Thursday, June 20, 2019

New Balance More

It is sometimes said that “less is more,” so when NewBalance released their new shoe, More, I was intrigued to find out if sometimes “more is more.”


The More is one of New Balance’s newest shoe featuring their Fresh Foam technology.  They call it “a more natural-feeling fit with premium, next-level comfort. Lace up this lightweight, highly cushioned women's running shoe for a smooth, highly cushioned ride.”


Honestly, I don’t really know what to say about the shoe.  And to me, not knowing what to say says a lot.  There are definitely a few things I like about this shoe, but overall it’s not the shoe for me. 


I like the upper of this shoe—it’s spacious and definitely breathable.  It was a comfortable fit and it never felt warm during my runs.  

The high cushion element of this shoe was a bit odd for me.  I typically run in a low to medium cushioned shoe so my foot had a hard time responding to the extra cushion.  I did like the cushioning on down hill runs, but overall it was a bit much for me. 


Someone once told me that no matter what the shoe actually weighs, it won’t feel heavy when you’re wearing it if it’s the right shoe for you.  The “weight” of this shoe was the biggest take away for me.  It just felt heavy when I was wearing it.  That heaviness impacted my stride and I could never get my runs to click when I was wearing this shoe.  After putting about 30 running miles on them, I did take them for a few walks and found them to be comfortable for that.


I don’t think this is a bad shoe—it’s just not the running shoe for me.  I know a couple other people who are running in it and liking it.  I’m grateful that I was able to try it out—I was intrigued by the Fresh Foam element shoe enough to try out another pair of New Balance shoes.  I got the 890s and I really like those. 

Have you ever tried a shoe that other people love and it just wasn’t the shoe for you?

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1

I received this shoe to try from New Balance—all opinions are my own.   






Thursday, May 30, 2019

Nanny Goat 24 Hour Race


Last weekend, I headed up to Riverside, California to run in the 24 Hour Nanny Goat event.  I’ve started this recap three different times and each time I start over, unsure of how I want to approach it.  I’ve decided to answer the questions I’ve been asked the most since the race.



What was the weather like?

Like a lot of runners, I often watch the weather the week leading up to a race.  I was a little nervous because this race wouldn’t just be a few hours—I had to pay attention to 24 hours worth of weather.  Midweek, a possibility of rain showed during the middle of the night.  The weather forces were in our favor and the weather was fantastic for the race.  It was a little hot during midday but with the help of popsicles and the ice bandanas Missy made, it never felt too bad.  We also made sure to stay on point with sunscreen and applied it every hour or so. 


What did you eat?

Fueling during an ultra distance is definitely different than other races I’ve done.  Some runners will focus solely on liquid fueling, gels or real food.  I tend to do a mixture of all of them.  I used Tailwind and Muir Energy gels on a regular basis.  The aide station was stocked with things such as potatoes, watermelon, quesadillas, peanut butter & jelly sandwiches, pizza, hamburgers and other snacks.  During the night, they also had soup and warm foods available to help with the cold weather.  My go-to real food choices tend to be potatoes and watermelon. 

So you ran for 24 hours?

The race event started at 8:00am on Saturday.  They had a few different race options—a 4 hour, a 12 hours (morning or night 12 hours), a 50 miler, a 100 miler and a 24 hour event.  Missy, Christy and I signed up for the 24 hour event.  To be honest, this is what I was most nervous about—would I be able to stay awake and run for 24 hours?

Saturday Night Sunset from the Course
The late night hours were the hardest for me, both physically and mentally.  The 12 hour runners had already gone home, the spectators were sleeping and you were no longer surrounded by people.  I even reached out on social media because I needed some motivations.  The running community is amazing and came out in full force—I received so many messages, I was that girl ugly crying as she was making her loops- my heart was so full. 


Around 1:00am, I started having major stomach issues like I had never had before.  I was still a bit away from my goal, but I knew I needed a break.  So I took a 45 minute nap.  A part of me was disappointed in myself that I had to stop but I also know it was the smart decision.  And it’s amazing what a 45 minute nap can do for you!

How far did you run?

I ended Nanny Goat with 65 official miles. (my watch had 67 with bathroom stops, etc..)  Prior to the event, people would ask what my goal was and I honestly didn’t have one.  In August 2017, I completed a 40 mile event which is the furthest distance I had ever done so I didn’t know what my body was capable of.  I am happy with the 65 miles but I also know that I could have done better.

"Cone of Death"
I did not prepare for Nanny Goat mileage the way I should have.  I ran a full in February and a half in March but otherwise most of my runs this year have been less than 10 miles.  That’s not smart training and I know better.  Next year, I will train the way that I should.  I will have goals.  I will reach them.

Was it “loopy?”

Nanny Goat is a one mile loop and for many, the idea of that seems daunting.  I had never run a loop course like this so I wasn’t sure what to expect.  I loved it.  I liked knowing I was never more than a mile away from “camp.” I loved seeing the spectators every mile.   I was also easy to make friends on the course because you see the same people a lot during your time there. 

Would you do it again?
Abso-freaking-lutely! I had such a good time and I can’t wait to go back next year. 

Why?

When you tell someone you’re running a 24 hour race, “why?” is often the response.  There are a couple different whys for me.

First, it started as a girls weekend with two people who are very important to me and I was looking forward to sharing the time with them.  Christy broke her leg in another race the weekend prior to Nanny Goat, so Missy and I wore a picture of her to make sure she knew she was with us in spirit. 



My second why is the community.  Experiencing an ultra is unlike any other race experience you will have.  I saw people laughing with strangers, sharing stories when people who were close to tears, people throwing up and people sharing the joy of a sport they love.  I was inspired by a cancer survivor pushing through to 50 miles, a woman cheering on every runner who came by her campsite and my friend reaching a course record. I was inspired and overwhelmed by the people who encouraged and supported me, especially when I was struggling. An experience like this will change you.

Race Swag
My last why is because I had something to prove to myself. Last fall I had some medical issues which required me to lower my mileage dramatically.  I had people questioning me as a runner and though other’s opinions shouldn’t matter, I started to question myself as a runner.  Quite frankly, I was in a running funk and Nanny Goat gave me the opportunity to prove to myself that I can do hard things. 
I don’t know exactly what I was looking for at Nanny Goat, but I found it.  I ran 65 miles—it wasn’t easy and it wasn’t pretty, but I did it.  And I’ll be back year, chasing 100 miles. 

I am a different person that I was before the start of Nanny Goat and I am forever grateful that I had that experience.  Have you ever run a race that’s changed you?

Until next time, happy running!
Jenn13.1

Sunday, May 19, 2019

Bay to Breakers-- The Good, The Bad and the Naked Truth

When I found out that I would be in San Francisco the weekend of the Bay to Breakers race, I decided I wanted to run the race.  When I registered, I discovered they not only offered the 12K distance, but you could also add an extra 3K, called the Breaker Bonus, which included a free beer and extra medal. Extra medal? Sign me up!

Overall, I had the best time at Bay to Breakers.  Here’s the good, the bad and the naked truth about my experience.

Start Line!
The Good

Prior to running this race, I didn’t think I’d ever want to travel to a race for a distance less than a half marathon, however Bay to Breakers changed that.  I had the best time.  There are so many things to love about this race. 

Bay to Breakers really is one big party!  It starts in the corrals where we tossed tortillas in the air.  I’m not sure where the tradition originated, but it was fun.  The costumes were so much fun too—some were basic and some included full face make-up with a little bit of everything in between.  And the runners weren’t the only ones in costume—the spectators brought their party game too. 

Even the race mascot runs the race
The course took us through the streets of San Francisco, through a gorgeous park and along the ocean as part of the Breaker Bonus.  Even with the Hayes Street Hill, I really enjoyed the course.  It never felt boring—not only did the race have entertainment, some spectators were DJ-ing music for us too.  Like I said—one big party!

I know that a race doesn’t just happen—it takes the work of a lot of people, many who are volunteers.  And all the volunteers for the race were awesome.  From the ones at the race expo, to the ones in the finish line they were are so friendly and genuinely seemed happy to be there. 

Almost to the Finish 
Leading up to the race, the weather was a bit chaotic and the night before, thunderstorms were predicted.  Not only did that alter my race outfit, it also alter some times of the race activities.  Bay to Breakers did an awesome job of communicating to the runners and doing everything they could to ensure that we would be safe in the weather conditions. 

And those thunderstorms they predicted?  Other than about 15 minutes of rain before the race even started, it was a beautiful day.  All the extra layers I wore to stay dry and warm were lost during the race and we finished with sunshine and blue skies.  It was perfect running weather!

Will Run For Bling
The Bad

I can only think of one bad moment from today’s race.  At an aid station, I grabbed the Ultima and it was lemon flavor- I’m not sure if it just wasn’t mixed right or it was the flavor, but it definitely wasn’t what I was expecting.  I like Ultima, but I don’t think the lemon flavor is my jam.  And if that’s the only bad thing I can find with today’s race, I call that a major win!

The Naked Truth

Now to the nitty gritty.  Part of why the Bay to Breakers race is known for being one big party is that some people run it naked.  Yes, you read that correctly.  Naked. 

I knew this going into the race.  But knowing it and actually seeing it are two separate things.  I saw my first naked runner about a quarter mile into the race.  It was like an “Oh!” reaction—then after that, it wasn’t as weird.  Kudos to those runners for being comfortable in their own skin.  I’m not sure if it’s something I could ever do, but it definitely adds to the party of the race. 

Someone asked me how many runners ran naked—I don’t know a percentage, but I know I definitely saw runners in the double digits and if you’re in to statistics, I saw more men than women running naked.

One of my #runmigas, Uyen
I can’t remember the last time I had this much fun at a race.  I got to run with friends, run through a great city and party at one of the oldest footraces in the United States.  Would I run it again?  Absolutely!! I think everyone should run it at least ones to experience it. 

What’s the most fun race you’ve ever run?

Until next time, happy running.

Jenn13.1

Saturday, March 30, 2019

Saucony Switchback ISO

“Life is better in running shoes.”

Since my running journey began, one of the things I’ve been told repeatedly is to make sure I’m wearing the right shoes.  My shoe needs have changed since I started running—I began in a stability shoe with a high heel-to-toe drop and now find the most comfortable shoe for me to be a neutral shoe with a  zero heel-to-toe drop.  I recognize that the type of shoe that works best for me can change over time so in the past few months, I’ve been trying out various styles to see if there is a shoe that will work better for me. 


One shoe that I’ve tried and liked is the Saucony Freedom ISO 2 so when I heard they had a new trail shoe coming out that some compared to the Freedom, I was excited to try it. 

This is how Saucony describes the shoe on their website--

For the Switchback ISO, we partnered with BOA Technology®, creators of The BOA System, to take their dial lacing system and combine it with our ISOFIT construction, creating a game-changing fit experience that quickly and easily hugs your foot. The low profile, full-length EVERUN contoured midsole of this trail running shoe gives amazing flexibility and energy return while cradling and protecting your foot. The dual-density PWRTRAC outsole combines a firmer center footprint with a softer, tackier perimeter for traction, allowing you to conquer all obstacles in your path.”

Their description is pretty spot on, but here’s a breakdown of what I like about the shoe and what I think could make the shoe better. 

Things I totally dig about the Switchback are:

Lightweight

When I put this shoe on, one of the first things I noticed was how light it felt.   According to their website, it weighs 8.8oz.  When I’m going on shorter runs or when my legs feel tired, I definitely want a lightweight shoe.

Lacing System

I will admit that I was a little apprehensive about the BOA lacing system.  My foot is on the narrow side and I was concerned that I wouldn’t be able to get the laces tight enough in the center of my foot when I needed it.  I was wrong!   I was able to get the snug fit that I like and I never felt like it became loose during my runs.  And with the BOA system, you don’t have to worry about your laces coming untied.

Sole Grip

Not all trail shoes are created equal and having a good grip on the bottom is important to me.  With a better grip, I feel more secure during my runs and it allows me to focus on other things such as form or pace without worrying about slipping.  And full disclosure—I don’t just wear my trail shoes on the trails.  I run in beach community where my runs are a combination of road, beach trails and sandy sea walls.  This shoe transitioned well to all surfaces.


The Fit

I got the Switchback in my regular size and it was the perfect fit.  It has a wider toe-box which I prefer, while still fitting how it should in the back of the shoe.  It has a contoured footbed which hugged my feet in all the right places. I’m a big believer that you shouldn’t have to break shoes in and these felt good from the get go. 

Now the things I'm not quite digging about the Switchback:

Lightweight

Yes, I know I said I loved that element.  But I also didn’t love it.  The Switchback is definitely a minimalist shoe and when I took it to more technical trails, my feet could feel everything beneath me.   If you like a minimalist shoe, you will love these.  I have sensitive feet so I know these won’t be my go-to shoes for trails that are more technical and rocky.  Perhaps a rock guard would help with this and maybe that's something they could add to future models. 


Gaiters?

I like run trails with gaiters to keep the dirt and rocks inside my shoes to a minimum.  With the lacing system on these shoes, I’m not quite sure how I would get my gaiters to stay on.  I didn’t actually try it, so I am sure that there is some way for it to be done, but there is not a front loop on the shoe that makes it obvious. 


Overall, I like the Switchbacks. A lot.  They were super comfy when I ran smooth dirt trails and were perfect for my beachy runs.  I can’t wait to explore and get some miles on them!

What’s your go to trail shoe?

Until next time, happy running!

Jenn13.1

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

2018 Holiday Gift Guide for Runners

It’s the most run-derful time of the year!  And I’m back with another holiday gift guide for the runners in your life, but this year’s has a little bit of a twist. If the runner is anything like the ones I know, they have everything.  So instead of focusing on things for the runner in your life, I’m focusing on experiences for the runner in your life.



Running Tours
If you’re like me, there are many places in your city that you have yet to explore.  One of my favorite ways to explore a city is by running and so many places have running tours that will give you a different perspective of where you live.  Here in San Diego, StepXStep running has tours through various neighborhoods, each with their own history.  Another great thing about running tours—they don't just need to be local.  Is your runner traveling? Find a running tour for wherever it is they go.  Not sure where to start on finding a running tour?  Check out your local running store for suggestions.


Self-Care
Running is hard.  It’s hard on your feet and legs.  It can be hard on your spirit. Like most runners, I will tell you that no matter how hard it is, it’s also one of the best experiences.  And one way I love to keep it a “best experience” is with a little self-care.  For me, that’s pedicures.  So think about a gift certificate to your runner’s favorite salon or spa.  They don’t like pedicures? Find out what they do like—maybe it’s massages, cupping or acupuncture.  And these things aren’t just for runners—you can join in on the fun too! 

Notice the black toe nail. 
Beer Tasting
Okay—so this isn’t running related, unless you consider it carb loading.  But sometimes we forget that runners like to do things besides run.  For me, beer tasting is one of those things.  And it can be fun—I’ve been traveling a lot this year and have discovered local breweries almost everywhere I go.  If the runner in your life doesn’t drink, try visiting local eateries during a restaurant week or create your own by visiting neighborhood restaurants and ordering appetizers.  Try visiting places you’ve never been to but have always wanted to try.

Bitter Brothers Brewery
“Afoot and Afield -San Diego County”
Yes—I know I said I wasn’t talking about things in this year’s gift guides.  But as Mick, an advid hiker and trail runner,  from Lynx Running said, this book is a “gift with the possibility of exploration.”   The San Diego edition of this book offers over 200 outings—how fun would it be to go through the list and check them off with your family and friends as you complete them.  Each trip gives you mileage, difficulty level and will let you know if it’s dog friendly.  It can be fun for everyone! (Don’t live in San Diego? I found other location versions on Amazon.)


As we venture into the “Season of Giving,” I hope that we all consider that giving doesn’t necessarily mean things.  I won’t lie—if someone wants to gift me a Garmin Fenix, I will gladly take it.  But what would mean more to me is someone gifting me their time.  Spending time with me, whether it be doing something I love or something we both love, and the memories hold more value than any item every could. 

What are you hoping to receive this year?

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1




Tuesday, November 13, 2018

WIN Sports Detergent

When you run seven days a week, you have a lot of laundry and let’s be real—running that much makes for laundry that doesn’t always smell that great.  So when I had the chance to try WIN Sports Detergent, I said “Yes, please!”



According to their website, WIN Sports Detergent “contains special ingredients that other detergents lacks to remove” the oils that synthetic fabrics attract from your skin. 

I will be the first to admit that I don’t like doing laundry and I don’t always separate my clothes the way you should when you do laundry?  The lights, the colors, the running clothes, the work clothes—all in one load.  Because of this, I’ve been a little hesitant in using sports specific laundry detergents, but when I saw that the ingredients on WIN worked best with synthetics, I knew it would be safe since most of my work clothes are not cotton or plant based materials.


After using WIN, it was love at the first load.  Not only did my running clothes smell fresh, my every day clothes did as well.  I’ve been using WIN for about a month and I’ve even used it for my bedding and towels.  The Original Fresh Scent is scented enough to smell “cozy” but not too strong that it’s overwhelming.  I have a strong sense of smell and sometimes fragrant products are too much for me, but this is not the case with WIN.  There is an unscented/dye free detergent available if you prefer that.  The only thing I did not like about the detergent was the bottle—the pour lid has a cap under it, so it has a “double lid” and the excess detergent gets on the lid if you do not wipe of the pouring cap before placing it back on.  But overall, the wasn’t a big deal and isn’t enough for me to not like the actual product.


Will I continue to wash all my clothes together? Yes.  Will I continue to use WIN Sports detergent? Yes.  It’s a WIN win.  If you want to try it, you can use the code WINSWPNK to save 30% on your purchase through the end of November.



Do you use a special detergent for your running clothes?  If so, what do you use?

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1

I received a bottle of WIN Sports Detergent through my relationship with Sweat Pink and Fit Approach.  All opinions are my own.


New Balance More

It is sometimes said that “less is more,” so when NewBalance  released their new shoe, More, I was intrigued to find out if sometimes “more...