It’s amazing how quickly expectations can change and perceived limitations can be expanded. I remember crossing the finish line of my first half marathon in 2010 and thinking there was no way I’d ever run a full marathon. “If somebody told me to go do that again right now,” I said to my wife after the 2010 Columbus Half, “I’d punch them in the throat.” A little extreme, perhaps, but at the time, it was an honest reaction to the horrifying thought of finishing a 13.1-mile race and turning around to do it all over again. Not a chance.

Soon after Columbus, though, I signed up for my second half marathon and started to more seriously consider running a full. What changed? Eventually, the exhaustion and nausea from that first race faded and I realized that I was now as intimidated by the thought of running a full marathon as I initially had been by the thought of running a half. Once I began training for Columbus, though, and my mileage started creeping toward double digits, that 13.1-mile target felt less and less daunting. I understood that race day would still be a challenge, especially if I had any chance of hitting my target time, but with each bump in mileage during my training, my confidence continued to grow. With that experience under my belt, I knew the same thing would happen while training for a full marathon.

That faith convinced me to take the plunge and sign up for the 2011 Chicago Marathon. Shortly after clicking “submit” on the online entry form, my faith had vanished. What had I just done? I could barely drag my carcass across the line for a half marathon; what made me think I could double up for a full? But I was committed, thanks in no small part to the $145 entry fee, so I mapped out my training plan and set to work. Sure enough, once my long runs crept up to 12, 14 and 16 miles, that faith returned and then grew in the coming weeks. Unfortunately, race day went unexpectedly awry for a couple reasons, but I finished. A few weeks later, with the bad taste of the disappointing race still in my mouth, I signed up for the Phoenix Marathon in January, and a couple days after that, I received an invitation to run the Tokyo Marathon in February as part of the international press tour. Sure, why not?!

Within about a year, I went from being terrified by the thought of running a full marathon to finishing three in the span of four months. The idea seemed crazy at the time, but I stayed true to my training and finished Phoenix and Tokyo with relatively respectable times. Now I know that, with the proper time and amount of training, any goal is possible. However, it seems I’m only able to carve out the time needed for the proper training when I click that “submit” button and sign up for a race. It worked for Columbus and Chicago, and it worked again when I signed up for the Akron Half Marathon recently. I had intended to take a short break after Tokyo to allow my body some time to rest up, but that “short break” wound up lasting about five months. I kept trying to kickstart my training again but there were always more important things to do.

Then I promised a friend that I’d run the Akron Half on September 29 if he signed up as well. It would be his first half marathon, my fifth, and that promise wound up being the motivation we both needed. I only squeezed in about two months of training so I wasn’t in the kind of shape I’d like to be in for a big race, but I still finished pretty well this past weekend and, more importantly, I challenged myself again and thoroughly enjoyed the race.

Have you been thinking about running a full or half marathon, or even just a 5K or 10K, but haven’t found the courage to hit that “submit” button? You’ll be amazed by how motivated you become when you finally sign up for that big race, and even more surprised by the surge in confidence you’ll enjoy once you fully commit to your training and start logging those miles.

In my preparation for the Akron Half, I had the pleasure of trying out a few different products that added a little something extra to this round of training. The latest, greatest gizmo or accessory won’t magically turn you into a world-class runner, but it can definitely help you improve along the way or just make the training seem a little less grueling.

PYLE GPS SPORTS WATCH

The majority of my competitive running came during my high school days, long before the advent of GPS devices, so I always measured my training runs the old-fashioned way: by driving the route and hoping for the best. I started using GPS apps on my iPhone for more accurate tracking but found that to be a hassle, particularly when I needed to check my mileage during the run. This Pyle GPS Sports Watch proved to be the perfect solution.

The watch comes with a 2.4 GHz digitally coded wireless heart rate monitor that you strap to your chest during a run, bike ride or other physical activity. For me, though, the GPS tracking and customizable displays were the biggest draws. The watch has four main modes: Compass, Time, Navigation and Workout. Workout mode works with the navigation system to record and display information such as distance traveled, average pace, workout duration, calories burned, heart rate and more. Even better, you can choose what data is displayed in each of the three main zones of the workout mode. For example, knowing what I needed to average per mile in the Akron Half to hit my target time, I programmed the watch to display my pace in the main zone, with the overall time in the top zone and the distance traveled at the bottom. This kind of customizable functionality makes the Pyle GPS Sports Watch that much more useful for whatever activity you have planned.

Water resistant up to 30 meters underwater and containing a rechargeable lithium polymer battery, this compact wrist computer made my training much more effective and precise. You can even use the watch to help plan your route and then analyze your workouts afterward. It takes a while to get the hang of all the bells and whistles, but you’ll soon see that it’s all time well spent.

JAYBIRD WIRELESS BLUETOOTH HEADPHONES

Some people enjoy running with music, and some people simply can’t stand running without the distraction that their music provides. I, on the other hand, find the distraction…well, distracting. I often zone out if I’m listening to music during my runs and find at the end of my workout that my pace is typically slower in those cases. That’s not such a bad thing when I am simply putting in some long miles where pace doesn’t matter much and the distraction would be welcomed, though, and it was on one such run where I popped on these wireless Jaybird Sportsband Bluetooth headphones, paired them with my iPhone and hit the pavement.

I initially was worried that the headphones would become uncomfortable after such a long run and maybe slide out of place, but they sat snugly and comfortably on my ears throughout. Integrated controls on the Sportsband allow you to easily control the music (play, pause, skip and volume control) with a click, and it’s equipped with apt-X audio codec for pristine sound quality with plenty of kick. The Jaybird comes with a lifetime warranty against sweat, its rechargeable battery allows for up to eight hours of music time, and with its concealed microphone, it can also be used as a Bluetooth headset for your phone. In short, these sleek headphones are awesome whether you’re on a run, cutting the grass or just taking care of some chores around the house.

ADIZERO FEATHER 2

Runners are particular; about their training schedules, their pre-race meals, the kind of energy gel they use, their choice of socks, their race-day routine, you name it. Most significantly, though, they’re particular about their running shoes. I’m no different: I find a shoe that I like, and I usually stick with it. If they hold up well to all the miles, if they’re comfortable and, of course, if I remain injury-free while using them, I’ll keep coming back to the same shoe company, and often the same shoe, for years. So in the interest of full disclosure, I am not an Adidas runner. I generally like Adidas for my everyday tennis shoes but had never run in a pair when the 6.7-ounce adizero Feather 2 arrived at my front door.

Obviously, the weight of the shoe first caught my eye. I love a lightweight running shoe, particularly near the end of a long training run or race, and these adizero Feathers are lighter than my beloved trainers of choice by a full pound. Wow. In fact, they’re one of the lightest everyday running shoes on the market thanks to the SprintWeb mesh construction, which significantly reduces weight while combining excellent breathability with support and comfort. As the cherry on top, the adizero Feather 2 comes in eight slick color combinations — I love the flash of my blue/orange pair, and there’s bound to be a color combo perfect for you.

With so much going for it, the adizero Feather 2 certainly grabbed my attention. I can’t claim that I’m ready to make the switch – what can I say, I’m stubborn – but the lightweight makeup, comfort and style of the adizero Feather 2 make it a trainer to be reckoned with.

Rockport knows how to stay in front when it comes to designer shoes, and the new Business Lite Bikefront keep that spirit alive and well. We tested a pair in black and found that they looked great with a nice suit or fresh pair of jeans. The comfort level is absolutely through the roof! Some of the reasons for that comfortable feel is the padded collar and tongue for comfort, full grain leather that is soft, supple and flexible, ETC moisture wicking lining to help keep feet dry and easy to clean, and breathable polyurethane cushioning for moisture absorbency and odor resistance. The EVA provides lightweight shock absorption to reduce foot and leg fatigue and that’s a relief for all guys no matter what’s in the plans when you lace up a pair of shoes. With the holidays fast approaching, do right by yourself and look and feel your best by checking out these new stylish Business Lite Bikefront shoes at Nordstrom.com for approximately $125.

We have been testing and enjoying wearing some spanking new RocSports Lite Slip Ons and this could the most comfortable shoe ever made! This new offering from Rockport has the latest technologies including a padded collar and tongue for comfort, full grain leather that is soft and durable, supple and flexible ETC that helps keep feet dry and helps reduce friction, and EVA which provides lightweight shock absorption to reduce foot and leg fatigue.

This is all part of the notable adiPRENE technology by adidas that incorporates highly shock absorbent cushioning to protect your heel at impact.

The RocSports Lite Slip On is also versatile and looks great with a business or casual look. To find the right pair for you, check out Nordstrom.com and improve your comfort and appearance with these stylish kicks from Rockport.

When #Adidas sent us a pair of the all new and super hyped Adidas adiZero Crazy Light 2 to review, we were thrilled to say the least. Reviewing men’s shoes is always cool, but these are one of those special shoe launches that are quickly turning into must-haves for those in the know of basketball kicks! The adiZero Crazy Light 2 are the WORLD’S LIGHTEST BASKETBALL SHOE, weighing in at 9.5 ounces, which is nearly 10 percent lighter than the nearest competitor’s basketball shoe. I swear these shoes were so light coming out of the box that you just shake your head and ask, “How do they do this”? If you play competitive basketball, the light construction means plenty, as NBA players have let their affection for the Adidas adiZero Crazy Light 2 be known, like this quote from NBA player Jrue Holiday: “In the league, every game matters, and you don’t want anything weighing you down on the court. Putting on the adiZero Crazy Light 2 gives me that speed and confidence I need when it counts.”

I’m watching the NBA playoffs closely and see the adiZero Crazy Light 2 on some of my favorite players. We also noticed how strong the new Crazy Light 2 felt once we started testing them on both indoor and outdoor courts. Per Adidas, “The increased strength of the adizero Crazy Light 2 comes from an enlarged asymmetrical SPRINTFRAME, allowing for maximum motion control. Designers added volume to the midsole for a more supportive base. The new aerodynamic three-layer SPRINTWEB is the thinnest ever, with a tighter web layout that gives players enhanced vertical and horizontal strength. Overall, the shoe’s new geometry allows for maximum weight savings, energy return and motion control.”

Of course, how the shoes look is just as important as how they function for plenty of folks looking for an edge. Our test pair was black with red trim, and the colors really pop off the sleek Crazy Light 2. The first adiZero Crazy Light 2 collection was off the charts good-looking, but these new ones appear to be more aerodynamic, which enhances the new offering from Adidas.

My game has jumped as well, and maybe it’s because I’m much more confident wearing the stronger and lighter Crazy Light 2 from Adidas. They’re now on sale and can be found on adidas.com as well as Foot Locker, Eastbay and other leading retailers. Check out the above pics and video below to see for yourself!

Adidas has been launching one great pair of athletic shoes after another, and the all new adiZero Sonic 3 for men are the real deal. We recently tested a pair, and if you are looking for some new kicks for running, cross training or just looking good, you’ll want to check these out. With maximum durability, the lightweight adiZero Sonic 3 is built for speed and features full length adiPrene+ midsole technology for responsive cushioning with each stride. The shoe’s stitchless SprintWeb provides superior support to ensure your foot stays in place without extra weight. An air mesh and totally new designed upper construction offer maximum breathability and comfort. We can tell you that after wearing the new adiZero Sonic 3s, they are some of the most comfortable and sturdy workout shoes we have tested.

These shoes were basically built for athletes looking to perform at the highest level, and when Robert Griffin III is also sporting them, you know they’re for real. This is what RG3 had to say about the new adiZero Sonic 3: “The first thing that comes to mind when you put on the adizero Sonic is how light it is,” said Griffin III. “It gives you a lot of support so you can run long distances, but you can use it multiple ways. It has support so you can lift in it and stay comfortable during a full day’s workout.”

RG3 is shown in action in this video which was partially shot at Baylor’s Floyd Casey Stadium where Griffin III set or tied more than 50 school records. Look at how the heavy weight of pressure and heat of the spotlight are shattered by what lightweight adiZero shoes deliver!

I’m going to put these on right now and get in a super workout! The adiZero Sonic 3 is available now for $85 in-store at Dick’s Sporting Goods and online at DicksSportingGoods.com and on adidas.com.

Rockport has been expanding its reach and continues to innovate and modernize its footwear collections, and the new truWALKzero T-Toe Sport Review will expand their customer base starting today. The T-Toe is one of the most lightweight shoes that Rockport has ever developed and you get the sense of floating at times when walking or exercising in them. Our test shoes were black and orange with uppers that are made of a combination of synthetic/textile mesh that wicks away moisture and enhances breathability. The shoes are also extremely flexible and the Lightweight EVA cushioning in the footbed conforms to the shape of the foot for a personalized fit.

I spent considerable time in the T-Toe Sports and felt they pretty much looked good with whatever I chose to wear, and that’s a major plus for any style shoe! The answer to the comfort side of these shoes is the truWALK Architecture that provides a natural full range of motion, from shock absorption at heel strike (adidas adiPRENE®) to forefoot flexibility during push off (adidas adiPRENE®+) for a responsive, springy, energized stride. And your feet will thank you for it! Sometimes you have to see things to believe them, so check out the launch video below.

The truWALKzero T-Toe Sport for men is a sleek, low profile, lace-up sneaker with leather/mesh uppers available in black/charcoal. The truWALKzeroWingtip is a dressier low profile, lace-up sneaker for men with wingtip detailing, available in black/charcoal and dark brown/orange. All the styles include contrasting soles for an added color pop. We really like these new entries from Rockport, so check them out here. truWALKzero footwear have suggested retail values between $120 and $140, and can be found at Rockport retail stores worldwide and select mid-tier retailers, as well as through Rockport.com beginning right now!

Whether you are into sailing or just appreciate cool style in what you wear everyday check out the just released on March 1st Limited Edition Morgan Coast boat shoe from Rockport. These trendsetters or collectibles are limited to only 200 pairs that will be individually numbered. The original Morgan Coast shoe from Rockport was released in 1994 as the official boat shoe of the Whitbread Round the World Yacht Race (later known as the Volvo Ocean Race). This new limited edition release hearkens back to Rockport’s rich sailing history, where the company’s shoes have been the casual and technical shoe of choice for many professional sailors and boating enthusiasts. We’re not quite into boating season yet in Northeast Ohio but I wore my test pair of Limited Edition Morgan Coast boat shoe in white from Rockport and I must say they are extremely comfortable and provide plenty of ankle support. The Rockport design team scoured sailing schools in the New England area to find the perfect vintage sail (approximately 170 square feet) and repurposed as fabric and material for 200 limited edition pairs.

The limited edition styles include two colorways of the Morgan Coast shoe in white and navy, and these shoes include many design cues and distinctive features that could be found on traditional sailing boats with Oversized grommets at the sides, with reinforced rubber gaskets, Zig zag stitching on the upper, reminiscent of stitching found on actual sails, Shoe laces that replicate the look of nautical rope and Ingenious hardware at the collar of the shoes which mimic pulley systems used in sailing. Bottom line is not only are these very sharp and unique shoes but the technology that Rockport put into these limited edition kicks is top of the line. Go to Rockport.com to learn more.