Nik’s Chicks is a FREE ladies only running/triathlon group. It is only a time and place to meet & a program to follow.  I cannot join you on every run/workout.  If you are new to exercising, it is advisable to have a doctor’s OK prior to beginning.  Any information or products represented on this site are for educational purposes only and are not a substitute for any advice given to you by a medical, nutritional or fitness professional. Please sign my waiver (in “About”) and fill out my contact info sheet when you arrive for your first run.  Please park on West Oak Trails Blvd, Nightingale or at Bloomfield Park to avoid congestion, locking beeps and car doors closing around my neighbours’ houses – especially on Saturday mornings! We run Tuesday and Thursday evenings 8pm and Saturday mornings 8am from the corner of Redwing and Blackbird Courts.  Check out Weekly Workout section for specific times and distances.

Quotes of the Week:  

Running has taught me to love my brain, my body, and what both can do for me when I use them wisely and appreciate them. 

Meggie Smith

There is magic in misery.  Just ask any runner.

Dean Karnazes

It’s about staying fit and pushing yourself to achieve and surpass goals, sure; but it’s also about personal and spiritual growth, creativity, mental clarity and emotional stability.  I find these things in running.

Jamie Quatro

Hello ladies, here is the latest news from the “nest”!   So I have decided that I don’t like walking!  I am slow, it takes too long and I am sooo cold:) There is nothing about it that appeals to me. Despite the fact that I am walking as briskly as my short, little legs will carry me I am not winded or warm! I am not exercising vigorously enough to say I am working out!  I have asked myself is it worth bundling up, heading out into the cold, dark night just to be cranky? And the answer is yes.  It has to be yes.  I am moving, not sitting on my ass, I am getting fresh air and the bottom line – I am allowing my body the time it needs to heal this wonky back of mine.  It’s a means to an end – the end being my resumption of running.  Funny how I don’t love running but when I can’t do it, I really miss it.  There’s a life lesson in there:)  For now, the tub full of hot water will be my reward for doing what I can to take care of my one body.  I am blessed to have my health and will remind myself of this tonight when I am freeeeezing again!!

Mercedes 10km:  A few ladies have said that this race is on their radar.  Training from a 5km base begins on Saturday, Feb. 28.  Here is your program 10 Km program from 5km base (T,Th,S)  You’ll start with…5km!

A New Race to Consider:  I received an email this week about the Wings of Life run in Niagara Falls on May 3.  It’s an international race being held simultaneously in over 40 countries.  Technically there is no finish line.  Everyone sets out together and 30 minutes later a Catcher Car will head out.  When the car “catches” you, your race is over and you are taken back to the start for a party!  100% of the funds raised go to Spinal cord Research.  You will be running for those who can’t.  For more info or to register to be a part of something big, click here Wings For Life Run

Watch a video here: WFL video

NEW March Programs:  I have had a few ladies ask about the Learn to Run Programs and when they will be starting.  With the current colder temps and dark nights, we rarely have ladies who WANT to start programs at this time of year! That being said, new 5km and 10km programs generally begin right after March Break which prep you for May 5 km and 10km races. If you are wanting to do longer distances in May, the time to get your 10km base is now!  Check out the heading “Training Groups/Upcoming Races” to see what’s coming up and who has signed up for races.

Jackets:  I am meeting with the Louis Garneau rep next week and will keep you posted on my progress!

Looking for New Gear?:  You might want to check out the Running Room Outlet Store in Mississauga near Sherway Gardens.  Jo and I were in there yesterday and both of us walked out with new running shoes – mine were 70.00!!  The styles are last year’s or older.  There are lots of tops, running shorts, skirts, etc.  There are no refunds or exchanges – all sales are final. 130 North Queen St. – North of the Queensway and west of the East Mall.

Swimming: Just an FYI for anyone who is interested – Jo and I are swimming at QEP pool on Friday mornings at 10:00am.  Remember to pack your goggles, cap, towel, flip flops, shampoo, conditioner, and everything else you need to make a clean getaway!

What to Wear?:  Having a hard time deciding on how many layers? Use this tool to help sort it out. What to Wear

This week’s workouts – (Meet at 1438 Redwing Court):

WEAR REFLECTIVE GEAR AND/OR FLASHING LIGHTS FOR NIGHT TIME VISIBILITY

Tuesday – February 17  8:00pm

Walking 5km – 5km

Holding on 5km – 5km

Holding on 10km – 5km

Thursday – February 19 8:00pm    

Walking 5km – 5km 

Holding on 5km – 5km 

Holding on10km – 5km 

Saturday – February 21 8:00am 

Walking 5km – 5km 

Holding on 5km – 5km

Holding on 10km –  7-10km

Tuesday – February 24  8:00pm

Walking 5km – 5km 

Holding on 5km – 5km

Holding on10km – 5km

Learn to Run 10km begins Feb. 28

Have a wonderful week! Niki