Showing posts with label sponsored. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sponsored. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 24, 2018

Running and Vacation: You Can Do Both

This post is sponsored through my partnership with ValuedVoice.

I've always loved a great race-cation ---> the combination of running a race and taking a little vacay at the same time. Who doesn't love the idea of celebrating and soaking in all the happy endorphins for a couple of days (or more if you can) after completing a race?

Thankfully there are plenty of great places to go and ways to do this.



The Competitor Group makes a running vacation easy by hosting annual running events all around the world. In the United States, their events offer runners a opportunity to travel to a lot of really great places including Washington DC, Chicago, Las Vegas, and many more. The event, which can be combined with an amazing vacation, is called the Rock n Roll Marathon Series. These events combine running with another popular passion: music. As you run, there are live bands playing at just about every mile making it feel as if you are running through a rock concert. Having done this a couple of times in Providence, Rhode Island, I can tell you that it is a lot of fun! There are even events available for those who are up for a bigger adventure and would like to travel overseas to places like Spain or Ireland. Talk about a global running experience! If you don't feel up to traveling that far, other North American options include Mexico and Canada race locations. There are so many options, runners will have a hard time deciding where to take their race-cation.

Another popular running vacation experience is to do one of the Disney races. These races are known for being more family oriented, although they are just as appealing for grown-ups too. If you have kids, you are probably going to find yourself at one of the giant resort parks at some point anyway, so why not combine it with a little fitness? Florida of course is the most well-known Disney location, but running travelers can also find a great experience in California. Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and the others famous Disney characters can also be found waiting to spend time with travelers in Paris and even in Hong Kong! These events are perfect for any family because they boast no time restraints. You can 100% enjoy your time running or even walking a 5K, 10K or half marathon through the park and seeing it from a completely different point of view. And, with so many themes from Star Wars to Tinker Bell, there is something for everyone. The whole family will have a great time. You can also get race photos taken with all your favorite characters along the way.

For runners who prefer being outdoors enjoying nature to spending time waiting in lines for amusement park rides, the National Park Half Marathon, Ultra Marathon and Trail Running Festivals are a great way to combine running and vacation time. With these events you can just road trip around the US and experience the beauty of the nation's most iconic national parks ---> kind of like summiting all the major mountains for hikers. Vacation Races organizes 11 events in places like the Grand Canyon in Arizona, the Great Smokey Mountains in Tennessee, Yosemite, Yellowstone and many more. Running visitors can enjoy all levels of hiking before and after the events. Whether you use the trails for race prep or recovery, it is bound to be beautiful. The races promote sustainability with refilled water pouches and portions of the registration fees for these events are donated to the park making it a win-win for everyone. 

Stand alone events also offer a great running vacation. Cross that major running event off your bucket list and then explore the area as part of your recovery. Thousands of people flock to places like Boston, New York City, Chicago and Los Angeles every year to complete dream races. In Boston, runners can wander around the historic city and enjoy some famous lobster rolls. The Big Apple has plenty of sights to offer or maybe just a day at the spa. In Los Angeles you can chase the stars or relax on a beach after crossing the finish line. Maybe you need to escape the cold winter by participating in the fourth largest marathon held in Honolulu, Hawaii in December. What a great place to pick up a shiny new medal and a tan ---> and trust me (because I was just there), the beaches are absolutely beautiful! Lots of people cross the big pond for a royal jaunt with hopes maybe of seeing more than just Buckingham Palace. Fancy a photo op of Will and Kate or Harry and Megan perhaps? Turn your race into a running vacation and you might get lucky while having a bit of recovery Yorkshire pudding. 



One of my all time favorite places for a race-cation is Cape Cod. Every fall the ZOOMA Half Marathon Series holds an event in Falmouth. Not only is the scenery stunning, but the host hotel is right on the beach making it a perfect way to combine running with a little weekend getaway. Race organizers plan the weekend so that it makes a perfect weekend getaway for the ladies. That's right. ZOOMA is a women's race series. Gather in town a day or two early to relax on the beach and attend the pre-race mocktail. Prolong your stay after race day to take advantage of the ocean waves and sunshine with some recovery yoga on the beach. ZOOMA Race Series offers several race-cation locations including Austin, Annapolis and Amelia Island. All catering to strong and motivated women with weekend events filled with inspiration and pampering.

A fitness vacation centered around a running event can be both exhilarating and relaxing. Hitting up popular destinations for the scenery alone can be worth it, but nothing compares to participating in some of the best running events around. 

Have you ever taken a race-cation? Do you have a running vacation on your bucket list? Do you have a favorite race series?


 I'm doing the link-up with Patty, Erika, and Marcia for Tuesdays on the Run! 



Wednesday, June 14, 2017

Breaking in New Running Shoes - Mizuno Wave Sky

This post is sponsored by Mizuno Running and FitFluential. All reviews and opinions are my own.

I love running. I also love new running shoes. By new, I mean really new. New to the world kind of new. Today I'm excited to share my thoughts on the brand new (launched in May) Wave Sky from Mizuno.


The Wave Sky is a shoe built for neutral runners but with the most cushion for max comfort. A first glance might make you think this shoe is heavy, but it weighs in at only 9.3 ounces. That's not bad. In fact, that weight falls right in the middle of the Mizuno neutral family.


The Wave Sky is kind of like a crossover shoe. It's neutral but offers a substantial amount of midsole cushion like a stability shoe without feeling heavy and stiff. It's built to give runners a bit of a lively rebound. It's like you are getting the best of both worlds.


I've had a chance to break in my Wave Sky on easy runs, sprints and the treadmill. Let me just say that my feet and legs are happy with these shoes. I've been running in support shoes recently because of my knee, but these feel just as stable. They are so plush and so light and just feel really good. My feet are average width and there is plenty of room including the toe box.


I have to confess that when I receive a new pair of Mizunos, I fully intend to love them. Some I've loved more than others. I think the Wave Sky and I are going to be spending a lot of time together this summer.


Tweet: Want the best of both worlds? Try #running in the #WaveSky. @mizunorunning #ad #fitfluential https://ctt.ec/3e9W0+ from @runningescapade

Do you ever find yourself caught between two running shoe worlds?
What do you look for in a new running shoe?


Today I’m linking up with Susie and Rachel and Debbie and Lora for the Running Coaches' Corner and representing runners! 


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Wednesday, May 3, 2017

Uncommon Goods for Everyone

Shopping for my family and friends in the US while living in Hong Kong can be super easy with online vendors. Today's post is sponsored by Uncommon Goods, an amazing online retailer featuring unique gifts for any occasion  ---> and now ships to Hong Kong, so I can treat myself too (bonus!).

I found Uncommon Goods when I was looking for a housewarming gift for our oldest when she moved into her first apartment. At home in New Hampshire we had a tea light candle holder on our mantel that was made from an apple cider barrel. We knew she would love this smaller one because it would remind her of home.


Just like the Fashion Show I recently attended here in Hong Kong, Uncommon Goods is committed to offering sustainable products and educating the consumer on the impact of their purchase. This tea light centerpiece (like the one we bought) is both handmade (in New Hampshire!) and made using recycled materials. Love that!

We have a big event coming up this year. One of the nieces is getting married. Since we won't be in the US for the big day, we will be looking for the perfect wedding gift. We can certainly go to their wedding registry (gift registry can also be done on Uncommon Goods), but I like being able to get something a little more unique.


I'm not very good at thinking of gifts, so I love that I can browse the website for fun bridal shower gift ideas too. This looked like a fun one ---> I would love to have something like this with mrC for those days/nights when we want to do something, but neither one of us can think of what to do. Problem solved!


Speaking of gift idea challenges...with Father's Day right around the corner, I'm glad I can get ideas for Father's Day on the Uncommon Goods website. I always have a hard time getting something for our fathers because they never need or want anything. We both have story-teller fathers, so this journal caught my eye.


No matter what I'm looking for, I can find a special gift for anyone. Using the search feature, I can type in any word and find an assortment of fun gift ideas, including my fitness friends.

Boston runners will like this hand-drawn map to hang on their wall. It is also available for New York and Chicago.


I love this playful kitchen gift for yoga lovers. Why not dice up watermelon into downward dog or serve cookies shaped in warrior pose?


In addition to being a company that promotes Made in the USA products that are often handmade using recycled materials, another reason to shop Uncommon Goods is because it is a company that gives back. A donation of $1 is made to the non-profit of your choice at each check-out.


Are you looking for an uncommon gift for someone?
Do you like online shopping?



This post was sponsored by Uncommon Goods. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.




Sunday, March 19, 2017

Workout Recap: Two Week Edition

I'm not sure why I skipped a weekly workout recap (traveling through 12 time zones makes my sense of time get out of whack), so this week I'm doing a doubler. Some workouts I've already shared on the blog or Instagram, so I thought I'd include other random tidbits from the past two weeks. This post is sponsored by Naked Nutrition.

Two weeks ago...

Monday - I had an awesome run in Delaware

Tuesday - I did a little multi-tasking on our last day in Delaware. It involved laundry and the elliptical.

Wednesday - We had an early flight to Denver to visit the middle child at college. One thing I miss when we are living out of suitcases is my smoothies. Meanwhile, I try to eat healthy despite being on the road. Check out my breakfast courtesy of United Airlines.


Thursday - We spent the day hiking and then had dinner at the Sink with the college boy. I loved how customers were encouraged to leave their mark on the ceiling! Fun facts ---> Robert Redford worked at the Sink when he was a University of Colorado student and it's been featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.


Friday - Enjoyed my first run in Boulder. Even though it was cold, I would have loved a post-run smoothie. Naked Nutrition products are available at Vitamin Shoppe stores nationwide, but we did not have a blender in our hotel room.

Saturday - Campus tour. Isn't CU a beautiful campus?


Sunday - I was obsessed with hiking the Flatirons again and these cute tees from Snooze where we had breakfast. Too bad they were sold out in my size.


Last week...

Monday - It's hard to run when you have a cold, but we do it anyway, right? Had to cut mine short, but it was still awesome at this lake.

Tuesday - Another super early flight to start our journey back to Hong Kong.


Wednesday - Completely lost this day to travel, but excited that my iSUP (inflatable stand up paddleboard) made it to Hong Kong unscathed. Can't wait to inflate it and put it in the water.


Thursday - Doctor doctor. Not sure why I thought making appointments the day after getting back was a good idea, especially when I was awake at 3:30AM! Mammogram and a chiro adjustment ---> which do you think was more fun?


Friday - Another jet-lagged-early-morning did not keep me from lacing up my new Wave Horizons from Mizuno (blogger perk) for the first time in Discovery Bay. mrC joined me as I set out to repeat my interval plan: 15 x 1 minute run with 1 minute recovery, but we ended up doing more than that. After one loop around our normal route, we still had a few intervals left so we started another loop. In the end we did 23 intervals, two loops, and my longest run (4.38 miles) since 2015!


Saturday - It was kind of dreary out but we felt like doing the quick Lookout Loop hike in our neighborhood. You can see what it looked like start to finish from our GoPro here. It was really easy using the chest strap to get photos while we hiked.


Sunday - Rest. Sadly we woke to news that our beloved Booney was gone. He blessed us with 14 years of love and smiles. He loved running, so he made many appearances on the blog.

Booney's first 5K in 2011

It was a rainy and gray day in DB, kind of perfect for tending to a sad heart and for baking. I did some food prep for a big hike tomorrow and it was an effective distraction. First I made some egg bites to grab-n-go in the morning and then I baked some protein bars. You can find a lot of good protein recipes on the Naked Nutrition website.


Here's my recipe for banana protein bars:

2 cups quick cooking gluten free oats
1 cup protein powder (I like vanilla less naked whey)
1/4 cup organic buckwheat flour
1 tbsp ground flaxseed
1 tbsp cinnamon
1 cup sunbutter/peanut/almond butter
1/4 cup honey
 2+ mashed ripe bananas 

Mix together. I like to mix dry and wet ingredients separately and then combine into one bowl. Just seems easier to mix it all together if you're doing it by hand (like me).

Spread about 1/2" inch thick onto cookie sheet lined with cooking-sprayed wax paper. 

Bake 350 degrees 15 min. 
Remove from wax paper. Let cool and cut. I put them in to-go baggies and store in the refrigerator.


What's your eating like when you're traveling?
Do you SUP? Ever use an inflatable board?
I'd love a good canine fitness buddy story if you have one.







Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Captain Obvious Runs for President



It's true! Captain Obvious has registered for the Presidential Race...and he's got his running shoes on (I wonder which brand he wears?)! He announced his plans to run for President on Tuesday. Watch...


Hi 

Here is his training plan:

1. He's running all over the US and sharing his thoughts about each state...including yours!

2. He will be hanging out at the debate with the other runners (watch for photo-bombing) and tweeting live. Follow him to see more of this:


3. He has all the right training gear.

4. His sponsor, Hotels.com is making sure that he has a place to rest his legs and recover properly.

Join Captain Obvious and his more than 300,000 followers as he advances through each stage of the Presidential Race. Follow his training and send him a cheer along the away. He'd love to hear from you!


Captain Obvious says, "I'm fit to run. The other candidates don't seem fit at all." 

I love a good race! Can't wait to see who wins!

Tweet: Run with the #ObviousPresident in the Presidential Race. @CaptainObvious http://ctt.ec/YHXcK+ #sponsored


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?





Wednesday, December 17, 2014

GNC PUREDGE: Chocolate Protein Mug Cake


The following post is written on behalf of GNC through my relationship with Linqia. All opinions are my own.


Over the past few months I have been coping with running injuries, recovering from knee surgery, dealing with digestive issues and overcoming fatigue. It hasn't been easy, to say the least.

However, the GNC PUREDGE line is easy to integrate into your every day life. The line includes a variety of products to meet several different needs: amino, energy, bars, and protein.

The GNC PUREDGE line is whole-food based and promises:

- No Gluten-added ingredients
- No GMO-added ingredients
- No banned substances
- No artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners
- No preservatives
- No wheat, yeast, fish, or egg
- No sugar alcohols 

GNC Complete Amino includes glutamine, so it was the first product I tried. Glutamine is known to help muscle recovery, fight illness, and improve digestion. It was recently recommended to me by a running friend. When I mixed with water it tasted a lot like the tropical punch Kool-Aid I drank as a kid. I have been blending it into my morning smoothies The tropical punch flavor overpowers the fruits and vegetables, but it is still good.

GNC Daily Energy is recommended to jumpstart your day or your workout. After days of hauling myself around school on a crutch, I was running on empty at the end of the day. Adding a scoop of cherry limeade to my smoothie gave me a boost, but the flavor didn't overpower my freggies.

GNC Complete Protein Bars are easy to toss into your lunch bag as I like to do. As much as I wanted to love these, both flavors tasted a little too much like vitamins to me. I'm very picky about my protein bars though.

GNC Complete Protein was my favorite product...maybe because it was chocolate! I had been looking for an excuse to make some sort of dessert and this product gave me a great excuse.


Inspired by an awesome recipe from Julie for chocolate mug cake, I made some modifications to make it gluten-free and protein packed so it can be a delicious post-workout indulgence!



I can't believe how easy it was to make cake…and in the microwave.



How do you use your chocolate protein?

Don't forget to check out all the GNC PUREDGE products here.


This post is also part of the #WIAW link up hosted by Jen



Sunday, November 23, 2014

Staying Healthy through the Winter Months

The opinions in this article are my own. I do not work for, or with, any brand mentioned in this article, nor do
I have any official relationship with them.  I have a relationship with GigaSavvy, for whom I create original editorial content.

When it comes to the winter months and the holidays, staying healthy gets harder for me.

As much as we all want to curl up under a warm blanket with a cup of hot cocoa, we need to remember that staying active will keep us healthy. This article explains the benefits physical activity.

Here are some tips that I try to follow to stay active and healthy through the winter months:

1. Have a plan: since my normal routine disappears over the holiday breaks from work, I try to plan my workouts in advance. I've posted about this before here and here. I will literally schedule my workouts on the calendar around all of our other obligations so that the family knows. Often times, I can get someone to join me and teach them the importance of staying active by showing them.


2. Check out your local gym/studio: many gyms/fitness studios offer holiday discounts on classes or packages. The fitness studio I use also offers classes at times that I usually can't attend, so I like to check out their monthly schedule and see when I can squeeze in a class. 

3. Set goals: pick goals that you know will benefit you based on your fitness level and the type of fitness you are focused on. If you are training for a race, make it a running goal (distance total or total number of runs to do). If you are just looking to burn calories make a goal for the number of workouts that you do or the amount of time you spend working out that can be squeezed in at any time. If you are trying to get to the gym more often, set a number as your goal.

4. Add a workout buddy: this does not have to mean that you workout together. It just means, pick someone that can hold you accountable and encourage you. Share your activities with each other through email or text messages. If you are on social media, share Instagram pictures or Facebook posts. I like to join challenges that offer a support group, like the Holiday Sweat Challenge


5. Pick a reward: this keeps me motivated, especially because I reward myself with new fitness gear. Think of something that you really want and use it to hold yourself accountable. Get other people involved in the reward so that it becomes a group effort (combine with "Add a workout buddy").

Hopefully if we all follow these tips (or at least some of them), we will find staying healthy throughout the winter months and all of the holidays to be much easier.


Feel free to leave a tip of your own in the comments!





Wednesday, October 15, 2014

My Motivation to Run


Today's post is sponsored by Skechers. I was given the opportunity to try their shoes in support of the fight to end breast cancer. 

I make it a point to keep moving for my health.

My family history includes breast cancer and Alzheimer's Disease. When I was a kid I took a lot of things for granted, including my health. As an active female in my 40s, I have come face to face with the realities of growing older. I worry about every bump that must be viewed via ultra sound and if I'll face another skin cancer surgery.

That's why I run. Running does more than make me feel refreshed and happy. It is about more than keeping fit. I run to stay healthy, and put the odds in my favor.

I'm in recovery mode right now, but that won't stop me from moving.


Yesterday I took a walk in my new Skechers GOrun 3 - Awareness shoes. Designed with innovative performance technology, the GOrun 3 celebrates anyone who uses sports and fitness to lead a healthy and fit lifestyle.


Through a special collection of products, the Awareness footwear and apparel line, Skechers pays a fee for the use of the American Cancer Society logo which supports the ACS breast cancer efforts. The GOrun 3 Awareness shoe displays the ACS pink ribbon on the heel.


The GOrun 3 has a 4mm heel drop, and although I don't run in minimalist-type shoes, I do look for features that offer cushion and support like the M-Strike technology and Resalyte™ Midsole.


Skechers Performance Division has joined the American Cancer Society in the fight to end breast cancer. In addition to the donation made through the use of the ACS logo, Skechers has launched an October promotion to help you to join the fight against breast cancer.

1. The register round-up program in Skechers Retail stores allows customers the chance to round up their purchase to the nearest whole dollar to benefit American Cancer Society for the entire month of October. If consumers donate $5 or more, they will also receive a 20% off discount for their next visit. This will offer anyone shopping for any item in a Skechers retailer store the opportunity to give back and support the cause.

2. Skechers is hosting the American Cancer Society San Francisco Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, and will be donating a percentage of proceeds from the sales of Skechers shoes on-site that day.  

3. Furthermore, Skechers Retail stores are offering a gift with purchase for customers who purchase a pair of limited-edition Awareness shoes. 


I hope you will consider joining the fight against breast cancer by taking a peek at the limited edition Skechers performance products that support the American Cancer Society.






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