Happy Holidays!

Welcome to December ‘24 version of 'Strides ‘n’ Miles' - a monthly newsletter by Traxamo. As we are wrapping up 2024, we would like to take the moment to thank you for being part of Strides ‘n’ Miles’s journey. We hope you take the time to celebrate your accomplishments in 2024 and get ready for another epic year in 2025. So do us a favor, if you have enjoyed the content can you please share this newsletter with 10 of your family and friends? And as always, do drop us a note if you would like to see topics covered that interests you. Wishing you all a wonderful Happy Holidays and fabulous 2025!

In this month’s email:

• Meme Corner 😃 

• In Training Corner - TrainAsOne - world’s first anticipatory training app

• As a runner, do you need a nutritionist?

• Elite runners update Valencia Marathon

• Community Spotlight - Mikkeller Running Club (MRC)

MEME CORNER

PLANNING CORNER

Holiday season is here. It’s time to wind down and wrap up the year and get ready to plan for 2025.

If you are traveling, here are some of the fun races during rest of December:

Find the list of upcoming marathons near you on Abbott World Marathon Majors Race Directory.

Here are some more resources to plan for your next race:

• 2024 Half Marathons Calendar - USA - https://www.halfmarathons.net/race-calendar/

• International Marathons and Distance - https://aims-worldrunning.org/calendar.html

• Upcoming Marathons in USA - https://runningintheusa.com/classic/list/map/marathon/upcoming

TECH + TRAINING CORNER

TrainAsONE is a cutting-edge AI-powered running app that revolutionizes the way runners train. I recently sat down with Sean Radford, Founder of TrainAsOne - world’s first anticipatory training app. be in the lookout for the great myth busting conversation in Traxamo’s Tech in 26.2 podcast.

Intelligent Personalization

TrainAsONE creates custom running plans tailored to each individual's abilities and goals

The app continuously adjusts training schedules based on the user's performance, data, and objectives

Versatility

• Suitable for all levels, from couch-to-5K beginners to ultra-marathon competitors

• Accommodates multiple concurrent race goals

Performance Optimization

• Maximizes efficiency and effectiveness of each workout

• Minimizes injury risk while enhancing performance gains

Flexibility

• Adapts to users' schedules and unexpected life events

• Automatically adjusts for missed or off-plan workouts

Tech Integration

• Compatible with popular running apps and sports watches

• Offers pace and heart rate-based workouts

• Provides workout uploads to compatible Garmin devices

Advanced Features (Paid Plan)

• Concurrent training for multiple goals

• Workouts adjusted for elevation and weather conditions

• Advanced run analysis and insights

TrainAsONE's unique AI technology continuously re-evaluates and optimizes training plans, ensuring users always receive the most effective guidance for their running goals

NUTRITION & DIET CORNER

Pros:

1. Personalized nutrition plans: Nutritionists can create tailored eating strategies that match individual runners' needs, goals, and training intensity

2. Identification of nutritional deficiencies: They can help detect and address common deficiencies in runners, such as iron, which can lead to anemia and decreased performance

3. Optimization of macronutrient balance: Nutritionists ensure runners consume appropriate amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to support training and recovery

4. Improved fueling strategies: They can guide runners on proper pre-, during-, and post-run nutrition to enhance performance and recovery

5. Education on supplement use: Nutritionists can provide evidence-based advice on supplements that may benefit runners

Cons:

1. Cost: Working with a nutritionist can be expensive, especially for recreational runners.

2. Time commitment: Regular consultations and meal planning may require additional time and effort.

3. Potential overreliance: Some runners may become too dependent on professional advice, neglecting to develop their own nutritional knowledge.

4. Conflicting information: Nutrition science is evolving, and recommendations may change over time, potentially causing confusion.

Overall, the benefits of working with a nutritionist often outweigh the drawbacks for runners seeking to optimize their performance and health through proper nutrition

ELITE CORNER

The Valencia Marathon 2024, held on December 1, featured an impressive lineup of elite runners and produced remarkable performance

In the men's race, Kenyan Sebastian Sawe made a stunning marathon debut, winning with a world-leading time of 2:02:05

Ethiopia's Deresa Geleta finished second in 2:02:38, while Daniel Mateiko of Kenya completed the podium with 2:04:24

The women's race was dominated by Ethiopia's Megertu Alemu, who won with a time of 2:16:49

Uganda's Stella Chesang finished second in 2:18:26, followed by Ethiopia's Tiruye Mesfin in 2:18:35

Notable participants included:

1. Kenenisa Bekele: The three-time Olympic champion and five-time world champion from Ethiopia returned to Valencia

2. Sisay Lemma: The defending champion and course record holder (2:01:48) from Ethiopia

3. Hillary Kipkoech and Sebastian Sawe: Both Kenyans made their marathon debuts in Valencia

4. Amane Beriso: The defending women's champion withdrew due to injury

The race featured a mix of established stars and promising debutants, with several athletes aiming to break national records on Valencia's fast course

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Mikkeller Running Club (MRC) is a global running community founded in 2014 by Danish brewer Mikkel Borg Bjergsø and his friend Søren Runge. The club emerged from a desire to combine running with the enjoyment of craft beer, offering a unique social experience for enthusiasts of both activities. Initially started in Copenhagen, MRC has expanded to over 200 chapters worldwide, boasting an estimated 30,000 members who participate in regular running events and social gatherings centered around beer

Origins and Growth

The idea for MRC originated when Bjergsø and Runge sought a way to stay active while enjoying their passion for beer. They began by inviting friends to run together followed by a beer, which quickly attracted more participants. The first run saw eight people, which grew to about 100 by the third week. This organic growth led to the establishment of new chapters globally as interested runners reached out to form local clubs

Community and Culture

MRC emphasizes inclusivity and fun, welcoming runners of all abilities without requiring membership fees or specific attire. The club’s ethos reflects a balance between fitness and enjoyment, aligning with Danish cultural values. Members often refer to themselves as ambassadors for both running and Mikkeller's craft beers, fostering a community spirit that extends beyond just physical activity

Events and Activities

MRC organizes regular runs, typically once a month, often culminating in social events at local bars where members can enjoy discounts on Mikkeller products. The club has also been involved in unique events like the "World's Fastest Marathon" concept and themed runs that celebrate different aspects of the beer culture

Challenges and Adaptations

The COVID-19 pandemic posed challenges for MRC, with restrictions impacting gatherings. However, the club adapted by encouraging smaller group runs and maintaining engagement through virtual platforms. This resilience has allowed MRC to continue growing its global presence despite difficulties

Overall, Mikkeller Running Club exemplifies a successful fusion of fitness and social enjoyment, creating a vibrant community that celebrates both running and craft beer across various cultures and locations

WHAT’S NEW AT TRAXAMO

Happy to share the next podcast series on Traxamo - Fundraising in 26.2 where I am bringing together successful charity runners, non profit organization and peer to peer fundraising platforms with a goal to bring forward practical, creative and proven best practices to help charity runners to be successful with their fundraising goals. Here is a quick intro!

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Enjoyed this month’s newsletter? Don’t keep it a secret. Share this newsletter with your running buddies or anyone you think will enjoy it as much as you do. Happy Running!!!