As if this weather hasn't been enough to get even the laziest of Austinites out and running, Paul Carrozza and his team over at RunTex are creating even more reasons to get out and about in 2008. Over the course of this month, the Lake Austin Boulevard RunTex will be stripped of its retail shelves—in its place will be a running institution aimed at consulting, training, and creating various fitness programs and seminars for local athletes.

The other two locations on Capital of Texas Highway and Riverside will both continue to sell running apparel. In addition, Carrozza is opening two more shops—one Downtown and one in Georgetown. The future West Austin running center will focus on runners at every skill level, from beginners who need the essentials to veterans who need injury-recovery aid. Exercise physiologists will be available for one-on-one consultations and runners will have access to speakers, seminars and various programs tailor made to each individual.

Carozza even has plans to create a "Million Pound Challenge," where paying clients can weigh in and earn discount vouchers for each pound they lose.

For more information on the new RunTex, Central Texas running news or information about future races, be sure to check out their website.