True, cardiovascular endurance and overall running economy are very important to my UltraWoman goal. However, building foundational strength now- results in raw power and reduced injury risk so that I will be able to log those big miles later on. Longer, leaner and faster. Long distance and Ultra racing require a strong, whole body in order to sustain the endless hours of repetitive pounding, climbing, descending all without breaking down and losing form. Identifying then addressing weak areas before you go big makes perfect sense.

As the baby boomer generation ages, and the hours employees are expected to work increase, we see an increase in the number diagnosed with diseases related to obesity, unhealthy diets, and too many hours of inactivity.  As a result, many in our nation are highly concerned about their health care.

When considering matters of health care, we take a less traditional approach: focus more on health, than care.

San Luis Obispo county’s 200-plus wineries offer a chance to relax and unwind with friends and the opportunity to taste local wines, but does enjoying a glass of Central Coast wine have hidden health benefits? Many experts believe so. The purported health benefits of drinking wine in moderation range from reduced stress to overall heart health.

No prior rugby experience necessary

Don’t let the darkness and chill of winter keep you indoors

It’s cold, wet, foggy, maybe even icy or snowy if you are on a winter wonderland vacation, and what are you getting ready to do?  Workout of course!!!  Take into consideration these tips to keep you fit, active, and injury free during the winter months:

Make a goal

Find adventure at Skydive Pismo Beach

In 21st century America, planes are a fairly normal aspect of the daily grind. Most adults would say they’ve flown, but Chris Lee, general manager of Skydive Pismo Beach, would disagree. To him, that would be like saying you went for a swim without ever leaving the boat. In order to fly, you’ve got to jump.

Wine country adventure like no other

We usually think of zip lining as an adventurous activity that we might do when vacationing in Costa Rica, Ecuador, or even Northern California – not something that we can do in the middle of Wine Country. That all changed in September 2011 when owner Karl Whittstrom’s inspiration to create Margarita Adventures Zipline Canopy Tours on the Santa Margarita Ranch property became a reality.

The gains in diverse exercise

Fitness places don’t really appeal to me. Perhaps I secretly feel like I have to be fit in order to go to a fitness center. “That’s a common misconception,” says Lindsay Ashton of Revamp Personal Training in Morro Bay. I know she is right. How silly! You start a fitness routine to GET fit.

Editors note: Gary Brown of Paso Robles completed his first tough mudder in September. This is his story.

Misery never felt so good

Why am I here? What’s my age again? 42? Is that old? I was at a friends house for an after golf tournament dinner party. I was happily consuming whatever I wanted: beer, pizza, wine, cheeseburgers, you name it. I overheard a couple of guys talking about the “Tough Mudder Race”.