runners

Top 5 Gold Coast Running Tracks to prepare for the 2019 Gold Coast Marathon

Top 5 Running Tracks to prepare for the Gold Coast Marathon
Top 5 Running Tracks to prepare for the Gold Coast Marathon 1000 563 Ace Health Centre

The countdown is on; In just a little bit over a month, a lot of you reading will (hopefully) be crossing the finish line at this year’s Gold Coast Marathon. Whether you are an avid runner or a first-timer, preparation is always key to a successful marathon! By this stage of your marathon preparation, the runs are getting longer, and most people are getting a little bored or uninspired by your usual running routes. If this is you, we can totally relate! No need to worry though- we have searched all over the beautiful Gold Coast and handpicked our top 5 Gold Coast Running tracks to keep you motivated for the final leg!

 

5. Emerald Lakes Circuit

It isn’t the longest run, but what it lacks in length it makes up for in scenery! Not only that, but Emerald Lakes is home to some beautiful cafes and shaded rest stops that will keep you energized and rested. The loop is also ideal for interval training!

4. Hedges Ave

One of the better known Gold Coast running paths (and part of the Gold Coast Marathon track), Hedges Avenue is packed full of cyclists and runners on a Saturday and Sunday morning! Join the crowd and check out your competition, before finishing off with a quick dip in the ocean or a replenish your energy with one of the Gold Coasts finest Acai Bowls in Nobby’s.

 

3. Burleigh headland

Arguably one of the Gold Coast’s most beautiful beaches, Burleigh has more to offer than its bars and restaurants. Burleigh Headland is a shaded, scenic and dog-free pathway that can lead you either north to the beach pathway towards North Burleigh or south to Tallebugera Creek. For a nice, easy flat run, take the lower track but if you are feeling brave and want to add in some hills, try a few of the undulating circuits. Just remember that there are no water stations on the mountain itself so take a water bottle!

 

2. Main Beach Federation Walk

If you are not into crowds, then this is the running track for you! This track will take you along the beachside from Main Beach to the Spit. You can hear the sound of the waves and spy some wildlife along the way. There are a few circuits intertwined down this path. Though if you stick to the main path and you can’t get lost!

 

1. Currumbin to Coolangatta

This has to be our favourite Gold Coast running track for so many reasons! The path from Currumbin runs right alongside the beach down to Coolangatta. You get all the perks of running on the beach, without having to navigate the sand! The wide, flat, smooth pathways make it a perfect long-run course for runners of all levels.

 

So there you have it- our Top 5 Gold Coast Running Tracks. Don’t just take our word for it; check them out for yourself! If you are interested in running the Gold Coast Marathon or Half Marathon and want to surround yourself with a supportive team to get you prepared, come see one of our Physios or Exercise Physiologists at ACE Health Centre. 

Best Time to Exercise.

Best Time to Exercise? The Morning vs. Evening debate
Best Time to Exercise? The Morning vs. Evening debate 1000 625 Ace Health Centre

For many of us, finding time to exercise can be challenging. So when we do, it is important to make the most of it. Exercise Physiologists have been debating this topic for years and while the saying goes, “the early bird gets the worm”; however, this isn’t necessarily true as there is no one right or wrong answer.

 

Pros to exercise in the morning

What are the Pros to exercise in the morning

It’s out of the way in the morning

Many early risers state this is the reason they prefer morning workouts. You don’t have to worry about how you will feel at the end of the day or unexpected outings/events.

You will have increased energy for the rest of the day as exercise increases the level of endorphins.. maybe you won’t need that afternoon coffee to help get you through your day after all.

 

It’s better for weight loss

Exercising in the morning will kickstart your metabolism. This means that you may burn more calories during the day as opposed to when you are sleeping.

A 2018 study by Wallis and Gonzalez found conducting a single bout of aerobic exercise in an overnight fasted state increased the utilisation of fat as a fuel source, improved plasma lipid profiles, enhanced molecular signalling pathways related to fuel metabolism in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue (fat) and reductions in energy intake (food consumption) over the course of the day.

 

Your body is prepared

Sleep is the optimal time for your body to recover and repair used muscles and convert food into energy (glucose) for the following day. When you wake up, your body is fresh and ready for a workout. Of course,  provided you slept well.

However, this also means it will take a bit longer to warm your body up of a morning before going into beast mode to prevent injury.

 

More restful sleep

A regular exercise routine always helps with better sleep. Experts suggest a morning workout to really hit the hay hard. Early exposure to daylight in the morning will help your body to power down early at night.

In addition, researchers at Appalachian State University found morning exercise lowers your blood pressure which is correlated with better sleep as it triggers up to a 25% reduction at night.

 

Early birds are more consistent

It makes sense. You aren’t likely to have anything else to do at 6 am. Let’s be real, after a long day, sometimes all you really want is to go home and watch Netflix. CONSISTENCY IS KEY!

 

What are the benefits to exercise in the evening?

Pros of exercising in the evening

What are the benefits to exercise in the evening?

 

You’ll have a more relaxed morning

No need to rush to pack a gym bag, post work out meal, lunch and a change of clothes. You can sleep in and take your time in the shower without trying to be in and out in 30seconds at the gym.

 

You are already fuelled and warmed up

You’re 20% more flexible later in the day as your muscles are warmed up and joints are more fluid from being up and about all day, this means you are less prone to injury.

Research has shown you naturally have more energy between 2-6pm due to increased testosterone levels and as a result of this, you may be better prepared for a workout later in the day.

Furthermore, you may have more energy for a more vigorous workout as you likely ate lunch and some snacks throughout the day to fuel your body.

 

You’ll have a more intense workout

A study by the University of Chicago said post work gym-goers are likely to attain a higher level of fitness as they tend to work out harder.

Protein synthesis peaks in the evening making it an optimal time for weight lifting. Aerobic or endurance workouts are also likely to be improved in the evening too as the lungs are at peak efficiency.

It’s an excellent way to blow of steam
After a long/rough day at the office, a workout can have a large effect on de-stressing when trying to unwind and relax.. as opposed to a bottle of wine.

 

Improved sleep quality

As mentioned morning workouts were better for improved sleep; there is evidence to suggest that evening workouts can help too.

A study showed that those who lifted weights in the evening had longer and better sleep quality than those who lifted weights in the morning.

While there is evidence to support both morning and evening workouts, the best bet is to pick what best suits you and your long term fitness goals as it is more likely something you can stick with – so choose your time and get sweating!

Runners wearing different types of running shoes

6 Important Points To Consider When Buying Running Shoes
6 Important Points To Consider When Buying Running Shoes 1000 743 Ace Health Centre

There are a few things we encourage you to think about before you buy a new pair of running shoes.  A few simple checks, a tweak here and there and an expert’s eye, examining your feet, can work wonders and ensures you will buy the best fit for your feet.

There are a lot of brands and even more styles for you to choose out there.

Running Shoes are basically all made for the same purpose but target slightly different issues or support various areas of your foot, which can make the whole process a little bit confusing.

Your-Running-Style-determines-the-footwear-you-need

The more you land on your rear foot, the more cushioning, support and heel pitch you need.

But you are not alone! This guide is here to help you find exactly what you are looking for and narrow down the endless supply of choices to not only enhance your performance but also to keep you injury free.

This next section covers nearly everything you need to know to get the right shoes for your feet. Use this guide and a recommendation from your Podiatrist, and you will never find yourself standing confused in front of a wall full of running shoes ever again.

1. Get a running shoe according to your foot type

  • Supination

If you have a supination foot type, then a natural shoe will be the right fit for your feet. Your new pair of running shoes should have a slightly wider last to create stability and to prevent the shoe from giving way on the lateral border when put into action. If this sounds like your type of feet, then look out for a shoe with adequate cushioning to prevent ankle sprains and other nagging ankle injuries. Without favouring any particular brand, our podiatrists as well as our patients have been quite happy with the Brooks Dyad runners and would recommend them to anyone with this particular foot type.

  • Neutral

Consider yourself lucky if you have a neutral foot type because you are an easy one to please! Nothing too fancy. Maybe just something with a little bit more flexibility through the midfoot and some added cushioning. Over the years, we have recommended a range of runners such as the Asics Nimbus, the Brooks Glycerine, the Mizuno Enigma, the Nike Vomero or the Adidas Supernova Glide to runners with a neutral foot type.

  • Mild Pronation

“Guidance” is the magic word for this foot type. If you are diagnosed with a mild pronation, then we suggest, you hunt for a pair of shoes with a firmer heel counter and less midfoot flexibility. Unlike other foot types cushioning isn’t something you have to worry too much about and we recommend a moderate support, which can be found in the Asics Metarun and Kayano, the Mizuno Inspire or the Saucony Guide for example. Other alternatives for this foot type are the Nike Odyssey and the Brooks Ravena.

  • Moderate Pronation

Support, Support, Support is what you are after! You want a pair of runners with a firmer heel counter, moderate cushioning and a re-enforced midsole for less flexibility. You might find your runners a little stiff to start with but don’t worry; they will wear in and fit perfect with time. Ask your sporting good store for the Asics 3000, Mizuno Paradox, the Brooks Transcendence / Adrenaline or the Saucony Hurricane for optimal fit and maximum comfort.

  • Severe Pronation

Motion control is the key for maximum performance and comfort.

A wide last and less cushioning are what you are after if you have a severe pronation foot type. Also, make sure you purchase a ridged shoe with at least 1cm heel pitch. For best results ask your footwear specialist for the Brooks Beast or the Asics Divide.

2. Ankle motion is an important aspect to consider when buying footwear

Without getting too technical, we have to get technical here. However to keep it simple, let’s just say your ankle motion determines the heel pitch in your shoes. Each shoe is slightly different and can range from 0-12mm with a few exceptions.

We say exceptions because there is a good chance that almost everyone, reading this blog, will fall into one of the four categories below.

  • Stiff ankle

Less than 90 degrees’ dorsiflexion – 10-12mm heel pitch

  • Moderate ankle motion

90 degrees’ dorsiflexion – 6- 10mm heel pitch

  • Good ankle motion

10 degrees dorsiflexion – 4-10mm heel pitch

  • Hypermobile ankle

15 + degrees dorsiflexion – 8-12mm heel pitch

3. Talk about your Injury History with a footwear specialist

If you have a history of injuries such as heel pain, shin splints, calf pain or achilles pain then make sure your shoe has a heel pitch of 10-12 mm. Also, be careful when buying your pair of runners and make sure your shoes don’t bend through the midfoot.

4. What Type Of Running Are You Into?

Competition vs. Training vs. Speed workouts vs. Long Runs. There are so many variables when it comes to running. For example, racing shoes are very different to training shoes and should only be used for the occasional speed work session and race events. These shoes are lighter, flatter and more flexible than the average pair, which increases the risk of injuries considerably. Doing your due diligence and carefully evaluating the purpose for your runners can save you a lot of headaches in the long run. We suggest you take the time and talk to your sports store’s shoe specialist about your training regiments and goals to get the most appropriate footwear that fits your needs.

5. Keep The Terrain of your Usual Routes In Mind

Are you running cross-country or on solid ground? We would like to encourage you to think about your footwear the same way you think about the tires of your car. Off road cars have solid tires with a lot of grip for enhanced traction whereas race tires are slick and thin, designed for speed and performance. Well, your shoes are no different! Off road shoes are a lot firmer than your everyday pair of runners. They are designed for stability and support with features like the extra grip or water-resistance, which in return changes the structure of the upper on your shoes.

6. Your Running Style determines the footwear you need

The more you land on your rear foot, the more cushioning, support and heel pitch you need. Over the years working with professional athletes and everyday runners, we have seen a lot of different foot placements which all have an impact on your feet. Your heel pitch should be between 8-12mm if you come down rear first when running. If you have more of a balanced running style, then we recommend a heel pitch between 6-10mm or 4-8mm if you come down heavy on your forefoot.

You are ready now! Our guide should help you decide on the running shoes you want and what level of support you need. We all been there and know how overwhelming it can be to buy the right pair of runners to not only perform at your best but also to stay injury free.

What-type-of-running-are-you-into

Competition vs. Training vs. Speed workouts vs. Long Runs. There are so many variables when it comes to running.

Don’t get lost and use our guide to make the selection of your perfect runners a little bit easier and to help your thought process in deciding on the best possible fit for your feet.

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