Training Day 21

3/25/2011 - I have been a bad blogger, unfortunately the everyday responsibilities of life have had to take priority. I have been keeping track of my daily training in my weekly planner though. So, I am going to attempt to do some catching up. =)

It's been a crazy week having to be in California and not being in Las Vegas to run my regular routes, so training has definitely been modified. I took today as a rest day as the week has been crazy with work and I am just physically tired. So, today I offer a tip.
Running sneakers can get pretty foul smelling. I am a firm believer that if you take care of something it will last much longer. I have several pairs of sneakers, so I rotate them. What ever pair I have ran in get's at least a 24 hour rest period. This serves two purposes: first, the cushioning materials in the sneaker have an opportunity to reconform to their original state. Secondly, they get to air out. I open my sneakers wide, and put them in a ventilated area so air can circulate. When I finally put them in the closet, I insert some nifty little gadget's called Sneaker Balls. These are kind of like moth balls inserted into little plastic balls with vent holes, only they have a neutral smell. These help keep my sneakers fresh and no funky odors are allowed to linger.

They come in many different colors, and some are even made to look like smiley faces, or miniature sports balls (basketball, baseball, golf, etc.). I usually pick up a multiple pack of them at Famous Footwear, but you can get them online, sporting goods stores, etc. I think they are cheapest at FF though.
If my sneakers get really dirty, from road dirt, etc. I will throw them in the washer on gentle with some Tide w/bleach - I know they say you shouldn't wash your sneakers - Whatever! If the materials in sneakers can't hold up to a washing then why in the heck am I paying over a $100 dollars per pair??? I have washed mine several times, and they perform just fine. I think the manufacturer's just want you forking out more money more often for new ones. I wash them, then set them outside to air dry. They alway's feel better once I have washed them; it's almost like putting on a new pair.