Workout Wednesday - September in Review!

Time is flying by!  I cannot believe September has come to an end already!    How many days until summer break?  Just kidding.  Not really.

Headsweats, Brooks Ghost, ProCompression, and Inferno Spandits Shorts

I just realized that I have 50 more days until the Philadelphia Gore-Tex Marathon!  I'm working on my goals for this race and I'm seriously hoping it all comes together.  I am not sure I can handle 3 horrible marathon performances in one year.  

Here's to new running friends....a local Boston Qualifier!
Hoping she doesn't think I'm too slow and will continue to run with me!

Training

I'm following the Hanson plan this time around and it's kicking my butt. Just like it did last time when I earned that marathon PR at Sugarloaf.   

my afternoons mostly consist of me running until the bus shows up!

September Mileage

Not my biggest mileage month, but still a solid running month!

Year-to-Date

But look at this!  (not the pace...I'm not good at putting in pace each time)  I'm killing my year mileage!  How high do you think I'll go?  

#twopairdontcare with ProCompression, new Mizuno Inspire 12, and Spandits!  

Race Weight 

I've mentioned here before, I wasn't happy with my weight.  I just kept gaining and gaining and wasn't sure what was going on.  Ward said it was portion control.  But I was eating the same as I was before.  I knew I needed a change.   A co-worker of mine is an Arbonne consultant and was running a 30 day cleanse.... and I knew I needed a change, so I went for it.  No coffee, no dairy, no gluten.... essentially nothing processed.  The coffee was going to be hard, but the other things no so bad.  I started out the cleanse at 145.8 pounds.  I'm happy to report that I have lost 13.4 pounds!  Craziness.  But I'm back to where I felt the best before.  

To maintain this, I'm going to do a 80/20 to allow myself some treats here and there, but within reason.  I had 2 Trader Joe's Maple cookies this weekend and I had the worst stomach cramps ever.  It seriously felt like my stomach was tearing itself to pieces.  Crazy!  I guess I need to stay away from those!!!

You'll be shocked to hear that I don't really like coffee that much anymore.  I've turned into a green tea junkie, but coffee just doesn't taste right to me anymore.  But I have been mixing some Trader Joe's Cold Brew in my morning Arbonne/Vanilla/Pumpkin smoothies and they are fabulous!  You have to try it!!!

Gear

Training for the Philadelphia Gore-Tex Marathon just got easier with a bunch of new gear that was sent to me by Gore!   I have some super cushy Brooks Gore-Tex Ghost8's to wear, windstopper gloves by Gore, a hat by Gore and a beautiful Gore jacket to get me through those tough snowy/cold days.  I've logged a few miles in the Ghosts and my first thought is "why haven't I tried Ghosts before?"  Seriously!  So much cushion!  I love them!   

I'm also in love with the jacket.  I've been wearing it as much as possible...to school (because I can) and then to Ward's marathon this past weekend.  The race start was 33F degrees and the jacket felt great!   It's not cold enough for the gloves or hat yet...but they will definitely get a ton of use!  

My Gore jacket matches my Spandits perfectly!!!!

Races

This weekend, I'm heading to Wells for the Rise, Run, Retreat with some super awesome, talented and FAST ladies.  Part of the retreat is to run the Maine Half Marathon.  I'm thinking I'm the slow one in the group...I'm hoping their speed rubs off on me and this weekend's race is successful!  We will see.  Although, I wasn't really planning on racing it. It was going to be a training run.  We'll see how I feel this weekend.  Maybe I'll be inspired by some these women!  

The weather was supposed to be a washout, but it's looking a little different now.  No worries...there's still time and the weather will probably change again.  

I don't know what I'm wearing yet...but it will consist of Spandits, ProCompression and Headsweats for sure.  

Then I get a 2 week reprieve then it's time for the Runner's World Festival!    Another incredible opportunity!  I don't even know what to expect... except for lots of cool people, running, and selfies.  

Run with me! I have a great discount code to share with you!

A photo posted by Jen Boudreau (@runningwtg) on Aug 3, 2015 at 1:12pm PDT

And fuel....  Have you ever tried Untapped?  Real, pure maple syrup in easy to carry packets.  Oh my word!  I had one as a sample last year and tried it on an 18 mile run.  It was delicious...but I couldn't find it locally anywhere.  Then I saw that an Instagram friend of mine found it at LL Bean!  Since the husband works there, I get a kick butt discount..so I stocked up.  I'm good to go with Untapped now!

And now that I hydrate with SOS Rehydrate, I actually don't refuel a lot.  SOS Rehydrate is amazing!  Have you tried it yet???   It absorbs immediately and taste delicious.  I have a discount you can use.  AMB-IW6-CWA for 15%

How's your training going?  How was September for you?  

#BOSUStrong Week 3 - My 5 Fave Stretches and 3 Tips for Toning Your Body!

I can’t believe its already week 3 of the #BosuStrong challenge, time flies when  you’re having fun! Last week we focused on balance and I was proud of myself for improving my balance. This week its all about stretching and toning – so make sure you join in on the fun! 

Since we’re talking about stretching here are 5 of my all time favorite stretches:

• I love to stretch my legs by doing pigeon pose.
• My favorite total body stretch is down dog.
• I swear when I do 3-legged down dog, it feels like my hips are opening finally.
• I stretch my mind by closing my eyes and taking in the smells and sounds around me.
• I try to stretch out of my comfort zone with camel pose.

And if you’re looking for a great way to tone your legs, here are my fave 3 tips (tricks, advice, words of wisdom, etc):

* lunges are your friend

* squat as much as possible

* stretch, stretch, stretch

So I want to know – are you #BOSUStrong? Copy and paste the above, fill it in and make it your own and then tag me in it and share with your friends! Let’s all be #BOSUSTRONG. 

The daily prompts are below. You can also follow along HERE. 

Week 3, time to STRETCH & TONE!: (9/28-10/2):

(Make sure you tag @Bosu_Fitness on Instagram & @BosuFitness on Twitter):

• Monday, 9/28: We’re starting the week with some side lunges! Show us how you work those inner and outer thighs @BOSU_Fitness @FitApproach #BOSUStrong #FitFamily #SweatPink #ad

• Bonus: Y’all know we love to #jumpjoymonday! Show us your BEST jump shot and tag @BOSU_Fitness @FitApproach #BOSUStrong #FitFamily #SweatPink #ad

• Tuesday, 9/29: It’s #tempotuesday! Show us your fave body toning move @BOSU_Fitness @FitApproach #BOSUStrong #FitFamily #SweatPink #ad

• Bonus: It’s #triceptuesday and we want to see you dip! Now drop down and give us 20 tricep dips. #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad

• Wednesday, 9/30: Grab a partner and show us how you tone it up together! @BOSU_Fitness @FitApproach #BOSUStrong #FitFamily #SweatPink #ad

• Bonus: #workitwednesday, show us how you’re workin’ in a good stretch this Wednesday and tag #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad

• Thursday, 10/1: It’s #totalbodythursday. Show us your favorite total body stretch. #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad

• Bonus: Give us a #tbt of a time when you really stretched outside of your comfort zone (feel free to get creative!) #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad

• Friday, 10/2: #FreeFriday. Show us your favorite stretch! #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad

• Bonus: Happy #forearmfriday. Show us a move that helps you stretch and tone #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad

Notes: You do not need to own or have access to a BOSU to participate. By participating you will have a chance to win a BOSU and other fun prizes. And please, if you are using a BOSU throughout this challenge, never stand on your BOSU with the dome facing down (images or moves down on the BOSU incorrectly will not count during this challenge).

Disclaimer: this post was sponsored by BOSU but all opinions expressed are my own. I truly appreciate all of the brands that support the Fit Approach (Sweat Pink) community. 

6 ways I stay balanced

If you forgot to join me last week for the #BOSUStrong challenge or just weren’t up for the cardio, make sure you join me this week as it’s all about the balance! We’re standing on one leg, lunging, and BOSU squatting our way through the week. But balance means more than just being able to stand on one leg, it also means being able to do what you love while making healthy choices at the same time. It means putting in the work and still finding time for family. Or eating the chocolate cake with peanut butter icing but balancing it out with a 15 mile run. Or getting on the trainer and sweating in front of the tv or strength training at home when you can’t make it to the gym. Here are the 6 ways I stay balanced - what are yours? I make time for myself by sitting on the deck. My favorite me time is shopping. My rule when it comes to a balanced diet is 80/20. Eat healthy most of the time, but allow myself that one cheat here and there. Otherwise I find myself just going into a junk food coma. I make fitness a priority by scheduling it (but also allowing flexibility). When I get stressed or overwhelmed, my go to is to go for a run! I do a calendar to help my family stay balanced. Bonus: Here are my fave 6 moves to help improve your balance:  boat pose  wheel  down dog  warrior pose  camel pose  arching three-legged dog So I want to know - are you #BOSUStrong? Copy and paste the above, fill it in and make it your own and then tag me in it and share with your friends! Let’s all be #BOSUSTRONG. The daily prompts are below. You can also follow along HERE.

DAILY PROMPTS! Monday, 9/21: Happy Monday sweaties, this week we’re all about that balance. Let’s see you stand on one leg - ready, set, GO! #BosuStrong #SweatPink #FitFamily @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad Bonus: Y’all know we love to #jumpjoymonday! Show us your BEST jump shot and tag @BOSU_Fitness @FitApproach #BOSUStrong #FitFamily #SweatPink #ad Tuesday, 9/22: We want to see you #dropitlikeasquat...on your BOSU or perhaps one leg? #BosuStrong #SweatPink #FitFamily @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad Bonus: It’s time for #treetuesday! Show us your best tree pose. @BOSU_Fitness @FitApproach #BOSUStrong #FitFamily #SweatPink #ad Wednesday, 9/23: Let’s lunge it out sweaties! #BosuStrong #SweatPink #FitFamily @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad Bonus: #workitwednesday, show us how you’re workin’ it this Wednesday and tag #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad Thursday, 9/24: It’s #totalbodythursday. Show us your favorite total body balance  move! #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad Bonus: Give us a #tbt of a time when you really challenged your balance (feel free to get creative!) #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad Friday, 9/25: #FreeFriday. Show us your favorite way to get your cardio on! #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad Bonus: Happy #forearmfriday. Let’s forearm plank it out y’all! #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad

Move It Monday!

Good morning and Happy First Day of Fall.  Oh and it's the husband's birthday.  

Happy 40th birthday, Ward!   

While I LOVE summer - for many, many reasons, fall comes in a close 2nd.  The crisp air, cooler mornings, gorgeous changing leaves, pumpkin and apple everything.  

homemade apple cider is the best!  

Marathon training is getting a bit challenging with crazy work and kid schedules, but I'm getting it done!  Even if I have to split up my runs and do a couple of 2-a-days...I'm getting them done!  

In order to get in my run in the morning, I have to run in the pitch black.   I could drive to the gym.  I know.  But I'm trying my best to maximize my sleep as well...because rest is important too!  I'm saving 30+ minutes by not driving to the gym...which means a little more sleep and more mileage.   Maybe someday I'll have my own treadmill, but until then, I'm going to have to suck it up and get out there!  

In addition to some 2-a-day's, I've also been using a new Wahoo TICKERx Heart Rate monitor, especially on my speed days, to make sure I'm pushing myself.  

The instant feedback is something I love.   With the built in GPS, I get the pleasure of tracked mileage and heart rate feedback in one app.  

I thought it was super cook to see that you could also have phone free workouts.  Just double tap the heart rate monitor itself to start, and tap when you finish.  Then the TICKRx will share the data via bluetooth with your phone when you get back to your phone.  I honestly haven't tried this part because I always have my phone with me for safety and selfie reasons.  

Another great feature of the TICKRx is that you can calibrate it for treadmill workouts.  I was absolutely AMAZED at how accurate it is.  

screenshot of post-treadmill run

 My speed workouts will never be the same!  Now I'm addicted to the TICKRx and seeing how much I"m pushing myself to that next level is even more exciting!

screenshot of what I see during a run

I also have the app programmed to give me verbal feedback - time, miles, pace, average heart rate at each mile.  

Since I run with my phone anyway, the TICKRx is perfect for me!  It pairs up immediately with the phone, absolutely zero issues!  

Another great feature, is that the TICKRx isn't just for running.  It's for all cardio and strength.  Yup!   Read about my jumprope workout and TICKRx here.  

What do you look for in a heart rate monitor?  I love the versatility and ease of use with the TICKRx. No lengthy directions.  Just snap it on just below the sports bra, sync with your phone and GO!  As easy as 1,2,3!  

disclaimer: I was sent a TICKRx for the purpose of a review.  I was not required to give a positive review.  As always, all opinions expressed on my blog are 100% my own.  

Tried It Tuesday {Giveaway}

The school year is back in full swing and when the husband and I are not running or working, we will be spending TONS of time sitting on the sidelines at soccer practices and games.  With two very active kids, we're always on the go!   (and I'm completely exhausted!)

I love to keep foldable chairs in my car so when I get to games I have something to sit on.  But they take up space in the car and often times get taken out and then I forget to put them back in!  

For the next 2 months, my Saturday morning routine is going to be - get up, run, and meet the family at Izzy's soccer games.  And when I get there, I want to rest those tired legs.  

I'm super grateful I was sent the Aurorae Aqua Microfiber Beach Swim Towel to review.  It has turned into my go-to soccer blanket for these soccer games.  It won't get taken out of my car because it takes up virtually no space at all!  And now that my son has made the middle school soccer team, it's going to get even more use!

I did get to try it out at the cottage after swimming.  It was so soft and comfy I just wanted to cuddle up in it!  Sadly, swimming weather is now gone so I'm going to be using this cozy towel for my whirl wind of soccer games this fall!  

Then who knows this winter?  It's so soft, I might just cuddle up in it when it's cold!  If only Aurorae made it into a blanket.  (hint, hint!)  

Why am I so excited about a towel?  First and foremost, it's the softest towel I've ever used.  I hate those cheap scratchy ones.  It's also thick and will keep you warm!  So when you get out of the water and get the chills, this towel will be sure to keep you warm!   The only yoga mat I have ever loved was made by Aurorae and I've been using it for about 4 years now.  I love that mat and I know I'll be using my beach towel (for many many uses) for a long time.  I seriously cannot say enough about this great towel!  

I'm so pumped I get to share the love on this one and offer a giveaway for your own Aurore Aqua Microfiber Towel to a lucky Running With The Girls reader!  

Enter through the rafflecopter below.  Giveaway begins today 9/15 and ends next Friday 9/25.  Be sure to leave a contact email so I can contact the lucky winner!  

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: I was provided a towel to review from Aurorae.  I was not required to provide a positive review.  As always, all opinions expressed on my blog are 100% my own.  

5 Things That Make Me #BOSUStrong

Tomorrow I am embarking on a 4 week challenge with BOSU and Sweat Pink to prove to the world that I am #BOSUSTRONG. I will squat, mountain climb, plank, push-up, lunge, bridge and balance my way to a stronger and more fit body.  And I will encourage Carrie and Smitha to join me on this fun journey because we are one big, happy #FitFamily.



Being #BOSUStrong is not just about movement, sweat, or even owning a BOSU, its about being a leader, an inspiration to others, and sharing my own fitness journey with others. The 5 things that make me #BOSUStrong are:


My strong attitude.
My ability to smile when things get tough.
My love for family.
My healthy smoothies.
And my ability to find peace during a hectic day with a run.



So I want to know – are you #BOSUStrong? Copy and paste the above, fill it in and make it your own and then tag me in it and share with your friends! Let’s all be #BOSUSTRONG.



The daily prompts are below. You can also follow along HERE.



Week 1 Instagram prompts (9/14-9/18):
(Make sure you tag @Bosu_Fitness on Instagram and @BosuFitness on Twitter):

Monday, 9/14: It’s #MOUNTAINCLIMBMONDAY! Show us your favorite way to climb that mountain whether it be with hiking poles, in plank position or….? Tag #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad

Bonus: Y’all know we love to #jumpjoymonday! Show us your BEST jump shot and tag 
@BOSU_Fitness @FitApproach #BOSUStrong #FitFamily #SweatPink #ad

Tuesday, 9/15: #tempotuesday we want to see how you’re getting your heart rate up today. Tag @BOSU_Fitness @FitApproach #BOSUStrong #FitFamily #SweatPink #ad

Bonus: Show us your favorite tricep workout and tag #triceptuesday and #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad

Wednesday, 9/16: Drop down and give us some #BURPEES! Even better if you can make them #BOSUBurpees! Tag #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad

Bonus: #workitwednesday, show us how you’re workin’ it this Wednesday and tag #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad

#WorkItWednesday..... working my butt off to get that run in before the bus comes!

Thursday, 9/17: It’s #totalbodythursday. Show us your favorite total body cardio move! Tag #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad

Bonus: Give us a #tbt of the most brutal cardio workout you’ve ever done! Tag #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad

Friday, 9/18: #FreeFriday. Show us your favorite way to get your cardio on! #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad

Bonus: Put those forearms to work. Show us your BEST cardio move for #forearmfriday. Forearm plank mountain climbers, dolphin push-ups, forearm plank toe taps…something else? Tag #BOSUstrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach #ad


Notes: You do not need to own or have access to a BOSU to participate. By participating you will have a chance to win a BOSU and other fun prizes. And please, if you are using a BOSU throughout this challenge, never stand on your BOSU with the dome facing down (images or moves down on the BOSU incorrectly will not count during this challenge).

Click to tweet that you're in!!!

Disclaimer: this post was sponsored by BOSU but all opinions expressed are my own. I truly appreciate all of the brands that support the Fit Approach (Sweat Pink) community.

A Jump Rope Workout Wednesday

Marathon training takes a toll on your body regardless of the plan you are using.  I've come to find out that rest days are just as important to the training as the running days.    

For me, a rest day is a day I do not run, but will often times do yoga, roll or do some strength training on those days.   Recently I was sent a TKO Soft Grip Jump Rope to review.

I've read that plyos workouts enhance a marathon training, so why wouldn't incorporating jumping rope?  It's worth a shot and it's fun!  It definitely helps you feel like a kid again.  And who wouldn't want to feel younger?  

I will say that jumping rope is harder than I remember.  It definitely gets your heart pumping and jumping for 10 minutes is a great workout!  

I came up with this simple (and portable) jump rope workout above.  I have to admit that jumping rope on one foot is SO HARD.  But once you get it down, you will rock it!  

Some facts about the TKO Soft Grip Jump Rope:

* light weight grips for speed training 

* metal ball bearing helps to prevent tangling of rope

* consistent swing motion

* 9ft solid PVC ropes

* smooth tubing allow for free motion through the air

And if you're curious how many calories this workout burns?  

And did I mention this great, simple workout tool is PORTABLE?  It takes up virtual no space and you can take it to the playground, work (why not!), beach, camping, vacation.   

Tell me - do you like to jump rope?  What kind of jump rope workout do you use?  

Live The Day

Summers just seem to fly by so fast!  Jeez.  It seems like yesterday I was heading out to my car anticipating what this summer would be about.  I knew it would have a lot of running and had hopes of lots of beach time.

Like all summers, time got away from us.  Track took over our lives for a majority of it.   But we still managed to have a great summer.  Lots of swimming, camping, and letting my kids just be kids.  It was perfect!   

And just like normal, the last week of summer comes and I feel like I need to provide my kids with a fun activity each day - so we did.   There was one rule though.  I had to keep it low key because Tucker had a cyst removed last week and had doctor's orders to not overdo it.  

Monday was all about the mini golf and ice cream.  

Low key.  Fun.  Lots of laughs. 

Completely perfect.  

And of course jump trampoline jumping! Because that's why I bought the trampoline...  I think I like it more than the kids.  

Tuesday we had plans to go to a water park but upon our arrival there was a "closed for the season" sign.  It was okay.  We had a follow up appointment with Tucker's doctor and his building was right beside the water park.  So we were going in that direction anyway.  We just wanted to swim afterwards!    It all worked out because it started raining and who would want to be at the water park in the rain anyway...so we went bowling.  Apparently my kids like bowling.  Who knew?  

And apparently bowling alleys are a great place for backbends.  Good thing my kids are oblivious to my yoga moves in public...and my boy takes my photos. 

Then soccer practice for my girl.  She is seriously loving it.  And I am loving that she is the only one playing a sport at this moment.  No worries...in two weeks dance will start for her.  And then Tucker tries out for the soccer team.   

It was a little chilly and I was super happy to have my new Prana Bourke Top.  Sporty and warm.  I'm kinda excited to wear this back to school!  

Wednesday started out as another rainy day - so we went to the movies.  We had to try a new place called Smitty's that serves meals while you watch the movie.  That was super cool!

Then of course we needed to get the obligatory back-to-school hair cuts!

And no day is ever complete without a little wheel in my Prana Meme Pants!  Again, completely wowed by these stretchy pants.  Comfortable.  Cute.  It will make going back-to-school a little less painful.  

Thursday was a hiking day at Bradbury Mountain.  We didn't really need to pull out the hiking bags, but Tucker insisted.  He packed enough snacks to last him a week!  

I got to wear my Halle Pants this day.  I've had these pants and still love them!  They roll up for a casual look and are super flexible.  

Happy kids.  Happy mom.   

We followed up with a trip to a local pond for some fishing.  We had the place to ourselves and it was incredibly peaceful.  A perfect way to end the day.  

Friday's forecast was the warmest for the week...which meant BEACH DAY!!!!  The kids and I decided we wanted to go to a beach we hadn't been to in a while, so we chose Reid State Park.   I had forgotten how cool it is there and how many fun things we could do.  There's a lagoon, lots of rocks to explore upon, huge waves to play in and run and so much more!  

Happy and relaxed.  The perfect kind of beach day... in my Quinn Top.  I've had this top and wear it all of the time!  

And why not a little dolphin pose on the beach?  It seemed fitting.   Don't you think?

I'm thankful for the summer with my kids and and couldn't have had a better summer.  I think we're all feeling rather happy and refreshed and ready to take on this school year.  I know I'm getting there and wrapping my head around this new school year.  

This is definitely going to be one of my favorite fall outfits -
Ginger Top and Meme Pant.
Stylish, stretchy - I'll want to live in this forever!

Having a few new Prana pieces added to my back-to-school fall wardrobe definitely alleviated some of the pain too.   Actually, I've never been excited about back-to-school clothing until now because the thought of going from comfy summer, running/yoga clothes to stiff uncomfortable clothes was just unbearable.  Now, I'll be super comfy and rather stylish in my new Prana clothes!

Right now I have a 15% off code for my readers to use for the Prana Fall Line - LiveInprAnaF15RWTG.  You want these clothes!  You can seriously #LiveInprAna in them - hiking, yoga, trampoline jumping, bowling, mini golfing, swimming - you can do it in Prana!  Heck, I guess you can even go to work wearing it!  I know I will!

disclosure: I was sent Prana clothing to review and participate in the #7daystretch campaign. 

I was not required to provide a positive review.  As always, all opinions expressed on my blog are 100% my own.