Make Strides At The LA Marathon With Sport Chalet Gear And Expert Advice

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 25, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- As participating Angelenos prepare for the 29th annual LA Marathon on March 9, premier specialty sporting goods retailer Sport Chalet is providing race goers at all levels with tips and tailored in-store guidance to compete in the 26-mile race.

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"Running a marathon takes a good deal of preparation and dedication. Every runner's experience and goals are different," said Sport Chalet Expert Paul Smedley. "At Sport Chalet, not only do we help athletes select the proper gear to complement marathon training, we also have a knowledgeable staff available to offer insight on individual running needs, styles and body types."

To help runners pave the way through the LA Marathon's scenic journey from Dodgers Stadium to the Pacific Ocean, Smedley provides the following six tips:

• With any kind of running, staying hydrated is of utmost importance. Traditional hydration packs can be bulky and add unnecessary weight. Invest in a lightweight pack like the hydration belt, which also includes a pocket to carry energy gels, cash and more.
• Another important factor to consider for a marathon is finding a running shoe that complements the unique gait of the runner. Sport Chalet offers complimentary gait analysis and shoe fitting at every location to help runners select the perfect shoe for marathon day.
• Runners should consider wearing compression apparel to decrease the muscle vibration caused by running, which in turn will help reduce fatigue over a long distance. In addition, compression apparel also increases blood flow, offers core support and provides muscle warmth that can support performance and aid in post-run recovery.
• For marathoners looking to track their pace, distance or heart rate, a running watch can be a great tracking tool throughout training and on race day.
• Twenty-six miles of constant motion can cause friction that irritates the skin. Use a body balm to create a barrier between the skin and clothing to prevent any discomfort during a marathon. Body balms can also be used on the feet to help prevent blistering.
• Above all else, runners should always default to their training. The excitement of marathon day should not deviate from an established routine. Even changes in the diet can often negatively affect marathon performance. Be sure to stick to a race-day schedule that has proven to be successful in training.

For more information on Sport Chalet's selection of running gear or to find the nearest Sport Chalet location, visit www.sportchalet.com. For additional media inquiries, contact [email protected].  

About Sport Chalet

Sport Chalet (Nasdaq: SPCHA, SPCHB)  is a premier, full service specialty sporting goods retailer featuring the industry's top sports brands in apparel, footwear, and sports equipment. Founded in 1959 by Norbert Olberz, the company has 51 stores in Arizona, California, Nevada and Utah; an online store at www.sportchalet.com; a Team Sales division; and offers more than 50 specialty services for the sports enthusiast, including online same day delivery, climbing, backcountry skiing, ski mountaineering, avalanche education, and mountain trekking instruction, car rack installation, snowboard and ski rental and repair, Scuba training and certification, Scuba boat charters, team sales, gait analysis, baseball/softball glove steaming and lacing, racquet stringing, and bicycle tune-up and repair at its store locations. For more information, visit Sport Chalet at www.sportchalet.com.

SOURCE Sport Chalet, Inc.