Wagging in the Woods
Terra’s OG boss, Rocky
If you been around Terra for long you will have know that we really love animals. Dogs are welcome in the shop, we partner with our local SPCA for events and donation drives, and our original “boss” was the legendary Rocky — a loving, friendly, (though opinionated) former shelter dog himself.
Those are just a few of the reasons that we are incredibly excited to help time a brand new trail race called Wagging in the Woods. This dog friendly 5k helps fund emergency medical care to pets in need and is being put on by local veterinary office, Taylor Animal Hospital. We chatted with Sarah Kelsey Baker, the race director and Hospital Operations Manager at Taylor Animal Hospital, to learn more about this delightful new trail race.
For those who don't know, can you tell us a bit about Taylor Animal Hospital?
Taylor Animal Hospital has been a part of the Cleveland community since 1968. Our first goal is to provide excellent care to pets and education on ways to keep them healthy. Our second is to establish a genuine relationship with the families of those pets within our community.
What inspired you all to put on the Wagging in the Woods 5k? How will it support the work that you all do for the animals of Bradley County?
To us, a healthy community also has healthy pets and opportunities that allow those pets and their family members to be involved with one another. As more and more people are moving into our "small, big town," we want to continue making acquaintances with our neighbors (especially those with fur). Wagging in the Woods is just one of the ways we are trying to accomplish this goal.
On of Taylor Animal Hospital’s vets, Dr. Kelsey Yates, with some newborn puppies!
Wagging in the Woods is unique in that proceeds will go to the Bradley County SPCA and our Artemis Fund, which helps to provide emergent medical and surgical care to pets in need.
What should runners expect on race day? Where is the race, when does it start, and is there anything else unique about it?
Wagging in the Woods will be hosted at Johnston Woods on November 16th, in the morning. We will have local food trucks and businesses present to make the chilly morning more comfortable for the runners. As far as uniqueness, our race is dog friendly. Winners are entered into raffles which include prizes such as a custom pet portrait from Hetzel Art Studio, passes to Orange Theory, and much, much more.
Anything else you would like to share? We ask that all dogs are leashed (4-5ft, non-retractable leashes only) and are up to date on their vaccines (must show proof on the day of the race). Taylor Animal Hospital, Bradley County SPCA, and Johnston Woods are not held liable for any dog fights or injuries should they occur.
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Don’t miss this chance to support animals here in Bradley County and have some fun with your own dog (or meet some there if you don’t have your own to run with)! Follow this link to sign up today!
Lula Lake Trail Blazer
This year, Terra Running Company is thrilled to be timing Lula Lake’s Trail Blazer races! With a 50k, half marathon, 10k, and beer mile, there is something for everyone. These fantastic races are a lovely way to experience the Lula Lake Land Trust as well as support the mission of preserving biodiversity on Lookout Mountain. We chatted with race director Cody Roney about the races, how she got Lula Lake Land Trust, and why the land trust is important.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got involved with the Lula Lake Land Trust?
I grew up in Alabama and moved to Chattanooga in 2010 to enjoy the endless rock climbing the region has to offer while pursuing a masters degree at UTC. After grad school I worked for another local land/recreation focused conservation organization for a few years. When I first started my career I didn't know much about conservation, but it didn't take long to realize this was a field I wanted to continue to grow in. I began working for Lula Lake Land Trust in 2019 and am truly grateful to help steward our beautiful lands atop Lookout Mountain.
For those who don't know, can you tell us a bit about Lula Lake? How did it end up as part of a land trust and why is that important?
Lula Lake Land Trust (LLLT) started in 1994 with the permanent protection of our 800 acre Core Preserve. Most people know about Lula Lake because of our famous Lula Falls, but we are so much more than just the waterfall. Since 1994, we've helped protect over 12,000 acres on Lookout Mountain and we've built over 60 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. As development pressures from Chattanooga continue to push into our more rural landscapes our job is more important than ever. We aim to protect the most biodiverse and climate resilient landscapes on and around Lookout Mountain, while providing recreational and educational opportunities so our community can enjoy these special places.
This is not the first year that you all have put on this race -- how many years have you been hosting it and why do you think it is special?
LLLT created the Trail Blazer Race 4 years ago to help raise funds for our ongoing trail building and maintenance costs. We currently own and maintain 40 miles of trails. Building and maintaining trails is incredibly expensive and time consuming. This race is not only a way to showcase our gorgeous trails and properties but it helps us raise crucial funds to keep advancing our mission of conservation, education, and low-impact recreation. Our vision behind this race is to be a FUNdraiser for everyone to enjoy. Our cutoff times are generous, our style is laid back and as competitive as you want it to be. We don't want anyone to feel intimidated to sign up!
What should runners expect on race day? What race distances are there, when do they start, what should runners be prepared for, etc.?
LLLT is known for throwing a great party, and we intend to do just that as racers finish. We will have live music, beer, and food in the meadow from 11:30-1:30pm. Spectators are encouraged to come out and cheer on their runners and enjoy the music! We're excited to offer a 50k race option this year, as well as our traditional 10k, half-marathon, and beer mile! We will also be allowing camping for runners on Friday night.
Anything else you would like to share?
As I mentioned before, this is a fundraiser for Lula Lake Land Trust and all proceeds go to support our conservation and recreation efforts! You can register for the event here: https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=113640
Nightmare on Nashville Street
Runners and walkers enjoy last years Nightmare on Nashville Street 5k
One of our favorite parts about race timing is the chance to partner with wonderful non-profits in our area to help them raise funds for the incredible work that they are doing in our communities. One of those organizations is the Evitt Foundation based in Ringgold, Georgia. This volunteer run non-profit works to promote the welfare of children and combat hunger in North Georgia. One of their newest fundraisers is a family friendly Halloween themed 5k — Nightmare on Nashville Street. We chatted with Rachel Stockburger of the Evitt Foundation to learn more about the race.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got involved with the Evitt Foundation and this race?
I'm the PR & Advertising Coordinator for Ringgold Telephone Company. Our company helps manage the Evitt Foundation. This non-profit foundation runs solely on volunteers. We pride ourselves on creating unique fundraisers throughout the year to raise money for our foundation. Our Nightmare on Nashville Street 5k and 1 mile fun run is our fall fundraiser and has quickly become a fun event for the community to enjoy and raises money for a great cause.
For those who don't know, can you tell us about the Evitt Foundation? What do you all do and how does that impact families in the Ringgold area?
The Evitt Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) that aims to promote child welfare and reduce hunger in the North Georgia area. One of many projects that we are most known for is we host multiple grocery distributions yearly to feed families who are struggling to make ends meet.
What about the race itself? How did it come about and how does it benefit the work you all do?
Nightmare on Nashville Street is quickly becoming one of our most successful fundraisers. This will be our 2nd year hosting this race and we are anticipating hundreds of runners to come out and enjoy a spooky halloween themed run throughout downtown Ringgold. We take pride in giving our town a fun event to enjoy and the fact that 100% of the proceeds goes back to families in need in this community is just icing on the cake.
What should runners expect on race day? Where is the race, when does it start, and is there anything else unique about it?
Runners should come out ready to enjoy a fun and memorable race! The 5k will start at 6:30 at the Ringgold Market in downtown Ringgold. We highly encourage runners to come dressed up in a costume. We will have spooky characters along the course ready to make our runner want to run a little faster. We will have a bonfire, a halloween movie, and food trucks at the finish line for families to hang out after and enjoy the evening.
Anything else you would like to share?
Come out for a great time and bring the family! This is a fun fall event that goes towards such a great cause. It's truly a win win.
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Runners interested in learning more or signing up for the race can visit the event page on the Evitt Foundation’s website or by visiting the race registration page on terrarunning.com.
Run for Their Freedom
Continuing with our fall race features, in this edition of the Terra blog we are thrilled to highlight Run for Their Freedom 5k, benefitting the fantastic local non-profit Willowbend Farms. To get us up to speed on all things Run for Their Freedom, we caught up with Kristina Higgins, the Survivor Care Coordinator at Willowbend Farms. Kristina is the race director, along with Willowbend’s CEO Sarah McKinnis. Read on to learn more about a race that has quickly become a Cleveland fall classic.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got involved with WillowBend Farms?
I started with WillowBend Farms as survivor care coordinator in October of 2020, after a 11 year career in nonprofit public relations/marketing. It was a big switch. Stereotypical as it sounds, I wanted to help those who needed help most and make a difference with actual hands on work, rather than doing it all in a sanitized way behind a desk. In the spring of 2023, I became the administrative director. In this position, I work directly with our CEO to implement policy, oversee day-to-day functioning, and tackle whatever challenges the day brings. I also get to do fun things like plan our annual conference and Run For Their Freedom!
For those who don't know, can you tell us about WillowBend Farms? What do you all do and how does that impact people in our area?
We are a nonprofit organization based here in the local community, but reaching 27 counties throughout our region. We serve survivors of human trafficking through restoration efforts like our two year residential and vocational programs, through connection with services and help reaching goals, and through our emergency response center. Another of our initiatives is prevention, awareness, and education. We provide trainings at no cost to agencies, schools, churches, businesses - anyone who wants to know more about what human trafficking is and what they can do to prevent it. This is just a small summary of all we do! Last year we served 221 survivors and trained over 8,000 people, and we are on pace to increase both of those numbers this year.
When I think of fall races in Cleveland I think of Run for Their Freedom. Can you tell us about the race? How did it come about and how does it benefit the work you all do?
Run For Their Freedom serves a dual purpose. It is our primary annual fundraiser, with all contributions going straight back to survivor restoration. Our fundraising goal of $50,000 covers a survivor's full participation in our two year holistic residential program. The other important purpose for this race is that it brings together the community in order to bring awareness to the reality of human trafficking in Cleveland, and to honor survivors and those we've lost to modern day slavery. We also love to just join with everyone and have a fun night.
We started this with a group of Lee students tasked with developing a public relations campaign for WBF. That was in 2018 and we've been going every year since!
What should runners expect on race day? Where is the race, when does it start, and is there anything else unique about it?
The race begins by the yellow chair at the Greenway on October 19 at 6:30 pm. We have a 1 mile walk option for those who want to participate but aren't interested in running the 5k. The cool thing about the event is that it's not just a race; it's also a community festival with something for everyone. We will have food trucks, coffee, great music, vendors, games, and so much more. The weather is usually perfect and it's a fun time for families and the whole community to come out and enjoy the evening. Everyone will want to stick around after the race to participate in our powerful candlelight ceremony and worship.
Anything else you would like to share?
We hope everyone registers for the race and comes out on October 19 for a great night. The funds raised truly make a huge difference for survivors, and the awareness built impacts prevention efforts within our community. It takes all of us together to do the work!
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The race takes place at 6:30 in the evening, Friday October 19th, in Greenway Park. For more information, visit the event page on Willowbend Farms website. Runners can also learn more about the work and mission of Willowbend Farms by visiting willowbendfarms.org. Be sure to also check out their curated shop in downtown Cleveland at 95 2nd Street NE, Cleveland TN 37311.
The Funky Monkey Glow Run
Runners cross the finish line of the Funky Monkey Glow Run
Are you ready for a “glow up?” We have the perfect race for you!
Continuing our series highlighting races we are timing this fall, we chatted with Cindy Horton, Executive Director of Rc3 — Rhea County Community Center — and the race director of the annual Funky Monkey Glow Run in Dayton, Tennessee.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got involved with the Rhea County Community Center?
I am the Executive Director of Rc3 and have been since its beginning in January of 2016. We were the Rhea Family YMCA for 30+ years prior to the Y of Metro Chattanooga’s decision to close our branch December 31, 2015. I moved to Dayton in 2002 with my husband and 2 girls for him to begin his medical practice. I was a Physical Therapist and fell quickly into teaching group exercise classes and then onto the board for the next 12 years as either a member or the chair.
For those who don't know, can you tell us about Rc3? What do you all do and how does that impact families of Rhea County?
See above plus- Our mission is TO BUILD A HEALTHY COMMUNITY WITH CHRIST AS OUR CORNERSTONE. We offer financial assistance for everything! No one is ever turned away due to financial issues. We offer several free programs for children, families, and senior citizens. We offer Silver Sneaker classes and tons of GroupX classes as well as Childwatch so parents and grandparents can workout. We have after-school programs, summer camps, and sports camps, host multiple youth sports programs, and many community health initiatives.
Come in your funkiest glow gear!
What about the race itself? With a name like Funky Monkey Glow Run, it has to be fun! How did it come about and how does it benefit the work you all do?
The race. Ha! I came up with it while in the shower over 10 years ago:). Monkey, of course, in homage to the Scope’s Monkey Trial that occurred her in Dayton in the 1920s…. Funky because glow, etc. We have music, glow gear, confetti, pizza, bananas, popcorn, and cotton candy. The money raised goes towards our Strong Community Campaign which funds our financials assistance and free programs.
What should runners expect on race day? Where is the race, when does it start, and is there anything else unique about it?
The race takes place on Friday evening, October 4 at 8pm, starting and ending at Rc3 in Dayton. We love for participants to come in their funkiest glow gear! 5k runners receive a long sleeve race t-shirt and 1 mile runners earn a short sleeve shirt. Medals for all finishers and place medals for the 5K! Place medals for 12 and under / 50+ 1 milers. Strollers and walkers welcome!
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Runners can sign up for the Funky Monkey Glow Run by visiting the sign up page. For more information on the race, visit the event page on Rc3’s website.
The City Fields Fall Fest 5k and Fun Run
Fall means shorter days, pumpkin spice, changing leaves and… festivals! As a runner, we love when these festivals include a quality race component like City Fields’ upcoming Fall Fest 5k and Fun Run. We especially love it when the 5k course takes us through parts of Cleveland we don’t normally run; we get even more excited when we trust the organization involved, knowing that our participation matters. All of these components come together in City Fields' upcoming fundraiser and race on September 28th. To learn more we connected with City Fields Community Engagement Coordinator, Kyle Stokes, to learn more about the race, City Fields and what runners can expect.
Kyle, can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got involved with City Fields?
I grew up on the north side of Cleveland and remember watching that side of town grow, develop, and change in real time. I moved away for college and seminary where, among other things, I learned about place-based development organizations. One organization in Atlanta, which is where I went to seminary, is called Focused Community Strategies, and I didn't know at the time that they were starting to consult with a new place-based development organization in my hometown - City Fields. I began to learn about the different trajectories of different parts of Cleveland over the last several decades and the variety of complex reasons why some places seem to flourish while other places seem left behind. When my wife, Kelly, and I moved back to Cleveland, I knew I wanted to get involved in some way with that kind of work. In 2020, after working at Unity Center and while I was working at Broad Street United Methodist Church, I joined City Fields' Board of Directors and then joined the staff this past January.
For those who don't know, can you tell us about City Fields? What do you all do and how does that impact our community?
City Fields Community Engagement Coordinator, Kyle Stokes, invites you and your family to be a part of the Fall Fest 5k and Fun Run!
City Fields seeks to be a catalyst for change in Cleveland's most overlooked neighborhoods. There's a growing amount of data that shows that the neighborhood you're born into is more predictive than any other factor in your overall future health outcomes - physical health, mental health, economic stability, etc. One response to that circumstance is to encourage people to get out of their neighborhoods. City Fields' response is to listen to the voices of our neighborhoods and come alongside them, working together to create the kind of healthy, flourishing, connected neighborhood we want for any generation to be able to thrive in. Physical Revitalization, Social Revitalization, Leadership Development, Neighborhood Safety, and Economic Development are the five areas, or fields, we look at to discover what is holding communities back, and what opportunities lie untapped for creating a safe, healthy, engaged, and flourishing neighborhood.
What about the event itself? With a name like Fall Fest, it sounds like a lot more than just a 5k! How did this idea come about and how will it benefit the work you all do?
Yes it is more than just a 5k! And you don't have to participate in the walk/run to enjoy the Fall Fest. All nonprofits try to come up with fundraising strategies every year - some work better than others, and what works for your organization might not work for another. We've never tried a 5k before but what we liked about the 5k idea is that it's not just a random route to raise money. We purposely chose to make the route in one of the neighborhoods we work with, Blythe Oldfield. Blythe Oldfield is so close to Downtown Cleveland and yet feels so far away due the barriers of the railroad tracks and the almost 50 acres of torn down manufacturing site (Magic Chef, Maytag, Whirlpool). This event gives us a chance to raise a little bit of money to continue our work, sure, but more importantly we are inviting Clevelanders on both sides of the tracks to connect with each other in our neighborhood. We are excited to be able to highlight a lot of City Fields' work along the route and show how neighbors who've advocated together for their neighborhood have been able to make a difference.
The Fall Fest will feature local vendors, a live Bluegrass band, food trucks, a bounce house, and just all around family fun for the afternoon. We hope you're able to join us!
What should runners expect on race day? Where is the race, when does it start, and is there anything else unique about it?
The race will start at 11am at 1075 Blythe Avenue - the front of the old Blythe Ave School building but runners will want to get there around 10. There are some fun hills along the route so you've still got some time to get some hill training in! Keep up with our Facebook and Instagram for further details as race day approaches.
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The City Fields Fall Festival 5k and Fun Run takes place on September 28th at Blythe Oldfield Park. The race starts at 11am but the festival goes until 3pm! To view the course route, learn more and register, visit the event page located on City Fields website.
Do It For the Kids 5k
Kids at the Boys and Girls Club designed the 5k shirt!
Fall race season is very quickly approaching and this year we have quite a few new offerings for runners and walkers to choose from. One of those races is the Do It For the Kids 5k benefiting the Boys and Girls Club of the Ocoee Region and put by River Counties Association of Realtors. At Terra Running, it is no surprise that we love races, but we especially love races that benefit worthy causes which is exactly what this one does! We chatted with Michael Parent of River Counties Association of Realtors to learn more about this brand new 5k.
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Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got involved with the Do it for the Kids 5k?
I am currently the CEO for River Counties Association of REALTORS® and this event came about through our Community Outreach committee. This committee is tasked with organizing events that are designed to engage the county and provide assitance where needed. We provide scholarships to local students, organize a REALTOR® volunteer week assiting in various projects of need throughout the community, volunteer to assist Habitat for Humanity with their local builds, etc.
What about the race itself? It is my understanding that this is a new 5k this year. How did it come about and how does it benefit the work you all do?
This race idea came about to help the community and the committee overwhelming approved the Boys and Girls Club of the Ocoee region as the beneficiary of any proceeds raised through the 5k. This is our inaugural year wtih the 5k and we felt it is something that everyone in the community can participate in. This is a fun run/walk; we want everyone to feel included and come out to complete the 5k in any way that they feel comfortable. We also created the opportunity for the Boys and Girls of the club to submit drawings for the race logo. We received those entries in July and the committee decided on the winner which is the race’s logo.
What should runners expect on race day? Where is the race, when does it start, and is there anything else unique about it?
On race day expect to come out and have fun. Mix 104.1 will be there to start off our race and get everyone pumped up to make a difference. The race is being held on September 21, 2024 at the Greenway in Raider Park, on site packet pick up will start at 7am; the race officially begins at 8am. Participants can also pick up their race packets at our office the day before — Friday, September 20th — from 9am-3pm. We are located at 2070 Candies Lane NW Cleveland, TN 37312.
Anything else you would like to share?
Our REALTORS® are very appreciative of the counties around us and are always looking to giveback in any way they can. Selling and buying a home is one of the most important steps in someones life and it is truly special to be a part of their journey. We believe that everyone deserves to have housing and that it is a right not a privlege. Our associaiton also strives to help those less fortunate and homeless, this is a serious issue in our nation and we will contuinue to try and help wipe it out.
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Participants can register for the race at this link or by visiting terrarunning.com. For more information on the River Counties Association of Realtors check them out online at rivercounties.com as well as their Facebook page. To learn more about the Boys and Girls Club of the Ocoee Region and to support them directly, visit them online at bgcocoee.org. You can also visit them on Facebook.
Running with your dog
If you're needing some motivation to get you out the door to run, running with a friend is always helpful. I have found that running with my new furry friend has been a great way for us to bond! I adopted Radar from the SPCA of Bradley County in the summer and we have enjoyed learning to run together over the past few weeks.
Exercise is so important for dogs, especially young ones! Running with your dog is a great way to bond and share a hobby together. I also love running with Radar because it gets me out of my own head; I try to be very aware of our surroundings and Radar's condition while running so I am less worried about my own aches and pains.
We use a Stunt Puppy Stunt Runner leash, which attaches to my waist and his harness. I feel very secure running with the Stunt Runner; its super high quality with tough clasps and strong stitching. Even though Radar is 60 lbs and very strong, I know I'll be able to keep him under my control with the Stunt Runner leash. According to Stunt Puppy, the flexible bungee on the Stunt Runner stretches from 35” to 51” in order to absorb slight variations in stride without pulling you and disrupting your run, unlike a regular leash.
The American Kennel Club says to be sure your dog is close to or completely done growing before getting them out on longer runs. Additionally, be sure your dog has the right personality for a run. If they sit or drag you to slow down, listen to them. Not all dogs are interested in being runners, and that's ok!
The American Kennel Club also recommends starting with loose leash walking and adding in short intervals of running with your dog, which is similar to how I recommend new running humans build up endurance. The first time I ran with Radar, he kept looking to me for cues. He was curious if we were running away from something or if I was scared. It was adorable because he is very eager to please, but I just kept reassuring him this was fun and we were just out running together for the joy of it.
I would also recommend not starting your dog running during the heat of the summer. Listen to your dog's cues, like excessive panting and wanting to lay down. Every time I run with Radar, I think of it as "his" run, not mine. If he wants to go slow or walk, I won't force him to run beyond his comfort.
Check out our reel learning to run together at Instagram.com/TerraRunning and learn more about Stunt Puppy (available for purchase at Terra Running Company) and get answers to frequently asked questions about running with your dog here: https://www.stuntpuppy.com/pages/running-faq. And look for me and Radar running on a Greenway near you!
Cleveland Circuit Ride Benefitting Family Promise
At Terra Running Co, we love that we get to help community organizations put on meaningful fundraisers through races. One of the more unique events that we have the privilege of timing is the Cleveland Circuit Ride for Family Promise of Bradley County. This incredible event benefits an incredible organization serving families right here in our neighborhood. We spoke with the race director and the Executive Director of Family Promise, Eva VanHook, about Family Promise of Bradley County and this exciting event.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got involved with Family Promise of Bradley County?
I was recruited by a founding board member as the volunteer coordinator for my church before the agency opened to serve the public. I filled needs as they arrived serving first as the Case Manager, then Program Director before ultimately serving as the Executive Director. That was 11 years ago. I just celebrated my anniversary.
Can you tell us about Family Promise? What do you all and how does that impact our community?
Family Promise of Bradley County works with children and their families facing housing instability. What started as a family shelter in 2011, has since become a housing hub for the community by providing shelter, prevention, diversion, and stabilization services. We work to ensure that children have a safe place to sleep at night by sharing their stories and advocating for the families we serve. Our families work hard to overcome obstacles and achieve their goal of sustainable housing.
Unlike the majority of the races we time, this is a cycling event, which is exciting! Can you tell us about the event itself? Who is it for, are there multiple distances, are kids allowed to participate, etc.
We are so excited to partner with Terra Running Co this year to provide the timing system for our participants. We have been hosting this ride for 10 years now and we have seen it grow and develop. We offer 4 different distances (25, 50, 100 km, and 100 miles) so that any cyclists, or family, can participate. On the shorter routes we do offer that children can ride free with a paying adult (they must also ride with the minor). The committee made the decision to only allow adults to ride the 100 mile century. The 25, 50, and 100 km routes are marked by Route Arrows. The 100 mile course requires that participants have turn-by-turn navigation. Each route crosses at least one aid station and is followed by a chase vehicle. Bradley County Sheriff's Department and Cohutta Police Department aid the cyclists in the more trafficked street crossings. We work very hard to make sure that all cyclists are safe.
How does the Cleveland Circuit Ride benefit the work you all do at Family Promise?
The Cleveland Circuit Ride was developed by a volunteer group that wanted to see a cycling event happen in our community. They chose to benefit Family Promise because they believed in the mission and they saw firsthand the work that we did and the difference that we made. Over the years, this group has retired and passed ownership of the Circuit Ride over to Family Promise and the organization has committed to carrying on this unique event. This is our largest fundraising event of the year as we are able to expand our reach to so many new individuals. Not only does it provide the finances needed for the organization to be successful, but it also provides connections to new individuals who want to make an impact in our community.
What should cyclists expect on the day of the event? Where and when does it start, are there aid stations on the course? Any other relevant details?
We are only a few weeks away. I can't believe it! The day of the event is active and it is crucial that participants know what to expect. The event starts and stops at Black Fox Elementary School on Saturday, September 7th. Depending on the route the cyclists are riding, affects the start time with our longest ride leaving at 7 am. The 100 km will leave at 8 am and the 50 and 25 km riders will leave at 9 am. Routes will be marked by Route Arrows and cyclists are given color-coded wristbands. Everyone also gets my phone number because I want them to have access to me in case of an emergency. There is access to the aid station at least once during the routes. Chase vehicles follow every group and there are police officers stationed at more critical road crossings. After the cyclists get back from the ride, the Hungry Hippie will feed them one of their tasty signature dishes. There will also be vendors set up and spaces for you to bring your camping chair and bask in the glory of your accomplishment.
Anything else you would like to share?
This is a great event and really accessible to riders of all skill levels. Feel free to contact Eva at eva@familypromisebradleytn.org with any questions.
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Riders can find more information and sign up for the event by visiting the Cleveland Circuit Ride website at www.circuitride.org. To find more information about Family Promise of Bradley County and to support the work that they do, visit their website at www.familypromisebradleytn.org.
How long should a shoe last?
Once we find a shoe that fits our feet perfectly, we feel like Cinderella finding her glass slipper; our perfect shoe hugs our feet in all the right places, it has just the right amount of cushion, and carries us far pain free! But then, all of a sudden, it seems falls apart even though it was bought only six months ago! How can this be?
As much as we would love for our shoes to last us forever or to carry us for a few years, the reality is that they just cannot handle that much wear and tear. Especially when it is our favorite and we wear it every day. This is a conversation we try to bring up in the store during fitting consultations. As busy as we are and as much as our feet are used, shoes break down faster than we think.
What factors cause shoes to break down?
Shoes break down in many different ways and at different rates depending on how you are using them. The first thing to look when considering how long your shoes will last is the way you are using the shoe. This includes different surface types like concrete, hardwood floors, asphalt, tile floors, gravel, trails, etc. Harder surfaces are tougher on shoes. You will also want to look at how often and how long you use the shoe. This also includes long periods of standing (12 to 15 hrs), as well as running mileage, walking mileage, and if you run/walk/exercise in the same pair of shoes. Adding all these factors together, you can see that our shoes end up with a lot of wear and tear. If you run twenty to twenty five miles a week then your shoes will probably need to be replaced at the four month timeframe. Running twenty to twenty five miles a week puts the shoe at 340-425 miles in four months. This isn’t taking into account all the times you just threw them on your feet to walk the dog, go to the grocery store, etc.
As a rule of thumb a good shoe will withstand about 500 miles maximum. This doesn’t necessarily mean that the shoe will look completely worn out (though it probably will at that point!) but it does mean the cushion and support it once offered will have broken down significantly to the point that you are not getting the same benefit from the shoe. Wearing a shoe past this point can cause more pressure in joints and muscle groups in the leg, causing the leg to overcompensate which could lead to injuries, higher risks of blisters, numb feelings after long wears, and so much more! Becoming aware of when a shoe that did not hurt two months ago begins to suddenly cause pain not experienced before is important! Preventing injuries can be as easy as tracking mileage and wear from the date of purchase.
How do you make your shoes last longer?
Some of the ways we can make those amazing shoes last longer is to have separate uses for different shoes. If you have a pair of running shoes you love, keep those different from working/walking shoes. If you have a pair of working/walking shoes you love keep those different from the ones you exercise in. This is beneficial as our shoes start to mold to our feet a bit more. Each gait pattern is different as we complete those everyday activities.
As much as we love certain shoes, sometimes we have to part ways and invest in another pair to keep those feet happy, healthy, and going the extra mile. If this is something you may find trouble with, we examine shoes and walk patterns at Terra, just bring in those shoes with you, and we can help navigate you through the process.
Oh and once it is time to get rid of those old shoes, bring them to us at Terra! We participate in a shoe recycling program that works to keep old pairs out of landfills.
Terra Running Company Nationally Recognized for Third Year in a Row
Once again, Terra Running Company has been nationally recognized as “A Best Running Store.” This is Terra Running Co.’s fourth time winning the award and the third year in a row they have received the recognition (2019, 2022, 2023, and 2024).
Conferred by The Running Event since 2008, this national award recognizes leaders in the run specialty industry. A months-long process, The Running Event evaluates businesses’ in-store experience, as well as their out-of-store presence in the community, including charitable involvement and events and programs promoting the sport of running. To be considered for a Best Running Store award, retailers must also be nominated by customers and their community before being examined on location. In 2024, The Running Event team sorted through over 15,000 nominations representing nearly 270 unique stores around the US before conferring the “Best Running Store” designation on the approximately 60 winning retailers.
As explained by Christina Henderson, the Director of The Running Event, “These stores are managed by teams of people who care deeply about each other and their customers. This care and dedication creates ripple effects throughout communities across the country, not to mention all corners of the running industry.”
Owner Brittany Katz credited the Terra Running team and the support of the Cleveland community as being vital to winning the coveted designation. “The Terra Running staff and I have kept our standards high for customer service, helpful and creative community events, all while providing the best experience for our customers; I believe this is why we brought the ‘Best Running Store’ award to Cleveland again this year. I am so thankful that Cleveland has continued to support our small business. We are excited for the future!”
All Best Running Store winners will be honored in person at The Running Event in Austin, Texas, on November 21, 2024.
To view the full list of winners and to learn more, visit: https://www.therunningevent.com/best-running-stores-2024/
Begin Again
Have you ever experienced a moment of burnout? Have you ever noticed that the things that you used to like no longer bring you as much joy? Perhaps this has given you the urge to start something new, but you're scared at the thought of being a beginner at something again? Or maybe you simply do not know where to start?! Well, the good news is you are not alone!
Recently, I experienced a huge moment of burnout, leading me to want to start something new, in my case running. Embarking out into the journey of running looks, sounds, and is a bit frightening, however; it is not too late to begin the journey.
Over the course of last week, I started this journey with a mile's worth of interval training and making an appearance at our Terra Trot group run to connect with the running community. Even though the start was slow and there were frustrating moments, last week was so much fun!
In the case of beginning a running journey and not knowing where to start here are some of the tips I have personally found helpful!
Find a time of day that is most refreshing for you.
Search for locations where you feel safe and can enjoy the scenery or views.
If you can, find a community of runners and make new connections.
Start slow! Even if it feels like you will get nowhere, interval training is a huge help.
Make a training goal, no matter how small it may be. The goal provides helpful motivation.
Find a training plan that you can be consistent with. A training plan will give structure while you are new and as a bonus, you will be able to see how far you have come!
And finally, just enjoy the journey and have fun! It may be mentally hard to be a beginner at something again, but you will grow and achieve all of your goals while gaining something new to look forward to. There are so many active and fun hobbies to choose from: hiking, biking, fast walking, roller skating, weight training, swimming, paddling, and running ... which one will you become a beginner at?
Update: Since writing this blog post in March, Dara has already completed her first 5k!
Laps for Luis 5K
Each year, we partner with local organizations and businesses to time their races. One that we are extra excited to support is the Laps for Luis 5K. This race honors local runner Luis Perez, who lost his life to suicide. Besides being a great race, the event raises funds for local organizations that are working to address the mental health crisis in our area. The 5K, now in its 3rd year, also features a “Lap for Life” where the community will walk one lap to honor and remember of all those lost to suicide.
We chatted with Sonia Perez, the race director for the event, to learn more.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and the Laps for Luis race?
The Laps for Luis 5K race is to remember our loved one Luis Daniel Perez, he loved to run. At the same time this race is to create mental health and suicide prevention awareness. This year funds will be donated to two local organizations that help the community with mental health.
This race will be held on Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 9 am in Lakeshore Park in Dalton, GA.
Luis Perez loved to run!
What about Luis? Can you tell us a bit about him and who he was? He was clearly very special.
He was, IS A VERY SPECIAL PERSON to all of us. He was a kind hearted and dedicated to running person. He loved to run and travel and try new food. He had an entrepreneurial mindset. He is forever in our hearts until we see him again!
Most people can't imagine going through the loss of a loved one in this way, let alone organizing an event to bring something positive out of a tragedy. Was there a specific moment that you can recall where your family decided that they were going to do something?
No, it was actually Raul Flores, Luis’ previous cross country teammate that came up with the idea and we supported the idea.
I know that the race brings awareness to the mental health and suicide crisis that is currently going on but do the funds raised benefit any specific organization?
This year the funds will go to The Compassion House and CLILA.
Is there a way for people to support the mission of Laps for Luis beyond running the race?
At this point, just donating funds and/or participating in the event and also sharing the event with others.
What about the race itself? When and where is it, and what should runners expect on race day? Is there anything else unique about it?
This race will be held on Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 9 am in Lakeshore Park in Dalton, GA. There will be prizes for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers both male and female.
Anything else you would like to share?
You can also register the day of the race.
Ace the Race Carter's Lake and Dam 5k
Carter’s Lake at Sunset
One of the brand new races that we are timing this is year is Ace the Race 5k, located in beautiful Chatsworth, Georgia, in the North Georgia Blue Ridge mountains.
We chatted with race director, Clayton “Red” Lyons about the race and what runners can expect.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got involved with Carters Lake?
My name is Clayton “ Red” Lyons, my wife and I volunteer for the US Army Corps of Engineers at their public facilities (i.e. campgrounds, day uses and Nature centers). We are both retired and I was a former USACE employee. We started at the Carters Lake USACE project in October of 2020.
We lived in Ellijay Ga. years ago and fell in love with the lake, so an opportunity to come back and work here as a volunteer was exciting.
For those who don't know, can you tell us a little bit about Carters Lake? Where is it, why is it important?
Carters Lake is a 3200 acre man made lake managed by the USACE. It has approximately 62 miles of shoreline, is about 11 miles long and almost 450 feet deep. The property adjoining the shoreline is owned and maintained by the USACE and is a wildlife management area so there are no houses or docks on the shore with the exception of the one and only Marina. Its has the largest earthen dam this side of the Mississippi River and considered the cleanest lake in Georgia. It is fed by the Coosawattee River and is the drinking waters source for neighboring counties.
I see that the race is sponsored by Our Beautiful Carters Lake Inc. Can you tell us a little bit about what you all do?
In 2023 Our Beautiful Carters Lake Inc was formed as a 501 C. 3 nonprofit corporation and has a Partnership agreement with the USACE. Our mission is to assist the USACE in maintaining and improving the public use areas around the lake. We hold our annual National Public Lands Day Cleanup on the last saturday of each September where volunteers from neighboring communities come out and pick up trash from around our shoreline and public use areas, perform trail birdhouse and fish habitat maintenance. After the clean up, participants recieve a free lunch and tee shirt.
What about the race itself? How did it come about and how does it benefit the work you all do?
Ace The Race is a 5K held in April to help fund our National Public Lands Day event. Its as well as our other events provide an opportunity for the public to get involved in our project and to spend more time at Our Beautiful Carters Lake.
What should runners expect on race day? Where is the race, when does it start, and is there anything else unique about it?
The Race starts at our Northbank Park and goes across the dam past our trial heads and overlooks, to the Nature center parking lot and then returns to Northbank park on the same route.
Its scenery includes the lake, nature areas, parks and mountain views as you run or walk along. It starts at 10:00 am and is only $20 this year.
We hope to become known for our awesome tee shirts and the beautiful scenery along the way.
Interested runners can sign up for the Ace the Race 5k on Terra Running Company’s website or directly through Our Beautiful Carter’s Lake website.
Starting to Run Backwards
For most people, before they begin their running journey they have some sort of desire to actually run. First, they decide they want to “get into running,” and then they might do some research. One might find a good cardio workout for beginners and find shoes that will best benefit them. This is great and typically a beautiful progress to becoming an avid runner. This is not my story.
When I got hired at Terra Running Company, I was not a runner and had no intentions of becoming one. Therefore, training was a little more difficult. I had to start from scratch, so I started with Skratch, and I will say their cookie mix is delicious. On a serious note, I tried on roughly 26 pairs of running shoes, becoming hyper-aware of every detail and feeling. I’ll be honest, this made my everyday shoes feel a little less comfortable. I needed to know what each shoe felt like in order to sell them. Although I was not going to run in them, other people would, so I needed to have knowledge even without much experience.
As I continued to learn about shoes, I learned about the importance and benefits of nutrition, socks, accessories, and running in general. I now spend many hours a week talking to runners about what suits them best, mostly pertaining to shoes but also their likes and dislikes surrounding all things running.
Since starting at TRC, I have loved getting to know my coworkers, regulars, and new customers. I have seen the joy people get from putting on a good shoe after so long without one. I have seen the excitement people get when running with their friends. And I have seen the satisfaction received by finishing a race. This has been inspiring and encouraging. Mary Lou Kownacki has a quote that states, “There isn’t anyone you couldn’t love once you’ve heard their story. ” I often think about this quote when dealing with others, but uniquely this has been true for me pertaining to running. I learned so much about running and runners that I have started to run myself. I used to make the joke that if you saw me running you should run too, because there would most likely be something chasing me. Now, I will quote some Terra gear and say, “Run for your life,” and I will do so happily. For now, I’m off to jog on the Greenway…
Shoe Review Time!
Since I work at a running store, I’ve tried on many, many pairs of shoes. Some were love at first sight, while others grew on me as I broke them in. Here are a few shoes that I have found to fit my shoe needs, and I think may suit yours!
The On Cloudgo
The On Cloudgo is a mid-cushioned, neutral running shoe with an 11 mm heel-to-toe drop. Featuring On’s signature CloudTec, the Cloudgo provides sufficient cushion and support with a nice lively feel. I have found it to be perfect for walking as well as standing for longer periods; it doesn’t give me annoying pressure points on my heels like some shoes do with all-day wear.
The On Cloudultra 2
The On Cloudultra 2 is a cushioned trail shoe with a 5 mm heel-to-toe drop. As a trail shoe actually intended for ultra races, I find that it is a surprisingly great travel shoe. Not only does it look good and provide support, but since it is technically a trail shoe it comes with On’s Mission Grip rubber outsole giving you traction for a variety of surfaces without too deep of a lug depth — you can still use it on concrete or road without issue. No matter where your travels take you, this shoe can be your go-to! I took these on a trip to Colorado recently and they performed well as I walked on ice and snow. Version 2 of the Cloudultra has an updated sock upper which I think is a nice feature, that makes them easy to slip on and off while providing a snug, supportive fit.
The Brooks Levitate GTS 6
The Brooks Levitate GTS 6 is a stability shoe with an 8 mm heel-to-toe drop. Compared with Brooks’ DNA Loft foams (like what you would find in the Ghost), the Levitate GTS utilizes Brooks’ DNA Amp material which feels a bit firmer directly underfoot but gives me the stability I need with a nice amount of rebound. I have the Stealthfit version which features a knit upper that is breathable, comfy, and stretchy, holding my foot in place well. I love wearing it to the gym because of its cushion level and stable platform.
I hope you try these out, and let me know some of your shoe favorites and why!
Gear up for cold weather running
The temps are dropping, but that doesn't mean your activity has to slack off or head indoors. If you ask me, the greatest thing about Tennessee winters is it's often still sunny, even when the air temps drop below freezing. If you want to keep up with cold weather running, here are some tips to prepare.
1. When headed out for a cold weather run, dress like you would if you weren't running and it was 20 degrees warmer. For example, if it's 30 degrees F outside but you are headed out for a run, ask yourself what you'd wear on a normal day if it were 50 degrees F outside. You'd dress in pants and a light jacket, with some layers you could unload once warmed up. Don't overdo it just because 30 seems so cold! You're going to warm your body up as soon as you start moving.
2. Layers! On top, dress in lots of layers. Make sure your base layer is always moisture-wicking, never cotton. Dress in a short-sleeve base layer, a long-sleeve over top, and a jacket that you can easily unzip or take off when your body warms up. My favorite winter running jacket is the Brooks Canopy Jacket. There are buttons along the zipper so you can keep the jacket closed but still release heat through your chest. It is also packable into a bag sewn into the jacket.
3. When in doubt, overdress to get yourself out the door. You can always shed layers as you run, but if you're having trouble convincing yourself to get out the door, just throw on another layer (jacket, hoodie, whatever!) to get going. Once you get outside, you'll feel more like continuing. You can always take off a layer, ditch the gloves, and keep it moving!
4. Change your mindset. In just a few short months, it will be back to sweltering heat! We'll be talking about avoiding running in the heat of the day and working hard to keep our electrolytes up because we're sweating so much. Enjoy the brisk weather while you can! The winter is where fast, fit, consistent summer runners are made, so don't skip out on these cool runs if you can!
Starting Off Strong
We all know the clichés around the New Year and resolutions; “Everyone has great intentions but give it a few weeks and the follow-through fails.”
And while that may be true for some, the truth is, the start of the New Year is a great time to implement some new and improved habits that stick! Don’t let some people’s cynicism keep you from starting on the road of healthy changes or new challenges.
To help you get started, check out the following tips:
Start simple
A lot of the reason resolutions fail is that people try to change their entire life in a week! Change takes time, especially when it comes to our ingrained habits. Instead focus on keeping your goals a simple as possible. Then add in more goals and habits as you master each new challenge. For example, if your goal is to eat healthier, identify some simple changes you can make to get the ball rolling in the right direction. Instead of jumping in on the newest fad diet and completely altering your life all at once (something that has a high likelihood of failure… and will probably make you miserable), you could start by ensuring you always include a vegetable or fruit with every meal. Or maybe choosing to eat off the smaller sized plates in your dishware set to help regulate portion sizes. Once you’ve mastered that, you can add in something new like cutting down on sodas or desserts, etc. You can do this with almost any goal, not just health and wellness goals. A huge plus side of this approach is that it helps you change your internal narrative naturally over time, something else that is vitally important to creating habits that stick (but we will get to that in a minute).
Make it easy to do the right thing
Our brains are wired to look for the paths of least resistance. While in some situations this can be helpful (creating efficient workflows, etc.) this tendency is often the death-knell to our good intentions. We make up silly excuses and get tripped up by the smallest of obstacles. If you are like me, something as ridiculous as having to walk into the other room can keep me from completing a task, let alone the effort it takes for something like getting ready for and going to the gym. This is why it is very helpful to look for ways to make it easy to do the right thing. Sure, ideally overtime we build up our tolerance for discomfort but especially in the early stages of creating habits, don’t make things harder for yourself. Maybe you have heard of the people who sleep in their workout clothes so that they can roll right out of bed and get to it? This is an excellent example of removing obstacles — however small and seemingly inconsequential! — so that the path toward your goals is that much easier to execute. If you have never tried this strategy before you might be surprised how effective it is! Other examples, can be getting some basic home workout equipment so that you don’t have to get in the car and drive to the gym for your workout (this is another reason why running is such a popular form of exercise! Just lace up and run right out your front door)! Other wellness examples could be stocking your shelves with healthy snacks instead of junk food, doing some basic meal prepping so that nutritious food is more accessible throughout the week, or even parking your car farther away in the parking lot so that you are getting more steps in.
Be aware of your internal narrative
This is something that many people neglect to address when they jump into their resolutions. They see themselves as an unhealthy person (maybe they even bragged to others about how little they cared, that they don’t eat vegetables, etc.) so things that are associated with healthy living feel not only foreign but inauthentic to them. Maybe they try something for a few weeks but internally they feel like a fraud and they subconsciously expect themselves to fail. This is not only a recipe for defeat, it is a cycle that builds on itself. A fresh failure will reinforce that old narrative that they have identified with and will make a new attempt in the future even more difficult. Instead, practice some self-reflection and take stock of your internal narrative. What do you tell yourself about yourself? What kind of person do you see yourself as? What about that person do you like? What about that person are you hoping to grow, even change? What do you say about yourself out loud? If you always say (internally or externally), “I’m not a runner.” Or, “Running always hurts my knees so I don’t do it.” Or, “I hate vegetables,” or “I don’t read,” or “Everyone always leaves me,” you have just made some pretty strong declarations about yourself that will do nothing other than cut you off from growing in the future. Remember that you get to decide who you will be! Old experiences, habits, and narratives — either put on you by yourself or by others — don’t need to define you in the future.
Get some accountability
Perhaps this the most difficult of all the advice offered here. Getting other people involved immediately raises the stakes on any of our goals; this is the point of accountability! When we involve others in our goals and resolutions, we are forced to define our goals and commit to something; our lack of follow-through can no longer masquerade as indecision. There are many options for accountability: friends, co-workers, significant others, spouses, coaches, personal trainers, run-groups, online support groups, apps — there are lots of options! Some options provide passive accountability, like a running group or a workout class — you know that people will wonder where you are if you don’t show up and that can make all the difference in making sure you go; other options provide more direct accountability, like a friend, life-coach, or personal trainer — they will follow up with you directly on how your goals are going, and may even provide instruction. Just make sure if you are asking a friend, co-worker, family member, etc., that they are truly okay with providing accountability for you. Also be sure to define your goal clearly and request what your hopes would be for their role in that (“would you mind asking me at the end of the week if I did x, y, z,” etc.) and check back in on how things are going down the line.
While it may be true that a lot of people’s resolutions fail after a few weeks, it is also true that this time of year can be an incredibly helpful catalyst to change. Everyone has the ability to move forward into being more of the person that they hope to be and with a bit of strategy, honesty, self-reflection, and help from others, these changes and habits will only come easier and easier!
From One Athlete to Another
Dealing with an injury as an athlete is incredibly tough, especially on a joint you walk on and use every day. If you’ve ever had a foot injury, I’m sure you’ve had to wear a boot, ankle brace, compression socks, or all the above. Well, today I am writing this to let you know that it does get better. It may be hard to see while walking through the injury in the present moment. However, injuries do not define our recreational abilities or show us how weak we are, but sometimes injuries can help us see a broader perspective, redefine our passion for sport, and show us just how strong we are.
From personal experience, I know how it feels to feel “stuck” as an athlete. You see your friends sprinting or having the best time, while you’re sitting in your living room completing another set of Physical Therapy exercises for the day. Wondering if you will ever get back to what you love.
Then you may notice as you get back to your sport, that your foot has changed a little bit, and the shoes that were once working for you just do not accomplish the original comfort you had, and you may ask “What do I do now? How embarrassing is it to say my feet have changed?” Well, I will tell you that our feet changing is not an embarrassing situation, but it is a normal process.
Sometimes an injury will tell us what we best need, you may need a shoe with extra support, or you may need something with a more balanced cushion to get through the recovery process. That is ok! You do not need to apologize for how different it may be for you; at Terra we are here for you and are not judging you based on how your feet have changed. Our feet changing especially with injury might be confusing to us, but the good news is that each shoe is made differently and while you are experiencing all the things recovery brings about; finding a shoe to guide you through that process can be beneficial.
If the thought of shoe shopping stresses you out through this process I will share with you that from experience, I have had multiple foot injuries over the last three years, and shoe shopping would always result in tears with hours and hours into the shopping journey. It was overwhelming, I felt like no one understood, and supportive shoes were just a whole brave new category to fall into, adding to all the injuries, and emotions that come with recovering. With the most recent experience being seen in the picture above with my feet changing sizes again for the 3rd time. Just know that you are not alone! Injuries are hard, our feet changing with or without injury is also hard, however having the right tools to navigate through this change does help.
There are a ton of options for shoes and different directions to navigate through. I know that once you’ve gotten used to your original comfortable shoe, it is hard to branch out. Sometimes switching up our shoes for recovery is beneficial to build up different muscles in our feet and help rest those affected joints a bit better, with less pressure going straight to the injured area, and more time to heal.
From one recovering athlete to another, I want to encourage you, that you are not crazy for noticing a change. Sometimes our injuries tell us we need something different and that is ok! Recovery is a hard rollercoaster with plenty of emotions. Especially when the holidays approach and you’re surrounded by your fellow athletes, but the injuries you are facing today are not forever, you will be a stronger athlete with so much more life to live! You are doing great, keep taking on each day as it comes, and we are here for you to help you find a shoe for the season you are in!
The Altra FWD Experience
Even if you are not a fan of Altra’s shoes you probably know that the brand is known for its “zero-drop” platforms and “foot-shaped” shoes. With shoes that put you on level ground and allow your toes room to splay out, a natural gait is encouraged and injuries are (hopefully!) prevented. This is why Altra, since the brand’s start in 2011, has offered only “zero-drop” shoes.
But all of this changed a few months ago when Altra introduced the world to their first-ever non-zero drop shoe, the AltraFWD Experience.
My Altra FWD Experiences after their first run
The AltraFWD Experience is still a very low-drop shoe, coming in at 4mm. For context, this is the same drop as the Hoka Bondi and one millimeter lower than the Hoka Clifton. The AltraFWD Experience also has a noticeable rocker shape, aimed at facilitating a faster toe-off. For the midsole, Altra went with a new compression-molded EVA instead of their beloved EGOmax foam. The upper is a breathable mesh and, quite frankly, the shoe just looks really good. But no matter how pretty a shoe, runners want to know: “How does it perform?”
With a couple of weeks of running on my pair, here are my thoughts:
Geometry
One of the things I love most about low-drop shoes is how they encourage a more natural gait and midfoot strike (versus a heel strike). While I know that is not everyone’s experience, for me it is noticeable. On the AltraFWD Experience, the low drop, paired with the rocker geometry, had my running form looking and feeling better than it ever has. I don’t know what it is about it, but I felt like I was running correctly. I know, I know! There is (supposedly) no real right or wrong gait BUT this shoe had me gliding over the pavement. I really like the rocker in it, more so than any other shoe with a rocker I have run in before.
Midsole
The midsole in the FWD Experience is a compression-molded EVA. To my understanding, they have not put this foam in any of their other shoes. Most Altras (all?) utilize their EGO or EGOmax material which is much softer than what you get with this EVA. While there is plenty of material under your foot it doesn’t particularly feel cushioned. Think protective and supportive. When running in it, it feels dense. Not unresponsive but not responsive either. Almost like, you run a step and the impact is absorbed by the shoe but there is zero energy given back to you even though it is still somehow helping you pick up the pace. This felt surprising; the rocker and 4mm drop had my feet turning over quickly but I didn’t feel like I was going faster (even though I was). It is a strange paradox.
Outsole
The shoe seems to be holding up well, though, with just over 30 miles on them, it is too early to tell (that being said, I have had shoes show wear on the sole after 10 miles). I do expect the firmer midsole to last longer than something softer. The outsole grips well on dry surfaces but I did notice that I felt less sure-footed when I was trying to pick up the pace on a rainy day. That being said, I think I would have felt the same way in most of my other shoes.
Upper and Fit
I have the white colorway and, predictably it is now dirty. That is the price you pay for beautiful white shoes! So far, I have no concerns with actual upper, laces, or stitching. I do think the AltraFWD Experience runs a bit on the small side, so it could be worth going up a half-size when choosing your pair. The footshape is made on Altra’s “Standard” last, the same shape as the Torin, Paradigm, Timp, etc.
Conclusion
I have gone back and forth from, “I love this shoe!” to “The midsole feels dead, so it’s not that fun to run in.” After giving it a few more runs, I have decided that I really do like this shoe. Even if I don’t feel fast in it, it is noticeably easier to pick up the pace in this shoe than in others. I think it is perfect for tempo runs and protective enough for longer miles. Sure, you might not feel like you are driving (the shoe equivalent of) a sports car, but if it performs like one, then does it matter? In the future, I would love to see Altra give this shoe a slightly softer, more responsive feeling midsole. I think at that point, it would woo over a lot of Hoka Clifton junkies who are looking for a faster, more durable shoe.
While diehard Altra fans may be upset that the brand is starting to offer some non-zero-drop options, I am personally excited to see this move. As long as Altra keeps making zero-drop shoes (and that is not changing!) I am more than happy to have some other Altra options for myself and our customers. While the AltraFWD Experience might not be the perfect shoe (yet!), I think it is a step in the right direction (no pun intended). By offering more variety in their lineup, they open their brand up to runners who may be afraid to jump head-first into a zero-drop shoe and give Altra fans something different to add to their rotation which will ultimately help ward off overuse injuries, especially on days when their calves are extra tired. Now that the zero-drop-only restriction has been lifted, I am excited to see how Altra plays a bit more with its shoe designs while staying true to the science behind low and zero-drop geometry.