your mittens instead of finger gloves – they will keep your hands dry and dry quickly themselves.

6. Go Commando: In very heavy rain – everything you wear will get wet. If not from rain, then from condensation. If you don’t mind rain-gear against your bare skin, then take off your dry clothes and put them inside your rucksack. You will stay warm from the goretex as you move and then when you arrive at camp you’ll have all dry clothes to change into. Additionally you’ll have saved yourself the problem of having a pile of wet useless clothes that you now have to dry. If you get too cold you can always add a synthetic layer. An alternate for underwear in very wet conditions is swim wear, speedos or bikini top & bottoms  - They dry very quickly and of course they are designed to be worn wet – so they tend to not chafe.

7. Keep the wet stuff out of the tent: After setting up the tent, a good strategy is to get one dry person in the tent. (if you are cold – get right into a sleeping bag) and have the other partner hand in the contents of your backpack. Once everything is inside leave the wet backpacks and wet goretex in the vestibule. If the sun comes out you can put it on top of the tent (be sure to tie it securely in case wind blows it away). Worse case scenario – you put the wet stuff back on in the morning! Your body heat will dry it as you move.

8. Use your body heat to dry damp items: If you have damp clothes, especially socks, gloves and hats. You may be able to dry them by putting them in your sleeping bag with you. You’ll need to be warm and should make sure that this is not sucking your valuable heat away, but it is amazing how quickly damp gear will dry against your body. Another option is to put damp gear in your pockets or down your shirt. Use your judgement – you don’t want to put soaking wet gear on you but damp is OK.

9. Make hot water bottles. Take some extra fuel for this – a hot nalgene waterbottle will heat you and you can lay your gloves and other clothes against it. It’s a portable radiator. Caution; drying too much wet gear in the tent will lead to condensation inside the tent.

10. Take a microlight synthetic towel to dry you and a small kitchen sponge to remove the condensation from the inside tent walls.

I hope this helps. And remember any fool can be uncomfortable! Take some time to prepare and turn a potentially soggy camping trip into a fun adventure which leaves you warm, dry and happy inside your tent.

John Colver.

May 30th Fit2Climb – McClellan Butte

May 26, 2010
by johncolver

For this weekend’s Fit2Climb hike we will be heading out to McClellan Butte.  http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/150418/McClellan-Butte.html

The hike to the peak is over 4.5 miles each way, and goes up to 5,160 feet (3300 total elevation gain), however, it is likely that we will only make it to a little above 4000 feet as the trail is difficult to follow when the snow takes over.  Most parties hiking there last Saturday turned around at about 4200 feet.  Plan for about a 5 hour roundtrip hike (approximately 7 miles roundtrip and 2200-2500 feet of elevation gain).  Gaining only about 800 feet in the first hour and 1200 feet in the second, the steepness increases as we ascend. 

Except for the top scramble, which we won’t reach, this is a non-technical climb that will be more or less challenging depending on the weather and trail conditions.  Anyone seeking a greater challenge can bring a heavier pack for some weight training.  (water bottles work well as weight, because you can easily lighten your load)

Time: Arrive at the parking lot by 9am

What you’ll need:

Clothing:

  • Hiking pants with gaiters (we will probably start hiking with the gaiters in the packs and put them on when we reach the snow.)
  • Sturdy hiking boots (there is snow on parts of the upper trail)
  • Dress in layers – short sleeve, long sleeve, soft shell or fleece jacket.
  • Hat (baseball or sun hat)
  • Gloves: Light gloves and warm gloves/mittens

 Equipment:

  • Ski or trekking poles (Note: We did not need/use Crampons or other tractions devices when we were there last week, but if you have them, can provide some peace of mind if it gets slippery)
  • Backpack

 Food:

  • Water, Gatorade, etc. Bring at least 2 liters!
  • Bring at least 2 snacks
  • Lunch

 Other:

  • Sun screen and spf lip balm

 Weather: The forecast for Sunday looks good right now, but it is important to be prepared for anything.

 Carpooling:  If you have questions or need further information, please send a message to Heather hdevrieze@gmail.com or the Adventx facebook page. 

 Here are some photos from last Saturday: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=172427&id=613442755&l=f58ff4949a

Fit2Climb – Mt. Adams Roster & Gear List

May 18, 2010
by johncolver

Attention all climbers!

We need to get an accurate count for the upcoming Mt. Adams climb (June 4th – 6th). Please leave a comment and let us know you are coming.

I have included a link to the IMG Rainier Gear list. You’ll need pretty much everything on this list EXCEPT the helmet and harness.  You can print off a .pdf file from the site as well.

http://www.mountainguides.com/rainier-gear.shtml

Tent Gear: Each tent will be responsible for their own setup, cooking, etc. Stoves, tents, and any other gear can be rented from REI.

There is a tentative meet up on either Wednesday, June 2nd or Thursday June 3rd to review gear needs.  We will post the date, time, and location once everything is confirmed.

If you have any questions, please leave a comment here or on the adventX facebook page.