Wave Rider 17 - The Authentic Mizuno Innovation

By just looking at your feet, you can go a long way toward discovering what you need in a running shoe. Do you know your foot type? There are three basic foot types, each based on the height of your arches. You may take the Mizuno Precision Fit Test to determine if you have flat or high arches, and to choose your running shoes accordingly.

Anyway, are you a neutral runner? If YES, Mizuno has something new for you!

Do you want a lighter shoe without compromising the cushioning and comfort that you need? Well, let me introduce to you.. A Go-to Speedy Shoe designed for neutral runners.. The authentic Japanese innovation.. The Mizuno Wave Rider 17..

The Wave Rider is symbolic of Mizuno’s constant quest to make better running shoes. In its 17^th incarnation, the Wave Rider incorporates a number of new technologies aimed at securing its position as the go-to shoe for everyday runners. Always evolving, constantly progressing, the Wave Rider 17 is the best Wave Rider yet.

Mizuno Promo: Mom, You're the Best

Wanna get your Mom a Mizuno Be? Join the “Mom, You’re the Best” promo and you might get it for free. 

HERE'S HOW:
1. Post a photo of your Mom on Instagram and tell us what makes her STRONGER, FIRMER and BETTER.
2. Make sure to use the tags (on Twitter and Instagram) @mizunoph and #MizunoNeverSettle and share the post on Twitter and Facebook.
3. Post must be public so Mizuno can view it.
4. Most number of likes win.
5. The winner will be announced by Mizuno.
6. Promo period: May 10 - May 31, 2013.

Press Release

So, what are you waiting for? JOIN NOW! :)

This promo is brought to you by Mizuno Philippines.

Giveaway: Mizuno BE Shoes GC

As promised, I will be giving away a gift certificate which entitles the bearer a 50% discount for a pair of Mizuno BE. Thanks to Mizuno Philippines  for making it possible.

So, how to win? Here's the mechanics. You can join via Twitter or Facebook.

For Twitter User:

1. Follow me: @preciousgoldy and Mizuno Philippines: @mizunoph on Twitter.

2. Tweet about what do you want to be. Don't forget to tag me and Mizuno Philippines and use a hashtag #preciousrunnerBE. Be sure that your Twitter account is set in Public for me to see your entry.

          (Ex. I wanna BE faster! @preciousgoldy @mizunoph #preciousrunnerBE)

3. Only one (1) BE statement per participant.

For Facebook User:

1. Like Precious Runner and Mizuno Run Club on Facebook.

2. Post a status about what do you want to be. Don't forget to tag Precious Runner and Mizuno Run Club. Be sure that your post is set in Public for me to see your entry.

3. Only one (1) BE statement per participant.

Deadline of submission of entries is on Friday, December 21. The best statement will win. It will be announced via Twitter, FB and here in my blog.

So what are you waiting for?! Join now and be stronger and faster as you wanna be.

To know more about the Mizuno BE, click HERE.

Mizuno BE - Wear it everyday!

The newest addition to Mizuno line of shoes - the Mizuno Be - is  finally here!

"Wear them when you are not running, to improve performance when you are."

I'd been wearing my Mizuno Be for two days now and it's so comfortable. It perfectly  fit in me while I am still recovering from my ultra marathon last Sunday.

Mizuno Be is not a running shoe but  it's a perfect shoe for runners when not running. It delivers muscular benefits when walking around. It looks like a nice pair of casual shoe you know. Everyone can benefit by incorporating it into their training.

The Mizuno Be is a training shoe engineered to help strengthen and activate your lower leg and foot muscles to improve running performance. It is inspired by a Waraji - a sandals made from straw rope that were used in the past as standard footwear for the Samurai and the Feudal soldiers of Japan.

Traditionally, Waraji sandals are worn with the toes protruding over the edge. This way, body weight becomes supported by the ball of the foot. Fascinated by this design, Mizuno conducted a number of tests at its SOZO Engineering Division, a studio created for the purpose of achieving the maximum standard in shoe technologies.

Findings showed that protruding toes aid to stabilize the body. More importantly, the muscles of the feet and lower legs have the tendency to become more mobile and active.

TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS:
 **Activation Insock - The Mizuno Be features an activation sock liner, which replicates the unique innovation of the Waraji Sandal. It allows the toes to move naturally up and down, and to curl and grip, which activates the muscles of the foot.

This activation helps to strengthen two main muscles across the base of the foot - the Flexor Digital Longus and the Flexor Hallucis Longus - providing wearers with more propulsive (toe off) strength which can help to improve running. Lastly, the natural oblique allows the toes to spread as if barefoot which helps to stabilize naturally.

**Dynamic Foot Counter - The Mizuno Be includes a unique heel construction that maximizes the amazing natural cushioning in your heel pad fat. A low profile molded EVA midsole offers protection and cushioning. The soft, synthetic suede upper provides added comfort and ventilation.

Mizuno Be is now available in all Mizuno Outlets here in the Philippines.

SRP: Php 3,995

Mizuno BE is Here!

Last Thursday night, Mizuno launched one of their new addition in the world of sports - the Mizuno BE Shoes. Athletes and running bloggers were gathered at BMG Center Magallanes to discover what it could BE.

Noelle De Guzman or Kikay Runner, one of the Mizuno athletes, hosted the event.

-Kikay Runner on her BE Shoes-

Before we took a deeper look on the new Mizuno product, Coach Patrick Joson and  some of  Filipino runners who ran the Osaka Marathon last November 25 shared their experiences.

-Coach Patrick with his BE Shoes on-

-Pinoy runners who ran the Osaka Marathon-

-They were so happy sharing about their marathon abroad-

They shared different stories, but one thing is sure,  all of them had fun. I hope next time, I will be also sent by Mizuno to run the Osaka Marathon. Whoa! =)

After we heard their experiences, Coach Patrick and Mam Jai Cortes of Mizuno talked about the BE.

Athletes and running bloggers witnessed a comprehensive presentation about this new product. There were also a considerable display of the actual shoe that would be available in the market.

-The Mizuno BE-

I am sure you too are excited to know more about the Mizuno BE. Let me just share to you the feature video.

More details will be available on a separate post here in my blog. Anyway, Mizuno BE is now available at all Mizuno Outlets. Check it out! :)

Sun Fun Run 2012 - A Bright Finish!

Last Saturday, Sun Cellular held its Sportsfest Closing Fun Run at BGC. It was part of Sun's annual sports fest exclusive for employees. Runrio Inc., as the event partner, made it looked like a major race since it was well-organized.

There were 3 categories to choose from: 3km, 5km and 10km. I ran 5km since I was straight from my night duty that day. According to my Soleus watch, I ran 5km in 26 mins 28 seconds. Wow! I ran fast again. My Elixirs flew me to the finish line. It made me the 1st female finisher and I loved it! A bright finish indeed.

-proud  runner of Team Rock and Road-

My officemates, Jan and Nel also joined the fun run. Jan bagged the 1st place in 10km (for the 3rd time) while Nel was 2nd Female in 3km. Group D powerhouse huh. :)

-with Jan and Nel-

After the race, we had a buffet breakfast at the event tent. Awarding of winners in different sports was also conducted to officially close the sports fest. Thanks to our management for letting us live healthy and fit. We're looking forward to the next one. :)

-Jan also got a medal being one of the Mythical 5 and a trophy for their basketball team as 1st runner up-

Mizuno Wave Elixir 7 Review: A Great Racing Shoe

During the Mizuno Academy Graduation run, I was so lucky to score a new kicks of my choice. Since I already have the Inspire, I went for the newest version of Elixir, which I believed  to be great in running short distances. It's an stability and lightweight shoe combined in one.

I used these Elixir 7 straight out of the box for the Rexona 21km Relay last Sunday. I know that's not the right time to break-in but I was so excited when I used it.

It 's like I ran without my shoes on. I really appreciate its noticeable lightness (with a weight of 7.2 oz), making it ideal for a race day. It has the extra cushion in its heel, which I benefited since I unconsciously strike in my heel during my runs. Its wider toe box let my feet fits perfectly.

-I can even do jump shot after running.-

I got Elixirs in size 8 unlike my Inspires in 8.5. It's sizes run a bit smaller while the design mirrored the latter more closely. It also has a stripe design which make me look fast.

-The tiger-stripes-

Mizuno Wave Elixir 7 is perfect for speedworks and tempo runs. It is suitable for  short distances or up to a 10 miler or half-marathon. 

-Noticeably curved sole which made it lighter-

While for distances beyond a half-marathon, I need more support so I'll probably rely to the Inspire. I also wonder if the Elixirs, without much cushioning, can make it on a long haul, mileage-wise, before replacement. But overall, I'd definitely recommend it to people who's searching for a stability yet lighter racing shoe.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here represent my own and I was not compensated in any way. I only recommend products that I trust.

The First Mizuno Academy Graduation Run

Last September 9, the Mizuno Academy Graduation Run happened in Filinvest, Alabang. I was so lucky  I'm a part of it. This time, the event was not exclusive for students from BGC, MOA and Alabang. Our friends and loved ones were also invited to run with us or cheer us as we cross the finish line.

Before we started running, Coach Patrick gave a little talk. He introduced about pose method for the benefit of our guest runners and around 5:15, we we're off to run. Yey!

The weather was perfect for a morning run. We did 2 rounds of a 5k loop around Filinvest. I like the route. There were  flat roads, uphills and downhills to keep us in pace. Although the road was not exclusive for runners, there were minimal vehicles while we're running.  Some part were also slippery but thanks to  my Inspire 8 which never failed me.

There were kilometer markers along the way but at some crossroads, we got lost. There were portions that lacks direction signage or marshal making us confused on when to turn right or left. But still thanks to our mind, feet and to some spectators for leading us to the right way.

-While we're running-
(photo credits to Mizuno Run Club)

Shoe Review: Mizuno Wave Inspire 8

You will never know what's best for you unless you tried different running shoe, so when I heard about Wave Inspire 8 and Mizuno Philippines asked me to try it,  I was all for it.

-Mizuno Wave Inspire 8 in Aqua/Lime-

I went to Mizuno store in Magallanes to get my shoes. An Elixir 7, a light stability shoe, also called my attention. It would be best for short distance running since it has less cushioning. I hope I could try it soon but  for now, since I want a shoes that I can use to run long distances, I go for the Wave Inspire 8. I got a size 8.5 womens since Mizuno's sizing is standard. It perfectly fit in my feet. Some brands offer a half size too small or big, making an online purchase a nightmare.

-You won't forget how to call your shoe-

I'd been using my Wave Inspire 8 for one month now and I have fallen in love with it. It is made for runners, including me, who moderately overpronate. I can't believe it is a stability shoe because it's light yet it still have enough cushioning that I need.

My first race with it was the 16km in the Regent Fun Run. It performed well. The upper part allows enough air for my feet. I can still remember when I accidentally stepped into a puddle. I continued running and it quickly dried. It didn't cause any blisters at all. It also offers an AP+ midsole for increased rebound and a harmonious ride. Another thing is it compounded the VS1 technology for shock absorption. They were stable throughout my run. I also like its Aqua/Lime combination. It's so gorgeous huh!

-Sorry for the grit! I already used this shoe for a month.-

Unlike the other brands, it's heel is different. There's just a support in the curved edge, instead of a solid one, obviously, to minimize it's weight.

For me, Mizuno Wave Inspire 8 is a perfect racing shoe while I am training with my heavier New Balance. As what they said, I must train heavy and race light. However, it might not provide enough support for people who heavily overpronate. They could try other Mizuno shoes, like Wave Nirvana, which is absolutely designed for heavy pronation. I also highly recommend that you undergo gait analysis before buying shoes.

Post Race Thoughts: Regent Fun Run

Event: Regent Fun Run
Date: August 12, 2012
Venue: Bonifacio Global City
Organizer: Leadpack

Regent Fun Run offered a very affordable fees and great freebies: no doubt, all slots were sold. Everything was perfect for a run that day. The weather cooperated. There were enough hydration stations and even kilometer markers along the way. The race route was exclusive for runners. Thanks to the marshals who were there not just to control the traffic, but to cheer every runner passing by. There were also a lot of photographers who captured our sprint, stride and jump shot while in the race.

Regent Food Corp. also set up a booth which accepted donations for the flood victims. Also, all proceeds of the fun run goes to the Philippine Red Cross.

The only lacking is the emergency station along the route. Although the distance is not that long, I think, medics should always be within our reach.

Over all, it's 4 out of 5 Precious Smiles! Congratulations to Leadpack for a well-organized event. Looking forward on the next! :)

_________________________ 

It was a great comeback for me after a week of no run due to bad weather. I ran alone for the first 3km until I saw my friend, Noel, along side of mine. We ran together while sharing thoughts about our races.

On the 13th km, I found out that it was his first 16k and he has a goal so I asked him to just go ahead  and hit the target. In my mind, I also want to beat my record but I don't want to focus on that much.

It was also my first fun run with my new buddy Mizaka (as what I called my new Mizuno Inspire 8). Thanks Mizuno! Soon, I'll be posting my review about it.

I just enjoyed the run, exchanged high-five with my running friends out there, and to my surprise, I was able to slashed out 7 minutes from my previous time. Thank God for that. :)

-wearing my Mizuno Inspire 8-

-with some of my running friends from Pinoy Fitness-

Thanks to Lestsky and Jojo of Running Photographers for the photos above.

36th Milo Marathon : God made a way!

RACE REVIEW:

Registration Fees & Package - Very affordable fees and almost complete package (singlet, bib, finisher's item for 21k & 42k runners) plus you'll be a part of Milo’s Give a Shoes advocacy.

Hydration - There were enough water stations. The water was cold in some part. The only thing that I don't like is the sport's drink. (I'm not used to drinking 100plus so I relied in water.)

Route and Traffic Management - The race route was clear, well-lit, traffic-free and absolutely for runners only. There were also kilometer markers and portable toilets.

Medics - I only saw 3 stations and they were not as attentive as what I expected during emergency. 

Program - It started on time, rain or shine.

Over all, it's 4 out of 5 Precious Smiles!

___________________________________

The 36th Milo Marathon Manila Leg is one of my bittersweet races.

Around 245am, in the wee hours of the morning, with all the courage and determination, I stood in the starting line along with two thousand 42k runners, did some stretching and waited for 3am for the race start.

I started running with my own pace and aimed for a PR. I thought I was in a good condition but at km1.5 I suffered in abdominal pain. It made me slow down and walk. While walking, a dear friend of mine, A, like a heaven's angel, appeared next to me and offered some help.

He ran by my side and never left me alone. He turned out to be my nurse for the whole race. I'm very much thankful for his "katinko" that temporarily took away the pain. Katinko was not enough alone but it's a great help. I applied it from time to time.

I know I need a hot compress and a pain reliever that moment. A asked medicine from the first medics that we saw along Roxas but there was none. We also did the same at the second stop, but still unavailable. They also said that it would be too bad for me to take such medicine during the race.  Whoa! I'd done that before but nothing bad happened. Why I wasn't allowed to take that? Anyway, it's not advisable to argue with them so I continued running with A.

-Running along Roxas Blvd.-

When we passed along Buendia, he looked for a drugstore but unfortunately, it's closed. We ran and walked in the route and relied with the powerful "katinko". I also felt shin splints on my left leg. Katinko became my little savior that time.

When I'm in pain, the only thing that made me smile is the camera..

Thank God that at around km29, we bumped into a runner friend who had a pain reliever. I took the medicine but I waited some time for its effect. It seemed like I want to stop and attach DNF to my name but  A is determined to take me to the finish line.

While we were on the road, I felt the tiredness and boredom he's hiding. I'd even asked him to leave me and run ahead but he's so patient. He never allowed me to give up. I can still remember how he showed me the way. While walking ('cause I can't run) in the Kalayaan Flyover, he pointed a billboard along our way. It said "God will make a way!". He read it and asked me to repeat after him. I followed. I looked like a little girl learning a new thing. I said it loud. "God will make a way!" Then, I tried running again.

God will make a way! (along Kalayaan Flyover)

Hey! Look back! (Running along Buendia going back to MOA)

At km35, I got my second wind. My watch showed that we're running for almost 5 hours and 11 minutes. I saw the light; we can cross the finish line within the 6 hours cutoff if we ran all the way to finish line. We ran as fast as we could but at the last 5km, I'm alright while A started to suffer in a headache. He can't run with a fast pace. I tried to push him as much as I could but I know it's not easy to run with some pain just like what I felt during the first part of our race.

I didn't want to waste his effort. I desperately aimed a medal that he deserves. I tried to ask him if I could go ahead, ran to hit the cutoff and gave him whatever I got in the finish line. But it's a big big NO. As much as I wanted it, I can't leave someone who pushed me earlier to reach that point. So we continued to run and walk and I prayed that we'll reach the finish line.

We actually ran 44.57 kms. We exceeded the real distance due to stopovers like pharmacy and convenience store hunting. I also consumed some time in portable toilet.

We passed many running friends cheering for us in the last kilometer. Thank God for that. Cheers and supports were the best things that we had.

Still smiling! All the way to the finish line..

We crossed the finish line together even though we're beyond cut-off. Having someone like A by my side is really a blessing in disguise. Without him, I won't be able to finish. Thank God for giving me such a running buddy.

I also saw Rox waiting in the finish line. I hugged her and told her briefly what happened to me. I almost cried (tears of joy and pain) but thank God I had overcome it through a big smile. :)

For the post-race pics:

-While waiting for the rain to stop.-

-fixing my things-

After the very painful race, I still got a chance to be with my team Rock and Road in a breakfast while A joined the rest of Ok-Ok Runners.

Team Rock and Road united!

There were so many reasons to be happy! (Candid shot c/o Rad)

"Finishing a marathon isn't just an athletic achievement. It's a state of mind; a state of mind that says anything is possible."



Many thanks to SCR, Photovendo, Jobert, Yani, Edrick and Rad for the photos above.