Category: training programs

Below is a partial list of teams, associations, and organizations we have worked with over the last 13 years:

Grassroots Hoops Club AAU Basketball
Pangos All-American Basketball Camps
Minneapolis Hustlers AAU Basketball
Sea Devils Swimming
St Michael High School Swimming and Diving
Lindsey Berg’s Cuore Volleyball Camps
Five Star Basketball Camps
Tubby Smith Basketball
Rogers Youth Basketball
Push The Rock Ministries
Hopkins High School Lacrosse
University of St Thomas
St. Cloud State University
Edina Hockey Association
Eden Prairie Hockey Association
Totino Grace High School Dance
Centennial High School Dance
Simley High School Dance
Delirium Racing Cycling Team
Hockey Ministries International
Breck High School Hockey
Minnetonka Hockey Association
Princeton High School Hockey
Elk River High School Hockey
Monticello High School Hockey
Acceleration Minnesota
National Sports Center-Schwans Super Rink
CrossFit St. Paul
CrossFit Athlete Lab
CrossFit Mendota

We will be attending the Throwdown at CrossFit Athlete Lab on February 11th with Inov8 shoes. More information coming in the near future. Check out their site for more information.

It was a great atmosphere and event put on by Matt Burns from CrossFit Woodbury. The 3 WOD’s back to back to back was intense.

Check out some of the pics from the event.

We will be at Timberwolf CrossFit in Minneapolis on January 21st with Inov8 shoes. Check out Tony’s shop and visit us from 9:30 to 11am.

Stephen McCarthy

Dr Blank will be joining our staff in the area of injury prevention program development and assisting in our presentations related to rehabilitation of athletes and elite performance. She has a very extensive background with Spine and Sports Institute. Check out her list of accomplishments.

Dr. Kaitlin Blank, DC, is a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic who graduated from Northwestern Health Sciences University. Dr. Blank attended both the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Human Science. Dr. Blank provides each patient with a specifically tailored treatment plan to each individual’s symptoms. With a combination of chiropractic therapy, soft tissue mobilization, functional performance and exercise rehabilitation this unique integrative approach provides each patient with a faster and safer return to the activities they love. Dr. Blank is currently in the process of becoming a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP).

We are looking forward to a great relationship. If you have any questions, let us know.

Stephen

With over ten years of experience working with youth athletes and raising a family, Stephen McCarthy can offer your audience a wealth of knowledge and insight from his working with over 10000 youth athletes. Stephen will develop of message specifically for your audience by discussing his struggles with authority, discipline, boundaries, and reality-based thinking. His message is one of hope, grace, and mercy that will produce lasting successes in life and sport,

For more information on The McCarthy Project or to secure Stephen as a speaker for your small group or event, please contact us at 612-741-0982 or customerservice@themccarthyproject.com.

The Twin Cities Throwdown is this weekend. Check out the information at CrossFit Woodbury. We will be attending the Throwdown with Inov8.

Good luck to all the athletes.

Stephen McCarthy

Around 2000, Stephen McCarthy attempted to complete the goal of being a professional golfer. One of the first areas he pursued was sport specific strength training. He found many people hawking their training programs as the silver bullet for elite performance in golf. And after attempting some of these programs, he was left wanting for ideas that actually worked.

By 2001, the goal of professional golfer had long passed, but the idea of training youth athletes and passing along the lessons he learned from experience in life and sport started take root. He knew that athletes want to succeed and are willing to pay the price for success, but they had one problem. Most of the information was marketing hype or “Old School, Survival of the Fittest” programs. They confused the real truth on “how to” succeed. With this backdrop, the company started with the mission of passing along training principles that are not silver bullets, but time tested scientific training concepts.

Our first product was training on a one-to-one basis. Areas covered were nutrition, mental toughness, and strength training. These personal sessions became the springboard for our team and camp training.

Since our inception, we have worked with over 10000 youth athletes aged 10-24. Our athletes have gained college scholarships, won national and state championships, and became elite athletes on their respective teams.

Contact Information:
23568 Birch Road Rogers, MN 55374

Phone: 612-741-0982

“What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?” Mark 8:36

We prepare athletes for the specific movements that they will perform in athletic competition, as well as, simulating the intensity levels experienced in elite competition. Using a combination of sport specific drills, strength training and plyo-metrics, each athlete’s ability to perform will improve and show a decrease in their risk of injury. These advances will enhance the athlete’s ability to produce more speed and power in their chosen event.

We have four programs to meet the specific needs of each team. They are as follows:

Speed Development
Acceleration and speed drills packed into 1 hour workouts for youth to college athletes.

Strength Training
Customized team program from a dynamic warm-up to a comprehensive year-long weight training program.

Injury Rehabilitation
Rehabbing an old injury? Or just coming off injury? This program will make sure the transition back to competing will be smooth and decrease the chance of re-injury.

Mental Toughness Training
Specially designed 1 hour workouts with the purpose of developing your athlete’s ability to overcome, as well as, developing elite performance.

Rates
$15 per athlete, per session.  Minimum 5 athletes. Special rates for more than 10 athletes. Call 612-41-0982 for a quote.

I thought we would go down the path of the use of “contrasting” within your current workouts.

Over the history of fitness in America, there are many fads or remakes of the same idea. Like “Plyo-metrics are the only way to go to train for power,” “The stability ball is the best thing ever,” “Pilates is the way to go,”‘ “Free weights or it isn’t training,” we have all heard that some type of training is the silver bullet to success. We believe the truth lies somewhere in the middle. Each type or method of training will produce different results, create a different way to challenge the body and has strengths and weaknesses.

Most athletes would benefit from the use of different methods in their training program. Simply going down the line of machines at the club just will not cut it over the long haul. A small change in your training can make the world of difference in your results.

This is where CrossFit has entered. They use multiple different training methods and place them into a short, intense 30 minute workout. For further research, check out their site.

So why not “contrast” your workouts to include one exercise from one method and pair it with a second exercise from a different method and see how your body responds.

I realize this is a very broad sweep at the concept and may create strong opinions, I would love to hear your take on the idea.

Stephen McCarthy

Good morning,Friday’s are great. The end of the week has arrived. Anticipation of a Saturday morning workout, a coffee from Starbucks and time spent with friends. Always a great time in life.Just a couple housekeeping things for today.As previously mentioned, we are running the 20% off over $50 promo through next Monday. Check out the details below.Secondly, I would like to thank everyone for the feedback related to the flexibility post. It was great to hear the stories and the science of each one. I will venture to challenge current thought and hopefully, it will help you with your long term performance.It is always hard from this side, you sit in a bubble and sometimes you don’t hear all the trends in thought or new areas that are being explored. From that perspective, What other subjects would you be interested in seeing in the future? Let me know your thoughts.Well, that should about do it for today. Have a great weekend.

Stephen McCarthy

Today we are going to look at Westcomb Outerwear.

I posted this comment last week on Westcomb:

Westcomb: A relatively new player with some of the highest quality products in the market today. They are made in Canada, so the workmanship is far above other mainstream brands. The fabrics they use are the same you have come to know and love. But the big difference is in the colors. They use these really cool pigmented highlights that really make them different than the rest. And when you pick up the pieces you really can see the quality of the components and feel the workmanship. 

So here are some additional thoughts and images. The jacket pictured is the the Westcomb Cruiser in the color Vivid.

The zippers are high quality and you can feel it when you use them. Secondly, the smooth outer part of the zipper is amazing. The Event fabric has been used for this jacket

Another really cool feature is the pattern in the fabric. It really does set the jacket apart from the other brands. It is both fashionable and functional. The Cruiser has a checkerboard pattern. Other pieces have a pattern and a pigment to enhance the color.

Lastly, the internal jacket pockets show the solid workmanship and are well placed. You can also see the taping on the internal seams. Very well done.

All the gear from Westcomb has the same workmanship and high quality components.

As far as negatives, only one that comes to mind is that sometimes they run out of colors and models in middle of the season.

On the positive side, they are one of those companies that has not sold out to making the most money. They are throwbacks to the old days when quality made a difference and you don’t comprise this principle. Great Warranty, when needed. Outstanding people. They are truly committed to the outdoor industry and all that it embodies They are one one the future pillars of the our world.

Stephen McCarthy

“Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001”

Good morning,

I want to thank everybody who passed along their thoughts on the subject of flexibility. Posted below are a couple of them.

Please pass along your thoughts and we will continue the discussion.

Have a great day.

Stephen McCarthy

James from Carson City, NV:
There was an Australian study on this basic subject published a few years ago. The conclusion was that stretching before engaging in athletic activities, running, cycling, etc., prevented one from suffering a sports injury every twenty-seven years. Essentially, stretching has little value. Being lazy, it suits me just fine. I get on the bike, pedal a bit slowly for a block or two and then it’s flat out. For those who like to stretch, go for it. Age 74 in case anyone cares.

Tjader from Huntington, CA:
It depends on the definition of “Performance” and whether the discussion is of athletic performance or performance of a singular activity? While a muscle or joint may well weaken with elongation, energy as used for athletic performance is generally an equation that equates to velocity. For instance, Usain Bolt’s legs don’t turn over at a more rapid rate than his competitors but because his legs are longer and will therefore extend/stretch farther the energy transmitted into the ground is greater which propels him faster/harder than his competition.

If his legs were shorter or he less flexible, with the same turnover rate, he would have to generate more energy into the ground than he currently does to run the same speed.

Joint flexibility is a whole different subject as that, I believe, speaks to joints that essentially absorb energy and lengthen reaction time.

Alex from Ortonville, MI:
Flexibility training is one thing, but stretching is different. I will say certain muscles sometimes don’t like stretching after a workout and others will sometimes injure if you don’t. I’ve experienced both.

Stephen McCarthy

“Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001”

Inov8 running shoes have arrived. I have used a pair for the last year or so, they are very comfortable and withstood the daily beatings. Also, I have slight pronation that makes some running shoes very uncomfortable, but the Inov-8 230’s foot bed and overall stiffness almost solve the problem.

The brand is of the minimalist thought process. Very low stack height and a little stiffer foot bed that leads to more comfort than most running shoes.

Here are a couple links to all the technical info:

1. Overall Technology
2. Biomechanics
3. Comfort

There is an abundance of information on Inov-8’s webpage. Check them out.

So the next time you are in the market for some trail running or workout shoes, I would give them some serious consideration. We will do a more in depth review of the models we carry in the next couple days.

Secondly, we will be running a sale for till month end. See the details below.

Have a great weekend.

Stephen McCarthy

“Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001”

Today we are going to take a look at the Inov8 Bare Xlite 200 trainers. They arrived in the US within the last couple weeks.

Here are a couple thoughts:

1. At 200 grams, when you pick them up you can feel the difference.
2. The Inov8 lacing system has been included for a comfortable fit.
3. No major seams internally to cause friction.
4. Great insert for additional comfort.
5. Sizing is a bit shorter than traditional, so move up an 1/2 size,

Overall, great fitting shoes that are ultra light and sturdy. What is amazing is that there is at Bare Xlite 150 that is even lighter.

Check them out. Have a great day.

Stephen McCarthy

“Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001”

Over the last couple days, the winter shoe orders have started to roll in. We ran out of a couple sizes and needed to add to our inventory, so we placed an order with Northwave. No big news there, but we found out that they are already out of stock of some sizes. I almost fell out of chair!! It is mid-October!! They also said that they will not be receiving any additional shoes this season. With Lake not making shoes this year (last year’s industry leader) and Northwave already in short supply, there will be a shortage of winter shoes in the US market this year.

So if you are in the market for winter shoes, I would do it earlier than later.

Stephen McCarthy

“Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001”

Hello everyone,

Today’s post comes from one of our customers in Michigan. Irwin has been cycling in the winter for over 30 years. Last week, he sent me the following email. So I thought it would be great information to pass along.

Secondly, if you have any additional thoughts to pass along. Please do. We certainly don’t think we are the only one with original thoughts.

Enjoy,

Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training

Post on Winter Cycling:

Electric socks and hand warmers are okay for light outdoor activity. There is a lot of “toy grade” outdoor gear that leaves a bad impression. As a consequence it’s easy to write off some of the more serious and expensive solutions that do work.

The problem with all shoes is that the extremities – hands and feet just do not get enough circulation. These areas do not generate sufficient heat by themselves. Insulating materials that create a sufficient barrier tend to be larger and cumbersome.

Irwin from Western Michigan
There obviously are outdoor boots that work in the winter but they are not “bike rider friendly.” The ski industry has confronted the issues we are talking about. These are sports enthusiasts that are active in seriously cold conditions and at similar 15-20 mph speeds. They have developed solutions which utilize small, lightweight, battery powered devices to heat the hands, feet, and even the chest area.

Personally I find the chest area rarely be a problem. Electric socks are good for large boots. Close fitting bike shoes and sky boots require a solution that works with those size constraints. Removing the orthotic spacer and replacing it with one that includes a heating element does not change the fit. A little wind protection such as a Goretex shoe cover keeps things comfortable without overworking the battery.

Gloves have come a long way especially with the development of small lithium batteries. They utilize a some insulation and have an exterior Goretex wind shield cover.

With the shoe inserts I usually end up turning the heat up towards the end of a winter ride. On the other hand I turn down the glove heat as the ride progresses and my workout heats my chest and head core areas.

As I mentioned I have been a road rider for over 30 years – I am 59. My typical winter ride today is 90+ minutes and I end the ride comfortably. Before the use of battery gloves and shoe inserts I was limited to 45 minutes and I was often frozen. As I warmed up my toes would feel like they were on fire. Those ride conditions led to the Raynaud’s which affect my feet today.

There are other positive comments that I have heard about for the hands. I have heard positive reports regarding the neoprene handlebar covers which fit over the brake/gear shifter area. Let’s face it the hands really suffer in the cold wind.

Here are the links for inserts and gloves that he uses:

Hotronics

Gerbing

Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training
“Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001”

Good morning,

This week we are going to change directions from sizing to outdoor gear. We are going to look at the top 3 outdoor brands in our company.

1. Westcomb: A relatively new player with some of the highest quality products in the market today. They are made in Canada, so the workmanship is far above other mainstream brands. The fabrics they use are the same you have come to know and love. But the big difference is in the colors. They use these really cool pigmented highlights that really make them different than the rest. And when you pick up the pieces you really can see the quality of the components http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifand feel the workmanship.

2. Mammut: High quality. Company has been around for over 100 years. Made in Europe. Everything you could ever want in an outdoor brand. High tech fabrics. Serious functionality. Quality workmanship. Exclusivity. The only downside is the sizing. For sure a euro cut, so plan accordingly.

3. Icebreaker: Best in class merino wool apparel. They have been able to make merino wool http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.giffashionable, comfortable, and functional at the same time. Fantastic colors. For increased warmth, different thicknesses. Again the only downside is euro cut sizing.

Well, that should about do it for the intros. In the next post, we will tackle the specifics of each brand.

Lastly, a reminder that we are running an October Sale until the 31st. You can pick up some of the gear mentioned at a great price as well.

Thanks
Stephen McCarthy

“Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001”

Come and check us out this Thursday and Friday (6/17 & 6/18) at the Expo for Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, MN! The race on Saturday is a world-class event, attracting elite athletes from all over the planet, first-time marathoners and everyone in between!

We will be featuring Skins Compression products along with Thorlos socks-buy one pair of socks, get one 1/2 off!

“Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001”

Come and check us out at the Hy-Vee Triathlon in West Des Moines, IA this weekend! It’s sure to be an awesome race and we are excited to be there.

“Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001”

All around me, I have been watching and hearing about friends, colleagues, and customers getting out and racing their first events of the year (or of their life). From 1/2 marathons to sprint tri’s to trail races and beyond, it has become another season of hearing personal stories of triumph, determination, and discipline.

To me, it’s always really cool to hear about someone who has pushed themself and reached their goals. It also seems that along the way, things are learned that are lessons in the old adage “getting there is half the fun”-you learn new things about yourself and your body, your mental determination, when you are in the midst of training. You listen to your body and respond to its signals that maybe you need to change this tempo run up a little or maybe you need a rest day after all, and that the actual training process is to be enjoyed (as painful as it may be some days) as much as crossing the finish line at the end. Your motivations can vary as well. I know some amazing athletes who raise money to help fight cancer and have raised tens of thousands of dollars over the past several years and continue to have new PR’s in their races, and others who have always dreamed of accomplishing a race on foot and have now crossed that finish line and reached a personal goal.

In a short while, I am embarking on training for a marathon that is about 4 months away-I have been cross-training the past few months and taking a break from daily running. I have to admit, I am a little “am I up for this?” at the moment. Now comes the time to mentally switch gears and start to enjoy the process. After all, getting there is half the fun.

Aimee Bone

“Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001”

CW-X CONDITIONING WEAR’S CONTINUED SUPPORT OF RUNNING PAYS DIVIDENDS

NEW YORK, N.Y. (Mar. 31, 2010) – The running market was where CW-X was launched and pioneered, and it continues to be the driving force behind the brand, critical to the success of Wacoal Sports Science Corp.’s CW-X Conditioning Wear line of tights, tops, shorts, sport bras, and socks (www.cw-x.com). The company’s patented Kinesio Support Web featuring kinesio taping is credited with improving the performance of runners everywhere.
CW-X strengthens its ties to the running market by partnering with the running specialty retail channel, supporting running media – both print and online – and participating in major marathons and road running event expos around the U.S.
In the near future, CW-X will appear at expos for the Boston Marathon (April 19), the MORE/Fitness Marathon in New York (April 25), the Chicago Marathon (October 10), Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C. (October 31), New York Marathon (November 7), and the Disney Marathon (January 9, 2011). The brand is also a charter sponsor of The Running Event trade show for specialty running retailers, and a supporting member of the Independent Running Retailers Association (IRRA).
CW-X running ads will appear on RunnersWorld.com, Fitness.com and MapMyRun.com from April through October – an expected reach of over 5 million runners. CW-X running print ads appear in Runner’s World eight months in 2010, as well as Fitness and Shape for another six. Additionally, there are CW-X running ads in several regional running and race publications.
CW-X sponsors the U.S. Mountain Running Team, the Fire Department of New York Track Club, and myriad individual runners who compete in and hold world records in everything from ultra distance races to track sprints.
“We launched the brand in the running category in late 2002 – it’s how most people heard of us,” said John L.A. Wilson, president and COO of the WSSC.
“Our marketing emphasis on the running category makes sense for us strategically, and besides, most of here at the company are runners, some of whom have competed at the national and international level.”
Wilson continues, “The word must be getting out about the brand – we’re seeing more and more CW-X pass by as we monitor various races.”
About Wacoal Sports Science and CW-X
Wacoal Sports Science has been issued numerous patents for CW-X technology – over 50 worldwide. CW-X has been extensively tested and proven in competition by Olympics medalists, cyclists in the Tour de France, and climbers on two separate and successful Mt. Everest expeditions.

K●SWISS SIGNS IRONMAN 70.3 CHAMPION MIRINDA CARFRAE

(Westlake Village, CA) March 24, 2010 — Iconic footwear and sportswear brand K●Swiss

is proud to announce its sponsorship of professional triathlete Mirinda Carfrae. Under the multi-year deal, Carfrae will represent K●Swiss footwear and apparel. Carfrae’s first race as part of K●Swiss’ roster is at the Rohto Ironman 70.3 California in Oceanside on March 27, 2010, where she will be defending her 2009 title. She also currently holds the run course record with1:20:22.

The 28-year-old Australian, who now resides in Santa Monica, Calif., has been a force since her first triathlon in 2000. Carfrae’s titles include10 Ironman 70.3 first place wins and the 2007 Ironman 70.3 World Champion first place title, the same year she was named Triathlete magazine’s “Ironman 70.3 Triathlete of the Year.” She broke the Kona run course record with a 2:56:51 at the 2009 Ford Ironman World Championships and placed 2^nd amongst the world class women’s field attempting to conquer the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike and 26.2-mile run in Kona, Hawaii.

“Anyone who saw Mirinda set the marathon course record at Kona last year will understand why we would be so excited to have her on our roster,” said K●Swiss Sports Marketing Director, Erik Vervloet. “She brings a competitive fire and toughness to our brand that is unrivaled by any athlete. With Mirinda, we truly have an athlete who’s going to bring the effort and passion to everything she does. There is no quit in her! Never has been, never will be! We can’t wait to see what the future will hold for Mirinda and K•Swiss.”

“I’m so excited to be teaming up with K●Swiss running shoes and apparel, a company truly committed to making the very best products on the market which enables us as athletes to do what we do best… RACE!” said Carfrae. “I can’t wait to get out there and see how fast we can go in 2010 and beyond.”

Running is a big part of my life.

Official “training” for a marathon I enjoy doing in June started several weeks ago. To kick off this training season, I opted to try a new pair of shoes from a brand I’ve not worn before.

I’ve been a pretty devoted fan of Asics and New Balance shoes over the years, and since Gear and Training carries an extensive line of K-Swiss shoes, I thought I’d give the brand a try.

I did a little research and decided on the K-Ona Running Shoe-there were quite a few positive reviews about the shoe and I was also pleased to see that it has garnered a lot of attention for being worn by elite athletes at various Ironman races and marathons, and I figured that if it’s good enough for that caliber of athletic prowess, then it’s more than good enough for me.

So far I love these shoes. My basic feedback so far is that I really like how lightweight they are, but my feet still feel like they have good support. The Flow Cool System™ provides excellent ventilation, and they make me feel fast on my feet. I have logged 60+ miles in them so far, and not one blister or lingering discomfort has been had in “breaking in” a new pair of shoes.

I am excited to see how they perform as the mileage increases over the coming weeks and months and I confident I will be psyched to lace them up on the morning of my big race.

Aimee Bone

“Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001”

The Olympics are well under way and I always get inspired and excited to soak them in (Winter and Summer alike), and this time around is no exception. For two weeks I allow myself to be a bit of a TV junkie as I cram in as much of the games as I can (I spend as much time as I can logging in miles on my treadmill so I don’t feel like a total couch potato). Over the past several days, I have seen some amazing, inspiring, thrilling moments in winter sports and have studied the athletes in pre or post-event interviews.

From the excitement and disbelief in seeing American snowboarder Seth Westcott come from behind and pull an amazing feat in defending his gold medal, to the emotionally charged performance of pairs skaters Shen Xue and Zhao Hongbo of China in their 18-year quest to add a gold medal to their list of achievements, to the overwhelmingly exhilerating gold medal performances of mogul skiiers Alexandre Bilodeau of Canada (not to mention his amazing brother, Frederic, who inspires him to be not only a stellar athlete but to be a good person all around) and Hannah Kearney of the US. And who can deny how victorious US skater J.R. Celski’s bronze finish in the Short Track Speed Skating was a mere 6 months after sustaining serious injury during the Olympic Trials that narrowly missed being a fatal outcome?

Of course there are many other inspiring stories and performances and moments that are unforgettable. That’s part of the wonder of the Games; the backstories and years of perseverance and dedication of these athletes is truly inspiring.

Recently, I was out enjoying some cross country skiing in nearly-perfect conditions and got to thinking about the unbelievable skill, fierce dedication, relentless discipline, and countless other things that it takes to be an Olympic athlete. It’s easy to let your thoughts drift about what it must be like to be in top physical shape and have the skill level to compete with the best in the world. I am a novice, mediocre skiier at best , but it’s something I really enjoy and it’s a good workout. I accept the fact that I will never be in the league of super-athlete, but I can push myself to make my form a little better, or to get to the top of a hill a little faster, or to simply take in the fresh snowfall and the tracks that I’m creating in the snow. Or all of the above.

Enjoy these next special couple weeks of being a spectator to some of the most amazing athletes in the world and their mind-blowing talent, and even if you are, like me, a far cry from being an Olympic-level athlete, you can still get outdoors and push yourself to be your best.

And enjoy your surroundings.

Aimee Bone

“Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001”

Congrats to winning the time trial at the Giro today.

FYI.. On a couple great products that they use that we carry and fully believe they are the best in the catagory.

Skins Compression for improved performance on the bike and off the bike. The Skins Compression Apparel is the real deal. Used by more people than you think. I really believe they are the best, most unknown product in the world today.

Hed Cycling, Dino is the Hed guy in the picture. I have enjoyed quite of few discussions on how to go fast on a bike. He is one of the most knowledgeable people on aero technology in the bike world. HED bike wheels are products you can depend upon to not only be fast but also durable over the long haul.

Talk to you tomorrow.

Stephen McCarthy

“Attacking Life and Sport Since 2001”

So long as I was posting pictures for road trips, a post on Hed Cycling might be in order. They are a company that has worked with and continues to work with leading edge cyclists and triathletes. They are a pure definition of a company that is passionate about what they do. They dont have marble floors or a fancy warehouse, they just apply science to make the best wheels for you and me. More mad scientists, than salesman for sure. Every time we go out to pick up our bike wheels, they answer questions, have time to chat about anything and everything. By far one of the coolest bike companies out there.

Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training

The question we get a lot is strength training worth it for endurance athletes. And the answer is yes, if you have the time to train, as well as, workout in the gym. You body would be well served with the cross training and additional strength. But the challenge you need to ask is.. Do you have an additional 4-5 hours of training time each week.

Stephen McCarthy

Product Review: Aline Systems Foot Suspension Insoles.

The 2009 Aline Insoles just arrived. We are excited to offer them in our store.

The concept behind the product is to allow your foot to move ever so slightly will still being supported. In cycling, the foot has been placed in a snug fitting shoe with a fixed pedal position and told to work the same way it does when you are walking or running. But when you think about it, your foot moves in many different directions when you are moving, not held in one static position. With the Aline Insoles, your foot is allowed micro movements that will allow for increased performance and power transfer as well as less fatigue. All in all a good thing.

The nice thing in the 2009 models is they are good for all hard soled shoes, as well as, soft soled shoes. i.e. running and hiking shoes. They provide support and alignment of the foot and leg at a fraction of the cost of orthotics. A great improvement over last years model.

Three Major changes:

The big change is the weight. This years size T is almost 15% lighter than last years size T.

Secondly, the profile is smaller. Last year I had to add a 1/2 size to my shoes in order to wear the insoles, not this year. They fit perfectly in my Under Armour cross trainers and SIDI Genius 5’s.

Third change is the noise. When you walked in the Aline Insoles, they creaked like an old wood floor, no more. They are quiet just like any other insole.

All in all, they are comfortable to use and a great improvement over an already great product. Check them out, it will be worth your while.

Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training

Here are some different views of the 2009 product.

These pics are off our deck. This is why we stay in Minnesota. Crisp, Clear skies and 50 degrees. Nothing is better than this kind of weather for riding your bike, hiking, anything. Finally, I believe that Spring has arrived.

Stephen McCarthy

Check out the pics of Minnesota in April. Crisp morning 44 degrees, clear skies. Beautiful morning.

Cant get any better than this.

Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training

Good Afternoon, Everybody.

We are back to the business of getting info out to everbody. Sorry for the delay.

Happy Easter.

Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training

The HED Jet Disc wheel has arrived. Wow, it is pretty cool. And light. It is a Bastogne rim with 24 spokes. And it is about 1200 grams. Check back for pictures in a couple weeks.

Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training

Are you thinking of doing your first century and you see some people with bike shorts? Do I need a pair?

I would say yes, for sure… The bike short has a pad in the seat called a chamois and is contoured to your body. But beware, you get what you pay for. There are some brands for around $60. And it is better than nothing. But for a long ride, it will still leave you feeling not so good. Brands included Louis Garneau, Pearl Izumi

The next level would be around $120-$140. You can get a real nice pair of shorts with a high quality chamois.. At this level, your rear will thank you at the end of a long day in the saddle. The fabrics and components are definitely worth the money. Descente, Castelli

The last level if for people who want the Cadillac version, they are around $200-$300. They are the ultimate riding shorts. The comfort will make you feel like why did I even use the other shorts, but you have to get over the sticker shock.. Assos, Descente, DeMarchi

Again, remember don’t go cheap when purchasing shorts. Your body will be very happy with you at the end of the day.

Stephen McCarthy

We just got word that the new HED JetC2 wheels are ready to ship. Check them out on our website. They are lighter than the Jet60. And to top it off, it has really been creative on how it connects to the tube and tire. Making it more aero, easier to corner and overall perform at a higher level. For the extra $100 per wheel, it is definately worth it. Check back in a couple months and we will have some cool new pictures and content on our product pages.

Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training

Hello, everybody.

Sorry for the long delay in our next posts. We have been working on some new ideas. Look for them in the coming months. One right out the shoot is the Your Cycling blog. We are one of the editors of the blog. It will include training tips and other great cycling information from some of the industry leaders in the bike industry. Check it out.

Talk to you later.
Stephen McCarthy
Gear and Training