Running BFFs

 
April 1 - Today I want to tell you about some of my favorite running gear. Gear that has been helping me get ready for my next half marathon.

#1- I never run without my Nike GPS Sport Watch. GPS changed my running world. With the push of a button, I start my run and the satellites track my route. When I'm done, I can upload my data and view my route. It's that easy. And, I don't have to spend hours trying to map it myself.

#2 - I simply love my Simple Hydration Water Bottle. Fill it up, stick it in, and go. When I need a sip, all I have to do is reach back and grab it. It stays put no matter what type of bottoms I'm wearing and sometimes it feels like it isn't there at all. I love this bottle because it is completely hands-free. It is perfect for my half marathon training runs.

#3 - My favorite source of fuel at the moment is Sport Beans. I already love jelly beans and Sport Beans taste just like jelly beans to me. Before a long run I fill my pocket with beans making it easy to grab some when I'm running. They are super easy to chew and swallow, so I don't need water to eat them. There's nothing better than munching on something that tastes like candy.

#4 - I am falling in love with my new made-just-for-me orthotics (and maybe Mr. Chiropractor for recommending that I get them). These babies have helped alleviate my calf tightness and put an end to my knee-knocking. They are easy to insert and remove, so I can wear them in all of my running shoes! Maybe I can even get more running shoes? Hmmm...

What is your favorite (can't live without) running gear?

**The winner of the CLICK-Start Pack is Amanda from RunToTheFinish!
Congratulations Amanda. I hope you find CLICK as yummy as I do.
Please email me at runningescapades@hotmail.com within 48 hours
with your mailing address so I can get your prize shipped to you right away!**

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Twelve Fantabulous Miles & Winners

 
February 4 - This morning I had a fantabulous run. On the schedule was a twelve mile run for my half marathon training. My first of the year is in two weeks at the Hampton Half and my second is in May at the Cox Rhode Races. I met my training partner at the Executive Health Club near MHT at 8AM. She had the route since it was one she has run when training for marathons. Here's what it looked like afterwards:

Everything worked today. The route was mainly flat with just a couple of small, easy inclines. At about 30 degrees the weather was just right and even managed to puff out a few flurries for us. All of the sidewalks and paths were clear and open. Most importantly my legs were feeling good and loose. I love when my runs are nice and easy like this.

Do you ever wonder what causes a good run to happen? The weather? Your meals? The right frame of mind? Wouldn't it be great to know so that you could replicate it right before that BIG RACE?

I don't know what my combination was exactly, but I love weather like today in the 30s, my dinner last night was a pepperoni calzone with some wine (ok a lot of wine), and my mom surprised me by coming to visit from Cincinnati! Fantabulous!

Momma!

Congratulations to the winners of the Simple Hydration Water Bottle Giveaway:

Tara Martin

Chuck Abbey

Please email me your mailing address information so I can get your bottles to you!

The Simple Life: A Water Bottle Giveaway

January 31 - A couple of weeks ago I found the best running accessory. A Simple Hydration Water Bottle. I heard about this bottle from another runner, checked out the website, and ordered one.

Let me tell you why I love this water bottle.

I get thirsty when I run. Not gulping-water thirsty. Just need-to-wet-the-whistle thirsty. However, I do not like to carry things when I run or wear things around my waste.

This bottle is perfect because of its shape.

It is made to rest in the small of your back and hooks onto the waste band. If you run with a belt, it will also hook onto that. Holding 13 ounces of water, it is the perfect size and weight. Simple.

I have worn my water bottle with shorts, capris, and running pants. Initially, I had to tighten my waistbands to accommodate the water bottle weight and worried that it would feel awkward when I ran, but this was not the case. The bottle rests comfortably on my lower back and is light enough that I actually forget that it is back there. Simply wonderful.

This water bottle is so awesomely simple that my running partner, hubs, and stepson have all ordered their own after seeing mine.

I think you will love this bottle a much as I do. Simple Hydration has generously offered to let me give away TWO bottles on my blog.

Here is what you have to do to enter:

Take a funny running picture (it can be posed). Could be a shoe on the head, race numbers pinned all over, funny running pose - have fun and push the limits. Then post the photo on the Simple Hydration Facebook page. After posting try to get as many people to like your photo as possible. The winners will have the most likes. The deadline is 7AM EST February 4, 2012.

While you are here, please take a minute to support my blog.

• Like Running Escapades on Facebook
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• Tweet about this giveaway with something like "Make life simple. Simple Hydration Water Bottle Review & Giveaway http://runningescapades.blogspot.com/ @runningescapade @SimpleHydration #giveaway"

Head over to Simple Hydration and tell me what you think!