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Salming Ambassador Akash Garg Profile.

One of my highlights every Monday morning is to check how Salming North America Ambassadors has been doing at their races over the weekend. I always get impressed by OCR Ambassador Akash Garg. Akash race frequently 2-3 races every month all over US at elite level and is truly a OCR machine. I don't have much experience from OCR racing and training so I asked this Akash if he could share his best advice regarding training and of course lot of Salming #nononsense talk.

HOW AND WHEN DID YOU START WITH OCR RUNNING?

My first OCR race was in 2007, it was more of a fun run but I truly enjoyed being challenged every few minutes with something different besides terrain and running.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE OCR DISTANCE?

My favorite distance is something most do not consider, but I absolutely love endurance races. I enjoy pushing my limits to the extent of totality. So yes some consider that crazy but I am enthralled with that notion. To quote Vince Lombardi "I firmly believe that any man's finest hour, the greatest fulfillment of all that he holds dear, is that moment when he has worked his heart out in a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle – victorious". One of my favorite quotes.

CAN YOU EXPLAIN HOW A TRAINING SCHEDULE LOOKS LIKE? WHAT ARE THE KEY COMPONENTS? HOW MANY MILES DO YOU RUN A WEEK? WHERE DO YOU RUN?

In regards to training I firmly believe in having a great deal of balance. Many OCR training programs just focus on obstacle training and technique. All of which is important, however without a physical base it may be difficult to even reach the obstacles in question on a 13 mile course. I myself try to lift 5 times a week with intermittent jumping rope followed by an hour of moderate cardio. Focusing on one section a day, Chest, back,. Legs, shoulders, arms and abs I reserve my last two days a week for my extra long runs and technique training. I am hoping to make a small you tube video series with details of this soon. I find that many people have difficulty in the how to get ready for an OCR in terms of athletic ability.

I find that if anyone can increase the strength to their back legs and grip they tend to perform much better than the average runner. Often an obstacle can be just be so wet you may just simply slip off a grip or ring. I personally aim to put in over 70 miles a week in training runs. EXCEPT on race weeks. Than it may only be about 25 to 35 miles.

I like to vary my running between trails and road. Of course trails for hill repeats and elevation change. Now some wonder why I bother with road running but honestly its too get used to exposure. Road running tends to be a nasty environment with fumes from cars or just heat from the road. I have no idea if it is just mental or maybe it really does something but it makes me feel like I am toughening up!

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE WORKOUT?

There are workout that just beat you up mentally and sometimes you force yourself into a gym to do them, Leg day is that for me! That being said I have never been disturbed by a back day at all, it’s my favorite gym day. I tend to work through that muscle group with ease, and I get to vary my grips to mimic obstacles on the course. Those stressful weeks mentally from work and such the best thing for me is just a long run, it can be anywhere but it totally clears my head. 

 

TELL US ABOUT THE SPARTAN SERIES? DO YOU COMPLETE THE WHOLE SERIES?

The Spartan race series has truly come into form this year. They have set a few races aside as to represent their national race series, with a world championship series as well. I am planning to complete both of them fully. It is a true experience to see many differnet venues and terrain. It does make it interesting to see how you may do in a soggy setting in seattle and then you are running in the mountains of West Virginia.

WHY IS SPARTAN RACE YOUR FAVORITE? HOW ABOUT TOUGH MUDDER AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONS?

I actually enjoy all of the race companies out there. I believe each has a true purpose! I run a ton of Spartan races because their obstacles are more standardized. Every company has something to offer, I love tough mudder for their endurance races. Savage race for the sheer challenge of their obstacles on relatively short courses. Bonefrog also has some amazing obstacles and their endurance challenge was my first elite win, so they will always have a place in my heart. Even warrior dash, while some may pick on it as a race, it is a great way to introduce people to OCR racing and yes it is a party! I would like to mention there is one commonolatiy with all these companies, the staff for each is amazing! People are willing to communicate and help one another at all times. The courtesy that many of these companies have expressed to my family and friends is one reason I continue to participate in OCR.

 

HOW DO YOU RECOVER BETWEEN THE RACES, IT SEEMS YOU RACE EVERY WEEKEND?

I do race about twice a month and sometimes up to 3 races in a weekend. This tends to be demanding on my body and recovery is obviously vital. I am true believer in obtaining proper nutrition to help with recovery. I am a proponent of amino acids, particularly glutamine and citruilline. In terms of therapy a chiropractic visit, and an occasional massage are just what the doctor ordered. Of course taking a day off from the gym is sometimes necessary, especially after those races that are over 8 hrs at a time. I have a terrible recovery story from an endurance race. Last year after completing the ultra beast in Lake Tahoe which took me 9 plus hours, my father and I decided it was time I rewarded myself. So a large pizza with all the topping and a 2 liter of regular coke later I realized that maybe I need to stick to a more healthy regimine needless to say that meal did not help me or my body in any way whatsoever. It was good while it lasted though.

ARE YOU QUALIFIED FOR OCR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP?

I am qualified for the OCR world championships as an elite this year. I am trying to make sure I can participate in this very important race series. I am debating on whether or not to trace as an age group competitior or an elite.

WHAT’S YOUR GOAL FOR THE SEASON?

My goals for this season in an objective sense is to win the open series and U.S. national series for Spartan race. I am currently ranked 1 in both. However my largest goal for the year will be to obtain the benchmark of 75 miles at World’s Toughest Mudder. Not many achieve this goal and I have never run this race, I truly look forward to this challenge at the end of the year. Although it may be a long shot I wish to participate in the Ultra World championship for Spartan race, this also witll be a 24 hr endurance race, but in harsh conditions.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF AS AN THE ATHLETE?

Describe yourself as an athlete, I have never had anyone ask me that before. My brother would kid with me often saying you are like a silent assassin. Noone excpects anything from you and you still get it done. I have always liked that, no matter what athletisicim you posses I think that to really excel it takes a few special qualities. Have to have drive and discipline, no way you can give up on yourself and do something halfway! Being able to adapt is also important, not every situation is perfect but most importantly you have to have a sense of humor. When things are not perfect you have to be able to shake it off, realize what you are truly trying to do, and understand you still accomplished something!

WHEN DID YOU FIRST HEAR ABOUT SALMING AND SALMING RUNNING? WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SALMING SHOE AND EQUIPMENT? WHAT ARE MOST IMPORTANT IN AN OCR SHOE?

I had first heard about Salming running a few years ago I had no idea they were trying to move into the OCR market. Their products are well known amongst marathon runners and triathletes for their quality and purpose. When they began to expand into OCR I naturally had a perked up ear. I was very excited they chose me to become an ambassador the same year they  introduced their first true OCR shoe in the Salming OT COMP. By far this is my favorite piece of equipment I own for racing. It is so nice to believe in a company you represent. This shoe has such amazing grip and drainage I am able to truly run my race on my terms. No slips no stutters just some good old work! When people ask me about this shoe I tell them the same thing, this shoe is not meant for the road, it is a true OCR racing shoe, Heck it’s based on a dirt bike tire by Michelin!

DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER SPONSORSHIP'S?

I have no other sponsorships at this time but would love to get on board with a few companies in the realms of nutrition, apparel, and beverages. Salming will always have a place in my heart, they took a chance on me when I was emerging in the sport and likewise I as able to take a chance on them with their new emerging shoe!

 

WHAT DOES #NONONSENSE MEAN TO YOU?

#nononsense means more than just a slogan to me. I jokingly mention it to the students I teach at the college. When I hear slight little complaints about life, school, or even family. I remind them treat it as no nonsense. It’s not that hard challenges come from the life we live, we have to get passed them. Take everything one step at a time and things tend to really work out. So I guess you can say I use that slogan in my daily routine. Don’t let the little things get ya and just keep moving forward with your real goal in mind.

HOW DOES SALMING RUNNING FIT IN TODAY’S OCR INDUSTRY

Salming running is truly making an impact in the OCR world. People are beginning to recognize just because it hasn’t specialized in OCR shoes for long that are making some very innovative strides. The tread on the shoes provides extreme grip, especially the double lugs. The fact that it is a self cleaning shoe also helps! Especially when the terrain tend to “gunk up” other shoes. The drainage of the shoes is absoloutely advantageous, no one likes to run with water sloshing in their shoes.

 

HOW DO YOU PROMOTE SALMING AS AN AMBASSADOR?

As a Salming ambassador I try to promote their products with actual use of their products. I have no problem sharing my results on the course and how well the shoes held up. I try to describe the exact obstacles that I am able to conquer more quickly than others around by simply having increased grip on my shoes. Also, the obligatory pictures from races and me sporting the shoes always help!

YOUR FAVORITE OCR MOMENT?

I do have a favorite OCR moment that I love to mention to others. This also inspires me to keep working every day. Last year I decided to do the Ultra-Beast in Lake Tahoe during World Championship weekend for Spartan. My dad accompanied me on this particular trip. Upon arrival we decided lets scope out the venue to get an idea of the terrain. This was one of the most beautiful venues I have ever seen. We were both in awe. I remember saying to my dad, “Look at how pretty the mountains are.” I noticed these dots and asked, “Dad, what are those dots?" We both realized.... those are people racing!! So after being intimidated, I went back to our hotel and tried to focus on the task at hand. It was cold and dark at the start, and all I could remember is that I have to finish— for myself, my family, and my friends at home. All these people really wanted to see me do well. Coming in after the first lap, I felt pretty good, and on my way in, I see my father. Now my father is not the most physically fit, but I will absolutely never forget this 30 seconds. As I am running to the last few obstacles before the transition area, I see my dad near the race path. Not only does he obviously cheer, but he runs, as best as he could. And I have never seen him do anything like that ever in my life. As he is running he asks if I need anything, how I feel. Right before he has to slow down and begins to run out of breath, he exclaims, “Son, I will see you at the transition and know I am so proud of you!” Now I know parents are always proud of their children, but that meant more to me than most will ever know. Indian culture is not one that expresses emotion heavily, and pride is usually not shared for any sort of athletic achievement. So to hear my father say this, well, let’s say that I had enough fuel in me mentally and physically to keep running another lap and finish 2nd place in the open.

Salming Ambassador Christopher Blewett

 Meet Salming Ambassador Christopher Blewett. A great runner who manage to combine a tough work schedule as a doctor with his family and running. Christopher is also the most knowledgeable  football  fan (soccer )from US that I have talked to. Christopher supports Southampton. Enjoy this presentation blog of Christopher, and you will understand why he is a #nononsense runner!

How and when did you start running?

I started running in Kindergarten at age 5.  I was hyperactive as a kid and the teachers made me run a mile on the crushed granite track next to the playground before school and at the start of recess in an effort to burn off the excess energy.  I wasn't allowed to start class or play until I had gotten my laps in.  I started to enjoy it and found out I had a bit of talent for running which led me to enter local 5k and 10k.

 

What's your favourite distance and race and why?

Growing up I enjoyed the 10k the most  because it was long enough for endurance and training to have an impact. I was small for my age and while I wasn't the fastest I did have a good sense of pace and endurance.

Later on the marathon became my favorite distance because of the mental aspect of the race and the discipline that one has to put into it in order to succeed.  You can bluff your way through a 5k and even 10k without being fully prepared but the marathon you have to train for if you want to do more than finish. 

How many miles per week do you usually do?

When I'm not training for a specific race I'm running between 20-30 miles per week. During marathon training I would probably I increase to 25-40 miles per week. 

In 2014 I over trained and exacerbated my IT band training for and running the NYC marathon.  I also discovered I had piriformis issues, which took a while to diagnose oddly enough. 

Where do you typically run, track, roads or trail?

Mostly roads with the occasional trail or track workout.  There are a few parks and nature preserves in Plano, the city where I live now, but it's nothing compared to New Jersey, where I went to college, or Austin, where I grew up.

" I first heard about Salming through a 

Facebook Group and review for the 

Salming Distance 4 from Believe in The Run. "

What's your favorite workout?

When running by myself I love a tempo workout with negative splits. Starting out slowly then gradually increasing the pace before finishing with a burst.  

How do you plan your training? Coach, book plan or self coached?

Mostly self-coached which works or about as well as people who serve as their own attorney during a trial.  I've always done better when I've had a coach, whether an actual physical coach or an online coach.  I use my work schedule as an excuse but I just need to be more disciplined.

How would you describe yourself as a athlete?

At the moment I would say I'm a recreational athlete, trying to recapture some of the magic from the past while balancing work and family in the present.  

I played Div III lacrosse and ran cross country in high school and my senior year at Drew University.  I was above average in that I would place in smaller meets and qualified for Regionals but nothing like guys on the power D-III running schools at the time, like Haverford.

I'm not quite Uncle Rico level from Napoleon Dynamite but I might be there some day...

" I'm not quite Uncle Rico level from Napoleon Dynamite

 but I might be there some day..."

Goal race for the fall? And what's your goal for that race?

My goal race for the Fall is a half marathon and if all goes well a full marathon in the Winter.

I would be happy with anything under 1:45 with a secondary goal of under 1:40

I really want to qualify for Boston again which I will likely need to wait until I hit 45 as that gives me an extra 10 minutes 

You work as a Doctor, a job that requires long irregular hours. Do you find it hard to fit in your runs and how do you plan for it?

Early morning or late night runs are the norm, along with the treadmill when I'm on call.

It is definitely challenging trying to fit in linger, especially with kids.  My wife works full time as an OB/Gyn and it can be a juggling act with our call schedules since we try to not be on call at the same time.

When you're on call the rules are eat when you can, sleep when you can, and run when you can. There is a sign at Facebook headquarters that reads "Done is better than perfect" and that applies to runs sometimes. I may have wanted to get a long run in but sometimes you just have to get it however many miles the day or night allows.

 "When you're on call the rules are eat when you can, 

sleep when you can, and run when you can."

You live in Texas, how do you cope with the heat and humidity during your training? 

Growing up it never seemed like a big deal but when you're young and don't know any better you can get away with a lot more.

Early morning or late night runs and courses with loops that allow for water stops are key. Plus consciously slowing down the pace by 30-60 seconds per mile on runs over 30 minutes. We are also blessed to have what must be a state law to require a Starbucks to be located no more than 3 miles from an existing Starbucks.

I ran the Disney Marathon in 2013 and it was quite warm and humid and the race director Jeff Galloway implored everyone to slow pace by about 30 seconds for every 5 degrees above 60 degrees, which was quite helpful and actually led to a pretty decent time since I went out much slower in the beginning than I would have if the temperatures were cool.

Consciously slowing the pace down helps out immensely. 

I've seen you travel a lot for vacation, what's your favorite place for a run that you have traveled to?

This summer we took a tour through Switzerland with my in-laws, which included stops in Zermaat and St Mortiz.  The strict schedule of the tour forced me to get up early and the scenery was too spectacular to pass up.  Running around the lake in St. Mortiz was blissful.  It was around 6:30 am just as the sun was coming up. The whole town was quiet and I essentially had the whole trail around the lake to myself except for one guy walking his dog and guy doing Tai Chi. The water was as smooth as glass with perfect reflection of the mountains in the background on the water.  I noticed this group of ducklings swimming in a line, with one particular duckling lagging behind.  The mother looped back around to scold or encourage the little straggler to keep up.   It was the pure essence of running.  No music, no Garmin, just the sound of my breath and the dirt beneath my feet.  Truly no nonsense running.

 

When did you first hear about Salming and Salming Running?

I first heard about Salming through a Facebook Group and review for the Salming Distance 4 from Believe in The Run.  I had been looking for a lightweight trainer similar to the Adidas Boston and DS Trainer and the Distance really fit the bill - light weight, Low but not zero drop, responsive feel for the road, and efficient design for quick turnover. 

How long have you been an ambassador?

This is my first year as an ambassador.  I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity as it's introduced me to many interesting individuals, mostly through social media, that I would not otherwise have come into contact with.

What's your favourite Salming shoe and equipment?

Until about two weeks ago I would have said the EnRoute and the Distance were my favorite shoes, but the Speed6 has really impressed me with the balance between cushioning and responsiveness, along with unique upper. 

The design platform of the 62/75 principle makes the transition from long distance trainer to a racing or speedwork shoe quite seamless.   

What does #nononsense mean to you?

Substance over style with purpose driven performance. The models have simple but effective names which precisely describe their intended purpose - Miles, Speed, Distance, Race without unnecessary hyperbole. 

 

The materials and the design of the shoes are not some gimmick, like blades or springs, but classic running shoe materials that are put together from a runner's perspective.

Salming doesn't claim their next shoe is going to revolutionize running.  They allow you to be the best runner you can be, whether that is someone who is up on the podium at the end collecting a medal or someone running with your friends. 

How does Salming Running fit in, in today's running industry?

That's a very interesting question with the way the retail industry is changing from brick and mortar stores to online and word of mouth. Growing up you went with what was available at the local running shop or the major sporting goods store at the mall. Now the choices are seemingly endless thanks to Amazon and online retailers. 

Salming is a brand for genuine runners who are serious about running and fitness as a part of their lifestyle, whether that's trying to qualify for Boston or just running to burn the stress off and stay I shape.

How do you promote Salming as an ambassador?

I promote Salming through the social media platforms I use - Instagram, Facebook, Strava, along with personal interactions at the HIIT studios that I work out at.  The colors and design, particularly with the Race5 and Speed6.

How do you see Salming grow in the future?

Salming has tremendous potential to grow in the US as word of mouth spreads and its presence increases in the running and triathlon community.  I also see an opportunity for the cross fit and High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) crowd as well.

"Salming is a brand for genuine runners who are serious about running and fitness as a part of their lifestyle, whether that's trying to qualify for Boston or just running to burn the stress off and stay I shape."

Salming Ambassador Marcus Aronsson

Marcus is a Swedish triathlete who has been with Salming since the very first start. I actually see a lot of similarities  between myself and Marcus. We both are trying to find the balance between  family with kids (running and cycling with strollers), training and work. We both trying our best to promote Salming as grassroot ambassadors and been with the company from the early years. Marcus are as well the founder of the Salming World Ambassador Group on Facebook. Marcus is a true #nononsense athlete who always gives everything, as an ambassador and as a triathlete. Pictures of him tells it all! Marcus is also a good friend that I always enjoy to chat with.

How and when did you start running and triathlon?
I started playing soccer as a young boy so I guess I've always been running. Even though I hated the running exercises, I wanted to run after a ball. When I was about 25 years old I started my career as a firefighter and it was impossible to combine recreational soccer and working on weekends. I met a colleague who was doing triathlons and he inspired me to try a sprint. After that I was stuck.

What's your favourite distance and race and why?
My favorite running distance is half marathon simply because I love the Göteborgsvarvet and I can keep a pretty high intensity without being destroyed a week afterwards.

My favorite triathlon distance is the full ironman. Just because the challenge of keeping on going for 10 hours and doing it at a pace without burning all my energy half ways. Ironman Kalmar is one of the worlds best ironman races and we are lucky to have it in Sweden. I'm racing in Kalmar again in 2018. 

 


How many miles per week do you usually do?
Since the twins were born it has been harder to get time for training so I focus on intervals. I've stoped counting km and try to focus the goal I put up for each workout. I try to do one bike and one running interval per week. And hopefully about 2hrs of running or biking and some swimming.

Where do you typically run/bike/swim, track, roads or trail?
I run on asphalt only. We have excellent bike roads which I run and bike on. Bike intervals only on trainer or Watt bike and running intervals on treadmill.

How is triathlon training different from regular running, how does training difference?
Well, it's easier to do double intervals on the same day. At work I often do 3x8 min on the wattbike at 12 o'clock and at evening break at 17 I run 4x4 min on the treadmill. Morning swim the day after in distance pace is no problem. The biggest difference for training for an ironman is perhaps that I've started to train in august 2017 for a race in august 2018.

What's your favorite workout?
Morning run with the twins in the running stroller. 25k in a summer morning, that's hard to beat.

 

Where do you typically run/bike/swim, track, roads or trail? 

I run on asphalt only. We have excellent bike roads which I run and bike on. Bike intervals only on trainer or Watt-bike and running intervals on treadmill. During the winter I swim indoors but when the temperature allows we have a small pond where one lap is about 250m. I swim there as often as I can.

 

How do you plan your training? Coach, book plan or self coached?
Self coached, but I've read a lot and talked to different coaches. Simon Gustavsson on Umara Sports have helped me a lot.

How would you describe yourself as a athlete? 

I love training, I love high intensity training. 4x4 min with 90-95 percent of max pulse I just love the feeling when it's over and I reached my goal.
I'm an all in athlete, when I do something it's never almost. I push myself and go all the way to the extreme. That's me.... all in. 

 

 

  "I push myself and go all the

    way to the extreme. That's me.... all in."

Your family just welcomed baby twins to the family, how do you balance your training with family life?
The family is of course the most important. But sometimes you have to have a break and go running for an hour or two to stay a good parent. At least I do. I try to train early mornings, evenings and at work. But if I could choose I'd train after breakfast.

Goal race for the fall? And what's your goal for that race?
I have no races planed this fall. My focus has started towards Ironman Kalmar in august 2018. 

 

When did you first hear about Salming and Salming Running?
I found them on twitter in 2013 and thought it sounded interesting with a Swedish shoe brand. Me an another soon to be an ambassador, Kalle Wickström started to talk with them and asking about the products we also tried to help them with getting some followers. This, among other things, resulted in a ambassadorship for both of us. 

 

 "it sounded interesting with 

   a Swedish shoe brand"

How long have you been an ambassador? 

2013 I think.

The Swedish ambassador group seems to have lot of group activities together, can you tell us about it?
We meet at some races around in Sweden, we always try to meet up when race the same races. We have a Swedish team Salming Facebook group were we post when we are raceing.
We also have the TSTMI, Team Salming Track Meet Invitational, once a year. all Salming ambassadors and other partners are invited to a conference. The conference is about what products to come and some info about what's going on in the company, there's always some sort of race. 3k race or like this year a mountain race, triathlon sprint and an Olympic triathlon. I raced all of them. And then it's food and we just hang out. I love it. The members of the team have become really good friends and I really like to hang out with them. 

 

What's your favourite Salming shoe and equipment? 

I can't really pick. I love the Race in intervals and short races. But I also love to run in Speed when doing a IM marathon.

When I run with the stroller, 25k and above enRoute is perfect.

What does #nononsense mean to you?
The no nonsense is a shoe or running apparel that supports my running but not interfering with my natural stride. It enhances me. That's #nononsense

How does Salming Running fit in, in today's running industry?
 Salming is a new inspiration on the market, who offer some new ideas. I think Salming fits in just right in, with our #nononsense shoes and gear.

How do you promote Salming as an ambassador?
I always recommend Salming shoes and explain why I run in Salming shoes and which shoe goes to which distance. Sometimes I write blogposts at http://marcustriathlon.wordpress.com. And I also use social media, instagram, Facebook, twitter.

How do you see Salming grow in the future? 

I think it will keep growing and expand to other markets. More and more people are trying Salming shoes and I like to think it's because us engaged ambassadors. Hopefully they keep listening to our ideas and input and keep developing the products.

 

Salming Ambassador Todd Baranoski

 Salming Ambassador Todd Baranoski

Recently some of the Salming Ambassadors started a Face Book group for all Salming athletes worldwide. Here I have been talking to some of Salming's  amazing talented #nononsense athletes/ambassadors world wide that I would like to present here on my blog.

First out is Salming's smiling Canadian Todd Baranoski. Todd is an amazing ultra runner, who runs crazy long races and always smiles. Todd is also a great guy who always is helpful, always take his time to answer questions regarding Ultra running and trail running. Todd is also one of the few Salming ambassadors who has seen Borje Salming play Ice Hockey live!

How and when did you start running?

I first started running around age 7-8 in Northwestern Ontario where I went for the summers working at my Uncle’s tourist camp.  We would go to his private cabin in the summer when there wasn’t a lot of people in camp for a couple days to relax, or into minnow lakes where we would trap minnows for the guests to use for fishing, or what we call walk in fishing lakes, these were the only accessible by a walking trail a few miles long.  Sometimes I would run the trails that were for the quads to bring in supplies as it was in the middle of nowhere on a remote lakes with the closest civilization a couple hours away.  There was only so much room on the quads and that was taken up by supplies.  So who was ever with my uncle would have to walk.  Or in my case I would run sometimes.  I would race myself each time in and out.  

Running the trails in the heart of the Canadian Shield to Randy Lake in the big Jack and Spruce Pines, no underbrush except some blueberry bushes and ferns, the rest a very barren green moss covered landscape under the canopy of trees, going over all the rises and coming out at the peaceful lake, no one around waiting for everyone is still some of my most vivid childhood memories.  

I ran through school and the Army the odd time after but really started in July 2013 at 41 years old with my first ½ marathon in the early fall of 2013 and running with my first Ultra(50k) in May 2014.  So I’m relatively still new to running compared to most people.

What's your favorite distance and race and why?

Currently 100k is my favorite distance, type is single track trail, point to point with some good gains.  I think I like it because it seems to be my current level I can comfortably run the entire distance.  I can really push myself at that distance without having to worry about keeping a big reserve of energy. My favorite race so far is Cruel Jewel(did the 56 mile this spring) in Georgia.  I loved the incredible trails, tremendous amount of gain(17,000 ft of gain) without going over 4500ft in elevation, very well organized with incredible people volunteering at the aid stations.

How many miles per week do you usually do?

Typically anywhere from 45-60 on average miles of week with a peak of around 70-80 with different types of runs.  That seems low but because some of my runs I do are not long runs but goal runs.  As an example for hill training my goal for that day will be 1500ft of gain which is about 3 miles where I do my hill training.

My goal is be able to run 100 miles/week consistently I’m hoping I can get there by this time next year.

Where do you typically run, track, roads or trail?

It’s typically around split 70/30 trail to road.

How is Ultra running different from regular running, how does training difference?

That’s hard to explain because everyone is different and have access to different terrain to train.  

#1 the distance of the trail races or Ultramarathons is a guideline not an absolute distance.  A 10k trail will be over by a km.  If it’s a 50k it may really be 55k, a 100 mile race may really be a 106 miles.  The RD don’t apologize for it. lol.  It’s a guideline but never shorter.

 " Nothing will end your race

 earlier than not being prepared

 for hills."

I live in the prairies of Canada. I don’t have easy access to running mountains or large hills.  So a lot of my training involves hill training in one form or another.  The ability to run up and downhill (downhill running is harder on your body than uphill) is incredibly important.  Nothing will end your race earlier than not being prepared for hills.  I train a week at a small ski hill( I mean small) with 50% grade close by and I believe tire drag with a 50 lbs tire also helps me with hills and speed.

Running trails for long runs to me is next on the list but just as important as hill work.  Learning to run on uneven rocky, rooty, muddy trails that go up and down efficiently is a skill that must be mastered.   Everyone that starts to run trails trip and fall a lot at the start.  Learning to pick up your feet especially when you’re tired is a hard transition from road running.

 Speed work is just as important as with road racing.  The ability to run fast is directly influences time on feet for both road and trail on what you require of your body.  Fast though is proportional to each type of running.  But why be out there for 30 hours when you can be out there for 24 hrs.

Finally, Fuel and Hydration is big.  On road marathon a person has to worry about 2-5 hours of hydration and fuel.  The needs are required for road, it is different in comparison to someone that is doing 50k-100 miler, depending on the race and where it’s held can be 18-24 hours of on your feet for the first place finisher.  A person needs to learn how to maintain their energy for that many hours.  It’s a lot of trial and error process because everyone is different and how their GI will handle it over a long period of time.

What's your favorite workout?

If you mean gym I don’t work out or strength train except maybe in December when I take a little break from running but that’s mostly to tone up and don’t really take it serious.

If you mean running, my favorite and most dreaded is Tire drag runs.  I think it has a real benefit to hill running and to my overall speed.

How do you plan your running? Coach, book plan or self coached?

Kinda self-coached for now.  Currently I take a lot of information off the internet of what the elites do and try to incorporate into my training schedule.  I’ll make a schedule up in the beginning of each year from what I’ve learned on what I need to work on and then try to put my weaknesses into my schedule.  Even with that it’s always changing and adapting during the year to what I feel what my body can handle.

I know to get to the next level I will need to get a coach that fits into my running attitude and philosophy.

How would you describe yourself as a runner?

Driven-Dedicated

Goal race for the fall? And what's your goal for that race?

If haven’t picked on yet one yet but getting close on deciding, It will be 100 miler.  My goal is to run a sub 24hrs.  

When did you first hear about Salming and Salming Running?

Great story.  Early winter of 2015 I was looking for new trail shoes.  They ones I was wearing where to minimum and just didn’t feel right.  I researched for months.  I went to all the running and outdoor stores in Winnipeg trying on shoes that were available to try.  The usual suspects Saucony, Brooks, Altra’s, Hoka, etc etc.  Each one didn’t feel right.  Especially the Altra’s and Hoka’s.  I looked on line and reads hundreds of different reviews on shoes and comparison charts.  I came across Salming in a review for trail shoes.  They were reviewed with a bunch of shoes.  I read the review and thought what the hell.  They are everything I’m looking for.  I called customer service, Laura was awesome as always, and explained that I would love to try their T1’s but wondered if there was a discount available. I explained that with the dollar difference and shipping charges I was worried that they would be another shoe that I wear for 100 miles and put in the closet with others that just doesn’t work for me.  Laura said no problem I can give 20% off to help. 

 " I read the review

 and thought what the hell.

 They are everything I’m looking for."

 I said that’s awesome thank you.  This was December 22nd 2015, I still have the emails and it’s hilarious how happy I was for the 20% off. January rolled around and a new training schedule started.  I ran every run on the one pair them.  Inside, outside -30C, treadmill, stairs, speed. etc. for the month of January. They were incredible. Been running in Salming Shoes ever since.

How long have you been an ambassador?

February 2016

What's your favourite Salming shoe and equipment?

For road hands down is the Distance 5.  Best shoe all around.  Perfect combination for lightweight for speed but still have enough cushion for long runs.

For Trails has been the Trail series of shoes.  Each model gets better and better and more versatile for different terrain and types of trials.

I wear the most is the Grey Salming running jacket.  Perfect for everything.

I like wearing the short racing shorts but mostly for shock effect. Lol  

The Salming Running Long Sleeve tee shirt is awesome.  Makes for a great middle layer in winter and great spring and fall shirt.

I know I would love the Salming running Beanie.  I would cut off the pom pom.

What does #nononsense mean to you?

Don’t train half assed.  Train to improve each time. Leave everything you have on the road or trail.

How does Salming Running fit in, in today's running industry?

I see Salming as a no gimmick running shoe company that make high quality shoe that lasts longer than the competitors.

How do you promote Salming as an ambassador?

Interactions on line or in person.  I try to post a lot with races and what I use to race in, that seems to go a long way to promoting.   I try to finish well on all my races to help a lot to promote them.  I will get asked for my opinion about running or if someone is having injury issues I will suggest trying Salming shoes.  I find it key that is if someone is have issues with their shoes to get them to see they have nothing to lose in trying them.

How do you see Salming grow in the future?

I see Salming becoming a mainstream shoe over the next 5 years as it become more widely known.  Especially in Canada.

You have actually seen Borje Salming play hockey in person, what do you remember and what can you tell us about the experience?

When he played for Toronto Maple Leafs in the mid 80’s, not exactly sure what year, they played against Winnipeg Jets(my team) in the old barn. My dad took me for my birthday present and Winnipeg happen to be playing the Leafs.  I was pretty young at the time.  Even though the game was played in Winnipeg there is always a huge Toronto following in the arena when they showed up to play.  I remember him being cheered on a lot during the game from the Toronto fans.  I remember looking up his number up in the program and asking my dad how to pronounce his name. lol he wasn’t sure either.  When I saw him playing in person he certainly stood out on the ice.  You need to have some skill to see it on the ice with a lot of great players out there.  

Funny how 20 years after first learning of Borje Salming from hockey and respecting his hockey skills I’m an ambassador wearing his shoes.

Salming Race5 Review

Salming Race5

Race and Distance are now the only shoes from Salming original line up that still carry their original midsole shape. Some changes has been made to the firmness and outsole rubber over the years but the shape and outsole patterns remains the same.

Race is a pure racing flat that in the past have been using from 5K up to half marathon. I've been thinking about trying Race for the full marathon, but in the end I have always picked Salming Speed or Distance, thinking Race its not enough shoe for me.

I'm now about two weeks away from Boston Marathon, and I'm thinking Race5 with its brand new upper will be my pick for the race, for two reasons. 1)The new upper, secure the foot much better then previous editions of Race. The foot gets centered more and you can take advantaged of the energy return from the cushion in a more secure way. 2)The old Speed is now discontinued and replaced by Speed5. Speed5 is now more of a performance shoe ( review here ) rather then a marathon flat. The new Race5 has the same "raw" road feel that the old Speed had.

Salming Race5 Data:

• Weight: 185 g (UK 9)
• Drop: 5 mm
• Color: Ceramic Green
• Gender: Men
• Stack: 16 mm center of heel 11 mm ball of foot

• Midsole: Runlite™ + Carbon Torsion
• Outsole: Lite rubber
• Lining: Mesh
• Sizes: UK 6,5-12. EU 40 2/3-48
• SKU: 1287025-6700

 

Upper:
Salming Race5 gets a brand new one piece upper. Its a stretchy fabric that hugs your feet extremely well, without being to tight. The foot does not move around and feels more centered over the Runlite midsole then previous Race editions. The mesh is not see thru but feels thin and light enough to be breathable. To build up support around the upper fabric, Salming are using Exo Skeleton technology. Its not the traditional "skeleton" we have seen on all other Salming shoes. Here Salming are using a print technology to create necessary support to the one piece mesh. With this technology Salming are saving weight and the support works with one piece fabric to create a solid "one piece" feeling. The printed "blocks" are also reflective at night, which makes the shoe to stand out. Not that you are racing at night to often, but its a cool feature without adding any extra weight to the shoe.

Pros/Cons
+Extremely hug friendly upper. It just wraps your foot, without causing any hotspots from the support elements.
-Cant come up with any negative regarding the fit, but some of the design feels unnecessary. I'm pretty sure that if you buy the shoe, you're aware of Salmings website.....

Midsole/Outsole
The Salming Race Midsole/Outsole unit has been pretty much been untouched since the very first edition. Runlite has been tweaked over the years a bit but Race5 has the same Runlite as last years edition. Last years Runlite was lighter and more responsive. You will find a carbon fiber torsion unit in the midfoot, to give the shoe some support and a "snappy" feeling. Outsole has lightweight rubber place on strategic places only, to save weight. To save more weight I can see different pattern, perhaps a bit more aggressive outsole, to get a faster feeling. 65% /75 angle is in cooperated as with all Salming shoes. In Race5 case, the shoe feels very supportive as it is also built low to the ground at the same time as 65% remains supportive without flex.

Pros/Cons
+Runlite compound feels very fast and "snappy".
-Race could used 1-2mm more stack height to make it more versatile and accessible.

Over All  
I can understand why Salming keeps its Runlite compound midsole/outsole the same on the lighter racing flats. Its fast, responsive and protective. If you're one of those runners who are missing the old Speed, you can still find the "raw" feeling with Race5 as many of the runners loved with Speed. This feeling might not be for everyone but Salming D5 is the next step up and can be used as an excellent racing flat for the longer distances as marathon.

The Race5 became a much more solid and complete shoe with the new one piece upper, it works better with the Runlite midsole then previous editions, as the foot feels centered in the shoe and secured. Race5 is a good option for the full marathon, as it now feels more secure and supportive
https://www.salming.com/us/running/men/shoes/race/c-756

Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive Running shoes from Salming Running North America as part of their Salming brand ambassador program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Salming Speed5 Review

Salming Speed5

For 2017, Salming Running has decided  to do a total make over of Speed, one of Salmings original line up shoes. Speed has been my to go shoe for faster runs and the marathon distance. A snug, low to the ground and light shoe that have served me really well. The new Speed5 is something totally different. With Speed5, Salming are placing Speed in the same category as their new shoe EnRoute, but Speed is a hair lighter then Enroute. They both are built on the same last, with some minor differences. EnRoute has a softer cushion and a torsion unit in the midfoot. Speed5 is more firm and does not  carry the same torsion unit. The uppers in the both shoes are totally different.  Here are some of Salmings data regarding Speed5:

• Weight: 8.7 oz (US 10 Men)
• Drop: 6 mm
• Color: Ceramic Green/Black (Men)
• Color: Shocking Orange/Dark Orchid (Women)
• Stack: 22 mm center of heel 16 mm ball of foot
• Midsole: Recoil™ + Recoil R™
• Outsole: Durable lightweight rubber

 https://shopsalmingusa.com/products/salming-speed-5-shoe-men-ceramic-green-black
 

Salming Speed3 in the background

 Upper:
Salming are using two different types of mesh in the upper. In the the midfoot, together with the EXO Skeleton we see a very thin, firm mesh. Same mesh has been used on earlier Speed as the third layer, but server here as a single layer. You can literally see straight thru the shoe.  Together with the Exo Skelton the midfoot is very secured and at the same time the mesh breathes very well. I could see how this mesh can benefit a triathlete who need good drainage. 

The toebox of Speed is wide and offer a more softer mesh, to avoid hot spots. The toes get a lot of room to spread out. The wide toe box takes away the snug fast feeling, the original Speed offered the runner. Speed offer a soft thick ankle collar that protects and heel does not slip.
Together with the snug fit in the midfoot area and the wide spread toebox you get a nice fit, but it does not feel as fast as the name Speed should, more like a performance shoe.
 EnRoute upper kind of looks like the old Speed upper so maybe the EnRoute upper would have been more suitable for Speed5 and the other way around?

+ Nice mid-foot wrap, with open mesh

-Too wide toe box for my like, feels like toe box and mid-foot wrap are not synchronized together.

Outsole/Midsole
Speed and EnRoute are built on the same last, with a Recoil compound as the main ingredients. While EnRoute offers more cushion, Speed5 has a more firm Recoil solution. The firmer Recoil works better when you pick up the pace, but can be a bit harsh on your legs at lower paces. Speed does not have the same torsion unit as EnRoute, instead its built in, like Salming Miles, in the Recoil material for a better heel-toe transition. Speed5 and EnRoute share the same outsole pattern, blown rubber. The rubber cover most of the parts of the outsole and offer good grip on pavement, wet and dry. Of course Salming 62%/75 degree approach is in cooperated in the midsole/outsole. With first flexgroove after 62% of the shoe in a 75% degree for a natural flex . The flex grooves are deep and offer a great flex in the fore foot that works with your transition.

+Firm ride, but need to be high pace to take advantage
+Great flex in the forefoot

-At the same time the firmness of this shoe can be to much when you run easy pace.
-Could see a more aggressive outsole pattern, for a faster feel.

EnRoute on the left, Speed5 to the right

Over All/Ride
Speed has got a bit of a cult status back in Europe and Sweden, so I can see how many runners questions the extra weight and "more shoe". Speed5 is more in the performance category now and Salming D5 will represent the brand in the marathon flat category, as D5 have lost some of its weight. The new Race5 is also like a good option for the runner who seek the old raw"Speed feeling".

As mentioned above the ride of Speed5 is firm and responsive, according to me, this is a shoe for the faster days, not the recovery day or easy miles. I have now over 50 miles on my Speed5 and I feel the Recoil foam has started to ease up a bit, so my conclusion is that Speed5 needs some break in time. This is my second shoe from Salming that are using the Recoil foam, Miles was my first shoe. I hope Speed5 Recoil offers the same durability as my Miles. My first pair of Miles has now over a 1000 miles and still going strong. If I can get 1000 miles out of a pair of performance shoes, that would be fantastic!

Salming Speed5 is very close to Salming EnRoute and I can see how Salming wants to build on the EnRoute momentum and have a faster option for those runners who are using EnRoute as their daily trainer. To get an even more faster feeling of Speed5 I would have loved to see a more streamlined upper.

 Disclosure of Material Connection: I receive Running shoes from Salming Running North America as part of their Salming brand ambassador program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.