Map My Run

I hope everyone had a fabulous Labor Day. Mine was the best because we went to Portland for my brother-in-law's wedding and now I have an awesome new sister-in-law. Stay tuned for a Portland running update but today I want to share my new favorite app.

I've recently entered the world of the iPhone. A couple weeks ago I downloaded MapMyRUN. Even though it's not as accurate as those fancy Garmin watches, it's a lot cooler than figuring out how far you've gone by driving the course. I know there are a lot of things it can do that I've yet to figure out but right now it's been a great way to remind me to push myself. Now that I'm keeping better track, I'm less likely to stop early or slow down. I will say that I enjoy running for fun without a watch or anything telling me how far or fast I'm going; however, I've been doing that since I had my baby back in November and now it's time to get serious.

Hydration

Because it's hotter than h-e-double hockey sticks (mom's don't swear but it's okay to spell it...right?), plain water doesn't cut it for me. I've had an obsession with Propel for a while. It gives me an added boost without the extra sugar and calories found in Gatorade. What are you doing to beat the heat?

New Kicks

Ah, the joys of new running shoes. Yesterday I went to Fleet Feet and bought these beauties. (Side Note: I can't say enough about the quality service provided by Fleet Feet. I've been to the other running stores in town and they just don't compare.)
Last night after my babies' bedtimes, I went for a little pre-blizzard run. It was amazing. As I was running my knees didn't hurt, my feet weren't sore and I ended up going longer than planned because I felt great. I can't wait to get out a run again.

If things are hurting that didn't used to, you're probably in need of new running shoes. Set yourself up for success by getting the things you need to be successful. Obviously, running shoes should be at the top of the list.

Em

My B.F.F

My recent running buddy has become a necessity for all runs. She is smart and keeps me in line when I'm slowing and wanting to quit early. She goes with me everywhere and I don't know how I ever ran without her. She is totally adaptable and always lets me pick the music. Her name? Nike+iPod. My favorite running shoe is the Nike Pegasus, which is compatible with my BFF--perfect! I have been wearing the Pegasus since high school, so I obviously would recommend the shoe, but there are several different Nike shoes that will work with the Nike+iPod. If you wear Nike, I HIGHLY recommend this product. I can set distance, time, or caloric goals. I can calibrate it for walking and running, and it gives me my pace, time, distance, and calories burned anytime I want throughout my run, all while playing my favorite playlist. I love it. It works great with my Nano but it also works with an iTouch or iPhone. Buy one today and I know you won't regret it.

Posted by: Bekah

Getting Started

As of late, a bunch of people have asked me about what they need to get started with running. Hooray for New Year's Resolutions and more lovely ladies taking up my favorite sport. Below are a few things that I think are essential to have for a quality running experience.



For me the most important two things to purchase are running socks and running shoes. I'm a big bargain shopper (coupon cutter, clearance rack regular, etc) but these two things rarely go on sale and to get the right pair you'll probably spend a little more money than you're used to but I PROMISE it's worth it. As I've said before, Fleet Feet is the best running store in town. There is always a friendly, knowledgeable person there to help you get fitted for whatever you need. Make it a priority to get there to purchase your shoes and socks...and basically everything else you need for running.

There are many different types of running socks. For me the best thing about running socks is that they cut down on your blisters and give you proper support. I started using them when I was training for my first marathon and instantly fell in love. I bought compression socks when I was pregnant. They're amazing but I also love the simple ankle cut running socks which are a lot cheaper (usually around $10). I would suggest buying a couple of different types and then picking a favorite. Like I said, I wouldn't go anywhere but Fleet Feet for these.

People always ask me about my favorite kind of running shoes. I hesitate to answer because everyone has different needs when it comes to shoes. What works perfectly for me won't work for someone else who runs just as much. That's why it's essential to go to a running store and have them fit you for shoes that will work for you. Plan to spend around $100 for new running shoes. Believe me, you won't regret it.

Bekah wrote a great post about sports bras which I suggest you read; The Perfect Fit. I would write more about this but Bekah says it best in her post.

In the cold weather it's tempting to put on a huge, comfy sweat shirt and a pair of warm up pants to hit the road but in the long run (get it?? long run) these things will make you colder. Cotton soaks up your sweat which will make you wet and cold. Grab clothes with moister wicking material. These will keep you drier making you more comfortable in the winter and summer. Also, I've noticed that you're less likely to get rashes from material rubbing on your legs, arms, etc when you use clothing that wicks away the moister. While you can spend tons of money on these items, I never have. You can find running clothes at discount sports stores as well as specialty running shops.

Even though getting started is a little pricey, one of the best things about running is that you can do it anytime for free. You don't need a membership or pass to go running. You don't have to buy tickets. You can do it anywhere at any time so make the investment and enjoy the freedom that running allows.

Do Jogging Strollers Make You Run Faster??

Today I found an interesting Runner's Forum about this topic. What do you think? Does running with a jogger make you stronger and faster? Click below to see what others had to say. Runner's World Jogging Stroller Forum

The Perfect Fit

My husband came home from (medical) school a couple weeks ago and informed me I needed to stop wearing multiple cheap sports bras and to invest in a really good, really supportive one. I immediately agreed because since having kids, I've become...well-endowed. He just learned about breast cancer and told me that well-endowed women who run with poor support are increasing their risk for breast cancer**. Seeing as cancer runs in my family, I set out to find that perfect bra. My sister mentioned one to me a while back, so I looked into it. The brand is Enell and they sell them at Fleet Feet. I read up on the sizing and fitting and went to try one on and fell in love. I still bounce around a little, but I can do sprints, I can dance, I can to kick-boxing, I can do P-90X plyometrics and not worry or think about how much I'm bouncing around. It is aboslutley AMAZING and I recommend them to everyone. Although the price was more than I've ever paid for a bra, it is totally worth it. If you invest in good running shoes to protect your legs and feet, why not invest in a good sports bra to protect your chest? Just do it. Just buy one. You won't regret it.

**Because it's Breast Cancer Awareness Month, here's three huge things that decrease your risk for breast cancer:
-breast-feeding
-regular moderate to vigorous physical training
-maintaining a healthy body weight

-By: Bek

New Pair of Legs

During my pregnancy I've been having problems with varicose veins. At first my only problem was that they looked ugly but now they're starting to throb. (I can only imagine what it'll be like when I'm 9 months along.) During my walks and runs I've started feeling pressure in my legs and feet. I've gotten tired more quickly and when I get home I feel like I need to put my feet up for the rest of the day (not an easy task when there's a toddler running around). I finally broke down and got a pair of compression running socks. Is it weird to be in love with a pair of socks? I am. I first wore them around the house. I had a million "on my feet" things to do and knew my legs would be tired and throbbing by the end of the day. My amazing socks proved me wrong. I felt better than I have in months (five to be exact). The next morning I wore them on my run and the same thing happened. I had more energy because my legs and feet weren't dragging. When I got home I didn't feel like I needed to sit and elevate my legs for a million hours. It was great!

Compression socks work by helping increase circulation. This not only helps with varicose veins but also with the way your muscles recover after exercise. Many runners and bikers wear compression socks to avoid soreness and feel the added circulation benefit during exercise. As usual, the people at Fleet Feet were amazing. They measured me so I'd get the exact right fit. I came home with CEP Compression Sportsocks, size 3. When I got home I did some research on the Internet to see how Fleet Feet's prices compared to others and I couldn't find any that beat the price at the store. Plus, online I wouldn't have been able to talk with someone about what would work best for me. What can I say? Not only am I in love with my new socks, I also have a crush on a running store. Get a pair and tell me what you think.

This is the compression sock alternative. Support hose anyone???? I'll stick with my hot pink running socks.

Compression Socks?

This pregnancy has introduced me to the wonderful world of varicose veins (yuck, I know). People have actually thought I have bruises up and down my entire left shin. I know that the common fix is getting those compression hose (double yuck...especially in the summer). Today I read about compression running socks in Runner's World Magazine and remembered that I had seen them at Fleet Feet and other running stores. I was wondering if any of you had an opinion on these socks.

Have you tried compression running socks? What did you think? Any advice on which ones to buy?

Nintendo Helps the Heart?

USA Today published and article stating that Nintendo and the American Heart Association are teaming up. There will be an American Heart Association stamp of approval on all the Wii game systems.

Nintendo partnering with American Heart Association I don't have a Wii but I think they're pretty fun. What do you think? Does the Wii really "encourage active play"? Are the workouts on the Wii Fit really effective? Let me know what you think.