BIG PEACH RUNNING CO. BLOG

When we think about health and wellness, it is easy to focus on exercise, sleep, or mental well-being. Yet one of the most powerful tools at our disposal is something we engage with multiple times a day—food. Food is medicine—a concept as old as human civilization but increasingly relevant in today’s world, where diet is at the center of chronic disease prevention, athletic performance, and even the cost of healthcare.

When choosing the proper footwear for walking, many people stick to traditional walking shoes, believing they are the most suitable option. However, many fitness experts suggest that walkers—whether strolling through the park, taking long hikes, or simply getting in their daily steps—could benefit from wearing running shoes instead. While these shoes are designed for runners, their construction makes them an excellent choice for walkers. There are several key reasons why walkers should consider switching to

Altra is changing things up with the new Experience collection, which features a 4 mm drop and rocker-shaped geometry. This is a new direction for a brand that started with zero-drop shoe designs. The Altra Experience Wild is the trail version in this category.

Catch up on what we have planned this year for our 20th Anniversary as well as other milestone events that have occured this year, including Mike running with his daughter at her first ever marathon in Paris!

Recently, Alissa Palladino, a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified personal trainer came out to our Brookhaven location to share her expertise on the topic of fueling for running. Alissa wrote this blog post for those unable to attend or those wanting a resource on this topic.

The Saucony Ride 17 arrived on my doorstep two months before the official release, so I’ve had time to put some miles on this daily trainer and provide my thoughts.

Greetings, Friends! There is seemingly an unstated seasonal requirement in the South to address no less than one (1) group of friends and/or colleagues with the exclamation, “Happy Fall, Y’all!”  This tradition has been extended as an expression on everything from current commercials to dated artwork on colorful porch front signs.  It’s a joyful greeting and a proper proclamation of optimism! 

I’ve put in almost 140 miles in the New Balance Fuel Cell SuperComp Trainer and it has been one of my favorite shoes for running long. It’s a max-cushioned carbon fiber-plated shoe designed as an everyday trainer. Read more for the full review.

Greetings, Friends! As D2 continues to provide me with the good fortune of penning a Quarterly Update, the faster it seems each Quarter cruises right by!  Wow.  Even so, I’m sure I’m not the only person who is happy to be on the front side of Spring and into full swing with Daylight Savings…  After all, I’m one of “those guys.”  More specifically, I’m still that person who can go for his run or walk,

I tried the Altra VIA Olympus a few months ago and have been trying to get around to putting my thoughts down for a review. The VIA Olympus is a max-cushioned shoe designed for the road and set to compete among other max-cushioned shoes. Read more for the full review.

It’s been a few years since I’ve gotten a chance to run in an Altra Running shoe. I’ve tried on several over the past few years and the fit for my feet haven’t been quite right. The Altra Torin 6 fit my feet nicely, but is it the right running shoe for me? Read more for a full review.

While there have been 2 previous versions of the Endorphin Speed, this is the first one I’ve ever had on my feet. I’ve heard a lot of great things from the previous versions but will the Endorphin Speed 3 meet the expectations of the previous versions? Keep reading to learn more!

I got my hands on the Saucony Peregrine 12 and have logged over 100 miles over the last few months and can now provide a full review. Is this a trail shoe you should consider? Keep reading to learn more!

A VO2 Max test details how much oxygen is used during exercise and determines the maximum oxygen you can consume during exercise. The test has been available for decades and has been widely used by highly competitive and professional athletes, so how would an average person benefit from taking a VO2 Max test?

Do you crave a speedy shoe? Speed is the only gear the Endorphin Pro 3 knows! Saucony designed the latest generation of this model with a carbon-fiber plate and substantial PWRRUNPB foam cushioning. You will feel that return of energy with each stride as you take on the roads or race! Personal Best, here you come!

We are here… again.  But, fear not – – it is not a bad place to be!😊

The Saucony Tempus is an entirely new model with a unique design to provide stability while using the latest midsole technology for a daily trainer that just might surprise you! Our reviewer went in with some preconceived notions and after putting some miles has a complete review of the brand new Saucony Tempus.

The Hoka Bondi X hit our shelves in late 2021 and many of our Guest Advocates had the opportunity to test out the new model.  It’s a unique shoe that combines design features of max cushion, lightness, and responsiveness in a distance shoe.  The carbon fiber plate gives life to a shoe providing the runner with great energy return and smooth transition throughout each foot strike. by Megan Gorgone

The Hoka Torrent 2 review has been one trail shoe that I’ve been wanting to try for a while. It’s a model that can easily be overlooked by the very popular Hoka Speedgoat. Hoka describes the Torrent 2 as a nimble trail racer. So does it live up to that description? by Dave Martinez

We put the Altra Paradigm 6 to the test.  An experienced group of Big Peach Running Co. men and women runners took to the roads and paths in the new shoe. Some of our staff were familiar with Altra and some were new to Altra.  All gave honest feedback on the shoe to help guide our Guests best.

The latest trend in home wellness and recovery is percussion therapy. Therabody, the company that produces Theragun and other products got its start in 2007 so this type of product has been around for a while. There are also a lot of other companies and knockoff products all across the internet. The big question is does percussion therapy work and should you invest in a tool like Theragun. by Dave “D2” Martinez

Altra is one of the more unique brands on our shoe wall.  Their most famous features are its zero-drop,  wide toe box design, and overall look no matter the specific model … these and more make Altra an intriguing brand to try on and test out.  The Altra Torin 5 was recently introduced and many of our Guest Advocates had the opportunity to test out and review the new update. by Megan Gorgone

We have a new Altra shoe on our Shoe Wall this summer:  The Altra Rivera!  The Rivera is made with a well-fitting tailored hold. The shoe stays true to the Altra brand with its supreme level of comfort and zero drop.  The Rivera is designed with the Altra EGO™ midsole foam giving runners and walkers a responsive feel along with an overall soft ride.  Your feet will say Thank You after runs in the Rivera!

Saucony and the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta have collaborated to create special limited edition Run For Good shoes that will be available exclusively at all Big Peach Running Co. locations.

Hello, Friends!  I hope this finds you well… Last year at this time, I muted the greetings at the onset of each of my messages.  My correspondence often commenced with drab introductions, as I replaced my traditional usage of exclamation points with commas and periods.  I was also incredibly to-the-point (for me, anyway…), without wanting to offend anyone with a spirit of optimism and/or a feeble attempt at outdated normalcy.  Sadly, too much around us

Hoka has the catchiest line:  Why Run When You Can Fly?  The Mach 4 delivers that feeling in this everyday style trainer!    The shoe is responsive and the ride is smooth step after step.  We recruited our staff to put miles into the shoe and report back on their experiences.  Here we share our Hoka Mach 4 Reviews from both a women’s and men’s perspective. by Megan Gorgone

On Running has produced a great shoe in the newest generation of the Cloudswift.   It’s a lightweight trainer with neutral support offering a  great option for walkers and runners.    If you’ve been loyal to On, this shoe will keep you in the brand. If you are curious about wearing On, this shoe will win you over. By Megan Gorgone

Our Founder, Mike Cosentino, shares some personal updates as well as some ongoing programs at Big Peach Running Co.

We welcomed the new Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 last month and it has been well received over these past few weeks, The Wave Inspire has always been a terrific option for road runners and walkers that need stability and desire good durability in a shoe.   The 17 delivers on both and adds in some terrific features to make the miles very comfortable. by Megan Gorgone

The Hoka One One Carbon X2 is the latest carbon fiber plated shoe update and we were able to get them on our reviewers’ feet. The Carbon X2 is positioned as an endurance racer, but that doesn’t mean you need to only run long in this shoe. It also means it’s going to be quite durable and go the distance. by Dave Martinez

Garmin Fitness & Smartwatch features can be found in almost the entire lineup of running or activity watches providing a wealth of information. They’re designed to help you monitor and improve your performance but you have to understand what the data means so you can take advantage of all these features. By Dave Martinez

The On Running Cloudflyer is the latest shoe on our reviewers’ feet. This model gets some updates and is designed for those looking for comfort in a light and agile package. Unlike the Cloud X, this model is designed to go long distances. We gathered a panel of 4 different types of runners to give us feedback on the On Running Cloudflyer. By Dave Martinez

The Saucony Endorphin Shift was released in June and is the lower-priced ($140) option in the Endorphin line. It was announced in early 2020 as part of the entire Endorphin collection that included the highly anticipated carbon plated Saucony Endorphin Pro and the lower-priced Endorphin Speed. Saucony is the only brand to simultaneously release 3 models based on the same technology but targeted for different types of runs or runners. By Dave Martinez

The On Running Cloud X, just like all the other On Running shoes, have a very distinctive midsole. While you may not be familiar with this brand, it’s likely you’ve started seeing these shoes on people’s feet everywhere. Is it a lifestyle shoe or is it a performance shoe? We take a look at the On Running Cloud X with our panel of reviewers. By Dave Martinez

The Asics Gel-Nimbus 23 has arrived in stores and our testers have been putting in miles over the last 4 weeks to provide you with a comprehensive review. If you typically run in a neutral shoe and prefer maximum cushioning, keep reading. By Dave Martinez

Our team reviews the 2020 Brooks apparel line in this blog post, just in time for holiday shopping! Check out the latest in the Fall & Winter collection for both men & women. By Megan Gorgone

Here’s the Big Peach Running Co. – Holiday Guide 2020 to help you shop for your favorite runner! Check out our collection of RUNATL/BPRC apparel and accessories. Use shop buttons to take you directly to the item to purchase online (not all items are available online).

Big Peach Running Co. is excited to expand our depth of On Running Apparel. On apparel is top-quality to elevate your next run, walk or gym workout.  It’s Swiss-engineered performance clothing that feels effortless and built to work with your movement. All the pieces have earned great interest from our Big Peach Guests as well as from our staff!! By Megan Gorgone

The Asics GT-2000 9 is a favorite among runners wanting more stability. This series has been around for over 30 years, although the numbering of the model changed 9 years ago when it became the GT-2000. Prior to that, it was the GT-2100 series. If you overpronate or simply need a shoe with more stability the Asics GT-2000 9 just might be what you’re looking for. We have a full review from our panel of

Message from our owner regarding our stores, racial equality, & events.

The New Balance 1080 v10 (version 10) came in under the radar at the end of 2019 but it’s become a fave among our team and our Guests. This version doesn’t look anything like the previous 9 versions and it could have easily been a completely new model. We have a full review and why you should consider trying out the New Balance 1080 v10. By Dave Martinez

Summer temperatures are here! As a result, we say good bye to the convenient pockets of running jackets and tights. Now, how do we carry our essential items (phone, ID, credit cards, cash, keys, etc)??  We found the Koala Clip, otherwise known as ‘the world’s most practical pocket’.  Our staff took that statement to the test. By Megan Gorgone

The Saucony Endorphin Pro had a limited release during the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in Atlanta and Big Peach Running Co. was the exclusive retailer for this limited release. It is now available globally (as of June 1st) including our stores. The Saucony Endorphin Pro is the most anticipated running shoe for 2020 and we’ve got a complete review for those looking for a fast shoe. By Dave Martinez

Message from our owner regarding our stores, upcoming events, and social runs as we navigate health & safety concerns around COVID-19.

Finding the right sports bra isn’t just for vanity (although great looking colors that go with your tank definitely is an added bonus!). Wearing the right fit and feeling supported can improve performance. Here’s why you should consider Handful sports bras.

We all have insecurities but we all share the same one around fitness. It varies from individuals but we all have some degree of fitness insecurity. There are plenty of articles on how to overcome those insecurities but it’s easier said than done. So let’s take a look at what you can do on your own to build your confidence to go to the gym or group fitness workout. By Dave Martinez

It’s a new year and just like everyone else, it’s time to make those resolutions to change or improve yourself. It doesn’t matter if it’s a change in fitness, health, finances, job or anything else that comes to mind, every year most people fail at those resolutions. I hate the term resolution. Instead, I prefer the term goals and the process of goal setting. By Dave Martinez

Rabbit may be better known on the west coast but this year Big Peach Running Co. started carrying Rabbit in our stores. I became familiar with the brand through Instagram and was curious to try out some of their gear. The brand has a sense of humor and it can be seen in the naming of the apparel. After a couple of months with several pieces, I can now provide a full review of Rabbit

Are you looking for the best running gifts this December? We’ve got a handy 2019 holiday gift guide!

What is “Adventure Travel”? A Google search will lead you to this description – “a type of tourism involving travel to remote or exotic locations in order to take part in physically challenging outdoor activities.” We discuss a little bit about Adventure Travel and my recent trip on Episode 64 of The RUNATL Podcast. If you want more details and photos from the trip, continue reading. By Dave Martinez

After featuring Brent & Kyle Pease on The RUNATL Podcast, our Director of Marketing, Dave “D2” Martinez signed up to push-assist a Kyle Pease Foundation athlete at this year’s Big Peach Sizzler 10K. He shares his experience and why you should consider doing the same. By Dave Martinez

A local trail just steps from Downtown Breckenridge revealed one of the most scenic trails on this trip. In part 2, our Director of Marketing, Dave “D2” Martinez shares his adventure and photos that may have you considering a trip of your own to the Rockies. By Dave Martinez

Sometimes when an opportunity comes up, you have to say “yes”. And when I was asked by a former co-worker, Morgan, to pace her at Leadville Trail 100, my response was an emphatic “YES!”. I also extended my trip to 6 days instead of just a long weekend. By Dave Martinez

The Asics METARIDE™  is a brand new shoe that is very unique and unlike anything, Asics has done before. Should you consider the Asics METARIDE™ as your next shoe? Keep reading as we breakdown all the technical advancements in this shoe.

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” We can all agree that the holiday season is exciting and inviting, but shopping for others can be vexing and frustrating. Thankfully, Big Peach has numerous gift ideas for the runner in your life.

The original Hoka Clifton is back but it’s available only in limited quantities and once it’s sold out, it’s gone! Were you a fan of the original? Don’t know why so many reviews always compare every version released after 2014 to the original? Read more to find out!

The brand new Nike Vaporfly 4% has been released and we took it out for a short run to get our 1st impressions on this new model. Who is this shoe for? Read more to find out and where you can purchase.

The brand new Nike ZoomFly Flyknit has been released and we took it out for a short run to get our 1st impressions on this new model. Should you consider getting this shoe?

Have you ever experienced the drawbacks of an ill-fitting and underachieving sports bra? If so, you are not alone!

Maurten Sports Fuel has reinvented sports drinks using hydrogel technology and only 5 natural ingredients to get twice the amount of carbs of regular gels without any stomach issues. Interested? Then you should continue reading!

Supplement your running with cross-training exercises this May!

April is the ideal month to inventory your apparel for warmer weather as the AJC Peachtree Road Race gets a little closer!

How Physical Therapy and Proper Footwear can help correct post-partum pain and the dreaded Plantar Fasciitis. By Melissa Baudo Marchetti, PT, DPT, SCS, MTC Pregnancy places high demand on the musculoskeletal system and can be very traumatic for some women leaving them with myofascial pain, internal pelvic pain, nerve pain, diastasis recti (a gapping in the abdominal muscles), weakness in the core from a C-section, neck and shoulder pain from holding baby, and in my

Start planning now for your best Peachtree this July 4th!

Ready for a spring marathon in 2018?

July 4th is a significant day for the United States of America. It’s our birthday, a moment to watch in wonder as Old Glory waves in the breeze and fireworks ignite dark skies with glorious light and thunderous sound. In the words of playwright George Bernard Shaw, “Liberty is the breath of life to nations.” Speaking of breath, runners who rise very early on July 4th will need their every breath to complete all 6.2

During a run, we have many thoughts that go through our mind – “How’s my pace?”, “How far have I gone?”, “How many hills are on this course?”, “How much longer until I’m done?” and similar thoughts. We don’t give much thought to our clothing, but we should consider the importance of technical running apparel and why it matters.

You may have seen them, runners wearing tall socks and wondering if this is some sort of fashion statement. You may have even heard the term “compression” and wondered why all the buzz around this type of athletic apparel and whether it’s something you should consider wearing as well. Our Runner’s Compression Guide will help answer any questions you may have around compression gear.

If you’re running in Atlanta during the summer, you understand “Heat, Hills & Humidity”. Hydration is key to surviving the big day on July 4th. Here’s what you need to know about hydrating for the AJC Peachtree Road Race.

Milestone Sports has been acquired by Zwift in June of 2018. The Milestone Pod will work with Zwift Run for a virtual running experience, training workouts, and virtual community. Stay tuned as Big Peach Running Co. looks to incorporate Zwift Run in the near future. Updated April 10, 2019 Can the $30 Milestone Sports Pod provide consistent and reliable data like a more expensive GPS watch? We had Guest Advocate and regular contributor, Austin Bonds,

“Be Ready to Winter” with these helpful tips on layering essentials to get you through your Winter training.

“Be Ready to Winter” this season with this field guide to help you through your Winter training.

Big Peach Running Co. Founder, Mike Cosentino, shares his advice for the new year and encourages you to “Embrace Your Different”.

Support local, shop local with Small Business Saturday at Big Peach Running Co.

Want to know what products we have to be seen or to see with? Austin Bonds finishes our visibility series with a list of helpful products!

How long does it take for a car to see you? Learn why your visibility plan is so important!

Make sure you’re seen all around in part two of our visibility series!

Learn the importance of visibility from Big Peach Running Co. Suwanee’s Austin Bonds.

Updated August 24, 2022 Nothing can be as intimidating as buying a GPS running watch. These days there are so many options in features and brands, that researching those options and why they’re important can make your head spin.

There are a lot of runners that don’t understand the reasons for training using a plan that is based on heart rate zones. We’ll explain how heart rate based training can help improve your performance on race day!

Trying to figure out your nutrition for your next long run or race? Austin Bonds from Big Peach Running Co. Suwanee has a few tips!

What hydration products should you use for your next workout? Austin Bonds from Big Peach Running Co. Suwanee shares some products that can help!

Big Peach Running Co. Suwanee staffer Austin Bonds shares the ins and outs of hydration to help you feel Peachy while training!

We’re celebrating the holiday season with a rare Sunday opening on December 20th, the Sunday before Christmas.

We firmly believe in the adage, “You’re not getting older, you’re getting better”, as it applies to people.  That same wise saying doesn’t work with technology, and certainly not in the case of our old website.  It served us well, but it was time to be retired.

Train safe. Train smart. If you are a triathlete, then you’re probably familiar with these phrases. They usually appear at the sign off of a magazine editorial or race director’s note and have even been seen on advertisements for coaching services.

Why We Are The Most Run-Crazy City in the Country: Strength in numbers. Mass motivation. If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. Call the prevailing mentality what you like. But there is no denying that Atlanta-area residents (and visitors!) love to run.

Like it or not, the traditionally perfect temperatures for running in October will retreat and winter will come to Atlanta… Trust me. It’s inevitable.

Dressing properly when training or racing is one of the key ingredients to running or walking a successfully. It is tempting to get out the heavy duty winter clothes at the first sign of a cool morning. Be a smart athlete, and don’t fall prey to this mistake.

Even if you don’t plan to compete with the front runners in your next triathlon, there’s no reason why you can’t be competitive when it comes to transition splits. Swim to bike. Bike to run. T1 and T2.

Whether you run or walk in the dark or during daylight hours, a good safety plan is just as important as a good training plan. Gearing Up To See and Be Seen: If you train before the sun rises or after it sets, are you dressed like a ninja from head to toe, or are you visible?

Sports gels are a great way to get a fast-acting dose of needed carbohydrates and electrolytes (sugars and salts) to keep an endurance athlete fueled during activities lasting more than an hour. Your body needs about 100 calories every 45 minutes or so to continue on a long run.