Nikewomen NFR Blog

There's Something in the Water

Brianna.O — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 15:30:36 GMT

For any age and at any level, if you want to tone up, check out your local Water Aerobics class. It is like a mix of cardio, muscle max and kick boxing in the water! The key to training in the water is its resistance factor, which allows you work as easy or hard as you want.

The Water Aerobics class I took was awesome; everyone there was all about having a good time. The fun environment took my mind off the workout and I just had fun. The group was enthusiastic and everyone was cheering each other on. There must be something in the water because the cheering was contagious! I found myself joining in right off the bat.

Our instructor, Donna Hamilton, kept everyone on their toes and in great spirits. She has tons of experience, education and certifications under her belt and it shows. She was motivation at its finest. She explained the three benefits of being in the water; buoyancy, resistance and coolness.

It's not all fun and games though. It was tough. We were jogging in the water almost the whole time. We did steady intervals of kicks and jumps for 30 seconds with no breaks in between. It is definitely an alternative way to tone your body without the heavy weights at the gym.

You got to try it! It will surprise you.

-Brianna Oeser

A little friendly competition

Brittany — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 09:27:38 GMT

A few weeks ago I registered and fully committed to training for and running in the Nike+ Human Race. To my surprise, so did ALL of the Nike Field Reporter correspondents. Since we are all running with Nike+ I have decided to pose a little challenge to all of my peers!

On Nikeplus.com, runners can join and create different challenges. These competitions keep running fun, as well as, keep me on top of my training. Therefore, to help encourage the other girls, I took it upon myself to create the Nike Field Reporter Most Miles Challenge!

Here's how is works. As we train, we log miles with our Nike+. When we send our runs to Nikeplus.com, those miles will automatically be added to the competition. At the end of 45 days, the person who ran the most miles wins! What do they win? Bragging rights of course!

I'll keep you updated on whose in the lead. I better get running!

-Brittany

Product Review: Nike Dri-FIT Rib Women's Training Tank Top

Krystal.B — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 22:15:21 GMT

What I like best about it: I love the cut of this tank! It is cut high in the arms and the upper back, so you don't have to worry about loose material getting in the way during your work out. This tank is also form fitting, so there is no bulkiness.

I would probably use it for: Weightlifting, aerobics, yoga, pilates and even for casual wear. There are no restrictions on the many ways you can wear this tank; you can wear it with anything.

What's good about the fit: I love that this tank is form fitting and keeps everything tucked into place while you train; while looking stylish all at the same time.

What's good about the performance: The material helps keep moisture away from your skin. It is the perfect tank for the perfect work out!

The one thing I'm not crazy about it is: I have no complaints about this tank. It works for me and all my work out needs.

-Krystal Beers

To buy this product, visit Nikewomen.com

Nikewomen.com Featured Artist: Jamie Lidell

Brittany — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 19:29:09 GMT

Jamie Lidell's music cannot be put into any bubble. His music takes its influence from many different genres ranging from soul to alternative. On his latest album, “Jim," each track is like a box of chocolates…You never know what you're going to get!

His song, “Another day" sounds like the 1960's Soul, Pop and R&B hits our parents grew up listening to. The piano and hand clapping is reminiscent of a Sunday morning at church; the singers in the background channeling a gospel feel. If the gospel flavor doesn't get you, the combination of soul and funk are sure to get your toes tapping!

Lidell is currently on tour and will play several shows in the U.S. throughout the year. His sound is so unique and unlike any others that are out right now, he is definitely worth a listen!

-Brittany

Check out Jamie Liddell's "Another Day" from the album JIM:

Nike+ Sportband = Adventure

Dana.F — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:30:39 GMT

My new Nike+ SportBand has allowed me to expand from my old dull run to a run where I discover new sites everyday.

Growing up I really didn't know much about my neighborhood. I didn't go to school nearby and so my neighborhood basically became a place that my held my house. When I was a freshman in college I started running three and a quarter miles a day. Once when home on school break, I measured the distance with my car so that I could keep running and ever since then I have run the same path, which is pretty boring. However, that has all changed since I received the Nike+ SportBand.

The SportBand tells me how far I am going, which means I will always know when I hit my three and a quarter miles. The band also tells me how many calories I am burning, how long the run is taking and my pace. It has been two weeks since I began using my Sportband and in that time I have found various paths in my neighborhood that make me feel like I am running free in the wilderness. I have also run in my suburb's downtown area and noticed cute little stores and restaurants that I never knew existed all thanks to my SportBand!

The SportBand has opened my eyes to a beautiful neighborhood that I have not been taking advantage of for over 20 years. My runs have become a little longer so I can take in all the new sites. My knees are not so happy but I guess they will just have to suffer.

-Dana Fine

Thousands of Screaming Fans and Team USA Softball

Sarah.C — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:25:31 GMT

Jam-packed into a stadium fit for a much smaller crowd, the proud and few came out on a warm summer night in July, to watch an exhibition game of Team USA Softball against Portland, OR area softball players. As a former softball player, I remember being young and dreaming of becoming part of the elite team. It is what keeps you playing, watching and waiting in long lines for a picture and an autograph. As a female playing a competitive sport, sometimes we underestimate how much the younger girl athletes look up to us. This game reminded me of just how special women's athletics is.

The camaraderie was tight knit even if you didn't know the person who was sitting next to you. There weren't just young girls, there were college players, alumni, proud parents, grandparents, coaches and fans who have never played. No matter what seat you had the important thing was that you had a seat. You were there. That night I saw young girls sporting their various uniforms, face paint, jersey's of favorite players and wearing their gloves in hopes that a foul ball would somehow come their way. People crowded around the bullpens to tell the players warming up "good job on that hit" and "you're my hero". When a homerun was hit, ooo's and aahhh's echoed through the field.

Often times you hear jeering at sporting events and people unhappy at "bad calls". Not that night. It was a positive atmosphere that was refreshing to the fans and athletes alike. With the game of softball continually growing, it is disappointing to know that softball will see its last year at the games in Beijing this August. But the excitement won't stop. It is tours like this one that will help keep the spirit alive. I was just as proud as every other young athlete to be a part of that evening. Maybe even for a second I felt young again and I wouldn't trade that feeling for the world.

So for now, keep dreaming and stay tuned for more.

-Sarah Clark

Pedicabs: Work or Workout?

Brittany — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 23:35:23 GMT

Pedicab drivers zip around on what appears to be a “super" bike and pull tourists and pedestrians through this great city. Even on the hottest days, they are out on the streets pulling their eager passengers. I've always wondered if Pedicab driving was really the workout it appeared to be. So I went straight to the source. Melissa Von Ludwig has been a New York City Pedicab driver for a number of years. We met up in Central Park where she gave me a crash course in Pedicab driving.

The bikes have several different gears to adjust resistance and lighten the load of the passengers. Regardless, at the end of the day, drivers can end up pulling up to 400 pounds of extra weight! After talking for a bit, Melissa took me for a ride through Central Park! I could see how driving one of these Pedicabs was not only a leg workout, but an arm and back one as well. Melissa admits that it is not always easy, especially with her small frame, but she credits her active lifestyle for her strength. In addition to pedicabing, Melissa is also an avid biker and runner. She will even be running in the Human Race on August 31st!

Sure Pedicab driving is a job… but this job will keep you in great shape!

-Brittany

Flying and Flipping Over the Beach

Mina.M — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 19:30:40 GMT

Adrenaline and nerves filled my body as I climbed the 30-foot ladder to reach a small platform, where I was to step off the edge and fly. That's right fly. What is this thrilling sport? It's the aerial art of the Flying Trapeze, where you learn to overcome your fear of heights and soar through the air like a bird.

With a background in gymnastics, I figured the trapeze was something that might come somewhat naturally. What I wasn't prepared for was the thrill and rush that first swing gives you, when you defy everything your mind has taught you and jump off the platform. By my second swing they were already teaching us back flip dismounts and upside down splits. By the end of the two-hour class we had advanced to doing partner catches from one trapeze to another!

The other students in this class were also thrill seeking first timers. Eighteen year old, Meghan Gochin exclaimed that the trapeze was a great experience and a good work out that required a lot of upper body strength. Student Becky Opp said the trapeze was very physically challenging, but a lot of fun. Instructor Travis Feldman describes the flying trapeze as addictive, like the thrill of a roller coaster with the benefits of a high energy workout.

The school also offers classes in Silks, which I also had the pleasure to try. Silks teacher Beth Feldman explained that training with the Silks are the perfect workout because unlike a gym workout you can't quit when your muscles get fatigued. When you're high in the air holding onto the silks you must finish the movement or fall, thus your body goes into survival mode and does things you never thought you were capable of accomplishing.

This incredible experience is all set up on the beautiful Santa Monica pier overlooking the beach. This is the newest location for the Trapeze School New York, which has 4 other locations nationwide. With no doubt, training in both the Silks and Trapeze were incredible workouts, as well as, a fun thrill ride. For more information you can go to www.trapezeschool.com

-Mina Mortezaie

Product Review: Nike Sand and Sun Women's Board Shorts

Katie.O — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 21:45:56 GMT

What I like best about it: The colors of the shorts are bright plus you can wear the shorts for athletics or just casual wear.

What I would probably use it for: I will wear the shorts over my bathing suit while water skiing, tubing and wake boarding.

What's good about the fit: The way they fit around the legs is good because it is not tight and restricting.

What's good about the performance: When the material gets wet, the shorts don't feel heavy and sticky against your skin, allowing for better movement.

The one thing I am not crazy about: The length is short and has a tendency to ride up a little, thus not good for basic exercise like running.

-Katie Osborne

To buy this product, visit Nikewomen.com

Rock On!

Tereza.O — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 14:25:04 GMT

Florida isn't exactly known for dramatic cliffs and soaring spires. But I still found a thriving rock climbing community at Vertical Ventures in Tampa, Florida. Housed in a warehouse space, this rock climbing gym is jam packed with talented young climbers scaling the walls and cheering on other climbers from the padded floor. About half of the athletes are women.

24 year old Terin has been climbing for about a year. The former gymnast moves with spider like skill across the overhangs, leaping to catch finger holds just out of her reach. The other climbers watch and yell out encouragement and direction. Terin took up rock climbing after leaving collegiate gymnastics. “I wanted a challenge that would fill the void," she says. “This is hard, challenging and I like the mental aspects." Her gymnastics background has helped her excel, giving her great upper body strength and a fearless attitude. But she emphasizes that there's more than brute strength involved in the sport. “I had to learn the technique, how to move my body on the wall, and build finger and forearm strength."

Amanda, a college student, has been rock climbing for three years since discovering this offbeat way to stay in shape. She loves how rock climbing has helped her build muscle unlike any other activity she's tried, and improved her flexibility.

Amanda's advice on how to get started? “Start on an easy route and work your way to the harder ones. Work on a route you can't finish. Ask people to help you out."

-Tereza Ohley

Superstition #1: Octopus Throwing In Detroit

Krystal.B — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:30:52 GMT

Sports and superstitions go hand in hand and both fans and players do some pretty strange things to avoid bad luck. In Detroit, it’s a long standing tradition to throw octopi on the ice during the Professional Hockey Finals. Why an octopus, you ask? Well, the eight legs of the creature (otherwise known as “calamari on your dinner plate”) symbolized the eight wins it took to win the Championship during the 1950’s when the first octopus was thrown. And, believe it or not, there are certain rules an “octopus thrower” must follow to ensure their octopus makes it onto the ice. All throwers know there is a certain time frame in which you must throw your seafood creature, and that’s usually after the National Anthem or the team score a goal… and you never, I repeat never, hurl the thing at an opposing player! That’s of course, you want them tossing it right back at you, and the way the thing smells, you definitely don’t. Which leaves you asking with a stench as horrible as rotting seafood, how do people get them into the arena? The answer is… they boil it, boiling it gets rid of the slime and the smell. But if you ask me, you can smell an “octopus thrower” from a mile away. Throwers also know the arena “outlaws” the throwing of anything onto the ice. Therefore, if caught with the contraband, deny, deny, deny. More than likely, security will smell the octopus before they actually see it, as any smart thrower knows to conceal the creature. Octopus throwers will do anything to make sure their octopus gets into the arena, including stuffing it down their pants, or up their shirt… and all that pays off when the team scores; the octopus is twirling above your head, and you toss it towards the ice, but not before saying a prayer that it makes it over the glass. If it does, and security doesn’t catch you, mission accomplished. If it does and you’re caught, well at least you know the money you paid for it was worth every dime, but you will now be watching the game from outside the arena. If you’re caught, and it didn’t make it on the ice but is instead splattered all over the people sitting near the glass, run, if security doesn’t catch you, they will.

-Krystal Beers

My Summer In New York City!

Brittany — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 23:28:36 GMT

225 mph? That Ain't Nothing!

Katie.O — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 22:30:52 GMT

What sport incorporates fast speeds, loud noises, crazy fans and a whole lot of competition? Race car driving!

Race car driving is a sport that embodies characteristics different than other sport because the performance is not only determined by the driver, but also by the handling of a car going 225 mph. I work at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the world renowned Indianapolis 500 and I have learned more about motor sports than I thought possible.

Recently,I have heard people question: “Is race car driving even a sport?," “Is it physically demanding?," “Should women be allowed in the sport?" The answers to all of these questions…YES!

According to Ryan Harber, head athletic trainer and strength and conditioning coach of a race car team, core training is key to success in driving. “Your pillar of strength comes from dozens of muscles…they stabilize the body and improve its resistance to injury and long-term ailments. If you think of the body as a wheel, the core is the hub, and the limbs are the spokes. We want the hub perfectly aligned so we can draw energy from it and effectively transfer energy through the body." He also mentions that drivers have more muscle strength on the front side compared to the back side of their bodies, which causes posture problems that can hinder performance; so attention to perfect posture is also important.

Drivers are considered high performance athletes instead of power athletes. Over a long period of time during a race, the driver experiences many repetitions, thus training for endurance is more important then anything. Harber says, “Drivers should train like cross country runners or triathletes because of the long durations in the car under intense physical demands. Weight lifting should be light with high repetitions, also focusing on low body fat percentage instead of actual weight."

Driving is exhausting because of the high G-forces, shocks and heat. Harber mentions that in certain situations, such as closed cockpits, the temperature can reach 167 degrees F and body core temperature can be between 105-106 degrees F. With these conditions, drivers are capable of losing 5-10% of their body weight due to dehydration. Overall, speed, reaction time, core strength and physical endurance are the most important components that race car drivers focus on in training. Now if anyone still wants to say that race car driving isn't a sport... they should reconsider their argument!

-Katie Osborne

Training for the Nike+ Human Race!

Brittany — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 22:15:07 GMT

This week marks my first official week of training for the Nike+ Human Race on August 31st. The Human race is a 10K (about 6.2 miles), so I definitely need to get some more miles under my belt before I am ready. At this point I can run about 3 miles comfortably. To reach my goal, I have found a training regimen that seems perfect for me.

The training program I found requires me to complete three runs a week. On the off days I will do either cross-training or strengthening exercises. As the weeks progress, my mileage will increase until I reach 6 miles. It sounds easy enough right? I hope so!

To help me with my training I will be taking an official Nike+ Human Race training class at my local gym. The trainer there has created a specialized training program to help me and the other runners reach our goal of running in the Human Race. Additionally, I will be participating in Nike sponsored Human Race training runs throughout New York City. Make sure to look for my weekly blog updating you on my progress.

If you want to run, register for the big race at www.nikeplus.com and create a personalized training program of your own using Nike+ Coach!

-Brittany

The Chicago Force

Dana.F — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 21:00:04 GMT

The Chicago Force, a women's tackle football team, is a force to be reckoned with. The team has only been around for six short years but already has two undefeated seasons and four division championships. The Force is definitely a star among the 41 teams in the league and the reason for this is because the women train hard while having full time jobs.

The league started in April but the women started training in January. With the help of a strength and conditioning coach, the players practice three times a week and exercise independently the other days. Practices with the team include weight lifting and running with a strong emphasis on injury prevention.

The team is made up of extraordinary athletes; most of the women played different sports in college ranging from softball to floor hockey. Sami Grisafe, who is the quarterback on the team, was also the first woman to play high school football on a Division 1 team. She gave up football her sophomore year in high school to pursue a sport she could get a college scholarship, despite the fact that the year before she was voted captain by the boys on the team. Luckily, she did not have to give up football for too long.

The Chicago Force usually has about 100 women tryout, although as the year progresses the team shrinks to about 45 due to injury and the time commitment. Who knows if I keep lifting maybe I can be the next member of the Chicago Force? Never mind, I forgot, I need to make sure I don't hurt my writing hand.

-Dana Fine