Launch of the TRIATHLON Tour to Lake Mead

 

Triathlon training in Las Vegas?! That's correct! Not only does Las Vegas offer amazing nightlife, gambling, and entertainment, but did you know that some of the best triathlon training is only 30 min from the Strip!

Join Las Vegas Running Tours and experience this is an amazing triathlon opportunity.  Catch an open water swim in one of the largest man made reservoirs around,  get in some bike miles on the scenic River Mtns Loop trail (closed to traffic), and transition run while taking in beautiful views of the Lake.  


Your Guide, Jimmy, is a USAT Level One certified Triathlon Coach and has triathlon experience covering all distances, from sprint distance to seven Ironman triathlons. Whether you want to push yourself, as you prepare for an upcoming race, or want to get in a chill training session, you are guaranteed to enjoy this experience.

This triathlon tour comes complete with with hotel pick-up and drop off, open water swim support, *bicycle rental, transition racks, and refreshments. Make sure to bring your goggles, swim cap, wet suit, tri kit, bike cleats, bike shoes, bike helmet, water bottles, run shoes, visor, and any other gear you'd like to train with.

*Once contact has been made, arrangements will be made for a bike rental and this cost is included in the overall price of the tour.

Due to safety concerns, it is a requirement to have open water swimming experience and bicycling experience.

The cost for this tour is $189 per person. The tour will run daily, except Sundays, from 6-10am and from March to November.

Interested? Please contact Jimmy for more information- 702-473-0557 or jimmy@lasvegasrunningtours.com.

How to Leave No Trace while running in the desert

Leaving No Trace on your next desert run- 

Tips to help take care of the desert

The Mojave Desert is a special desert, covering over 22,000 square miles. The Mojave Desert is the driest and smallest of the North American deserts and was named after the Mohave tribe of Native Americans.

Running through this beautiful landscape is a treat and should be treated as such. The Mojave Desert environment is a very fragile place to explore with small impacts possibly lasting years rather than months as they would in more fertile areas. A single piece of garbage may be preserved for decades instead of decaying in a few weeks. A footprint in rare soft ground may harden and still be there in the next rainy season.So it goes without saying, that there are certain things you want to do while running in the desert. Here are a few tips to ensure you protect the desert and prevent damaging it in any way.

1. Plan Ahead-

• Plan on bringing plenty of water...water can be scarce in the desert 
• Plan your run for cooler times of the day and year

2.  Durable Surfaces-

• STAY ON THE TRAIL! Rock, gravel, or sand is often plentiful in arid areas and are very durable surfaces
• Use the most highly traveled trail you can find so no additional disturbance occurs to the vegetation and surrounding area 

3.  Disposal of Waste-

• Since there may be no organic soil in arid lands, the moisture and organisms that usually break down human waste in catholes are not present. In these situations, it is best to pack out human waste along with your other garbage.
• If you do make catholes, they rely on the heat of the sun to help break down the waste so the holes should not be too deep. Also, toilet paper should be packed out rather than covered in the cathole.
• Locating catholes on south-facing slopes, well away from trail, camp, and waterways (even if currently dry) will maximize decomposition and minimize impact.

4.  Leave What You Find-

•  Crybtobiotic crust is an extremely fragile, living community of organisms found in the desert. It retains moisture and provides protection against erosion, giving other plant life a foothold. This crust withstands the harsh environment, but the crushing force of even a single footstep will destroy it. Once broken, the crust can quickly disintegrate and a domino effect of erosion can occur, turning a previously stable area into shifting dunes of sand. Completely avoid cryptobiotic crust areas without developed trails since there is no minimal impact way to traverse them.
• Desert pavement is gradually created over thousands of years as sand is blown away, leaving an open expanse of interlocking pebbles and stones. These stones sometimes develop a desert varnish coating, turning them dark. Removing any of these stones, or even overturning them, makes a visual impact for centuries. Ancient peoples made Intaglio artwork across the desert and they are still easily visible - except where they've been vandalized. Avoid walking or running on desert pavement.

5. Respect Wildlife-

• Scarce water is especially important to wildlife. Make sure you treat water sources with respect and minimize your impact on the source by leaving it alone.
• Gather water during day and avoid water sources after dark. Most desert animals come out at night and you will minimize your impact on their activities.
• Do not swim or wash in water holes. This may be the only water available for all the animals in the area and one mistake can have dire impact on all the local wildlife.

6. Be Considerate of Others-

• Match your gear and clothing colors to the surroundings so you blend in.
• Be aware of the needs of native cultures. Some sites/trails are sacred and may be regulated at certain times of the year. Check with local authorities when planning your trip.

We can all help take care of the desert. Be an integral part of taking care of it and ensure that future generations will get to enjoy it as well. Enjoy your trail run and don't forget to take plenty of photos!

Happy Running!

www.lasvegasrunningtours.com

Run to Love...Love to Run- Las Vegas Running Tours Running Wedding Packages

Run to Love...Love to Run

  

Las Vegas Running Tours proudly presents running wedding packages.

Combine the two loves of your life, running and your future bride or groom to be. Let Las Vegas Running Tours be a part of your special day and help you RUN  into the next chapter of your life.

We will help get your marriage started with a 5k run to the iconic "Welcome to Las Vegas" sign. Here we will perform an official wedding ceremony, refuel, snap plenty of memorable photos, and begin the first run of your new journey.

We'll seal the deal with a post-run Gatorade toast and refueling session.

Cost- $299

Package includes:
Complimentary Transportation
Running Guide/Wedding Officiant
Boutonniere and Bouquet
Memorable photographs
Witness
Refreshments
Filing of Your Legal Paperwork
Complimentary Las Vegas Running Tours T-shirt

We will be offering trail running wedding packages soon. Stay tuned!

Happy Running!

info@lasvegasrunningtours.com
702-473-0557
www.lasvegasrunningtours.com

Running Safely- Tips for Staying Safe

Lace up the shoes and head out the door. How many times have we gone through these motions both at home and abroad before a run? Lacing up and heading out the door is automatic when we are in familiar areas, but there is much to think about when you are not at home. Follow these simple tips to staying safe while running in a new city.

1. Use common sense. Before you even head out for a run, take a minute or two to do a safety check. Are your shoes tied? Are you familiar with your route? Does someone else know where you'll be running? Once you start running, continue with the safety checks. Make sure you're running off the street or against traffic (so you can see cars coming at you). Watch out for cracks or bumps in the sidewalk, or rocks and branches on your running path. 
2.  Make sure you're visible. No matter time of day you're running, it's important that you're visible, especially to drivers. Get in the habit of wearing white or bright-colored clothes. When running in the early morning, night, or dusk, make sure you have reflective gear on. Although some items (running shoes, jackets) already have reflective pieces on them, it doesn't hurt to add more. A reflective vest can be worn over any form of running clothing and will definitely help drivers see you. 
3. Don't run alone at night...especially in a new city. No matter how comfortable you feel running at night or in a new city, there's always more safety in numbers. If you usually run solo, touch base with a local running tours company and let them show you the way.
4. Always have identification on you. Put your driver's license and your medical insurance card (in case you get injured) in your pocket or wear an ID tag on your shoe. If you're wearing an ID tag or bracelet, make sure it has an emergency contact number on it. Whenever possible, I try to run with my cell phone, and it has my ICE (In Case of Emergency) numbers saved. Many runners use running belts to hold their ID and cell phone.
5. Limit your distractions. I know it's tough -- maybe impossible -- for some of you to run without music, but you really shouldn't use your iPod or MP3 player for outdoor runs. Cutting off your sense of hearing means you can't hear oncoming cars, cyclists yelling to move, unleashed dogs, or any other potential threat. Save your iPod for your treadmill runs. And make sure you pay attention to your surroundings. If you let your mind wander too much, you may find yourself wandering into an unsafe area.
6. Carry cash or ATM card. It's always a good idea to have money on you, in case of emergency. For example, if the weather turns bad, you get lost, or an injury starts bothering you, you may need to take a cab or bus back to your starting point. Some extra cash may also come in handy if you need to stop and buy water, sport drink, food, or first aid supplies during your run. 
7. Trust your instincts. If a location or person makes you feel comfortable, trust your gut and run in the other direction.
   
   

Ensure your safety and enjoy your next running adventure by following these simple tips. Do not hesitate to research a local sight running or running tours company to help guide you around the area. Now get out there and explore!

Cheers!

Jimmy

www.lasvegasrunningtours.com

info@lasvegasrunningtours.com

702-473-0557

 

Preparing for your Mojave Desert Running Tour

Running in the desert: Tips to making your running tour enjoyable

As the temperatures heat up here in the Mojave Desert, it's time to start thinking about how to handle the harsh summer conditions before attending your running tour.

With a few precautions taken, you will enjoy running in one of the hottest deserts in North America. The Mojave Desert is an amazing treasure and offers up much to see and experience. The following are some tips to help make your experience one to remember.

1. Plan ahead-

Temperatures fluctuate quite a bit from season to season. Plan accordingly and be prepared for all weather conditions.

• Winter months (Jan-March) bring temperatures dipping to around 50-60 degrees F during the day, 20 °F (−7 °C) on valley floors at night, and below 0 °F (−18 °C) at higher elevations
• Spring temps (April-June) are normally above 90 °F (32 °C) and frequently above 100 °F (38 °C)
•  Summer (July-Sept) temperatures on valley floors can soar above 120 °F (49 °C) and above 130 °F (54 °C) at the lowest elevations
• Fall (Oct-Dec)temperatures usually remain between 70 °F (21 °C) and 90 °F (32 °C) on the valley floors.

2. Stay Hydrated-

When running in a dry, desert environment you’ll need to drink more water than you might expect. Las Vegas Running Tours Guides recommends runners drink throughout the run. Your Guide will carry water for you, but it is probably a good idea to also carry a bottle. It’s also important to drink frequently to avoid dehydration.

3. Stay Fueled Up-

What you eat in hot arid weather is important. Energy-loaded food is essential for endurance -- but how much to eat depends upon your fitness level, exercise intensity, and running time. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, endurance athletes should consume 30 to 60 grams (100 to 250 calories) of carbohydrates per hour while exercising.

If the run will take longer than two hours, particularly in the heat, you'll also need to replace electrolytes lost through sweat, so salty snacks or sports drinks can be helpful. Some favorite running foods include energy bars, GU gels, GU Chomps, nuts, dried fruit, bananas, bagels, etc.

4. Protection From the Sun-

The desert sun can be intense, so be sure to protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses to reduce glare and sun reflection off the sand or canyon walls.

It's also important to use sunscreen and avoid sunburn. Even a minor sunburn decreases your body's ability to cool itself and causes fluid loss. Use sunblock with SPF 15 or higher and wear a hat that provides shade and allows ventilation.

5. Footwear-

A pair of road running shoes will work good enough and can handle the trail conditions. Trail conditions are generally packed gravel with an occasional section of loose gravel and sand.  Gaiters are optional and not

6. Clothing-

Desert temperatures can change drastically and quickly. The best way to be prepared is to dress in layers. Start with a wicking base layer, such as an active t-shirt and bring a warmer mid-weight layer and a waterproof/windproof top layer for unexpected winds and rain.

Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing for the intense heat of the sun and to allow sweat to evaporate. A brimmed hat and sunscreen are also essential desert attire.

Following these tips will ensure enjoyment of your Mojave Desert running experience. Do not hesitate to ask your Las Vegas Running Tours Guide for help and further information. We look forward to running with you and helping you to experience the beauty of the Mojave Desert.

www.lasvegasrunningtours.com

info@lasvegasrunningtours.com

702-473-0557

Happy Running!

Jimmy

Dealing with the stress of travel and how this can impact your run tour

Ask most people how they plan on getting to Las Vegas, most will say via airplane. With most people visiting Las Vegas traveling across multiple time zones, some crossing as many as 10 time zones, travel fatigue is a real issue impacting many visitors.

Travel fatigue generally results from built up anxiety about traveling, changes in the daily routine, and dehydration due to time spent in the dry airplane air. Travel fatigue usually lasts only for a few days, but can last longer for those traveling across many time zones. This travel fatigue, also known as jet lag, can last up to a week if more than 10 time zones are crossed.

The following are ways to help prevent travel fatigue and to help you arrive in Las Vegas rested and ready to hit the trails!

1.  Prepare your body for the change in time zones. Every week, push your schedule one hour back or forward, depending on where you're going. The more time zones you're flying across, the earlier you'll need to start. This will give your body a chance to gradually adjust to your new time zone.
2.  Stay hydrated. On the day of your flight, drink plenty of fluids. Dehydration is one of the symptoms of jet lag, and the dry, cabin air on the plane doesn't help. Stay away from any beverages with alcohol or caffeine in them, as the side effects of dehydration can do more harm than good.
3.  Set your watch to the time at your destination as soon as you begin your flight. This helps you to mentally prepare for the new time zone.
4.  Sleep (or stay awake) like you're already there. If it's daylight at your destination, try to avoid sleeping on the plane. If it's nighttime at your destination when you're on the plane, try to sleep. Use earplugs, eye shades, and turn on the air-conditioning valve (cooler temperatures may help you to fall asleep faster).
5.  On a long flight, flat bed seats may be worth the upgrade. The quality of your sleep is far superior. 
6.  Ask your physician for short-acting sleeping medication if you are on a long flight. Many people find this is helpful. If you'll be needing sleep while on the plane, try to book a roomier seat. In a narrow economy seat with little leg room, your body will produce an adrenaline-like substance to keep blood flowing up to your brain, which generally prevents you from being able to sleep. The availability of more leg room in first class or business class seats helps the passenger to sleep.
7.  Eat like you're already there. Avoid eating airplane food, since it's generally served on a schedule that's consistent with the time zone you're leaving, not the one you're going to. If you're hungry, snack lightly until you arrive at your destination, and eat during what would be mealtimes there.

Here are a few tips to help you adjust quickly and prepare to enjoy your run tour:

1.  Play or exercise, preferably in the sun. If it's daytime at your destination, spend as much time outside as you can. The exposure to sunlight will help your brain adjust to the new time zone.
   • Remain active. Don't just go to your hotel room and sit in front of the television. If you desperately need a nap, take one only for 30 minutes. Any longer than that will make the jet lag worse.
   • If you're on a business trip, play may be out of the question. No problem; any exertion (for example, a brisk walk) will help, and doing it in sunlight will make it even more effective. Can't get outside? Open the curtains over the hotel window to let in as much sun as possible, and do some exercises in the room. Outside is best, but any exercise in bright light will help a lot. Be creative!

   2.  Eat light meals according to your new time zone. Not only is your sleep cycle adjusting,   but so is your digestive routine. Large, rich meals will make it all the more difficult for your body to adapt, and symptoms like constipation and diarrhea will put a damper on your vacation.
   3.  Exercise early in the evening and in the morning. It'll help you get better sleep by tiring you out before going to bed (as long as you exercise a few hours before bed, so that the body has time to calm down) and it'll help make you feel more awake in the morning by getting your blood flowing. 
   4.  Have a protein-rich breakfast the morning after you arrive. It'll help with alertness.
   5.  Consider taking melatonin. Melatonin is the hormone your body naturally creates around the time you usually go to bed. So taking it at the time you want to tell your body to go to bed, may help your internal clock to adjust to the new time zone.

   • If you take melatonin, the time you take it is crucial to the success. You will want to take it within 30 minutes of the time you want to tell your body is your new "bedtime." In other words, don't take it when you might want to sleep, but isn't the new bedtime you are trying to have your body adjust to. Take it for four days after arriving at your new destination.

   • Talk to your doctor before taking melatonin, to be sure it's safe for you.

   
   

   Source- http://www.wikihow.com/Avoid-Jet-Lag 

   
   

   Be sure to prevent travel fatigue so you are ready to get in your run tour as soon as you arrive. We look forward to seeing you and showing you around beautiful Las Vegas.

    

   Happy Running!

    

   Jimmy

Hiking the Tunnels Trail with CLI Groups

 Historic Tunnels Trail Hike with CLI Groups

March 13, 2016

Las Vegas Running Tours wants to send a heartfelt thank you to CLI Groups-Las Vegas. We had such a great time seeing you all on Sunday morning and taking in the beautiful Historic Tunnels Trail. It was awesome to see everyone out on the trail; including the young kids, dogs, parents, friends, and colleagues.

The hike was a blast and we were able to take in the Mojave Desert at it's best. We passed through massive tunnels, walked along historic tracks, smelled aromatic Brittlebush, scorpion weed, evening primrose, and globe mallow wildflowers.

The best part was sharing in the amazing scenery and sharing many good conversations and laughs.

This is a must do run or hike for anyone looking for a non-technical trail and amazing sights.

See you all again soon.

#lasvegasrunningtours
#runningwildinvegas

Happy Running-

Jimmy

Thankful for the opportunity

There isn't a day that goes by that I am not thankful for the opportunity to meet so many amazing people.  Too many people take the simple things in life for granted...like family, health, and running! Each and every time I complete a run tour, I am forever grateful for the moments I just had with my new friend. The time we get to spend running and conversing is priceless and makes me a better person.

I want to personally thank Heidi, Adama and Jan, Judy, and Emily

 for an amazing time and run during the past few weeks. With that being said, I also want to thank each and every runner, walker, and hiker that has chosen Las Vegas Running Tours since 2012.  Each and every one of you have made Las Vegas Running Tours what it is today. I can only hope to see you all in the future and to spend another quality session running, laughing, and just simply being happy.

Stay healthy, stay happy, and keep running! Never take these things for granted and be thankful for each and every cool experience in life.

Cheers!

Jimmy

www.lasvegasrunningtours.com

#lasvegasrunningtours
#runningwildinvegas

Running the STRIP with Patrick and Melissa

 Running Wild in Vegas

Thanks to Patrick and Melissa for running with Las Vegas Running Tours. It was a pleasure meeting you two and getting in an early morning run. 

So why choose to run on the LV Strip with a guide? It is just as easy to walk out the front of your hotel and get going. This is true and many people do this everyday. 

If you choose to run with a Las Vegas Running Tours guide, you will learn about the history of Las Vegas and get a chance to see the Strip in a different light. Worried about pacing? Don't be! The tours focus on having fun, taking lots of pictures, and even getting in some laughs. Give us a try- you won't be disappointed! 

So the next time you travel to Las Vegas, touch base with us and let's go get in a run. Bring your friends too! Not interested in running on the Strip? Then let us take you out to the Mojave Desert for an exciting adventure. 

Happy Running!

www.lasvegasrunningtours.com

702-473-0557

Historical STRIP run with Dave

February 3, 2016

Historical Strip run with Dave-

I want to start off by thanking Dave for choosing Las Vegas Running Tours while visiting Vegas. Dave came to town from Fargo and has been enjoying our freezing weather (balmy for Dave).

Dave and I hit the Las Vegas Strip this morning for a nice 4 miler. We toured the North end of the Strip, which isn't as busy as the South end. Along the way I filled Dave in on the history of Downtown Las Vegas and how that is where our city was born. It wasn't until 1941 that the first Strip property was built- the El Rancho (located at the corner of Sahara and LV Blvd). The El Rancho, opened by Hotelier Thomas Hull, lasted until 1960 until it burned down. The lot it sat on is now owned by MGM and was the location od the Rockin Rio grounds last year.

We also passed by the first high rise on the Strip, the Riviera (1955). Unfortunately the Riviera is now closed and will be made into more Las Vegas Convention space.

It had been a while since Dave visited Las Vegas and we caught up on plenty. If there is any constant in Vegas, it's that change will happen. Thanks for a fun run Dave and enjoy the rest of your time here. I'll see you next year!

Cheers!

Happy Running

www.lasvegasrunningtours.com

The amazing Valley of Fire with Eric and the crew

Eric and Crew at Mouse's Tank

February 1, 2016

Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada


Today was a great day. I met an amazing group of people, Eric and Crew, and had a chance to show them the Valley of Fire. It was an interesting day weather wise. The Las Vegas valley had just received a decent amount of rain and snow the night before. I knew that this would make the scenery in the Valley of Fire that much better.

Aside from the blustery winds, the day couldn't have been more perfect for some exploring. We traversed various trails, including Elephant Rock, White Domes, Rainbow Vista, and Mouse's Tank.

We were treated to beautiful vistas, an amazing array of colors, and eventually some welcoming sunshine. We had a great time!

Thank you so much Eric and crew for an amazing day. I look forward to our adventure next year. Safe travels and happy running.

#lasvegasrunningtours
#runningwildinvegas

www.lasvegasrunningtours.com