I know many of you, like myself, are getting ready for a Spring race. I’ve got just a few weeks left until I run my first Boston Marathon. I’ve been working hard in training, doing many dress rehearsals, and trying out different fueling and hydration methods on my long runs. I’ve had the opportunity to try some new things. Some I liked, and some… not so much. But, I’ve narrowed it down to a few things that really stood out. Here’s what I’m loving, and using, right now:
Oiselle Arm Warmers
First, I love my Oiselle arm Warmers: Why? for so many reasons, first off they have thumb holes. That’s right, arm warmers with thumb holes! But that’s not all — they are the perfect weight, not too hot, not too cold. You can wear these in just about any type of weather, when it’s warm to keep the sun off your arms or cold to keep you at the perfect temp. In the picture below it was almost 80 degrees and I never felt hot. In fact, they wicked the moisture away from my skin leaving me feeling comfortable the entire 26.2 miles.
Trials Hoodie
Since we’re on the subject of Oiselle, I have to mention the Trials Hoodie. I wear it as often as I can until I’m forced to wash it. It’s so soft and warm, like wearing your favorite blanket. Plus, look at it! So cute, with the charcoal grey and lime green! Ah, I love this! I’ll be pulling it on after I cross the finish line at Boston.
Bearded Brothers Energy Bars
I had the chance to try these Bearded Brother bars and they are tasty! Soft, chewy, and packed with good, whole food, organic ingredients such as Dates, Almonds, Blueberries, and Chia Seeds. Delicious! If you have a chance watch the video about these guys, it’s worth it! They hand make and package each bar, truly a labor of love, and inspiring for sure. I love supporting small businesses like this one.
K-Pack
You know I love my Simple Hydration Bottle and guess what? It fits in something else I love, this cool little backpack (I wear it in the front, so I can reach my gels, etc.) called a K-Pack. It is so soft and comfortable, and I am talking zero bounce. It is great on my long runs, trails, and even on shorter runs when I need to carry my phone and keys.
Cherry Limeade Nuun
Cherry Limeade NUUN! A NEW flavor that was just launched! Do not get me started on how much I love this flavor. I don’t know why I adore it so much, maybe it has something to do with the fact that it tastes like a Cherry Limeade slush from Sonic which to me is the ultimate treat to have after you’ve just run 20 something miles. But the Nuun version is even better, with electrolytes, no sugar, and a little caffeine… Perfection!
Women’s Running Series
The Women’s Running Series is America’s largest and most popular women’s half marathon and 5K series. I love the women only idea! Sorry guys, but it’s fun to have an estrogen party every now and again, and the medals that you receive are some of the best I’ve seen. After Boston, my focus will be to improve my speed, so I’m all signed up for the 5K in Scottsdale on November 3, 2013. Another reason I love this series is they allow walkers and you only have to be 8 years old to sign up, so it’s a great way to spend a Mother/Daughter day together. My daughter is only five, but I can’t wait to make memories like this with her one day. Their next race is in Bloomington MN. on June 16 2013. Look at the amazing medals from last years Scottsdale race… love! You can remove the center charm, and hang it on a necklace or charm bracelet.
Now for the good stuff!
If you’re interested in signing up for the Half Marathon in Scottsdale in November, I have a discount code for my readers: FITAZLISA for $10 off of registration. Sign up early! The fees go up after 6/30/13, and you can register HERE.
If you sign up, send me a tweet using the hashtag #BeAmazing or let me know on my facebook page.
Special Bonus! I am giving away a K-Pack Fitness Backpack to one lucky reader!
Are you using any of these running items?
What are some of your favorite running gear or races right now?
Have you run any Women’s Running Series races?
I am part of a Women’s Running Series paid campaign by FitFluential LLC. All opinions are my own.