News & Updates for January

Your Calendars! Training Runs Begin Jan. 20!

The Spirit of St. Louis Marathon, in conjunction with area running and biking stores, is sponsoring group-training runs every other Saturday in Forest Park beginning this month! Training runs are *FREE* and open to everyone! Use this opportunity to meet up with other runners or walkers preparing for the big weekend. After registering at the Visitor's Center, adults will take off at 8:00 am, and children at 8:30 am. Post-run refreshments will be provided until 11:00 am. Dress warmly and in layersRegister by Feb. 1 and Get Your First Name on Your Race Bib

While the entry fees for all events do not increase until April 1, there are still benefits to registering early. In fact, if you register for the Marathon or Half Marathon before February 1, 2007 you will receive a race bib that includes your first name! So, not only do you save yourself a couple bucks, but you also get the pleasure of hearing spectators cheer your name as you cross that Finish Line!

It's Cold Outside… Consider a Treadmill, Stationary Bike or Elliptical Trainer

For those cold, blustery and dark days, consider staying indoors for your training. Watching TV can break up the monotony and listening to the right music can keep you pumped. However, before beginning your indoor training, check out the program panels on each piece of equipment. Not only are there programs for intervals, cross country, hills, heart rate, fat burning, etc, but you can also plan your own "manual" program by adjusting speed and elevation. When creating your own plan, consult with fitness instructors at the gym or go online for a schedule.

If you turn your training session into a game, time will pass faster. It's also important to keep a record and vary the workouts to build strength by using a variety of muscles. Whatever you do, a predetermined program or a manual session, remember to warm up and cool down. Hydration is important indoors and outdoors!

If you do not have access to a gym, walk in a mall or the non-secure area in an airport. Be creative and don't use the bad weather as an excuse!

Step up to the Start Line as a Volunteer

If you're taking this year off from racing, just looking to contribute your time or know a dynamite person interested in assisting the Marathon, consider joining our 2007 team. We are currently looking for people to fill leadership and committee positions in Race Operations, Art & Sole Enhancement Projects, Course Entertainment and many other projects.

E-mail mecspirit@sbcglobal.net.

Support Our Weekend Sponsors as They Support You!

Sponsor Highlight

As a major player in our communities, National City understands they have a role beyond their corporate stance. They are an active partner in helping find, fund and develop solutions that address community needs and change. Indeed they aim to provide leadership, volunteer energy and support that nurtures the continued growth of their communities. The National City strategic focus on health and human services in Missouri ensures their customers, employees and community members have access to the agencies and community partners they need to stay healthy, stay safe and grow to their fullest potential.

When it comes to managing or saving money, borrowing or investing funds, and protecting the people and things you treasure, National City is here for you. Today there are approximately 60 branch locations throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area. With their network of branch offices and ATM's plus telephone banking, Online Banking and Online Bill Payment, you're always connected and in control of your finances. Whether at home, in the office across town or in another part of the world, you have convenient access to your money and your accounts.