Showing posts with label product review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label product review. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 11, 2017

It's Shoesday! Mizuno Wave Horizon

I admit that I've been Mizuno fan for a few years now and I've worn several different styles: (not in order - Wave ParadoxWave SayonaraWave Creation 14Wave Inspire 8Wave Rider 16Wave Rider 17Wave Rider 18, and Wave Rider 19).

My current obsession is my new pair of Mizuno Wave Horizons.


I'm confident that I needed to get back into a stability shoe and I'm happy that Mizuno asked me to expand my horizons. This shoe provides the support and cushion that I wanted without weighing me down and feeling stiff.


It feels most similar to me to the Wave Inspire, as both are support shoes, but the Horizon have more cushion. This makes it about .5 oz heavier, but I think that's pretty insignificant. They are also more snug fitting than the Inspires I wore, but I like that feeling right now.


The Wave Horizon is offered in a nice mix of bold and neutral color options and are loaded with all the standard Mizuno bells and whistles and more: full length and articulated U4icX midsole, new Mizuno cloudwave technology, new U4ic midsole compound, DynamotionFit and new triple zone engineered mesh (get more details on Mizuno's website).


Besides the mix of gray and turquoise coloring with the pop of pink, I'm loving the design on the back of the shoes. I think it looks like the pattern on a soccer ball.


I've already put more than a few good miles on my Wave Horizons and I'm very happy with their performance. My muscle imbalances cause knee pain but the stability in this shoe seems to be helping (along with these 5 essential stretches for happy legs).



What are you wearing these days?




Thursday, September 3, 2015

Running Loops, Planking and Beets BLU

I expected it to be raining when I woke up this morning, so I was pleasantly surprised to see dry walkways when I looked out the window. I didn't waste any time lacing up my Mizunos and heading out. It's a holiday in China (70th Anniversary of Victory Day), so the streets were bare compared to the normal rush, even at 6:30 in the morning.


Hanging out with my MRTT group while in the states and reconnecting with the SWIC hiking group, has inspired me to start a running group! Today I scoped out a possible route that would loop us through town and keep us in the shade. It was a little short of the 3 miles I was hoping for, so I will try to fine tune that on my next run. I was also thinking of doing a 1 mile loop/out-n-back that would be more flexible for varying experiences because we could repeat it but give runners the option of what distance they want to do.


My post run planking continues to be successful. I'm getting daily motivation from the challenge I joined. Here is a clip of day 3 just for fun. I also timed how long I could hold a standard plank. I'm hoping to improve my time by the end of the challenge.



On my last few few runs, I have been testing a new heart rate monitor from Beets BLU that I was given to review. I have used it with a couple of different apps and it has worked exactly as I expected. There is no hassle to link up the device (just a quick read of the instructions) and my heart rate was visible instantly. I really like the compatibility of this device as I often switch between different workout apps. I also like that you DON'T have to use the Beets BLU app since it can work with so many others, but the Beets BLU app is good too.




Do you prefer running loops or out-n-backs?
Do you use a heart rate monitor when you work out?




Disclosure: I was sent a Beets BLU Wireless Heart Rate Monitor for the purpose of review. All opinions are 100% my own.

Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Skulpt Aim: 2 Week Update

Two weeks ago I began using my Skulpt Aim device and took my initial measurements. The results (here) showed that I had many places that needed work, so I added workouts that specifically focused on those areas.

My Workouts:

Week 1:
Monday: FAB ab day 23 + SurfnTone 
Tuesday: FAB ab day 24 + arms
Wednesday: FAB ab day 25 + SurfnTurf
Thursday: FAB ab day 26 + arms
Friday: FAB ab day 27 + arms + legs
Saturday: FAB ab day 28 + SurfnTurf
Sunday:  MAD Abs day 1 + arms


Week 2:
Monday: MAD Abs day 2 + arms + legs
Tuesday: MAD Abs day 3
Wednesday: MAD Abs day 4
Thursday: MAD Abs day 5
Friday: MAD Abs day 6
Saturday: MAD Abs day 7
Sunday: MAD Abs day 8

During the first week I was on February vacation and focused on fitness. Week two was a wreck. I was  distracted by all of life's big and small things.

My Results: Two Week Update

With the help of mrC, I took new measurements. My overall body fat according to the Skulpt Aim went up from 27.2% to 31%. This surprised me until I remembered that I took my initial measurements myself which means the results may not be as accurate. I have also learned that the amount of water in my body at the time that the measurement is taken can affect the results. (edit) I have learned that water does NOT affect Skulpt measurements.

The numbers on my individual muscle groups have also changed both positively and negatively, but I think all of the changes are attributed to how the measurements were taken. I'm hoping that the next measurement will bring some clarity to the results.

Initial results (front)

Two week update (front)


Initial results (back)


Two week update (back)

Several people were skeptical of the total body fat results (including myself), so I reached out to my friends at TI Fitness and they took my body fat measurements using an Omron hand-held device that they use with clients. They did it twice using both the athlete and normal settings. My body fat results ranged from 20.6 - 22.4 which is very different from the Skulpt Aim results. Once again I find myself feeling skeptical and wondering which set of results are more accurate. (edit) I should mention that the Omron device uses a different technology (which is widely criticized as unreliable) than the Skulpt Aim to measure body fat and I feel that the Skulpt Aim measurements give a more accurate assessment of my muscles (or lack of muscles, haha!).


My Plan: 

I'm going to continue my original plan, but hopefully with more consistency and increase the amount of weight that I use. And since I have leg envy, on leg days I'm going to try Carrie Underwood's Workout Moves for Legs and Thighs.




Do you have leg envy?



This post is part of the Workout Wednesday link up 
hosted by Diatta, Sheila, Amanda and Heather

Disclosure: I was sent a Skulpt Aim for the purpose of this review, but all opinions are my own.





Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Skulpt Aim: Getting Started

I was selected to use and review Skulpt Aim, a fitness tracker that measures body fat and muscle quality instead of activities, through my affiliation with Raynforest.

The Skulpt Aim is a device that replaces the pinching tool used to measure body fat by sending a small electrical signal through your skin. The current changes speed as it moves through skin, fat, and muscle.


What's in the box:

The Skulpt Aim comes with a base charger, usb cord, small water bottle, and convenient storage bag.


Getting started:

After charging the device for a couple of hours and downloading the Skulpt app on my iPhone, it was time to take measurements. The device, app, and website all provide thorough instructions (with video) for how to take measurements. You can go step-by-step through all of your muscles or you can opt to focus on just the ones you want.

I would recommend getting someone to help you take the measurements. Doing it on your own like I did can be a little awkward. It's hard to reach your backside without creating tension. Also, the sensors must be sprayed after each reading, so I stood on a bath towel, but you could also spray over a sink.


My Results: the Before

Skulpt Aim rates your muscles according to five categories which are also color coded:

red = needs work
orange = average
yellow = fit
green = athletic
white = skulpted

My overall total body fat is 27.2% putting me in the needs work category (eek!). I took a screen shot of the individual muscle numbers.


My actual results from Skulpt Aim app

My plan:

Basically I am going to work on every area that is red! Seriously. I will be continuing the PT leg exercises that Dr. Bri gave me with added weight and adding an arm workout to my running days. Something like this:

found on Pinterest

My goals:

Every week, I will attempt to take new measurements and hopefully see improvements in my muscles. I don't have a lot of meat on my bones, but what I do have isn't exactly filet mignon, you know? While I don't want to become a body builder, I would like to tone up and fall into the fit range.


Do you track your body fat and/or muscle quality?


This post is part of the Workout Wednesday link up 
hosted by Diatta, Sheila, Amanda and Heather

Disclosure: I was sent a Skulpt Aim for the purpose of this review, but all opinions are my own.


Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Manitoba Harvest Hemp Hearts Review + Giveaway!!

If you're like me, you might not know exactly what hemp is.

Well, it's basically a super food! It's considered super because every part of the plant can be used for something. For athletes and vegetarians/vegans, it's a super food because of the grand amount of plant-based protein packed into each serving.

Manitoba Harvest focuses on hemp foods. Since I know very little about them and I'm always on the lookout for ways to add more protein to my diet, I was eager to try a sample of Hemp Hearts as part of the Sweat Pink campaign.


Hemp Hearts are often compared to flax and chia, but I learned that they are actually quite different. Hemp Hearts have more protein than the other two (10g per 30g serving), but no fiber since the shell has been removed. All three seeds are high in Omegas, but flax and chia have more Omega-3 (sometimes viewed as more valuable) whereas hemp has more Omega-6. Right now, chia and hemp are more expensive than flax.


Recommended to be easy to use, I decided to put mine to the test.

I sprinkled some into my smoothie.


I tossed some in my salad.


I scattered some in my cheesy quinoa and tuna.


Hemp Hearts have a slightly nutty flavor (like sunflower seeds), but it's not overpowering. To be honest, I couldn't really taste it at all. That's ok with me. I'd rather enjoy the benefits of a super food than have to force myself to eat it!

Hemp Hearts can be added to cereal, soup, or eaten right out of the bag. There are a ton of yummy looking recipes on the Manitoba website. This one of the Hemp Seed Encrusted Salmon is on my recipe-to-try list. And you can print $1.00 off coupons.

You're also invited to this sweet, protein-packed, live Hangout on Air


I hope you are interested in trying Hemp Hearts for yourself because Manitoba Harvest is letting me GIVEAWAY a bag of Hemp Hearts to one lucky reader (US or Canada)!


a Rafflecopter giveaway


Do you use a super food like Hemp Hearts?


This review is part of a Sweat Pink campaign. 
I received product from Manitoba Harvest, but all opinions are my own.

Tuesday, February 10, 2015

New Tweak on Greek: Yoplait Greek 100 Whips!


This post is sponsored by Yoplait Greek 100 Whips! I earn a small compensation when you click on a link. All opinions are my own.


I like to keep things simple.

Running is simple.


After a good sweaty run, I like a simple treat.

Yoplait Greek 100 Whips! makes it easy to pick healthy snack choices after a good workout. It's perfect for dipping your favorite fresh fruits into the mousse-like texture and you can't beat 100 calories and 0% fat!



I also like to toss a Yoplait Greek 100 Whips! in my lunch bag and enjoy a nice treat before retreating back into the classroom after a 30 minute lunch break.




This new yogurt is light and fluffy, but packed with all the protein you'd expect from your Greek yogurt. There's is enough protein to help muscle recovery after a workout or satisfy your appetite until your next meal.

When I'm feeling more ambitious, I like to make gluten-free protein pancakes after a workout. Here's a fun twist on my recipe for a Valentine's Day treat you might make for your favorite person or your kiddos.

recipe makes 1 serving


Yoplait Greek 100 Whips! come in a variety of flavors to satisfy your favorite cravings. Take a look at the different flavors here. What's your favorite?

Planning to pick some up for yourself? Use this coupon for $1.00 off your purchase!

You can also use Yoplait Greek 100 Whips! to whip up some amazing treats. Find amazing recipes here.


Are you a Greek yogurt eater?
What's your favorite post-workout protein treat?





Thursday, January 22, 2015

Pop Sugar Must Have + Target Fit, Fresh, Fun in 2015

My Pop Sugar Must Have Target Fit, Fresh, Fun in 2015 box was delivered last week and I can't wait to show you what was inside.

The Box: Pop Sugar Must Have + Target Fit, Fresh, Fun in 2015
Cost: $65



Brita Sport Bottle 20 oz (value $9) - This is a great bottle for taking to school. We already use the Brita water pitcher but this lets me take the Brita filter on the go. Now I don't have to walk all over the building just to get filtered water.


Laneige Advanced Hydration Trial Kit (value $10) - The trial kit includes: Multi Cleanser (1 oz), Water Bank Serum (.3 oz), Water Bank Moisture Cream (.3 oz), and Water Sleeping Mask (.6 oz). I’ve already tried the cleanser and love how easily it removes my eye makeup. Mascara is usually uncooperative, but this stuff works really well.


Burt's Bees White Tea 10 Count Wipes (value $3) - The last thing I want to do is drive home with a sweaty face after a workout. These are the perfect fix for when you're on the go.


C9 by Champion Non-Slip Headband (value $7) - I'm really picky about my headbands, so I will find the right owner for this one.


Simply Balanced Organic Dark Chocolate Trail Mix (value $7) - A yummy gluten-free blend of nuts, dried fruits, and chocolates that are great tossed into a smoothie. 


Gaiam Icy Marrakesh Yoga Mat 3MM (value $22) - You can never have too many yoga mats, but this one is definitely a standout with the beautiful design. It is also 6P free - free of toxic materials.


Fitbit Flex Wireless Activity & Sleep Wristband (value $100) - Booya! I was excited to see a Fitbit in the box. I love the idea of finding out more about my movements throughout the day and sleep habits through one slim device. I'm finding out that I don't walk at school as much as it feels like I do. I'm just on my feet a lot, I guess!


Target Gift Card (value $20) - Branded by Champion, the card works on anything purchased at Target. I love anything that will help me offset my fitness shopping.


I don't subscribe to the monthly Pop Sugar service, but I got a tip that there were some goodies included in this special limited edition box and couldn't pass up the value.

What do you think of the Pop Sugar Must Have + Target box?
Do you subscribe to any monthly box services? 






Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Dirty Little Secrets + {WIN Detergent Giveaway}

Disclosure: I received product from WIN Detergent to review through my relationship as a Sweat Pink Ambassador. All opinions are my own.

We all know that workout clothing is an investment. I have always taken special care of my gear because I want it to last as long as possible. For example, I do not put workout gear made with moisture-wicking fabrics in the dryer. I let them hang dry right along side my work wear.

Dirty little secret #1: I don't let mrC touch my laundry…not even to fold it.


Fitness wear that is made with moisture-wicking fabrics is meant to keep us dry during a sweaty workout. Popular fabrics like nylon, lycra, and polyester do well to keep the sweat away from our bodies, but the synthetic material can foster bacteria growth which increases the stink factor. PEW!

Dirty little secret #2: I sweat. A LOT. (see below)


I have been using a popular brand of detergent (an impulse buy at the grocery) that uses a fabric freshener and although it works, the scent can be a little overpowering and much the same as the back of my car after spraying away the dog smell. Needless to say, once I had a basket full of dirty workout clothes, I couldn't wait to try out the WIN detergent.

Dirty little secret #3: Sometimes my sweaty clothes sit for nearly a week before I get to the laundry.


I like that the bottle comes with a cap that doubles as the measuring cup and it only took two capfuls to do a full load of laundry.  However, the cap can't be used to close the bottle after the first use and must be rinsed. Not a big deal, but an added step that takes time.


My clothes came out smelling fresh without an overwhelming fragrance like the popular brand and no hint of a pesky left-over sweaty odor. My workout gear smelled good and clean. I like that. And, I like the original formula over the WIN GREEN fragrance free formula.


Most of us like to feel like we are getting as much bang for our buck as possible. The price $10.95 for a 32 oz bottle of WIN detergent from Amazon versus $5.99 for 40 oz of the popular brand at my local grocery is tough to ignore. However, WIN is made in the USA and has created a coupon for $1 off your order using code WINGIVE1. Also, if you have Amazon Prime, 2 day shipping is free.

Dirty little secret #4: I'm a frugal shopper, but I will spend a little more on products if I feel like they are worth it.


Ever tried WIN detergent? You can enter the giveaway for a chance to add some to your laundry shelf. Enter using the Rafflecopter below.



a Rafflecopter giveaway


What's your dirty little fitness secret?



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