Tag Archive for: High Five Events

Explore Miles 7-13.1 of the 3M Half Marathon course and get to know Austin

Austin is well-known for its culinary hot spots and picture-worthy locations. This is evident along Miles 7-13.1 of the 3M Half Marathon course. We highlight some of our favorite on-course spots, including the Texas State Capitol! Whether you’re an Austinite or in town for the 3M Half Marathon, get to know Austin with our list of seven on-course locations. Don’t miss out on Miles 1-6. Enjoy!

Stacks on stacks on stacks. Credit – Upper Crust Bakery Facebook.

Upper Crust Bakery (Mile 9)

Complete 3M Half Marathon, reward yourself with dessert! Makes sense, right?! Upper Crust Bakery (4508 Burnet Rd.) serves lunch too, but let’s be real, you’re coming here to satisfy your sweet tooth. Everything they make, cakes, pies, pastries, etc., is made from scratch. They’ve been in Austin for 28 years, so this isn’t some fly-by-night operation. Stop by and reward yourself!

Stinson’s Bistro (Mile 9)

Their menu is simple, but delicious. What they do make, they knock out of the park. Stinson’s Bistro (4416 Burnet Rd.) is perfect for date night, an outing with friends, or brunch after you complete 3M Half Marathon! Additionally, they serve beverages from coffee to cocktails. So if you’re watching friends or family, stop by for a coffee and a taco before heading to the finish line. Then make plans to come back and celebrate!

Hearty breakfast tacos from Stinson's Bistro. Get to know Austin when you visit places, like Stinson's Bistro, along the 3M Half Marathon course.

Hearty breakfast tacos from Stinson’s Bistro. Credit – Stinson’s Bistro Facebook.

Hyde Park Neighborhood (Miles 10-11)

Considered by many to be Austin’s first suburb, Hyde Park can trace its origins back to 1891. When you’re running through Hyde Park, soak in the massive trees and the beautiful architecture. If it’s not race day, take a leisurely stroll and check everything out at your own pace. If you’re out walking around make sure you check out the Elisabet Ney Museum, Quack’s 43rd St. Bakery, and Antonelli’s Cheese Shop.

Hancock Golf Course (Mile 11.5)

Stretch out your legs before your half marathon and play a round of nine holes at the Hancock Golf Course. The course (811 E. 41st St.) was founded in 1899 by former Austin mayor Lewis Hancock. It’s one of the oldest golf courses in Texas.

Runner passes through UT campus during the 2019 3M Half Marathon. Get to know Austin when you visit the places in our blog, like The University of Texas.

Runner passes through UT campus during the 2019 3M Half Marathon.

University of Texas (Mile 12)

One mile to go! The sights of the University of Texas will definitely help push you to the finish line. When you enter campus you’ll notice the street signs turn from green to burnt orange. Now you know the eyes of Texas are upon you! Before you pass the majestic Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium (home to the Texas Longhorns football team), enjoy the great view of the UT Tower to your right. To your left is the Mike Myers Stadium and Soccer Field where Austin Marathon Celebrity Ambassador Leo Manzano won many awards and set many records!

Enjoy the chicken fried steak from Scholz Garten. Get to know Austin when you visit places, like Scholz Garten, along the 3M Half Marathon course.

You’ll enjoy the chicken fried steak from Scholz Garten. Credit – Scholz Garten Facebook.

Scholz Garten (Mile 13)

Even though they open at noon on Sunday, Scholz Garten (1607 San Jacinto Blvd.) is a great spot for a post-3M Half Marathon gathering. The German food is delicious, there’s plenty of seating (including outdoors), and the atmosphere is always lively! Scholz Garten was established in 1886 and houses one of the nation’s oldest bowling centers. Pro tip: we recommend everything on the menu!

Texas State Capitol (finish line)

The beautiful Texas State Capitol (1100 Congress Ave.) has a rich history and serves as a backdrop for many post-3M Half Marathon photos! Take a Capitol tour and learn about the building’s life and its connection to Texas history. Not a fan of tours? A leisurely stroll on Capitol grounds will get the job done. Don’t forget your camera! Fun fact: the Texas Capitol is taller than the US Capitol!

Miles 7-13.1 of the 3M Half Marathon course features flavorful options and a place to enjoy a relaxing night out. Add these hot spots to your must-visit list and get to know Austin even more. Check out hot spots along Miles 1-6 and complete the course. Did we miss your favorite spot? Let us know what it is on Facebook or Twitter.

What is foam rolling and why should runners do it?

According to Wikipedia, foam rolling is: a lightweight, cylindrical tube of compressed foam. It may be used for many reasons, including increasing flexibility, reducing soreness, and eliminating muscle knots. Foam rolling is a method of self-myofascial release.  Studies show that the best results occur when the foam roller is used for 30 to 90 seconds on each muscle and combined with static stretching.  Rollers come in different sizes and degrees of firmness. The firmness (often identified by the color) can range from soft to firm, soft being best for beginners.

Runner is taking advantage of foam rolling and its benefits.

Top 4 reasons runners should foam roll.

Top 4 Reasons Runners Should Foam Roll

Increases Range of Motion and Relaxation

1.) Increase range of motion – It can help break the knots in our muscles, which restrict our range of motion. Foam rolling can help use our full range of motion. Range of motion is important for flexibility and performance. Regular use of foam rollers for myofascial release can alleviate muscle tightness, ensure optimal joint range of motion, and enhance overall movement.

2.) Increase feelings of relaxation – Part of the reason people love getting massages is because it helps them unwind and feel better. Foam rolling is like giving yourself a massage that takes only a few minutes each time but leaves you feeling much more relaxed.

Decreases Injury Risk and Recovery Time

3.) Decrease injury risk – It can help prevent common injuries. Tight muscles can be more prone to injury, so self-release of muscles and fascia can help loosen everything up and increase your overall performance.

4.) Decrease recovery time – Helps speed up recovery because it promotes better circulation of blood throughout the body. This helps in the natural healing process. No one wants to feel sore for long periods of time. Using a foam roller will help make the uncomfortable feeling go away faster so you can start training again with less soreness.

We at 3M Half Marathon prefer TriggerPoint foam rollers since it started in Austin, where this awesome race takes place. They were also a past partner of the race. There are now numerous creators of similar products you can explore and test out.

Grab one soon, if you don’t already own one, and get to foam rolling ASAP!

4 reasons runners should foam roll.

Infographic on benefits of foam rolling.

If you’re looking for something new, try Rookie Triathlon

You put in months of training leading up to the 25th anniversary of the 3M Half Marathon. Hopefully, you’ve recovered by now! Many runners keep their training going, but they focus on shorter distances. Instead of more running, expand your endurance horizons when you try Rookie Triathlon. There are many benefits to not focusing on running and trying Rookie Triathlon. Some will make you a better runner!

First triathlon of your life

If you’ve never completed a triathlon, Rookie Triathlon is for you! With a 300m swim, 11.2-mile bike ride, and 2-mile run, this event is perfect for first-timers. The swim entry is very controlled, 1-2 participants enter the water every couple of seconds. This prevents clusters of swimmers in the water at one time, helping to calm Rookie nerves and provide a safer swim. Which then leads to more space for cyclists on the road during the bike portion. The field consists of veterans too, so if you need some last-minute advice you don’t have to go far.

Cross-training

The repetitive motion of logging hundreds of miles can stress the body. Plus, if you only run, you’re using your muscles in one motion repeatedly. This can lead to overuse and possibly injury. Cross-training could prevent some of these issues, help you stay healthier, and make you a better runner. Swimming is excellent for two main reasons: 1) you’re using your entire body during the workout, and 2) you’re not pounding the pavement putting additional stress on your muscles, joints, and ligaments. Cycling will help you build lower body strength while working your joints and muscles differently. Both of these activities can build your overall strength, help you lose weight (if needed), increase your lung capacity, and prevent injury from overuse.

16 years

That’s right, Rookie Triathlon will celebrate their Sweet 16 on Sunday, May 5th! This isn’t some fly-by-night triathlon, Rookie Tri is owned and produced by High Five Events, just like 3M Half Marathon. So you know you’re getting a top-notch event that focuses on participant safety and features an energetic finish line festival. And don’t worry, you won’t be the first Rookie to cross the finish line and you won’t be the last. Rookie Triathlon has seen thousands of Rookies begin their triathlon career!

Something different

Pretty straightforward, triathlon is something different. Instead of logging hot and sweaty miles during the summer, knock out your swim in Barton Springs. Forget a long run with humidity, at least on a long bike ride you can generate your own wind to stay cool. You’ll meet new people, make friends, and possibly join a triathlon club, like Austin Triathlon Club. They’re an excellent resource for Rookie and Veteran triathletes. The one thing that isn’t all that different, you still have to train to cross the finish line!