YourSaskatoon Blogs

Experienced runners and triathletes alike understand the importance of cross-training. Whether it's hitting the eliptical machine, pool, or bike there's plenty of options available. However, it's kind of nice to try something new every once in a while. There's an interesting opportunity to do just that - at Breathe Cycle Studio, which just opened here in Saskatoon.  In this week's Q&A we speak with Clay Sparks, Co-founder of Breath Cycle Studio, to learn more about this unique form of cross-training.  Q&A with Clay Sparks Tara: Let's start with what exactly Breathe Cycle Studio is all about. This is not your average spin class - would you mind telling use more about it?   Clay: Breathe exists primarily as a reminder to tap into the power deep within each of us. We've built a special room for you to reconnect with that power through movement. The tool we've chosen to use is a RealRyder "un-stationary" indoor-cycle....

Interested in going on a beautiful trek in Peru in support of a great cause? This week we're speaking with Mavis Derksen, who's leading the way for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada on a Machu Picchu adventure! There's a lot to learn about this Charity Challenge, so we'll get started right away. But first note, there is also an information session on Saturday, May 7 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Brainsport. Q&A with Mavis Derksen Tara: This seems like a wonderful opportunity to take on a major trek for people of varying experiences hiking. Is it fair to say it's suitable for those who have very little experience? Mavis: Destination hiking is very popular worldwide. The training for Machu Picchu will begin in mid July 2016. Before that I encourage teammates to walk and enjoy the outdoors. This hike is not a race. The speed you will be...

Technology, technology, technology — what do runners need to know? How can it best serve them? Tonight, physiotherapist, Brad Spokes will be speaking at the store as part of the Brainsport Running Academy's Speaker Series. The topic — yes — technology! We're also inviting Run Club folks to stay after this evening's run to listen to Brad's talk. We hope to see you all there!  In this week's Q&A we're going to get a preview of what Brad will be addressing this evening. Q&A with Brad Spokes Tara: Throughout your career, how have you seen technology change the sport? Brad: Back in the early 90’s from a technology standpoint most runners simply ran with the wrist watch. Time was the only measure. As the mid 90’s arrived the heart rate monitor (HRM) was starting to be used by some elite level runners and triathletes and the rush was on to understand...

If you have ever thought about joining one of our Learn To Run courses, the Brainsport Running Academy is presenting an opportunity you won't want to miss — with coach Dave Stark. This course will provide an ideal environment for those who are looking to start their running journey, or maybe pick it up again after years away. Dave has a remarkable story of his own as a runner, which we'll learn more about in this week's Q&A. Q&A with Dave Stark Tara: You've been running for 34 years, and for 14 of those you've served on the Board of Directors for the Saskatoon Road Runners Association. You're very well known here in the running community, but I'm not sure people know a lot about your coaching experience. Would you mind telling us more about it? Dave: I was treated for prostate cancer nearly five years ago. As soon as possible...

Thanks to everyone who came out to run and volunteer at the Brainfreeze on Sunday — it was a beautiful day! Looking ahead at the 2016 racing schedule, there's a lot to get excited about, including the 38th Saskatchewan Marathon. This race is top of list for many runners in Saskatchewan and beyond. In this week's Q&A we speak with its race director, Kim Ali, to learn a bit more about the event. Q&A with Kim Ali Tara: For those who are perhaps new to Saskatchewan, or new to running, could you tell us more about the race's history and how it came to be such a marquee event?   Kim: We are runners and walkers and we volunteer at races! The dedicated race committee has a vision to improve every year through a strong community focus and ongoing communication with past participants. A small number of running enthusiasts started the...

Looking past today's not-so great weather, we have a beautiful forecast for the upcoming days, and hopefully much more to come! The warmer weather is getting everyone excited about our new spring arrivals. We're starting to get questions about what's coming in to the store. So this week, we thought it would be fun, and informative, to speak with Brainsport Manager, Lisette Schermann.Q&A with Lisette SchermannTara: Excitement is building as people anticipate getting outdoors more as spring arrives. Can you share some of what customers can expect to see coming into the store, and when new arrivals will land? Lisette: We don’t have any control over when spring arrives outside, but inside Brainsport, spring will be arriving in mid March. That’s for running clothes and accessories like Buffs, for shoes, many of the best spring styles are already here. Tara: Running shoes are constantly evolving. You are in a lot of meetings with the companies in...

Over the past few weeks there has been a great deal of discussion across the country about the school shooting in La Loche. Through the analysis, questions, and theorizing about why it happened, and how to prevent it from happening again, mental health has emerged as a primary focus of discussion.  It's very timely this week to have the opportunity to talk about mental health and physical activity with Sgt. Wade Bourassa of the Saskatoon Police Service. Sgt. Bourassa is currently in his 17th year of service with the Saskatoon Police Service. The father of two is also a big time runner, with 10 marathons behind him. His service to the city has been recognized publicly numerous times. He is the recipient of the Governor Generals Award for Bravery, has received the M.D. Ambulance lifesavers award and the Chiefs award for community service.   Q&A with Sgt. Wade Bourassa Tara: What impact...

Welcome to February everyone! Hopefully you all have been enjoying the warmer weather — and getting out for some nice runs! In this week's Times we're speaking to photographer Steve Gibb. Most of you are already familiar with his work, but may not realize it. Steve is responsible for taking the Times' stunning front-page photo. With a keen eye for capturing the beauty of Saskatoon's historic buildings, it's no surprise Brainsport caught his attention. Steve will be posting his photos of the store on his website gibbart.com in the next week or so. In the meantime let's get to know him! Q&A with Steve Gibb Tara: Let's start with a little bit of your photography background. Would you mind telling us more about yourself?   Steve: I retired in 2010 after 40 years in the newspaper business, with 35 of those in various editing roles, including the last 17 years as...

Tonight's Run Club is going to be huge! You may have heard Brian is announcing a contest that will "rock you." Coach, Jason Warick will also be making an exciting announcement about a special training opportunity with the Brainsport Running Academy. And, coach Tobi Rempel will be there to answer any questions you may have about her upcoming Beginner/Recreational Marathon course. In addition to all of this, Run Club alumni Ian and Selinda will also be dropping by! The store is going to be open until 9 p.m. with refreshments served after the running is done. It's a perfect evening to bring along some new people to Run Club. And, to take advantage of our 25th Anniversary Sale! In this week's Q&A we're talking to Jason Warick about the Performance Marathon course he's coaching at the Running Academy starting on January 28th. He also gives a tease about the big Running...