Category Archives: Fave Fix

Fave Fix: My must-have gear for trail running

50KGear

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from the past few months on the trails, it’s that running off the roads is a whole different beast than running on ’em. Aside from the obvious terrain and elevation challenges, it requires a new approach — from gear to strategy to fueling — to get from Point A to Point B, especially when we’re talking ultra-distances.

Because of that, I wanted to share an inside look at how I’m planning for my first ultra marathon — the Canyon Meadow 50K — at the end of the month. See below for what I’ll be wearing, eating, drinking and using to help me recover when all is said and done…and (fingers-crossed) run 🙂

– Feet First: The Brooks Cascadia 8 came highly recommended from several trail runner friends due to its traction and responsiveness, plus it was my favorite of all the brands and styles I tested at San Francisco Running Company. I like to buy my running shoes a half size up to allow for feet to swell, and I may add a Superfeet orthotic insole for a little extra support.

– Keeping Cool (& Chafe-Free): I love a trucker-type hat with breathable mesh and a wide brim to block the sun. And under my technical, sweat-wicking t-shirt, I’ll be wearing a Coeur Sports Checkmate Sports Bra, which has anti-chafe seams that are perfect for long race days. On the bottom, I’ll pair the Lululemon Groovy Run Short with CEP Progressive+ Calf Sleeves to promote circulation and protect lower legs, plus Balega Blister-Resist Trail Socks to try to keep my feet from getting too torn up.

– Accessories & Extras: Because I’ll be in and out of the sun, I’m slathering on Banana Boat Sport sunscreen and wearing Tifosi sunglasses, which adjust automatically when exposed to UV rays. Electronics-wise, I’m taking my Jaybird Bluebuds bluetooth headphones and am hoping for an early birthday present (hint hint, Hubby) — the Garmin Forerunner 910XT — to help me track mileage and stay on pace. I’ll also use the easy-on, easy-off Fuel Belt Race Number Belt and apply ample amounts of TriSlide to avoid hot spots.

50KJenny

One of the most essential items on the trails, though? A good hydration pack, which not only allows you to carry and consume water between aid stations, but also makes it easier to have other essentials — such as fuel, extra clothing, first aid items, etc. — at your fingertips throughout the race.

Focus on fit and function; you want something that’s comfortable, compact and efficient so you have everything you need without extra bulk. My favorite is the 2013 Trail Runner Magazine Gear of the Year Award-winning Ultimate Direction Jenny Women’s Ultra Vesta, which is made specifically for women with an adjustable fit.

50KJenny2

No more water bladder slapping against your back here; the Ultra Vesta’s front strap-mounted holsters offer quick, immediate access to twin 10-ounce water bottles, which are concave against the body and positioned higher on the chest to keep from bouncing against…well, you know.

Besides all the pockets for my cell phone, gels, keys, etc. there’s also a main rear compartment that will accommodate a 70 oz. reservoir (sold separately) for longer treks. And, believe it or not, there’s even an ice axe loop, two trekking pole loops, plus reflective accents for low-light visibility, making this a virtual Swiss Army Knife of packs for all kinds of outings and conditions.

50KFuel

So what am I planning on putting in the pack while running? Well, hopefully not too much…I’m aiming for that delicate balance of being prepared between aid stations (which are usually very well-stocked) and not over-packing, which will fatigue me more quickly.

– Ward Off Hanger: What’s been working well in training runs is a mixture of PocketFuel for sustained energy, Salted Caramel Gu Energy Gel for a quick hit of sugar and Bonk Breaker energy bars for something more “food”-like. And, of course, Gin Gins Candies from The Ginger People and good ‘ole TUMS to help keep my stomach settled.

– Quench Thirst: I’ll fill my water bottles with Osmo Nutrition Active Hydration for the first leg, and I’m aiming to drink every 10 minutes or so throughout the day. Ideally, I’ll refill the bottles at each aid station, most likely with a mix with water and whatever electrolyte drink they’re providing on the course.

50KRecovery

And although the first goal of the day is to cross that finish line in one piece, setting myself up to recover well comes in a close second. The body takes quite a beating over the course of 30-plus miles, so it’s key to remember a few things to aid with muscle repair and regeneration.

– Refuel and Rebuild: Immediately after finishing (while hitting up the post-race buffet!), I like to mix a packet of Vega Recovery Accelerator in a bottle of water. It’s an all-natural, plant-based recovery drink mix specifically developed to replenish energy and electrolytes, reduce inflammation, muscle and joint pain, support immune system and protein synthesis, and reduce recovery time. Then when I get home, I mix up a recovery smoothie made with Osmo Acute Recovery for Women, a banana, almond milk and ice for an extra boost of nutrition.

– Relax and Recover: Finally, one of my favorite post-race treats is a hot shower followed by an afternoon nap in compression gear, which helps reduce swelling and just plain feels good on tired legs. I’ll usually layer Coeur Zipper Tights with Vim & Vigr socks and elevate my legs to start the healing process and make it easier to get out of bed and maneuver around the next day.

What’s your favorite gear to get you through those long trail runs? 

Fave Fix: Retail therapy is a cinch with Stitch Fix

FOTW-TN

I’ve been meaning to check out Stitch Fix for some time. Last spring, I was at the salon when I overheard a few women raving about the personal styling service. It sounded A) fun and B) convenient. But I wasn’t totally convinced I needed it because I like to do my own shopping (i.e. the thrill of the hunt!).

Fast forward to this past March, though, and I was home when my sister received her shipment. I watched her experience a whole new kind of thrill to get a package with five items that had been handpicked for her by one of the company’s  personal stylists.

Ah, but it’s probably pricey, I thought.

Actually, no. The styling fee is $20, which you can use as a credit towards your order. And if you keep all five items, you get an extra 25% off everything.

Hm, the clothes are probably either too expensive or I won’t know how to wear them, I figured.

Nope. You can pick your ideal price range, but items are $65 on average. Plus, each item comes with a card of styling tips on how to dress it up or down.

Ok, sounds good in theory, but there’s gotta be a catch — shipping’s probably a pain in the butt, right?

Wrong again. Returns are free…and easy. Just place unwanted items in the provided prepaid envelope, and drop it at any USPS mailbox.

Well, shoot. Officially out of excuses — and in desperate need of “real” clothes since I wear workout gear 99% of the time — I figured it was time to check it out. So I signed up, filled out my style profile on the site, and a few days ago my first fix arrived!

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Did I mention I’m terrible at surprises? I did sneak a peek at my account ahead of time, so I totally knew what was coming — a dress, sweater, shorts, maxi skirt and necklace — just not the exact styles and colors.

Everything arrived neatly folded, and included in the package was a note from my stylist, Jennifer, with some comments about why she chose what she did, as well as styling cards with a few suggestions for wearing each of the pieces.

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She nailed the color profile; I had mentioned in my comments that I was looking to update my wardrobe with some basics for spring and that I wanted to see seasonal hues.

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Of course, I had an initial reaction to each piece, but I decided I’d withhold judgment until actually trying everything on. After all, this is all about broadening your fashion horizons with the input of some outside help, so it’s best to keep an open mind!

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First up was the Finnegan Roll Cuff Denim Short ($58). Honestly? I may or may not have wrinkled my nose when I first saw them…yellow is not my go-to color, and I’m super picky about shorts. But, after trying them on, I was immediately converted. Great fit, great style, and in bring color to help me spruce up my look for spring. Awesome!

Next was the Rowson Colorblock Striped Sweater ($58), which was pretty and soft and almost perfect…except that the fit was just a tad baggy around the stomach and waist. Otherwise, everything else about it was spot-on; I love where Jennifer was going with the stripes up top to give me some extra width in the shoulders.

Third was the Leighton Metal Bauble Necklace ($34), which I’m wearing in the third picture. It’s a versatile, neutral piece that I could wear with a lot of outfits. But I already have a few necklaces that are similar to this style. Plus for that price, I’m looking for more special statement jewelry, not basics.

In that same picture is the Dawn Jersey Chevron Print Maxi Skirt ($58). I don’t have many maxi skirts, and this one is a nice bold pattern that can be dressed up and down. Jennifer suggested it as a great piece for brunch with the girls, which I loved. The fit, length and style were all terrific, too, but the material was just a little thin for my taste.

Finally, I tried on the Regina Cut Out Shoulder Sheath Dress ($138), which I had the highest hopes for in this particular fix. I mean, who doesn’t love a funky, bright dress for spring?! But, as you can see, it’s probably just one size too big, so into the return bag it went.

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The final verdict? I’m keeping one of the five items — the shorts — and am calling my first brush with Stitch Fix a win.

Why? Two reasons: First, a good pair of shorts is notoriously difficult for me to find (kudos to Jennifer for nailing it). And second, shipments should get more and more accurate every month with feedback, so I gave detailed comments and can’t wait to see what she picks for me in the next round.

Ready to try Stitch Fix for yourself? Feel free to use my referral link to fill out your style profile and get started!

Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post. I simply love the service and think it’s fun to share my experience. I pay for Stitch Fix on my own. If you sign up for Stitch Fix using my referral link I will get a credit…and Hubby will love you forever for getting me to wear something other than gym clothes 🙂

Fave Fix: My must-have run gear for triathlon training

RunGear

If you’ve read my posts on favorite picks for the swim and bike legs of triathlon training, you know that today’s topic is one that’s near and dear to my heart: the run portion!

While the gear may seem like a no-brainer (just shoes, right?) compared to the other disciplines, this is the one I tend to geek out over…so expect a few more bells and whistles.

Again, I’ve broken it down into ‘essentials’ and ‘extras’ according to what’s been working well for me; I like to think of training days as dress rehearsals for races, so I can work out most of the kinks beforehand.

Run Essentials:

– Shoes: I haven’t found a shoe yet that can top the trusty Asics Gel Kayano. Although I throw other brands into the mix on occasion, I keep coming back to this brand and style. Lesson learned: If you’ve got a good thing going, stick with it!

– Shirt: I sweat. A lot. Like wring-your-clothes-out-after-a-run kinda stuff. So I like shirts like this Nike Dri-FIT Knit Short Sleeve that are light and moisture-wicking. Because there’s nothing worse than the chafage that happens from clingy, wet run clothing.

– Shorts: Another longtime favorite is the Lululemon Groovy Run Short. No, I don’t have the controversial ‘thigh gap’ that this particular brand celebrates…but for some reason the length and fit just work for my body type, so I use ’em anyway.

– Sports Bra: Ladies, if you’re like me and have a bad habit of carrying too much crap in your hands when running (gels, phone, keys, etc.), the Coeur Sports Checkmate Sports Bra might be up your alley. It’s cute, yeah, but it’s also got a handy between-the-boobs pocket where you stash small items.

Run Extras:

– Compression: Whether or not they’re performance-enhancing is debatable, but I love the feel of CEP Progressive+ Calf Sleeves. Like a hug for lower legs, they dampen some of the effects of high-mileage pounding.

– Race Belt: I used the safety-pin method for years before buying a Fuel Belt Race Number Belt. Sure, it’s for easy-on-easy-off of the race number, but I also use it to remind myself to put my chip on my shoe (long story short, I forgot once – never again!). And in longer races, I use a larger Nike waistpack like this one for carrying a few essentials, such as cell, gel, keys and cash.

– Race Socks: Step one: Spray feet with anti-chafing TriSlide. Step two: Pull on a nice thick pair of Drymax Maximum Protection Running Socks to keep feet happy and blister-free. ‘Nuff said.

– Nutrition: Over the years, I’ve tried all sorts of things on the run because I am usually managing some kind of GI issue, but right now I use a combination of Salted Caramel Gu Energy Gel for a quick burst of energy, PocketFuel for sustained energy and Gin Gins Candies from The Ginger People to settle my stomach. When it comes to drinking, I pre-load with Osmo Nutrition and use it mid-run with some Nuun and Ignite Naturals thrown in for good measure. Because I tend to have a tender tummy, I like to rotate products to keep from developing an aversion to any one taste.

– Hydration: My major find most recently? The Ultimate Direction Jenny Women’s Ultra Vesta hydration pack. It’s a lifesaver on long training runs, and a must-have for the trails as I prep for my first ultramarathon in May. Made specifically for women — from the comfy cut to the light weight — you can cram so much in this thing, yet still run comfortably for hours.

– Accessories: Sometimes it takes tunes to get into the zone, so I use my Jaybird Bluebuds bluetooth headphones to run without having to worry about getting tangled in a cord, and many times I’ll run without sunglasses but still want to keep the sun out of my eyes, so I’ll throw on the light-as-air Nike Feather Light Visor for some shade.

– Recovery: Once viewed as a necessary evil, I now look forward to some quality time with The GRID foam roller from Trigger Point Performance Therapy and my M80 roller to roll out the kinks. And another great find? Vim & Vigr Compression Socks for travel to and from races — not only do they come in adorable patterns and designs, but they also help keep legs fresh beforehand and bounce back more quickly after.

– Watch: Notice anything missing here? I used to have Nike+ Sport Watch GPS, which I used religiously…until it died (RIP, old friend). So now I’m searching — and saving up! — for a more swim/bike/run-friendly model. Any suggestions?

Next up…Hubby and I are hitting Napa for the HITS Olympic-distance triathlon tomorrow. Stay tuned to social media for updates, and I’ll be doing a quick recap and full race report next week. Wish us luck!

Fave Fix: My must-have cycle gear for triathlon training

CycleGear

Last week I talked about my favorite swim gear for triathlon training, and now it’s time to move on to the second leg: Cycling!

It’s arguably the most expensive discipline, but that does NOT mean you have to empty your bank account in order to be competitive.

Again, I’ve broken it down into ‘essentials’ and ‘extras’ according to what I personally use, but you can stay as conservative or get as crazy as you’d like!

Cycle Essentials: 

– Bike: Duh. But while the whole ‘two wheels’ part is non-negotiable, the price you pay can vary greatly. I did my first few sprint-distance races on an older Cannondale commuter bike I bought off of Craigslist, for example, before moving up to my current Giant Avail Composite 3 (aka “Winnie”).

– Pedals: I also biked my sprint tris in running shoes (shhh!), but figured it was about time to get serious — and get clipped in — for longer distances. Enter the easy-in, easy-out Shimano Click’r pedals, which are technically more for mountain biking than road, but they still count. It’s all about baby steps!

– Shoes: Since I invested in my bike this season, I decided not to go all out on the footwear. Sure, a fancy carbon-fiber sole is stiffer and gives better transfer of power, but my standard Shimano cycling shoes do the trick just fine for now.

– Helmet: Eventually, I’d also like to upgrade my helmet to make sure my noggin’s better protected from concussions, but right now I have a basic Giro helmet that’s worked well for the past few years.

Cycle Extras: 

– Tools: While technically not essential to the actual riding part, having some tools to to a quick tire change will definitely help get you back up and running in the event of a flat. I have a spare tube, tire levers, bike-specific multi-tool wrench, CO2 cartridges and an inflator or pump. You can cobble this all together or buy the whole kit ‘n’ kaboodle here.

– Kit: The more I ride, the more I appreciate a really good race kit. Case in point: Coeur Sports’ tri tank and tri shorts, which have a women’s-specific fit, plus other extras like anti-friction seams, antimicrobial fabric, seam-free chamois, plenty of pockets and more…all in super-flattering, fun designs.

– Accessories: This is mostly based on personal preference — and how fancy you want to get — but I have two favorites here: Tifosi eyewear and Ibex arm warmers to keep the sun (and bugs) out of your eyes and to take the edge off when it’s chilly out, respectively.

– Nutrition: I’m still practicing that whole multitasking (eating and drinking while riding) thing on the bike, but what’s been working well during brick workouts is Osmo Active Hydration and Bonk Breaker Energy Bars, so I’m planning on sticking with the same during Sunday’s race, as well.

What are your must-have items for cycling? 

Fave Fix: My must-have swim gear for triathlon training

SwimGear

With the HITS Napa Triathlon coming up in less than two weeks, it’s time to start thinking about race-day prep. Spoiler alert: It’s a little more complicated than my usual running events, which require little more than shoes, shorts and a good sports bra.

So in anticipation of the big day, I wanted to share a few of my favorite gadgets and pieces of gear that I’ve been relying on throughout training. I’ve broken them down into two categories — ‘essentials,’ or the bare minimum needed to get in the pool, and ‘extras,’ which make workouts in the water a lot more enjoyable.

Swim Essentials:

– Cap: The  best 10 bucks I’ve spent toward swim gear was my Speedo silicone cap, which is much gentler on hair than the traditional latex versions

– Suit: As I mentioned before, it took me some time to find a suit that felt comfortable and had a flattering enough fit. Enter the Athleta Dive In Medley Tankini, which stays put lap after lap (and is also currently on clearance!)

– Goggles: Another training non-negotiable; be prepared to try a number of brands, sizes and styles to find the best fit for your head size and face shape. I’m partial to the Speedo Women’s Vanquisher Mirrored Goggle, which has a low-profile, inner-eye fit

– Watch: I’d argue that the Sportcount Lap Counter & Timer (LCT) is also an essential item. If you’re anything like me, you might still be able to get your swim on without it…but you’ll totally lose count of your laps mid-workout

Swim Extras:

– Wetsuit: Since the water temperature ranges from about 54-59° in Lake Berryessa this time of year, a wetsuit is recommended. I got a great deal on the Xterra Vortex Fullsuit Wetsuit, and so far it’s worked well on my (limited) open-water swims

– Accessories: In the pool, I’ll switch things up every now and then by using a kickboard to work on kick technique or a pull buoy to focus on my upper body. On my wish list, though? A pair of swim paddles, which help improve your stroke without putting extra stress on shoulders

– Personal Care: I’ve written before about my affinity for the TriSwim line of products (shampoo, conditioner, body wash and lotion), which I love for reversing the effects of chlorine on skin and hair. But I also love Foggies anti-fog cleaning wipes for keeping goggles clean, and my trusty pair of Old Navy flip flops for protecting feet in locker rooms and on pool decks

– Open-Water: You can never have enough large towels after an open-water swim — not only for drying off, but also as a changing curtain or car seat protector. Another great tip? Take a cue from surfers, and fill an empty laundry detergent jug with water for rinsing sand, dirt and other grime off feet post-swim

What are your must-have items for swimming? 

Lorna Jane offers street-worthy styling in new ‘Uniquely’ collection

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It all started off innocently enough: I first spotted a pair of brightly-flowered capris on fellow Coeur teammate Heather Scott‘s Instagram and politely demanded to know where she found such a fun pair of pants. Then my friend Jamie Walker wore the cutest strappy neon  sports bra during one of our runs, and I asked her the same thing…

When both responses were, “Lorna Jane,” it was the tipping point for what has become my full-blown obsession with Australia’s leading activewear and sportswear label.

Tantalizing tights and spunky sports bras aside, the brand is now taking fit fashion to the next level with a new line called Uniquely Lorna Jane. This collection aims to push the boundaries of everyday gym gear with clothes that meet the needs of a modern, active life.

Inspiration behind Lorna Jane's debut Uniquely collection

Inspiration behind Lorna Jane’s debut Uniquely collection

“Activewear is no longer confined to formal exercise, but has become a fashion staple for modern women who want their wardrobe to connect with their lifestyle,” label founder Lorna Jane Clarkson has said. “Uniquely’s fashion-forward pieces are ideal for today’s modern woman, as she no longer has to compromise style for comfort and wearability.”

As much as yoga pants and zippered hoodies are an acceptable — and, arguably, essential — part of my wardrobe, I’ve always had trouble closing the gap that existed between my workout wear and clothing that truly transitioned seamlessly from studio to street, gym to groceries, or yoga to happy hour. So I was pumped to get a sneak peek at a few of the pieces, which just launched online and in stores.

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Enter awkward photo shoot in the park! But seriously, the minute I stepped out in this outfit I had people asking about it. Up top is the Reflect Active Jacket ($129.99) from the Uniquely collection, which I paired with the Amy 3/4 Tight ($74.00) from the Essentials line. I thought the jacket, in particular, would be a great piece for our variable San Francisco weather, as it’s good for outdoor exercise and it looks polished enough to wear around town.

It’s got a fun, relaxed design, but the shimmery, water-repellent fabric is all business. And best of all, the breathable mesh lining kept me from overheating while running the streets and running errands, plus it’s got ample pockets for stashing my keys, phone and other small items while I’m out and about.

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I mean, how cute is all that ruching, plus the back vent?! Lorna Jane’s treading into new territory here, having overhauled classic sportswear shapes with chic metallics and pretty embellishments. It’s the epitome of fashion-meets-function, and I’m thrilled to have found comfy clothing that allows me to run around town without worrying about looking like a slob when I bump into people.

Thanks to cues from its classic LJ Excel range mixed with high fashion inspiration, Lorna Jane has created a line that fuses luxe fabrics with modern technology for a look and feel that they call Uniquely Lorna Jane…but that I call undeniably amazing.

And now I guess I’ll just have to get used to people asking me what I’m wearing!

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For more information on the new Uniquely Lorna Jane collection and to check out the different styles available, visit LornaJane.com.

Disclosure: As a member of the SweatPink community, I was given Uniquely Lorna Jane items to review. All opinions are my own. 

Fave Fix: Cory Vines Essential Long Sleeve

Source: Cory Vines

Source: Cory Vines

I may be dating myself here, but does anyone else remember the good ol’ days when putting on your “workout clothes” meant digging through those well-worn items relegated to the castoff pile, such as old t-shirts, ratty shorts, and even the occasional spandex piece?

Case in point: That time I was on the Nordic Track in my sister’s hand-me-down purple gymnastics unitard, and my dad invited the cute neighbor boy over. Fathers: As it turns out, that’s also a very effective way to ensure your daughter stays single throughout high school, FYI. But I digress…

Well, eventually technical fabric replaced 100-percent cotton, silhouettes went from baggy to form-fitting, and “yoga pants” became an acceptable — if not preferred (according to my male friends) — form of attire for the health-conscious crowd. But that evolution came at a cost to consumers and even stirred up some major controversy in the process (don’t get me started on the “thigh gap”).

Fortunately for us, however, there’s a new kid on the block with a solution to the high-quality-activewear-that-won’t-break-the-bank conundrum: Cory Vines.

Source: Cory Vines

Source: Cory Vines

Founder Daniel Lieberman started the Canada-based label after realizing that existing brands weren’t meeting the specific needs — namely, price, quality and style — of the growing group of consumers living an active lifestyle. As a fourth-generation clothing entrepreneur, Lieberman felt the industry was missing “affordable, minimalist workout clothes” and made it his company’s mission to fill the void.

The result: A purposefully-small, logo-free product line of basic tanks, tees and long-sleeve tops for both men and women, along with leggings and shorts for women only. And because the brand utilizes an online-only business model, they’re able to keep prices at a reasonable $25 for tanks and $45 for leggings, compared to Lululemon’s price points of $42 and $72, respectively.

Too good to be true? I wanted to see for myself, so I decided to put the Essential Long Sleeve ($35) through its paces on several runs and group workouts.

Source: Cory Vines

Source: Cory Vines

To be honest, because the shirt was less than 50 bucks, I was expecting the material to be stiff, spongey or scratchy, like some of the less expensive activewear out there. But it’s actually a nice mix of smooth and stretchy — almost compression-like — with a silkier feel than cotton, which makes sense because it’s a nylon/polyester/spandex blend.

I wore it both as a layering piece (under a technical t-shirt) for my morning workouts as well as on its own for afternoon runs, and it worked well both ways. My pet peeve is when shirts get over-saturated with sweat and start dripping as you slog through a tough workout, but the Essential Long Sleeve wicked like a champ and felt more like a second skin than anything.

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In terms of fit, I tend to run narrow up top, so I found the extra small pretty true to size — although if you’re particularly broad-shouldered and between sizes, you may want to size up due to the form fit of the piece.

The only bummer? No thumbholes in the sleeves — but skipping that extra step probably keeps production costs down, so it’s a trade-off I’m willing to make, especially since the sleeves (and body) are a generous length.

But the true test was that I found myself reaching for the Essential Long Sleeve both for working up a sweat and for wearing around town, which makes it worth its weight in gold…even though it doesn’t cost a pretty penny.

But if all else fails, I guess there’s always the unitard, right?

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Thanks to the folks at Cory Vines for providing a sample for review; all opinions are my own. 

Fave Fix: Workout fuel with hidden health benefits

Source: ACE Fitness

Source: ACE Fitness

You’ve made the commitment to get more active in 2014, but they key to keeping that promise — and actually seeing some return on your investment — is fueling your body properly to help keep it strong, energized and less susceptible to illness.

This also means that, regardless of your goal (whether it’s to rock a race or lose a few lbs), it’s important to think about diet and exercise as a package deal rather than an either/or proposition.

With that in mind, here are a few of my current favorites for getting revved up for — and recovering after — your next sweat session.

To Fill the Tank: Corazonas Oatmeal Squares

Source: Corazonas

Source: Corazonas

As far as packaged snacks go, Corazonas Oatmeal Squares are a great option for when you’re on the go and want a filling, fiber-rich, whole-grain mini-meal. I eat mine en route to morning workouts but also stash a few in my workout bag to keep away the afternoon “hangries.”

Each square contains six grams of protein and five grams of fiber, tucked into delicious flavors, such as Chocolate Brownie & Almond, Banana Walnut and Cranberry Flax. Plus, every bar is infused with plant sterols, which are proven to help lower cholesterol.

Corazonas

To Maintain Muscle: Sambazon Protein Chocolate+Almond+Coconut Milk

Source: Sambazon

Source: Sambazon

Packed with organic, whole-food protein to build lean muscle and healthy omegas to help keep you full longer, Sambazon’s Protein Chocolate+Almond+Coconut Milk features a hearty blend of açaí berries with chocolate, coconut milk and a hint of almond. I like to drink it within that 60-minute window after a particularly tough workout to help replenish, rebuild and repair muscle.

The company also has a cool back-story worth mentioning — Sambazon was started by surfers in Southern California and operates under a philosophy called the Triple Bottom Line, which not only measures success economically, but also socially and environmentally. That means they’re organic, believe in non-GMO and support fair trade, which means it’s “good” food on a few different levels.

Sambazon

To Stave Off Sickness: GoodBelly Probiotic Fruit Drink

Source: GoodBelly

Source: GoodBelly

Since 70 percent of the body’s immune system dwells in the digestive tract, a properly functioning digestive system is essential to maintaining overall health (especially when you’re in a training cycle during cold and flu season!). And I’ll take every bit of help I can get to stay well, which is why I’ve swapped out my regular morning juice for GoodBelly’s Probiotic Fruit Drinks.

They contain contain Lactobacillus plantarum 299v (LP299V®), one of the most well-studied probiotic cultures available on the market, which has a superior ability to survive the stomach’s harsh acidic environment in order to inhabit the intestine and was initially developed for use by gastroenterologists in Sweden to help their patients recover from surgery. Each serving contains a whopping 20 billion live and active probiotic cultures to promote healthy digestion.

Wanna check it out yourself? Try GoodBelly’s 12-Day Challenge where you can get a discount on a 12-day supply.

GoodBelly

What are your favorite pre- and post-workout fuels? 

Thanks to the folks at Corazonas, Sambazon and GoodBelly for providing samples for review; all opinions are my own. 

Fave Fix: DDCC women’s activewear

Source: DDCC

Source: DDCC

With the world sports apparel industry expected to exceed $126 billion by 2015 (source: Global Industry Analysts), it’s no surprise that new companies are flooding the market while established brands add “active” categories to their lines to try to grab a piece of the yoga-pants pie (I’m looking at you, Forever21, Victoria’s Secret and Anthropologie).

But while workout clothing companies are seemingly a dime a dozen these days, there is still the occasional new kid on the block that’s worth a second look — especially when they come highly-recommended from your former high school running teammate who is now a professional triathlete (thanks for the heads up, Terra Castro!).

So without further ado, let me introduce you to DDCC, a women’s activewear line designed by Diana Mitchell and manufactured in the heart of my neck of the woods, San Francisco. DDCC’s chic and functional lifestyle/workout apparel is engineered for a sleek, flattering fit — for adventurers and athletes of all sorts.

I sat down with Diana to get the lowdown on her line, along with details on the Kickstarter campaign she’s running for her Spring 2014 collection:

Source: DDCC

Source: Julie Englemann and Kelly Pullio photography

KineticFix: DDCC stands for “Dirty Diana’s Clean Clothes;” is there a story behind the name?

Diana Mitchell: Of course! A nickname I had growing up that I couldn’t stand was “Dirty Diana,” so I decided to own it, and Dirty Diana’s Clean Clothes was born. I’ve since grown to love it; it reminds me to not take things too seriously and to have fun in life. I strongly believe that all of the best things in life — hiking, camping, eating ice cream — are the ones where you end up a little dirty, and having beautiful clothing to support that lifestyle is my goal.

Source: DDCC

Source: Julie Englemann and Kelly Pullio photography

KF: What was the inspiration for starting your own line of activewear?

DM: I launched DDCC with three women’s hoodies. San Francisco is a big hoodie town, and I thought I was making clothing for every day wear. I started to see my friends and customers using the hoodies for running, however, and was constantly asked if I was making activewear. Around this time I not only got a new roommate who was training to become a yoga instructor, but I also started a part-time job at a cycling apparel company. Suddenly I was surrounded by active people, which inspired me to start my path towards fitness. After leaving that job I decided to make clothing that would support this new lifestyle and inspire other women to work out, as well.

KF: Tell us about the mission behind DDCC.

DM: A lot of activewear companies have mantras like “Nourish, envision, believe, etc…” We see these words over pictures of perfect women who only have time for running and doing juice cleanses, all by themselves with headphones on. DDCC offers a more realistic and balanced approach to fitness. It aspires to promote an active lifestyle through fostering a sense of friendship and community. My fitness routine started because I had friends who invited me to run, bike and do yoga. I am happier and healthier, and now I invite other friends to work out. I want to show women that exercise doesn’t have to be a boring task with unattainable goals. Incorporating exercise into our social lives enables us to find the time and energy to practice fitness and self care.

KF: Can you walk us through your idea — from conception to completion of the line?

DM: I started developing the line in February, when I began my residency in the Fashion Incubator San Francisco (FiSF). I wanted to create a full line that allowed women to incorporate activewear into layered outfits that would go from brunch, to yoga, to the store, to the beach, etc. The line started with 15 pieces, which the mentors at the FiSF helped me refine into an 11-piece collection. I knew I wanted the line to be sleek and fitted, and to reflect a more sophisticated, San Francisco aesthetic. The charcoal and black color blocking came about because I wanted something that was neutral and could be worn with many different outfits, but was more interesting than plain black. The tops, cover-ups and outerwear pieces not featured on the Kickstarter all merchandise with the active collection to take you from one activity to the next.

Source: DDCC

Source: DDCC

KF: How is DDCC different/better than other brands?

DM: DDCC stands apart in its aesthetic, fit and quality. It’s sleek and fun, without being boring black or bright neon. As a designer and patternmaker who struggles with her own body issues, I engineer each garment to fit and flatter real women’s bodies. Waistbands are anti-muffin top and smooth out love handles so you feel confident in the tanks. Lines are uplifting and slimming, and subtle details like the satin straps and bra zipper make it fashionable and functional. By manufacturing in San Francisco I am deeply involved in the production process, ensuring a higher quality and standard of activewear.

KF: Why did you decide to take to Kickstarter to raise funds for the project?

DM: Since the mission of the brand is to foster friendship and community, it seems only natural to launch through a crowd-funding campaign. Kickstarter has allowed me to tell my story to the world and to find like-minded people from all over. I have supporters from England, Germany and Singapore who would have otherwise never known about DDCC. It’s amazing to see the community come together to support the brand and the mission.

KF: How has the feedback been on your collection thus far?

DM: It has been overwhelmingly positive. Women are so excited to have apparel that is fitted, functional and super-cute! I’ve also had boyfriends and husbands buy the line for their ladies, either because they want to treat them to quality activewear, or because they’re excited to see them work out in something attractive. The two most popular [items on Kickstarter] have been the V-Capri and the Fly Girl, which is the V-Tank/V-Capri combo. I have had positive response for the pants from the plus sized community, too, and have been asked to design a sports bra that is friendlier for the busty ladies. I’ve also been asked if I’m thinking of designing any men’s activewear. These are all ideas I am taking into consideration as I start designing my next line.

KF: Speaking of Fall 2014, what can we expect?

DM: I’ve had a lot of taller women ask me for a full legging, so that is definitely in the works! I’m working with some beautiful new colors (think purple), and am experimenting with some looser tanks and cover-ups. I’ve also been working with a 100-percent-milled-in-California Tencel, which is a luxurious and resilient fabric made from eucalyptus trees. It has the wicking properties of polyester and the breathability of cotton. I am in love with it!

Source: DDCC

Source: DDCC

KF: Switching gears — there’s been a lot of buzz about ‘thigh gap’ and the effect that body shape has on the wear and tear of activewear. What’s your stance/philosophy on the subject?

DM: I go back and forth. While yoga pants are never going to be as durable as jeans, I think if you’re paying $100 a pop you should expect a lot more! I recently took a picture of my V-Capri next to a competitor’s brand after running in both. I do not have thigh gap. The competitor’s brand showed significant pilling in the inner thigh region, while the V-Capri looked good as new.

As it turns out, both fabrics are supplex, and both come from the same company. The difference is that the competitor’s brand is “brushed,” which literally means the surface is brushed to give it a softer feel. Think of sweatshirt fleece, which is French terry that has been brushed on one side. The brushing creates a “yummy” feel, giving the product more hanger appeal, but it also degrades the quality of the fibers and leads to pilling. For my collection, I chose the unbrushed supplex, because it feels just as good on, but lasts a lot longer.

People expect a lot from their yoga pants — they want them to feel as soft as cotton, wick sweat away from their body, make their butt look fantastic, and last a long time. Even a great pair of jeans, which will probably undergo a lesser beating than a pair of yoga pants, has its lifetime. So I would say we should be realistic when we buy our activewear. If you can’t afford to replace your yoga pants every few months, make better choices, and buy from brands that you know build products that last.

KF: Agreed! So where do you DDCC going from here?

DM: My goal is for DDCC continue to grow, to become a staple in the activewear industry and to work towards a sustainable model using organic and eco-friendly materials. I would love to continue this idea of motivating others towards fitness though sponsoring races and other active events. Most of all, I hope to eventually pay back everyone who has helped get me to this point, and to give back to the community by providing jobs in the USA.

Want to help Diana make her Spring 2014 line a reality? Click here to make a pledge via Kickstarter! 

Source: DDCC

Source: DDCC

Fave Fix: Opedix CORE-Tec Shorts

Runners are no strangers to the occasional aches and pains, but during my marathon training this fall I found myself struggling with nagging lower back pain on longer runs.

More often than not, I’d have to pull over mid-way through to stretch for some relief. Case in point: This was me about 14 miles into one of my weekend runs (thanks to Hubby for capturing this oh-so-flattering moment).

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In comparison, here’s another shot of me about 11 miles into the marathon — with no back pain whatsoever.

So…what gives?

Source: MarathonFoto.com

Source: MarathonFoto.com

Well, in a word: Opedix.

Never heard of ’em? Me neither, until I started doing some research on support gear that would allow me to run longer, stronger.

I’m already a big fan of compression socks, and I’ve had success with CW-X tights, but Opedix technology is scientifically designed to aid the recovery of back, leg and knee injuries, which can improve performance for runners, as well as athletes across other disciplines.

The company makes what they call “Kinetic Health” gear to enhance performance, recovery and rehabilitation by improving joint alignment and promoting proper movement.

Bottom line: They make shorts that could possibly let me say “sayonara” to back pain, so I decided to put them to the ultimate test — marathon training.

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Here’s the lowdown on how they work: Think of the joints in your body as being connected structurally and functionally in a kinetic chain (meaning, it’s dynamic). Most of your joints have a three-dimensional range of motion, and the concurrent motion of these joints produces movement.

op12Since most of us are a little off-kilter in one way or another (due to imbalances, previous injury, etc.), athletic performance is reduced when your body can’t move optimally.

When this happens, your muscles fatigue more quickly and your body is exposed to unnecessary stress that causes the progressive destruction of your joints.

The result? A chain reaction that can range from annoying…to downright nasty.

But Opedix’s CORE-Tec Shorts are designed to work like an extra layer of muscle and use a combination of fabric tensions to anatomically direct the body’s inside forces and reconnect the joints to harmoniously function in that kinetic chain.

Source: Opedix

Source: Opedix

We could all use a little extra support (that’s putting it mildly!), and Opedix claims to deliver just that — and in just the right spots.

But do they really work?

Yes; I tested them on several different types of training runs (speed, tempo and long) before using them in my actual race, and they performed beautifully every time.

Full disclosure — they are a bit snug and the waist sits high — but once you get used to the feel of this fit and realize that it’s in the name of function, you all but forget you’ve got ’em on.

The fabric is also breathable, moisture-wicking and anti-stink, which also comes in handy on those mega-long runs and vigorous workouts.

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And they’re well-made, too. Not only is the design top-notch (there’s a strategic 29-panel construction with a combination of stretch and non-stretch fabrics), but Opedix also pays special attention to the small details, such as silicon elastic binding at the leg-openings to help keep the shorts properly anchored.

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Now, if you’re plagued with poor form or an existing injury, these shorts won’t rid you of either — let’s be realistic — but they can help delay the effects of fatigue, keep you better aligned and give you that extra boost to keep doing what you love with less bodily wear and tear.

Now that’s gear that’s gear that’s good for you for long runs…and in the long run.

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Thanks to the folks at Opedix for providing a sample for review; all opinions are my own.