omg [running] SHOES

I love my running shoes.

When I first started running, I had whatever pair of shoes that had probably been in use since 9th grade gym class. This was fine, and I kept buying cheap shoes I found on sale as the old pair wore out.

After my first half marathon, when I was getting more into running, I was gifted a pair of Vibram FiveFingers and gradually started wearing them exclusively for running. I loved them! I went on to run a couple half marathons in the Vibrams over the years. My favorite style has ended up being the Bikila LS. I'm on my third pair of these, and I hate to admit that my current pair needs to be replaced soon! The only thing I don't like about these shoes is the ~$100 price tag. But these shoes majorly transformed how I ran - teaching me how to forefoot strike and run naturally. I credit my injury-free running career to the Vibrams.

Vibram Bikila LS

I started training for my first marathon in Vibrams Five Fingers. When I was ramping up mileage I started getting some tendon pain, so I decided to get something with more support. I got a pair of Brooks GTS 7 shoes, which worked out fine. They felt clunky compared to the Vibrams, but I was worried about running 40 miles a week in the Vibrams and straining my tendons due to overuse.

Brooks GTS - quite the difference from the Vibrams!

A little while after the marathon, I was at an REI attic sale and spotted a pair of gently used Brooks PureConnects for $20. It was love at first step. I had been eyeing these babies for a while, but their $120 price tag drove me away from ever actually trying them out. Now I swear by my fancy running shoes and will never go back to anything but a quality minimalist shoe.

Brooks PureConnect - the best running shoe ever!

I find the PureConnects to be the perfect balance for someone who likes the feel of the barefoot "shoe" but needs something with a little more sustainability for more miles. These shoes feel fast and I highly recommend them! My husband also wears these and honestly believes they hold magical properties. Running was hard for him, and not enjoyable. Since getting these shoes, he enjoys going out for a run and feels.. magically faster in them.

The only downside to any minimalist shoe is that they wear out quickly. The soles are very soft and will get torn up if you run on gravel or trails in them.

That said, I also have a pair of trail runners, also made by Brooks. I was first introduced to Brooks Cascasdias on the Appalachian Trail, where it seemed like every other hiker wore them. When I started trail running more seriously last summer, I wanted something more durable and grippy. I wear the Cascadias as my trail runners and hiking shoes, and absolutely love them.

Brooks Cascadias- my trail shoes

I would be interested in trying a more minimalist trail shoe, like the PureGrit. I'm not sure how I would like have a thinner sole for trail running. The rocks and roots and mud on the trails can be hard on your feet! Maybe at the next REI sale I will find a pair I can snag.

So there you have it! My running shoe collection, which I take far more pride in than my regular shoes. :)

2013 Fit-tastic! Gift Guide

For the runner:

Runner's World Magazine Subscription - ($10-$20)

Runner's World magazine covers great material for beginning and advanced runners alike. This gift keeps giving all year round!








For the cyclist:

Specialized Airtool Floor Pump - ($50)

This pump is a thing of beauty. Most cyclists, myself included, are using the pump they bought when they first got into cycling. Our friend has this pump and we just love using it. It's solid and excellent at controlling air flow. There is also a little button to release a little air and still keep an eye on the PSI.

For the cook:

Avocado Slicer & Pitter - ($9)

Any avocado lover would enjoy this handy tool.

For the yogi:
Custom yoga mat - ($40)


A darling addition to any yogi or yogi wannabe. And they have children's mats, too!

For the triathlete:

Swim/Bike/Run Pallet Wood Art - ($18)

How cool is this? Found on Etsy, this upcycled pallet decor is sure to be a unique gift for any triahtlete.

For the girl who's got everything:
Buff USA Sport Scarf - ($40)

I have the Infinity Lyocell, and I did not know I could ever love a superfluous accessory like I love this scarf. It has gone with me to the gym, to work, on hikes, to church, and everything in between. It's softer and more versatile than other infinity scarves I've seen, and I wish I could have 10 more.

For the Mama-to-be:
Buff Baby Rattle - ($10)

 Hilarious.

For the newbie:

Gaiam Everything Fits Gym Bag - $60 (on sale for $38.40)

How cute and functional is this bag? I love the vented compartment for your shoes. Also, the sale price can't be beat!

New Garmin Forerunner 220 and 620

Garmin just announced these slick new watches, their first with color displays.

New features I think are pretty neat:
- Finish time prediction, based on current run stats and past performance
- A mobile app that allows a caring husband track you on your run

My watch already has satellite data transfer and the autopause feature, so those aren't shiny new developments for me. But they are awesome!

Priced at $250 and $400 (yikes!), they will be available in 5-8 weeks.

Detailed writeup here on zdnet.com.

ETA: Check out this blogger's review after running with the 620!

women's running and fitness shirts to get excited about

 

 

Like You're on Fire, $11.95 via FitnessFreaks on Etsy

 

Shut Up and Run, $11.95 via FitnessFreaks on Etsy

Half the Distance Twice the Fun, $30 via Pacers Running Store

Virginia is for Runners, $25 via Pacers Running Store

Ma Runnin Shirt, $28.99 via Skreened

Strong is the New Skinny, $22 via VividInk on Etsy

Iron Christmas 70.3- The Gift that Keeps on Giving

Remember back in December, when I competed in the Iron Christmas 70.3? And won?

I entered it by total coincidence. I happen to click on Lucas's blog from a comment he made on Fat Cyclist. One comment of several hundred (literally) because I was bored at work. He had just posted the virtual race details, and I figured I had nothing better to do than accept this random blogger's challenge.

Best decision ever.

Not only was the virtual race a fun challenge over the holidays, it taught me a little about myself. That I can swim enough to get by, I can workout for several hours with a little motivation, etc.

Anyway, here's all the awesome stuff I got in the mail last weekend for winning:

A TON of Gu and Chomps, courtesy of OutsidePR.  There was a mixup with shipping, and they were kind enough to throw in some extras.

Not one, but TWO pairs of Ryders Eyewear sunglasses, also from OutsidePR. Can't decide which one I like better- the silver ones are transition and the black ones are normal.

Gift certificate to Everyday Endurance. I've picked which shirt is my favorite, but I don't feel like I can order it until I've done a real tri myself...

And last but not least... a Road ID!!

 

I was so excited to order this.  The last line is typically a motivational quote or something funny, so of course I felt pressure to think of something clever in only 24 characters.  It was really funny to google and see some ideas- "Shut up, legs!"  "Is my bike OK?" "I run so I can eat what I want!"

I was looking for something more motivational, and Husband thought of a perfect and simple idea: "Endure to the end". My religion is a very important part of my life, and "endure to the end" is a common saying or slogan among LDS people.

Thanks again to Lucas at the Super Fatlete, OutsidePR, and Everyday Endurance!

New Mantra?

I'll take one of these, please.

Fitness inspired jewelry from The Silver Maple.

fun gift ideas for your favorite fitness friend

Happy December 1st! Now you can legitimately play Christmas music and light up your tree.

When looking for gifts for your exercising friend or family member, there are a ton of different ways to go.  Heart rate moniters, magazine subscriptions, water bottles, and yoga mats are always appreciated. But if you're looking for something a little more unique, check out my holiday gift guide!

I am convinced that foam rollers are magic. They help with soreness, tight muscles, IT band pain, and cancer. Maybe. Check out these sources if you don't believe me and some suggested exercises.
About $25 (prices vary on brand, length, and circumference) from REI or here .

Best way to light your bike at night: BikeGlow. Unlike other bike lights, this allows the rider to be seen from the side. While I admit it looks kind of goofy, it sure is a good way to be seen! $24.95 from www.bikeglow.com.

Know someone who needs some motivation waking up in the morning? This is an alarm clock that you've got to pump to get it to shut off. $15 from pylones-usa.com.

This neato bike chain bowl would be a great addition to a cyclist's home or office. Made from recycled bike chains. $88 from Resource Revival- and check out the picture frames and bracelets, too!

Who wouldn't want this cute (and handy!) bike pizza cutter? Only $11.99 from here. 

I think these Measure Up bowls are GENIUS. Portion control in a bowl! The two different sizes measure in increments of 1/2 cup to 2 cups. $13.99 - $29.99 from Measure Up Bowls.

The popularity of Vibram FiveFinger shoes is increasing exponentially, and for good reason. They allow you to run/walk with a more natural, correct form, and users have reported alleviation of back and joint pain. Not to mention you look like a ninja in them. The KSO model is my fave with the additional strap and cover. $85 from REI. If anybody wants to buy them for me, I am a size 38. Thanks.

Commute to work? Want to bring your coffee/hot chocolate/smoothie with you? Eliminate the balancing act (it's rough; I've done it) with this Felt coffee cup holder. $12.99 from here.

If you're like me, you love to save numbers and even chip timers from races. But they only look good sitting on your dresser for so long. Solution: BibFolio. A great way to organize and showcase your bibs! $39.99 from goneforarun.com . Check out their other cute stuff, too!

Raising triathletes, one baby at a time. This baby bib and hat combo made from organic material is so darling, it makes me want to have a baby myself. $30 from Trix Gear.

As good as we've gotten with balancing the camera on various rocks and trees along the trail, this flexible tripod would be a great addition to any nature lover's collection. The Joby Gorillapod, $15 from Amazon.

There's a large variety of hydration belts on the market. They all seem fairly similar and after reading reviews (I liked BestCovery's take on it best), it seems like it may just depend on your body shape. The three listed below seem to be the most popular, although I would recommend a trial run (ha, pun!) to make sure there's not too much jostling or awkwardness. 

FuelBelt Helium 2 $21-$41.99 on Amazon (pictured left)
Nathan Trail Mix Waistbelt $45 at REI
Amphipod RunLite 4 $42.99 on Amazon