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

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.

Ultra Runner Crate

A few weeks ago, I went on Instagram to see if anyone I knew has tried the Ultra Runner Crate subscription box.  I was intrigued at the idea of a runner box targeted to ultra runners.  No one I knew had tried on, but Ultra Runner Crate reached out and offered to send me a box to try out. Yes, please! And keeping it real—although Ultra Runner Crate sent me the box to try out, all opinions about the items it contained are my own.  

When the box arrived, I felt like a kid waiting to open birthday presents.  That’s the fun thing about subscription boxes- you never know what you’re going to get.  In my box, I received:
-One pair of Goodr sunglasses
-Two Bearded Brothers bars
-Two Clara Cookies
-A reusable bag with Zero Bad Stuff sunscreen & bug repellant and a ShowerPill body wipe

Goodr Sunglasses
I love my Goodr sunglasses so I was super excited when I saw these in the box.  I was even more excited when I saw they were a color I didn’t already have—Phoenix at a Bloody Mary Bar.  Goodr are inexpensive sunglasses made for running- if you haven’t tried them yet, you definitely should!

Bearded Brothers Bars
I have seen Bearded Brother’s bars on social media, but have never tried them.  I was excited to see that they were vegan as well as gluten & soy free.  I received a mega maca chocolate bar and a radical raspberry bar.  Although both had a good taste, I preferred the raspberry one.  I enjoyed it during a day at the beach and I would definitely try it again!

Clara Cookies
Clara Cookies are protein cookies with a purpose—profits from these cookies are donated to adoption grants.  I tried the peanut butter chocolate chip cookie after a long run and it was a delicious treat.  Not only did I get 13 grams of protein, the cookie had a good flavor.  I’ve had protein cookies in the past that didn’t quite taste like a cookie, but this did.  

Zero Bad Stuff Sunscreen & Bug Repellant
I always wear sunscreen when I run and I was excited to try this—it’s made with zero alcohol, parables or oxybenzone.  The first thing I noticed was the pleasant smell it has—like coconuts which is my favorite sunscreen smell.  The next thing I noticed was how thick the sunscreen is—it’s labeled as 20+ protection and it states that it’s dependent on how much you put on.  Although it did seem to provide protection, when I sweated during my run, the sunscreen created a while film on my skin.  It was a little weird.  
The first thing I noticed about the bug repellant was the fragrance—it reminded me of lemon Pledge furniture cleaner.  Like the sunscreen, the bug repellant is made with natural ingredients. The day I tried it, I was running on the roads so I’m not sure how well it will work on the trails, which is where I encounter the most bugs.  Honestly, I don’t know if I will use the bug repellant again—I can’t get past the smell.

ShowerPill Body Wipe
I have seen these and have been wanting to try one for a long time. I used it after a ten mile run which was extremely humid (read—I was extra sweaty).  I had to go to work right after my run so this was the perfect opportunity to try the body wipe.  I was surprised at how well it worked!  It wasn’t exactly like taking a shower, but it was pretty close.  I will definitely be getting more of these!

The Ultra Runner Crate has three subscription options—a monthly rate, a quarterly rate or a one time gift rate.  The rates range from $33-39 a month, with free shipping to the US and Canada.  My box contained approximately $50 worth of items and it was nice having everything together to try out.  I enjoyed being able to try different items at one time (and I’ll definitely be getting some more of a couple of the item), but I honestly don’t know if I enjoyed it enough to get a box every month.  For me, I think one every 3-4 months would be a good time frame.  

Have you ever subscribed to a running gear box?  

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1

Benefits of Group Runs

I’m a solo runner—there is just something about the solitude of me versus the trail or road that brings a sense of cleansing to my soul.  But I started to notice recently that I’ve been gravitating to more group runs lately and I’ve been loving them!  If you’ve ever thought about going to a group run, here are some of the things I’ve been loving about them:

Accountability
It’s easy to say you’re going to run four miles after work on a Monday and it’s even easier to talk yourself into running only one when your run time come (or not run at all.)  But when you commit to a group run, you’re more likely to show up. 

Goal Crushers
What’s more motivating than crushing your own goals? Seeing other people work on and crush their goals.  When you go to group runs, you start to know the other runners and their goals, whether it’s training for their next big race or just working on being healthier.  And it’s awesome to see someone cut some time off their mile or run up a hill they couldn’t before.  Not only do I love being a part of their journey, it also gets me excited about my new goals.  

Support System
The runners you meet at group runs often become friends and because you share running in common, they get it.  When you see them at races, they get the pre-race jitters or offer words of congratulations after a hard race finish.  These runners also because a great source of advice and encouragement for whatever it is you might be training for.  

Become a Better Runner
One of the things I love best about group runs is the push it gives me to become a stronger and better runner.  I often find a runner with a stronger pace than mine and try to keep up with them.  I might not be able to stick with them the entire run, but I enjoy the challenge it brings as I try.  

If you’re a San Diego runner, here are some group runs that happen weekly:

Monday : Movin Shoes in Pacific Beach 6:00pm
Monday: San Diego Trail Runners at Mission Trails 6:00pm
Tuesday: Interval Training with Movin Shoes Mission Bay Runner’s Bathroom 6:00pm
Wednesday: Hump Day Run Club at Milestone Running 6:00pm
Friday: #RUN619 with Movin Shoes at Heartwork Coffee Bar 6:19am
Saturday: Lake Hodges with Ultra Buds at 6:30am

There’s a part of me that will always be a solo runner, but I am embracing the balance I’m finding between my solo runs and group runs.  Do you prefer to run solo or in a group?

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1

Black Mountain 50K Recap

Last month I participate in a local event benefiting Veterans and part of the event was a prize for an entry to the Black Mountain 50K.  When the winner of the prize realized he couldn’t run the event, he generously gifted the entry to me. I had mixed feelings about it as I’m not a huge fan of Black Mountain, but I also love a good challenge so ultimately I was excited to run the event.

Unlike many race events, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to wear, so I created two flat runners. The race was on a Saturday morning so after getting my gear ready, I was off to bed for an early wake up and drive up to Black Mountain.  

Race day packet pick-up was easy.  Once I had my bib and felt ready, I headed over to the start line to say hi to some friends and visit before the race started.  After a few race announcements and the sweetest rendition of the National Anthem, we were off and running.  The race also had a 25K which started 30 minutes later so it was fun to be cheered by a large group of runners as we started.  

The first half mile or so was in a park as we made our way towards Black Mountain.  Then the uphill began. The beginning didn’t feel too bad and we were fortunate to have cloud cover.  Cloud cover that didn’t last and once the sun was out, you could definitely feel it.  I’m not sure what the actual air temperature was but it felt hot—I don’t think I’ve ever sweated so much in a race.  After that, I lost focus on the actual course.  I know that it was hard—it’s a technical trail, with single track section and some wider trails.  Even though they say “what goes up, must come down,” I felt like I was climbing for most of the race.

If you’ve read my other race recaps, you know that I’m a mental runner and this race was no different.  I knew that I wasn’t going to quit, but I knew it wasn’t going to be easy.  Right as I was feeling extremely discouraged, I encountered Maria and Lise. They were going at a similar pace and I was grateful for the company.  We met at around mile seven and stayed together through the rest of the race.  We had some good conversations about running and helped push each other through when it got hard.  Crossing the finish line with these two runners was the best feeling.

During the entire race, I kept thinking to myself that this would be a “one and done” race event for me.  But now that I’ve had time to think about it, I’ll definitely be back next year.  The race itself is well organized from the pre-race communications to race day instructions.  The aid stations were well placed and well stocked—who doesn’t love an Otter Pop at mile 27?! The volunteers were the best and took care of everything we needed. 

 The swag was pretty cool—we got a tank, a Buff, a sticker and our medal is from Elevation Culture.  The other runners out there were amazing, from cheering everyone on to helping runners when they fell.  As hard as the race was, I still had a great experience and I want to go back next year to have an even better experience.

Have you ever changed your mind about a race after you’ve had time to think about it?

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1  

Run Streak: Two Years

Two years, 104 weeks, 730 days.  That’s how long I’ve been running at least a mile everyday.  They say time flies when you’re having fun and that's definitely true!  How has it been two years already?!  When I finished my first year, I didn’t have a plan.  I knew I would keep running, but figured I would stop eventually.  But I haven’t stopped.  I keep running and without a doubt, I wouldn’t have made it through the last year without these things: 

ProCompression Socks

If you follow me on social media, you’ve seen me #KeepItTight with ProCompression on a regular basis.  It’s safe to say we’re exclusive—I wear them when I run, when I travel, when I work and when I’m not running (there are times I even sleep with them!).  Not only do they make all the fun designs, the graduated compression helps me with muscle fatigue and muscle recovery.  I won’t lie and say my legs are never tired—let’s be real, I run every day.  But I know without a doubt, my streak wouldn’t have lasted this long if I didn’t wear my Pros. And it’s a lot more fun to run with all the colors- you know my favorite is #TwoPairDontCare. 

Purpose

As an athlete for Team Run Far, I am reminded every time I run that I am running for something much bigger than me.  There are days I struggle, when I don’t want to run, when I wonder if the streak will end and I try to find every excuse not to run.  Then I am reminded why I run—each day 22 US Military Veterans take their own life and leave behind loved ones, many times children.  Those children are why I run. By raising awareness for Run Far, I am helping provide scholarships to the children of US Veterans who have taken their own life through the Sergeant Sean Northcutt Scholarship.  So on those days I don’t want to run?  I run for them.  

The Trails

If you follow me on social media, over the past year you have seen me transition from road running to trail running.  When I first started trail running—I was petrified.  What if I fall down a mountain?  What if I get bitten by a snake?  What if I get lost?  But now I embrace all those things I was petrified of. I’ve fallen.  I’ve seen snakes (but by no means want to get bitten by one!) And getting lost? It’s my favorite thing to do!  Being out on the trails gives me a sense of peace I don’t find with road running.  It makes me feel like me, a self that doesn’t need explanation.  The trails are where I find balance when it doesn’t seem possible. I still enjoy a good road run and know they have a place in my training.  But life is definitely better with some dirt beneath my feet. 

The Running Community

I am blessed to know some amazing runners through social media and in real life.  But beyond being amazing runners, they are also amazing people.  They inspire me everyday and their continued encouragement and support is everything.  Not a day goes by that I don’t get a message from one of these people, whether it’s with a silly joke or with a “you’ve got this!” Life came at me pretty hard this past year and I am beyond grateful for the love and support that has surrounded me—words truly can not express how much it has meant to me. 

A run streak isn’t for everyone—I started in 2016 with the plan of running one month and just kept going.  It isn’t always fun, but the fun days out number the un-fun ones.  I still don’t like the amount of laundry it creates but love coming up with new running outfits.  Some days I run the one mile, most days I run more. It’s a balance and now the question is what’s next?  My new goal is 1,000 days- only 270 days to go!

If you’ve ever thought about doing a run streak, go check out Pinkcupcakegirl on Instagram and see how you can be a part of this year’s #StreakingWithTheCoolKids—it starts tomorrow! 

Until next time, happy running!
Jenn 13.1 

What is Run Far?

"An arrow reaches it's destination only after it's been pulled back"

If you follow me on social media, you’ve seen me rock gear that says “Run Far.”  From bracelets to tank tops to trucker hats, I have Run Far with me on most of my runs.  Recently, I’ve been getting questions like, “So how far do you have to run to be a part of Run Far?” or “So, you’re all Ultra Runners?”  Though it’s true that I am an ultra runner, Run Far is so much more than that.

Run Far has my heart.

So What Is Run Far?

Run Far is a registered 501©(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to provide scholarships to children of US Military Veterans who have taken their own life.  The statistics real—an average of twenty-two Veterans commit suicide each day.  Those Veterans leave behind family, often times children.  Often times when suicide is the cause of death, survivor benefits are voided.  But the financial responsibilities still exist for the families and part of that is education costs.   Run Far strives to make sure those children are not forgotten.  

Who Is Run Far?

Run Far isn't just a group of people who like to run far.  Some of us run 5Ks, some of us run 200 mile races, some of us swim, some of us bike and some of us participate in obstacle course racing.  Some of us run everyday, some of us run once a month.  We all have different backgrounds, different goals and different interests.  But the one thing we all have in common is the desire to make a difference in the lives of those left behind.  Run Far isn't one person-- it's a collective.  It's you.  It's me.  It's us.  We are Run Far.

With Run Far Athlete Missy

The Sergeant Sean Northcutt Scholarship

Earlier this year, Run Far awarded it's first Sergeant Sean Northcutt Scholarship.  Scholarship recipient Hannah Kershner shares her story in the video below.  In February, I had the joy of meeting Hannah.  She is definitely someone who is going to make a difference in this world.

Why Run Far?

I've always believed that things come into our lives for a reason and sometimes it's better not to question the pull you feel towards something.  This is how it was with me for Run Far-- as I first learned about the organization and continued to learn about the organization, I knew I wanted to be involved.  It was just something that felt right.  The cause gives my runs more meaning-- no matter how much I may struggle, I am reminded that the run is for a greater purpose than me.  That purpose gets me through every time I struggle. With Run Far, I have found my why.  I am grateful everyday to be involved in the organization- not only for the support it gives to the families of Veterans but also the support we give each other as a team.  My dream is that one day, there will not be children who need Run Far but until that day, I will continue to Run Far.  

How Can You Help?

There are several ways to help Run Far and it isn't always just about the money. You're continued support and encouragement is everything.  You can also support the organization by rocking gear and spreading the word using the hasgtag #WeAreRunFar.  If you would like to make a financial contribution, you can click here and make a donation. 

Run Far also has a fun virtual race coming up-- run, walk, bike or swim 22 miles in 2 weeks. For $22.00, you get a print at home bib and certificate of completion, a limited edition Run Far shirt, a Run Far bracelet, stickers and a virtual goodie bag.  How awesome is that?! And what's even better-- it's for all abilities!! Registration opens Monday, May 7th! (Don't worry-- I'll make sure y'all see the link to register) 

What gets you to Run Far in your life?

Until next time, happy running!
Jenn13.1