Community Corner
5 Simple Ways to Run a 5K and Lose Weight
Dust off that New Year's resolution and get ready to train.
Northeast Ohio native and fitness director Tracy Robertson-Cusick has five simple ways to get you in shape for races coming up this summer and fall.
It might be a little late to form a plan for this weekend's Mayfield Wildcat 5K Run, but these tips should work wonders if you plan on doing any of the events found on the Northeast Ohio Running Club's race calendar.
Ready, set, read on:Â
1. Purchase a good pair of shoes. Places like Dick's Sporting Goods in Highland Heights and Second Sole of Lyndhurst will match you with the right pair of running shoes to keep you on the right track.
2. Not already a runner? Start with a walk-run program, likeCouch to 5K or Easy 5K With Jeff Galloway.
3. Immediately cut sugar and refined/processed foods, while increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables. Good rule of thumb: If it comes out of a box or can, don't eat or drink it.Â
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4. Find a local yoga or Pilates class to work on your stretching and flexibility. Call your community's recreation department to check availability. You can also purchase beginner yoga or Pilates DVDs and do it from home.Â
5.  Incorporate lightweight or bodyweight exercises. For example, walking lunges, bodyweight squats. push-ups and core strength (planks or crunches).
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