Tag: Working out

Running Gear Run Down

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I envy the people who can just throw on sneakers and go for a jog. I require all the planets to be in perfect alignment, along with all the right apparel. I don’t want anything moving, chaffing, riding up, or rubbing. If I’m going to kick my own ass, I need to be as comfortable as possible doing it. Here is the equation that works best for me:

Undergarments:

Let’s start with the base layer. I’m not a big fan of Lululemon, but I have found that this sports bra works best for running. It’s very pricey, but necessary for me.

Tops:

If the temperature outside is between the high 30’s through the 50’s I wear a Nike long sleeve quarter zip. Every brand makes something similar, but I like the fabric Nike uses and the fit is perfect for me- fitted but not clingy (the model above makes it look baggier than it is). I hate feeling restricted or packed in while I run.

If the temperature is low 30’s or below, I add the above tank and I might up my long sleeve to something a little heavier with fleece on the inside. Layers are key. If the temperature is below 20, I go to the gym instead of running outside because I like running outside, but not that much.

In the summer it’s suns out guns out. I like a light weight, low profile, loose tank in the warmer months. I think I feel too body conscious in the really clingy or “seamless” tank style. I often opt for a shorter or cropped style just to reduce the amount of fabric flying around. Most of the “cropped” styles hit my waistline so it’s not like I’m showing a lot of extra skin.

Bottoms:

Usually in weather below about 55 or 60 degrees I opt for capris. I actually only run in Nike Epic Lux crops. They are the perfect length, have drawstring at the waist (so they stay up), and two pockets for keys, etc.

There are two types of runners in warm weather: runners who wear running shorts, and runners who wear spandex. Guess which one I am. I love the Nike 5 inch Nike Pro compression shorts. The downside is that they don’t have a key pocket, but I like that they’re lightweight and long enough to stay in place (most of the time).

Sneakers:

I’ve been wearing the New Balance Fresh Foam Zante for a few years now. I get new shoes every 6ish months. I usually check New Balance to see what the latest version is then cross reference DSW and Amazon to see who has a good price on the color that I want.

Accessories:

  • I need to keep my bangs out of my face so the stretchy headband is a must
  • If it’s 45 degrees or below, I wear gloves because they make such a difference
  • Body Glide is definitely an essential for any runner
  • For reasons unknown, Under Armour is my preference for athletic socks
  • Rather than a belt I usually put my keys in the zipper pocket on my capris, or a cuff on my wrist in the summer (I can’t find the cuff online right now)
  • I love my Garmin watch because it helps me track my distance and splits. Looking at the current models, I’m probably due for a new one soon!

Ok, I think I’m ready to go for a run now! 

 

Wait, where’s my sunscreen?

Working On My Fitness

SadieLeave a comment

If you know me, you know that I’m a fan of a good workout. I’m sure some people think I’m crazy, but I’ve found that if I make it part of my routine and prioritize my gym sessions when I’m having a busy week, I’m a happier person. While I realize “abs are made in the kitchen” and I’m trying to work on that too, I thought I would share my weekly workout routine in case you’re curious. For some people working out is a chore, but for me I think it’s more of a hobby and major de-stresser that I look forward to.

Sadie Dishes- Working on my Fitness

First, a disclaimer. This is just an example. I almost always have at least one rest day a week depending on what work or social events I have each week. And I also have days when I go to the gym with grand plans, and it’s all I can do to get on the elliptical for 45 minutes. Or I don’t have the patience to do a whole class so I’ll do a short weight routine instead. I do try to push through sometimes, but if my body really isn’t having it, I will cut things short.

Monday:

  • 45-60 minutes elliptical
  • 30 minutes lower body toning class (lots of squats and lunges with hand weights)
  • 30 minutes ab lab class (all the crunches)

Tuesday:

  • 60 minutes total of stair mill and elliptical (depending on my stamina on the stair mill)
  • 60 minute mat Pilates class or a quick arm routine with the pully circuit weight machine if I’m not feeling Pilates

Wednesday: 

  • 60 minute spin class
  • Leg Day (squat rack squats and dead lifts, or 60 or 70lb barbell routine if the squat racks are taken)

Thursday:

  • 30-40 minutes running on the treadmill, and 20-30 minutes on the elliptical
  • quick weight circuit

or

  • 60 minute swim set at the local high school pool (getting back at it!)

Friday:

  • 60 minute Body Pump class (since it’s Friday this is probably my most skipped)
  • 45 minutes on cardio machines

Saturday:

  • Long run always outside- 7-10 miles on the Custis Trail

Sunday:

  • Leg day at the squat rack
  • 60 minute spin class

I belong to a Gold’s Gym a couple blocks from my apartment, and all the classes that I take are included in the membership which is super convenient and cost effective.

Get after it!

Favorite Things

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I love shopping for workout clothes.  I use it as an excuse to buy super comfortable clothes in obnoxious colors.  What’s not to love!  Here are a few of my favorite new things I’ve purchased lately.

My New Favorite CaprisUA Capris

Under Armour has this new “StudioLux” line of clothes that seem to be a page out of the Lulu book. Sometimes I find the Lulu capris too thick or that they run kind of small in size. I think Under Armour did a nice job of coming up with a lux capri at a price point that is just little easier to swallow (unfortunately not too cheap).  They stay in place well while I work out, and look great too!Target CaprisI think Target is trying to jump on the same bandwagon.  I picked these up at Target the other day.  Just like the typical Lulu capris or the UA ones I got, they are a little longer than the average workout capri, and have a little extra style factor.  They don’t have quite the weight or probably durability of the other brands, but not bad.

My New Shoesnew gym shoes

I got two pairs of new shoes recently: one for running, and one for the gym.  I usually use the same pair for both but I always wondered if a wearing a running shoe to do a gym workout, or a cross training shoe to run was detrimental.  I will test them out and report back.  The above are Reebok’s RealFlex Fusion TR, my flashy new gym shoes (yes, that is the color I got)!NB

These I will only use for running outside.  I actually bought them at a running store, and the salesmen said they are a very popular lightweight option for many people. I’ve realized that lightweight is key for a running sneaker. I litterally feel like it’s easier to run if my shoes are lighter. I’m not in love with the black color, because I typically like something a little more interesting.  This was the only color they had in my size, but at least the mud and dirt from outside won’t be so visable!  They aren’t too much of a departure from my previous New Balance sneakers, and so far, so good!

Have you picked up any cute work out gear to get you motivated this new year?