Somewhere in the middle

When I started running nine years ago, I never knew where my size ten running shoes would take me.  I thought a couple of 5Ks, maybe a half.  But, I never imagined that I would be a seven time marathoner, completed more than 45 half marathons and am now coaching hundreds of others in my community to complete their first 5K. 

 

I think when people hear that I am a marathon runner and now a running coach (ahem!), that everyone automatically thinks I am fast - or am supposed to be fast.  I am not.  I am an average person.  I am an average runner.  I run an average pace.  But, I don't run an average race.  Every race course is a journey and a new experience for me.  I'm a runner with a big heart and a lot of determination.  I think that most of us in the middle of the pack would agree.

 

 

I never win races, nor do I aspire to do so.  I rarely win an age group award at a small local race.  I'm somewhere in the top 30-40% of most races I complete.  Sometimes further ahead.  Sometimes further behind.  Just like everyone, it depends on the day.

 

I run on a consistent basis.  But, I don't train on a consistent basis.  Make sense?  When I was introduced to running I never had an exercise routine under my belt.  Running has changed that for me and led me to knew activities too.  It's been an extreme constant in my life and for that I am grateful.

 

 

I like being a middle-of-the-packer.  I've met some of the most fabulous people out on the race course - smack dab in the middle of a race.  Feeling confident one minute and then struggling the next, pushing each other to get up another hill or around the corner to the finish line. 

 

 

It's not my speed that makes me a great runner.  It's my commitment and determination.  I'm not out there to win.  I'm out there to finish.  I run in the middle of the pack.

 

Run your race.  Run your pace.

 

Running Luv Towel Review & Giveaway

Running Luv (HERE) sent me one of their towels to review.  These handy dandy towels are a great idea for wiping sweat off of your brow or blotting your nose.  I've had so many clients carrying tissues with them on our cold, winter runs because everyone is sniffling.  These are also a great option for the running mama that has little ones in the jogging stroller, that may need an extra cleaning or two!

 

These hands-free towels are also hassle free.  Who hates dropping their energy gel or fumbling with untied shoe laces?  This towel will wrap around your hand and/or wrist - and you are good to go.  No fumbling for tissues in your waist pack or pocket.  And you aren't going to drop this, because it's wrapped around your wrist ... allowing you to mess with everything else - including your ipod!

 

 

 

The towel is made of a quick-drying fabric and is lightweight and moisture wicking.  It's stretchy too.  The towel is absorbent and perfect for on-the-go maintenance.  These towels are one fits most.  These would also be great for hiking trips and group exercise classes too.  I can think of so many uses for them.

 

Catch what runs.  It's a towel.  It's a tissue.  It solves the issue.

 

You can wear this towel around the palm of your hand or around your hand and wrist.  It makes you look like a super hero!  Well, we are after all ... aren't we?!?

 

These towels are MADE IN THE USA - yeah!  At only $12 these are a small investment and just think of all of those disposable tissues you won't be using!  Fun, functional and customizable to your personality.

 

 

 

I chose to review the Pink LUVs Polka Ditzy towel.  100% of the purchase of this towel will be donated towards the With a Will There is a Way Fund - a fund created by runningluv to help Melissa and Vicky from Two for One to purchase a new wheelchair.  For more information about With a Will There is a Way, please visit their Facebook page.

 

 

******************************

One lucky winner will win a towel from
Running Luv
(US ONLY)

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

1 – Become a follower of my blog or already are?!  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 – Visit the Running Luv website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Running Luv on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!).  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter (@RunningDivaMom @RunningLuv1 #RunningDivaMom) account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

Enter now though April 1.

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Giveaway Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review several products for active families.  You can read all about my fabulous experiences at the link below.  Please visit their websites below and start shopping.

One winner was chose at random to receive the following items.  Random.org chose ……..

 

CyndiBands
RDM Review:  HERE
Company Website:  HERE
Winner:  Latanya T HERE

Congratulations!!!  Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) with your name, email and mailing address.  And, I will get you your prize!

Thank you for following my journey!!

[If you would like YOUR product, event or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Breaking in new shoes (and myself) for the season

On Friday, I headed out to my favorite trail, the Upper Yahara River Trail in DeForest.  It's not far from my house and the drive across town is worth avoiding another lap around the neighborhood.

 

The temperature read 50 degrees on the marathon mommy minivan and I was going to rock shorts and my compression socks. And a new pair of running shoes - comfy little pillows under my feet.  Yippy skippy!  I knew that I'd be the brightest one out on the trail, too.  Why blend in when you can stand out.

 

 

 

I got to the trailhead, and saw my friend, Dwight, turning around for the second four miles of his eight mile loop.  Great timing!

 

The first 2.5 miles of my five my loop went quickly, because we were chatting the entire time.  Dwight is training for an ultra - 100 miler and was starting ramp up his training that weekend, with three longer runs.  I was getting a little winded chatting with him with all of the hills on the path - monsters.  I have not been doing any hill work lately.  So, after he left to run home, I took the 2.5 miles back to the trailhead pretty darn easy.  I cranked my tunes and enjoyed the sunshine.

 

 

 

 

I ran out on this trail all winter last year and for some reason didn't venture out there at all this season.  Makes me a little sad.  I put in a lot more miles last year, as I was training for a spring full marathon.  And this year, I just did not have the dedication in me.  I ran outside with my running groups, and a few jaunts around my neighborhood.  Otherwise, it was running in place at the YMCA for me.  Treadmill running helps my speedwork, but I rarely mess with incline and cannot get past an hour or so on the machines right now.  My mental toughness is just not there indoors.

 

I would like to thank #SauconyPaul, my rep from Saucony for my newest pair of Mirage's.  Purple and neon yellow - fun!  I switched to Saucony Mirages last season and love them.  These have some breaking in to do, but I love how they fit me and my awkward size ten feet.  Thank you - they are going to carry me through hundreds of blissful miles this spring.

DeForest Couch to 5K - Starts May 8

Starts Thursday, May 8, 5:30 AM
Nine Week Session
Conservancy Commons Park in DeForest, Wisconsin

 

Running Diva Mom is leading a Couch to 5K Class in DeForest
on Thursday mornings - check out the Upper Yahara River Trail
and start your day off right!
Starts Thurs, May 8 at 5:30 am

REGISTER - http://tinyurl.com/phltec6

 

A little inspiration

Runner Bootcamp - Starts May 16

Runner Bootcamp

 

 Next session starts

Fri May 16, 6:00 - 6:45 am

Group meets at various Sun Prairie

parks for six weeks

 

$49

 

Start your weekend off right!

training program & materials

introduction to speedwork, drills

30 - 40 min group runs

fun & encouraging atmosphere

 

www.runningdivamom.com

Email Jamie at runningdivamom@yahoo.com to register

 

 

RockTape Review & Giveaway

Have you seen runners out on the course with something taped all over their shins or their knee and wondered, "Why did they wrap themselves in Duct Tape?!?".  And nope, it's not traditional medical tape either.  Well, chances are they are already onto something and something great ... Rock Tape (HERE).

 

 

Rocktape stands up in race conditions better than traditional medical tape.  It is kinesiology tape that has evolved and enhanced your running conditions.  Rocktape not only helps aid injuries, it also provides athletes with a  fuller and better range of motion.

 

Rocktape isn't offered in pre-cut sizes because one size does NOT fit all.  A taller person will need more Rocktape than a shorter person or different areas on the body require larger portions of Rocktape than others.  So, Rocktape is offered in spools.

 

These spools are offered in all sorts of bright (and neutral) colors and patterns.  This makes treating your injury a bit more fun and helps you bring your uniqueness out on the course or trail.  Match it with your favorite running gear for a fun experience.  I chose a fun hot pink and purple argyle print.

 

What is Rocktape?

RockTape is a special kind of tape known as kinesiology tape. First used by acupuncturists and chiropractors in Japan, today kinesiology tape is used by practitioners throughout the world to treat injuries and improve sports performance.  While the use of kinesiology is often associated with athletes such as Serena Williams, Kerri Walsh and Lance Armstrong, the reality is that RockTape is effective for the treatment of a wide variety of problems, not just sports injuries.

 

Rocktape is a natural-hybrid product and consists of 97% cotton, 3% nylon and uses no drugs. The adhesive is a hypo-allergenic acrylic based adhesive and contains no latex.  The fabric is made so that it stretches in one direction and not the other. This creates a bio-mechanical lifting mechanism that lifts the skin away from the soft tissue underneath, which allows more blood to move into an injured area to accelerate healing and recovery.

 

Rocktape can be used all over the body.  It can be used for athletes and non-athletes.  Anyone experiencing aches and pains can use it.  Just check out some of the common uses:

• Achilles tendonitis
• Plantar fasciitis
• Jumpers knee (PFS)
• ACL/MCL issues
• Rotator cuff
• Groin and hamstring pulls
• Lower back issues
• Shin splints
• Tennis and golf elbow
• Pain associated with pregnancy
• Postural correction

 

I used it on my ankles after I was having some issues from old, expired shoes after a marathon.  I've also used it around my nasty ole' bunions on my feet to help ease the discomfort.  It's helped relieve some of the pain.  Other than that, I pretty much remain injury free (knock on wood) and haven't had to use it for shin or knee injuries that are common among runners.

 

Rocktape won't necessarily make you a better or faster runner, but when applied properly, athletes can improve form and decrease fatigue through better blood flow (similar to compression).

 

Not quite sure how to apply RockTape to the effected area?  Use their Instructional Videos (HERE) to learn exactly how to apply it and treat your injury.  They cover everything from hands and feet to back and shin splints.

 

 

******************************

One lucky winner will win
Rock Tape
(US ONLY)

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

1 – Become a follower of my blog or already are?!  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 – Visit the Rock Tape website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Rock Tape on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!).  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter (@RunningDivaMom @RockTape #RunningDivaMom) account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

Enter now though March 28.

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

#RunningCoupleProblems

#RunningCoupleProblems

Giveaway Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review several products for active families.  You can read all about my fabulous experiences at the link below.  Please visit their websites below and start shopping.

One winner was chose at random to receive the following items.  Random.org chose ……..

 

Body Glove Surge Energy Shot
RDM Article:  HERE
Company Website:  HERE
Winner:  Bert Dadtastic HERE

 

Congratulations!!!  Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) with your name, email and mailing address.  And, I will get you your prize!

 

Thank you for following my journey!!

[If you would like YOUR product, event or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Thirty 48 Socks Review & Giveaway

Let me start off this review by saying that it's not often that I find a product that I love sooooo much that I can't wait til it's out of the wash to be able to wear it again.  But, this is real.  These socks are ah-mazing!  Thirty 48 Socks (HERE) contacted me to review their socks and I accepted.  I thought that they were going to be "just another pair of running socks".  But these were different and I love them.  So sad I only have one pair.  :(  I've washed them several times and love when they come out of the laundry, ready for my next run!

 

About Thirty 48 Socks (from their website):

 

Insert some tech for your trek with Thirty 48: The sock geeks. We exceed what normal athletic sock companies do in research and development to curate for our customers state of the art moisture wicking synthetic blended fabrics that allow your foot to breath, provide support where needed, and contour to the shape of each specific foot.  It’s assuring to know that your socks have undergone testing to make sure your feet are well protected and fit like a glove to prevent blistering.  We are dedicated to actively providing the latest technology and superior designs to enhance performance for everyone from weekend hobbyists to everyday enthusiasts.  Swap out your socks from box-store sweat socks to sport specific science backed tech-wear that elevates your performance to the next level.  We are the socks geeks because we are obsessed with sock technology so our customers can focus on their active lifestyles.  You need socks that perform to your specific needs and can keep pace with your active lifestyle and most importantly YOU!  Thirty 48 offers a selection of socks and compression sleeves that enhance the weekend warrior’s sporting performance. With meticulous care being put into research before any sock or sleeve enters manufacturing, our socks are an affordable option to maximize your comfort, keep your feet dry, and your blood well circulated. 

 

There are 30.48 centimeters in a foot, and for every foot there is Thirty 48.

 

 

Thirty 48 features an entire series of socks for running (HERE).  They also sell socks made for cycling (HERE).

 

Thirty 48’s Ru Running Series are feature packed socks to take your athleticism to the next level. Each sock is right & left foot specific for a better fit and blister prevention. They are made with CatalystAF ™ a patent pending technology which allows increased airflow, and made with COOLMAX ® fabric to move moisture away from the feet, keeping them dry. The Ru Running Series also has a padded instep, and extra cushion in the heel for extra comfort and abrasion protection. There’s even an elastic arch support to further minimize friction, and a curled tab on the rear cuff to help slip the socks on or off.

 

The running socks are available in blue, orange and grey and four different sizes.  You may purchase these running socks from the Thirty 48 website for $13.99 (originally $15.99).

 

These socks are crazy amazing and well worth the $13.99 investment.  It's not often I want to splurge on small pieces of running apparel, but these are great.  They AREN'T just another pair of running socks.  I've realized over time that I prefer a slightly thicker sock than the thinner varieties.  They tend to last longer, prevent blisters and chaffing (which I am prone to) and just make me more comfortable when I run.  These socks are thicker - but not too thick or bulky.  And they didn't make my feet too warm either.  I loved them.  I loved where the extra padding and cushioning fell on my foot.  And I am in love with how SOFT these socks are.  I hate how some socks are too low in the back and the back of my running shoe rubs on my heels.  That didn't happen with these - and the socks stayed in place and didn't fall down under my shoes.  That's one of my biggest pet peeves with some socks.  Only gripe is that they aren't available in pink!  Hint.  Hint.

 

I was also sent a pair of compression sleeves from their Compression Plus line.

 

Thirty 48 Cp Compression Plus sleeves lead to a quicker recovery. Proven to aid in better blood flow and circulation, and can help your recovery by bringing more oxygen to your calf muscles. Wear them after your workouts and feel the difference for yourself.

 

 

Available in four colors and three different sizes.  You can purchase these compression sleeves on their website for only $29.99 (originally $34.99).

 

I was sent an orange/grey pair and liked them.  I'm not a big fan of compression sleeves - I prefer compression socks, because I like them to be all in one piece.  But, paired with the ah-mazing socks, these worked well.  I love wearing compression socks year-round, mainly DURING my runs.  I only wear them after my runs, when I've just completed a marathon.  I find that compression socks and sleeves are great for springtime and fall runs, when the weather is a little brisk and you still want to wear shorts or a cute running skirt.  They keep your legs warm and comfortable, without the extra layer of running tights.  I liked these sleeves, just wish they were a cuter color!  They kept my legs fresh, but I honestly didn't put enough miles (long runs) in yet this year to fully test them out.  But, I will!

 

 

******************************

One lucky winner will win a pair of
Socks from Thirty 48
(US ONLY)

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

1 – Become a follower of my blog or already are?!  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 – Visit the Thirty 48 Socks website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Thirty 48 Socks on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!).  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter (@RunningDivaMom @Thirty48 #RunningDivaMom) account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

Enter now though March 27.

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

OrthoLite Insoles Review & Giveaway

OrthoLite (HERE) contacted me to review their OrthoLite Fusion insoles (HERE) awhile back.  The OrthoLite foam technology is featured in millions of pairs of athletic, casual, dress, work and outdoor shoes each year in virtually every major brand of footwear.  So, I thought why not ... I will test them out.

 

Since every shoe is slightly different, OrthoLite Fusion comes in only whole sizes and may need to be trimmed slightly to fit inside your particular shoes. Those who wear a half-size shoe should round up to the nearest whole size when ordering insoles.  I wear a size 10 running shoe and was sent a size W10 insole.  I did NOT need to tri my shoe for a comfortable fit.

 

 

These insoles retail for $19.99, which is one heck of a deal.  These insoles are designed to REPLACE the existing insole that comes with your running shoe.  It should not be placed in your shoe, in addition to the one that came with your purchased shoes.  Make sure that your shoes have removable insoles, to replace with the OrthoLite insoles.  Then, you can trim your OrthoLite insoles to match the shape of your shoe.

 

 

The OrthoLite technology features moisture management, which is especially important for this time of year, when you are running through melting snow and puddles.  The insoles will dry during your run and have high-level breathability.  Your feet will be left cool and dry.  A unique feature of these insoles is that they also have spring-back technology, and won't go flat.  I have not tried them enough or put enough miles on them to confirm this.  But, they ensure that they will retain more than 95% of their thickness overtime. 

 

Have stinky running feet?  These insoles are antimicrobial and fight foot fungus, bacteria and order - yeah!  You can also wash them.  Bonus.

 

Even though these insoles are lightweight, they also provide cushioning without adding weight or bulk to your shoe.  Why purchase a nice, lightweight shoe, if you are only going to add weight to the shoe with an insole?  Not with these. 

 

I've only tried these insoles on treadmill runs (not outside), but have loved the cushioning.  I'm not sure if I necessarily need an insole, but these insoles didn't mess with my footstrike, I didn't find the cushioning or form of the insole to be the least bit awkward in my shoe and it provided extra cushioning on my short 3-6 mile treadmill runs.

 

 

******************************

One lucky winner will win
a Pair of Insoles from OrthoLite
(US ONLY) 

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

1 – Become a follower of my blog or already are?!  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 – Visit the OrthoLite website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of OrthoLite on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!).  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter (@RunningDivaMom @OrthoLite #RunningDivaMom) account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

Enter now though March 26.

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Couch to 5K Training Program

Over the past three years, I have lead more than 500 women in the Madison, Wisconsin area to their first 5K - and beyond.  Below is a sample nine week schedule that my training groups follow to complete their first 5K event.  This training program is truly a gentle introduction to running and is entirely customizable with additional walk breaks.  It is designed to take individuals off of the couch to running 3.1 miles in just nine short weeks - through intervals that increase in duration each week.  I recommend running or driving the course before race day, so that runners are aware of exactly how long the distance is and where the hills and finish line are physically located.

 

To sign up for one of my upcoming running groups, or to schedule an individual consultation or virtual coaching, please email me at runningdivamom@yahoo.com.

 

 

Giveaway Winners ....

I was recently given the opportunity to review several products for active families.  You can read all about my fabulous experiences at the link below.  Please visit their websites below and start shopping.

One winner was chose at random to receive the following items.  Random.org chose ……..

Astrosportswear Sports Bra
RDM Review:  HERE
Company Website:  HERE

Winner: Em Ma HERE 

Congratulations!!!  Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) with your name, email and mailing address.  And, I will get you your prize!

Thank you for following my journey!!

[If you would like YOUR product, event or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Hydrating During Your Run

HYDRATING DURING YOUR RUN

·    Follow a schedule.  Don’t rely on your level of thirst.  If you are already thirsty, chances are you are already dehydrated.

·    Have a plan.  And stick with it.

o   Drink cold water.  Cold water will lower your body temperature and keep you cool and comfortable during your workout.  This will allow you to run longer.

o   You should drink 16 oz of water 1-2 hours before your run.

o   Rehydrate during your run.  Drink little and drink often to avoid feeling bloated while your run.  Drink 16 oz of water for every hour that you run.  Or 4 oz every fifteen minutes. 

o   When you are done running, replenish the fluids that you’ve lost.  Try drinking 16 oz of water immediately after you are done running and stretching.  Continue rehydrating for the next few hours.

·     Hydrating beverages include:

o   Water and sports drinks

o   Tea and decaffeinated coffee

o   Juice and milk

o   Be conscious of the calories you are consuming in some of these beverages

o   Sports drinks are not necessary unless you are running over one hour.  Drink 4-8 oz for every 60-90 minutes you are exercising.  Sports drinks will replenish the electrolytes that you are losing through sweat – like sodium and potassium.  These will fuel your workout.

·     Sings of dehydration:

o   Nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, heart palpitations, dizziness, dry lips or mouth, weightloss

o   Check the color of your urine:  clear – hydrated; yellow - dehydrated