There’s More to Running than Just Running

Submitted by Scott Schmidt, RunKNOX Coach

Running is one of the simplest, most complicated, enjoyably frustrating sports. It can be as easy as lacing up a pair of shoes, stepping out the door, and putting one foot in front of the other. For many of us that’s exactly how it is, until it isn’t. Yes, to get better at running we need to run a lot. Compiling days/weeks/months/years of running builds the aerobic engine necessary to improve endurance. However, the downside of all that running is increased risk for overuse injuries. I can guarantee that if you run long enough, you’ll eventually get dinged up. One thing that we pride ourselves on in RunKNOX is that we consistently emphasize doing the “other stuff”. In addition to running, we regularly prescribe cross training. We want you to cycle, swim, hike, row, and use the elliptical machine. We want you to lift weights, practice yoga, and establish a relationship with a physical therapist and/or massage therapist. You will be a stronger and healthier runner if you create a balanced fitness training program.

One way that we support the non-running portion of our member’s programming is through our partnership with Blue Ridge Yoga. Every RunKNOXer gets complimentary yoga classes at BRY. Whether you’re an experienced super bendy yogi, or so stiff that you can’t touch your shins, there’s a class that can benefit you.

To encourage a regular weekly yoga practice, we’re launching a group run from BRY on Thursday evenings at 6pm. We’ll run the Grigsby Chapel Greenway and then pop back into the studio for a Deep Stretch class. As with all KTC Group Runs, this is free and open to the public (if you want to do yoga, you’ll need to be a paying RunKNOX member or a Blue Ridge Yoga member though), so come out and join us for a few friendly miles in Farragut.

As always, we’d love to be a part of your running journey. If you need guidance, encouragement, or simply new running buddies, c’mon. If you’re interested in learning more about RunKNOX, just ask!