Category Archives: Favorite Products

10 First Trimester Life-Savers

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With the third trimester now looming, I thought I’d share a few of my favorite must-haves from the earlier stages of pregnancy. Of course, what worked for me may not work for you, so take this advice with a grain of salt and embrace the need to experiment until you find something that does the trick.

Whether you have morning, evening (or all-day) sickness or if your body immediately starts changing or takes its time getting the message, remember that every pregnancy is different. Despite what I initially anticipated, I didn’t really need a whole lot at this point in the process…however, there are a few things that I found helpful for coping with the usual suspects during those first few weeks with baby on board.

1. Sound Probiotics

In addition to prenatal vitamins, I’ve been taking Sound Probiotics since day one of my pregnancy (actually, long before – use code KINETICFIX for 10% off your order) and I truly believe that these magic little capsules are responsible for keeping me happy, healthy and regular throughout.

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Why, you ask? Well, studies show that probiotics help reduce upper respiratory tract infections and gut complaints, are vital in nutrient production and absorption, aid in the production of B-vitamins plus enhance amino acid uptake in the gut — all conducive to keeping me active and healthy for baby, which is a win-win.

2. Hydro Flask

Just a few days after I broke the pregnancy news to my sister, a box arrived in the mail with one of her very favorite staples for staying extra hydrated: a HydroFlask.

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Made of 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel that’s both BPA-free and phalate-free, these bottles are designed to keep cold beverages for 24 hours or hot beverages for six hours. It really works, too — during the late summer months, my morning’s ice water would still be cold in the evening!

3. What to Expect When You’re Expecting

After falling down the internet rabbit hole several times during a few well-intentioned Google searches early on, I opted for a safer resource for all of my subsequent pregnancy-related questions: the tried-and-true manual, What to Expect When You’re Expecting.

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Dubbed the “pregnancy bible,” this iconic New York Times bestseller has all the information you need without any of the scary stories or wacky opinions you’ll find lurking on all those online pregnancy message boards (trust me; avoid them at all costs).

4. Oyster Crackers

They may not be especially fancy, but Premium Soup & Oyster Crackers sure do the trick when you wake up starving in the middle of the night or in the morning with a sour stomach.

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I kept a bag of these by my bedside for a good four months; not only are they nice and bland, but they’re also conveniently bite-sized so you don’t get too many crumbs between your sheets!

5. Gap Inset Panel Pants

There aren’t many left in stock, but if you can get your hands on a pair of Gap’s inset panel jeans, I’d highly recommend ’em because they’re perfect for that bloaty, in-between stage of the first trimester.

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I tried belly bands over my pre-pregnancy jeans, but preferred the inset panel for the barely-there-bump stage; it has just the right about of “give” to allow for a swelling midsection, but still feels like you’re rocking your regular pants.

6. Coobie Bra

Consider yourself warned: There Will Be Boobs. Even if your cup never runneth over before, be prepared to watch your girls grow…and grow…during the first few months.

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My solution? A Coobie bra — not only for practical reasons (one size fits all!), but also because it comes in cute colors, is supportive and really does live up to its claim of being the “most comfortable bra.” Ahhh. 

7. Zensah Sports Bra

Sensing a theme here? Well, in addition to a new everyday bra, I quickly learned that first trimester’s growing, ahem, “assets” necessitated a revamp of my workout wardrobe, as well.

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Enter the Zensah Gazelle Sports Bra, which offers seamless high-impact support for larger cup sizes and a design that utilizes both encapsulation and compression to keep the ladies happy — and bounce-free — while you’re breaking a sweat.

8. Acure Bath Products

Typically, when it comes to natural beauty products, I’ve learned not to expect much because I’ve found they’re rarely as effective as the chemical-laden ones we’re all used to. That is, until I found Acure Organics.

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The night cream was my gateway product…followed by the body wash. In two different scents. By the time I was buying the shampoo and conditioner, I knew I was hooked — and doing something better for my body, my baby and the environment.

9. La Croix Sparkling Water

Don’t get me started on one of the major bummers of pregnancy: “Mocktails.” Sickeningly sweet or nauseatingly sour, they simply lack subtlety — so, more often than not, I’ll turn to La Croix, my new go-to beverage.

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Between all the fun flavors and the fact that there’s no bad stuff on the ingredient list, a can of every now and then feels like a healthy indulgence. I know I’m not the first to jump on this bandwagon, but I certainly won’t be the last.

10. Monthly Massage

Finally, if there’s one “nice-to-have” bordering on a “need-to-have” during the first few months, it’s regular prenatal massages — as often as your budget and/or schedule will allow — with a properly-trained licensed massage therapist.

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Trust me, there’s nothing better than giving your weary body a little TLC as it’s spiraling from all the physical, emotional, hormonal and mental changes happening at once.

Any time on the table is well spent, in my book!

What are your must-haves for the first trimester of pregnancy? Any other tips to share?

Fave Fix: Mumberry’s Fashionable Maternity Activewear

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So right off the bat, you’re probably thinking: Isn’t that headline an oxymoron?! Do “fashionable” and “maternity” actually fit in the same sentence?

Well, there’s an upside and a downside to being pregnant at the moment.

The upside? Gone are the tented MuMus of days past; whether you want to camouflage the bump or shrink-wrap it and put it on display, there are a bunch of great brands out there with beautiful street clothing in flattering silhouettes.

The downside? For whatever reason, most of the big-name sportswear companies have yet to step up to the plate when it comes to their baby-on-board consumers. Sure, they may have dabbled in maternity lines here and there, but the fact remains that maternity activewear — and I mean the stuff that’s meant to really perform during hard workouts — is seriously lacking.

The good news, though, is that there are a number of smaller companies springing up to take advantage of this gap in the market. Like, Mumberry, for example, who reached out to ask me to try out their signature Mumband™, which is built into all of their apparel and provides crucial belly and back support.

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Having stretched most of my usual workout wardrobe to its limits, I quickly agreed. Even though I’m not fully bumped-out yet, but the need for back and belly support is becoming much more apparent as the weeks go on.

So they sent the Boost Tank ($72) and Move Active Capri ($72) for me to test out. I’ve since worn them through a variety of workouts, from walking, “ellipticaling” and strength training to Pilates, yoga and even my prenatal movement class.

Right out of the box I could tell they were high-quality products, both from the weight of the fabric and the solid construction. And even though I’ve got a few more weeks until I can fully fill them out, they’re perfectly comfortable for those weird pre-bump and post-baby stages when you want to wear something a little body-skimming without feeling too self-conscious about every lump and soft spot.

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The top’s not only a gorgeous, vibrant shade of emerald, but it’s also made of super-stretchy fabric that allows both freedom of movement and belly growth. Between the built-in bra and the Mumband (I’ve flipped it inside out in the photos below so you can see), there’s a gentle compression and upward lift, which I’m developing a real appreciation for as Baby H keeps getting bigger…and bigger.

Here are some of the other features:

  • Patent-pending Mumband
  • High-support bra with removable cups
  • Moisture-wicking fabric and breathable mesh
  • 4-way stretch fabric
  • Chafe resistant seams
  • Machine-washable
  • Made in the USA of imported components

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As for the capris, they’ve got somewhat of a double waistband — both the traditional under-belly one, as well as the Mumband, which comes up over the bump and stays secure thanks to an elastic band at the top. And bonus points for a nice, high rise in the back on these puppies!

Other features include:

  • Patent-pending Mumband belly support band
  • Pocket large enough for large smart phones
  • Moisture-wicking fabric to keep you feeling cool
  • 4-way stretch fabric with chafe resistant seams for ultimate comfort and freedom of movement
  • Made in the USA of imported components

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Overall, I was really impressed with Mumberry’s products. The materials and design have been done with care, and the fact that you can double up on the Mumband (one in the top, one in the bottom), makes it a versatile option for workouts since you can wear it at all stages of pregnancy — and beyond! — as well as customize the level of support.

All Mumberry products are machine-washable, too, so whether you’re covered in sweat now or — dare I say — baby food/pee/poop/puke (or some combination of them) later, you can just toss ’em in the wash and you’re good to go for your next workout. I’m excited to see what styles and colors they come out with next because you all know I’m a sucker when it comes to cute, colorful fitness gear that works as hard as I do!

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For more information and to shop the line, visit Mumberry.com. Save 20% on your next order, too, when you sign up for emails.

Have you found any maternity workout wear that rocks your world? 

I received an outfit from Mumberry to try. All opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands who support KineticFix!

Fave Fix: My Latest Compression Obsession

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If there’s one thing I’ve learned about pregnancy and running, it’s to expect the unexpected. Especially at this stage in the game (about 23 weeks) where some days I barely feel like I know my own body anymore…let alone know how to maneuver it through mileage that used to be a breeze but now has pausing every now and then to catch my breath, constantly re-adjusting my ever-shrinking workout wardrobe and stopping for (inevitable…and consistent) pee breaks.

With my mid-run annoyance meter set to super-sensitive, it’s more important now than ever before to limit additional distractions while working out. After all, the point is to get out, stretch my legs and clear my head — and that’s a lot easier said than done unless I make sure to get a few variables under control, such as fueling, hydration and gear.

Since food and water are priority numeros uno and dos these days, those are pretty much a given. But gear, that’s something I’m always tinkering with, trying to find the right combination to make my body happy so my brain can turn off for a while during a run.

And, as you know, I’ve been extolling the virtues of compression for years so it was high time that I put it to the test during pregnancy. While the actual claims are always up for debate (more power and endurance, less exertion and vibration), the placebo effect has won me over time and time again…so when Legend Compression Wear sent me a pair of their compression performance socks to check out, I could.not.wait to get out on the roads with ’em.

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“My Vision for LEGEND™ began with the notion of …Be a LEGEND™ which really formed our thinking around our Performance Wear products,” said the company’s president and founder, John Thomas. “We want to provide the necessary support for athletes to reach their goals.”

Geared specifically towards improving performance, Legend’s muscle stabilization and overall graduated compression technology (15-20 mmHg) claims to help improve endurance, decrease injuries and speed recovery times thanks to increased oxygen levels and blood circulation. Now, I’m not sure if that’s true, clinically, but I’ve worn my fair share of compression gear, so I’m always interested to see how the different brands stack up against each other.

Immediately out of the package, I liked how soft and stretchy the fabric was, along with the seamless toe and foot that is cushioned yet made to expand slightly to the shape of your tootsies. These may seem like minor points, but trust me — when you’re a few miles into a run and get blindsided with a blister, you’ll start thinking twice about what you put on your feet!

Legend’s Compression Performance Socks also get bonus points for arch support to keep the socks from slipping and extra support at the heel and Achilles, along with special yarn and stitching that not only wicks moisture, but also allows legs and feet to breathe.

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Yeah, yeah, yeah, you’re thinking. That all sounds great. But what’s the verdict post-run?

First off, let’s talk fit and form: I particularly loved how easy these socks were to get on; I’ve never liked breaking a sweat trying to wrestle myself into my compression gear before, but now ain’t nobody got time for that with a growing belly getting in the way. And an added perk is that Legend’s socks are nice and long; one of my pet peeves are knee-high socks that don’t come up to the knee..and these will accommodate even the leggiest of runners.

As for function, I tested them out on several runs ranging from three to six miles, and they passed my tests with flying colors. Not only were they comfortable and supportive without being overly restrictive, but they also were thick enough to feel substantial while remaining breathable. Honestly, I was having so much fun plodding along each time (gotta love fall running!) that I forgot I had ’em on, which is always the mark of great gear.

The only downsides? Well, besides the fact that they’re only available in a few colors (you can tell from the pics that subtlety is not my strong point when it comes to workout wear...but I’ll give the brand a break because they’re new and growing), they’re a bit of an investment ($49.99), yet pretty comparable to what else is out there.

But before you balk at the piece, remember that these socks are for more than just running; I always wear a pair when flying and love to lounge around in them on off days, plus I know they’ll also come in handy when combating pregnancy “cankles.” So when you factor cost-per-use, they’re not as outrageous as you’d think!

For more info on Legend’s compression wear, visit the company’s website here.

To compress or not to compress, that is the question… Do you think it’s a trend or do you use it as a training staple?

Back to Basics: My Favorite All-Natural Skincare Products

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Welcome to your 30’s, where it’s possible to have both pimples and wrinkles at the same time. And don’t even get me started on what pregnancy hormones do when thrown into the mix. 

You know what that means, though? Living a healthy lifestyle isn’t just limited to what you put into your body (nutrition) or how you keep it in shape (exercise); it’s also about developing a strategy for keeping its largest, most protective organ — aka our skin — in tip-top shape.

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So I’ll let you in on a little secret: I’m a total junkie when it comes to beauty products. Maybe it was watching my mom do Miracle Whip facials and mayonnaise hair conditioning treatments when I was a kid, but you name it, and I’ll try it on the quest for smoother skin, shinier hair or a dewier glow.

And while I typically don’t discriminate against ingredients (I know, I know…but I have yet to find a natural deodorant or shampoo/conditioner that actually works), I’ve done a 180 with Baby H on board these past few months.

The last thing I want to do is expose him/her to harmful chemicals, regardless of how small the amounts may be, so I’ve been on the hunt for the best all-natural (or as close as possible) alternatives. Here are the current favorites on heavy rotation in my routine:

Step 1: Remove Makeup

At 99.1% natural, Burt’s Bees Facial Cleansing Towelettes ($6) supposedly remove makeup, cleanse and tone in one easy step, leaving skin clean without the need for rinsing. But I prefer to use them as a first line of defense in removing even the most stubborn makeup without irritating skin.

Step 2: Cleanse

Made with 100% Certified Fair Trade ingredients, I first spotted Alaffia EveryDay Coconut Cleansing Face Wash ($13) while shopping at Whole Foods and decided to give it a whirl. Because it’s all-natural, it isn’t quite powerful enough to remove heavy-duty makeup or waterproof mascara on its own, but works well in conjunction with the Burt’s Bees towelettes.

My friend Corey also shared some Arbonne Calm ($123 for the full-sized set) samples with me because the line is not only free from the usual chemical suspects, but it’s also made up of naturally-derived and food-grade ingredients that do not contain fragrance or color. I’ve been using these mostly while traveling a) because they’re travel-sized and b) because dry airplane air can wreak havoc on skin, but the products have lived up to their name.

Step 3: Tone

After years of using harsh toners that would leave my skin feeling stripped and tight, I’ve learned my lesson and now take a gentler approach with Scientific Organics Spirulina Toner ($30), which adjusts pH, removes dead skin cells and prepares skin for better product absorption. Best of all, it’s made of pure, potent botanicals instead of chemicals and has a minimum of 70% organic ingredients.

Step 4: Treat

Because some of the best anti-agers (retinols) are a no-no during pregnancy, I’ve adopted Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum ($34) as my new treatment of choice. It’s got eight “actives” or ingredients with known antioxidant and skin rejuvenating properties and none of the bad stuff, so I can help reduce the effects of photoaging and not feel guilty in the process.

And when I want to have a “spa moment” but don’t have extra time or cash for a facial, I turn to BioRepublic Eco-Friendly Sheet Masks ($5 each) which is are ultra-soothing facial masks infused with natural cucumber extract, plant collagen and vitamin E. I’ll pop one on during an evening TV show, and in 20 minutes stressed out skin feels soothed and rejuvenated.

Step 5: Moisturize

I’m been a big fan of Acure Organics Night Cream ($18), which I found at the local Pharmaca and used for about four months with great results (they don’t call it “nature’s nocturnal miracle” for nothin’). However, the scent became a little too much thanks to the association with the first trimester queasies, so I’ve been looking for something new that would still do the trick for tired skin.

Enter Farmaesthetics Nourishing Lavender Milk ($38), which is my new multitasking best friend at bedtime; not only is it made of 100% natural ingredients that are certified organic (as indicated), but the lavender smell helps me relax as I drift off to sleep. Plus, it’s got one of the all-time best skincare ingredients — Calendula — which is an ancient remedy for healing wounds (as well as a diaper rash treatment that my sister swears by).

Step 6: Remember the Body

I’d be remiss if I didn’t also include some skincare items for the benefit of your body, as well (because hello, pregnancy bacne)…

Case in point: Pura Naturals Peppermint Volcano Soap-Infused Active Slice Sponges ($9 for a 3-pack), which are awesome, patent-pending soap infusion sponges that will cut your shower time in half. They’re infused with ground pumice and a bunch of rich extracts and oils — all great, yes — but what makes them really cool is that they’re created from renewable plant materials and the manufacturing process actually removes carbon from the atmosphere, so every purchase is akin to buying a personal carbon offset.

And, finally, no skincare post that references pregnancy would be complete without mention of something to keep the dreaded itchy belly at bay. My two favorites are Booda Butter ($14) and  The Spoiled Mama Tummy Butter ($34), both of which smell like cocoa and immediately give me a chocolate chip cookie craving each time I apply them. But they’re also smooth without being greasy and mild enough scent-wise to be used all throughout pregnancy.

Which natural beauty items are on your must-have list? I’d love to hear which products you swear by! 

My New Breast Friend

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Although each pregnancy is different, there is at least one constant that every woman can count on: Managing the moving target of rapidly-growing boobs.

With a new set of knockers comes a whole host of fun side effects, such as tenderness, veins, pigment changes, bumps and leaks. While I’ve yet to deal with the latter items on that list, I have outgrown all of my bras and am in desperate need of solid support for any kind of high-impact activity.

The only problem? Well, when you go from being able to wear pretty much any sports bra to suddenly needing to be picky about certain features, you don’t have a clue about where to start.

Luckily, Zensah came to my rescue. Not only is the company considered a pioneer of graduated compression apparel, but they’ve also created a new line of seamless sportswear designed with a second-skin fit for greater performance, comfort and mobility.

Having landed in foreign territory, I saw the “high-impact support for larger cup sizes” description of the Gazelle Sports Bra ($53.99) and figured it would do the trick. It’s designed with both encapsulation and compression to provide comfortable support — not to mention it’s seamless, which is a lifesaver, because when you’re eating and peeing around the clock, all you want to do is cut down on any added potential annoyances.

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As you can see, the engineered fabric creates a separator with shaped cups that contour to the body (i.e. encapsulate the ladies) for a natural, smooth fit. Zensah’s high-density Zupport Yarn™ also helps support its claim that this is the first truly seamless sports bra to support mid-to-high-impact activities (i.e. compression at its finest).

Factor in wide, soft straps to prevent dig-in and zoned ribbing for extra support and, according to the company, it’s also 250% more supportive than their other seamless styles. Plus it’s pretty cute, right?

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From the back, you can see how it’s got a body-mapped design for breathability, plus a keyhole to encourage freedom of movement. The proprietary fabric is moisture-wicking and anti-odor to help keep you fresh and dry, too.

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Best of all? I flipped it inside out, and it’s truly seamless! I’m usually skeptical about that claim since any kind of rogue raw edge can rub and chafe, but this one’s soft and smooth.

Ok, ok, I know — enough about what it’s made of and what it looks like. Does it actually work?

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Well, as they say, the proof is in the pudding. I tested the Gazelle on several runs and it did not disappoint.

In fact, on my very first run with it, I had the best four-miler I’ve had in months. I’m not sure if it was that there was no painful jostling — or maybe because my rib cage could finally expand properly — but I could barely feel it on, it was so comfy.

And that, my friends, is the mark of a good bra.

So good, in fact, that I’ve also resorted to wearing it under street clothes while I’m on my next mission: Upgrading my real bra. Sigh.

Any other tips for wrangling ‘the ladies’ while working out? 

Give Your Body a Natural Tune-Up with Turmeric

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Growing up, I remember my mom always experimenting with one superfood or another. Whether it was flaxseed, papaya pills, pomegranate seeds, blueberries, wheat germ, spinach, dark chocolate or garlic — you name it, we tried it in the name of achieving optimal health.

So it should probably come as no surprise that the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. As much as I like to “eat the rainbow” and get an array of nutrients and vitamins through my diet, I’m not opposed to giving Mother Nature a little leg up every now and then with whatever natural remedy is all the rage.

This is why turmeric is the latest supplement to pique my interest. Well, more specifically, curcumin — the antioxidant found in turmeric.

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Used for thousands of years as a spice and medicinal herb in China and India, turmeric is a distant relative of ginger. Not only does it give curry and mustard their bold yellow colors, but it’s been long used to support healthy digestion, promote cardiovascular health and support the immune system.*

Usually, I take daily turmeric supplements in pill form to ensure consistent consumption, and I was in the process of mulling over a post on the topic when Gaia Herbs reached out and asked if I’d like to try their new TurmericBoost products as an alternative. Um, yes!

I say “alternative” because instead of a pill it’s a powdered mix that’s flavored with vanilla and chai spices with no added sugar or flavorings. It comes in two varieties, Restore and Uplift, both of which contain concentrated turmeric extract to support a healthy inflammatory response with black pepper to aid in absorption, along with a prebiotic blend to support intestinal flora.*

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I’m not gonna lie, I was a little worried about mixing the turmeric directly into food; especially because it has a powerful smell. But I knew there was one way to test it for sure — in one of my now-infamous shower smoothies post-ride this past weekend.

So here’s what I whipped up, using my immersion blender:

  • 1 frozen banana, quartered
  • 1 scoop of your favorite protein powder
  • 10 ounces unsweetened almond milk
  • 1.5 tsp Gaia Herbs TurmericBoost: Restore

Simply blend all ingredients until smoothie reaches your desired consistency. Prepare with a handful of ice cubes if you like it thicker and colder. Pour into a glass, and enjoy!

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With a warm, bitter flavor and a mild fragrance slightly reminiscent of ginger, the turmeric blended seamlessly into my smoothie. In fact, with the addition of the vanilla and chai spices, it reminded both Ben and I of one of our favorite holiday drinks: eggnog.

This one went over so well in the husband taste test that I’m excited to try Gaia’s other turmeric recipes here. The Pumpkin Chia Pudding and Overnight Oats look especially interesting because I’m always looking for healthy, grab-and-go breakfasts after my morning workouts.

Now, the disclaimer: Always be sure to check with your doctor before you start mixing herbs and medicines so you don’t experience any adverse side effects.

Turmeric is known for being potent and playing well with others, so it might be something worth looking into if you’re searching for a more natural way to support your health and facilitate recovery.* Here’s a handy guide (below) with some additional information on turmeric’s health benefits, side effects and cautions if you’re interested in learning more.

Totally Turmeric: Your Complete Guide to Turmeric
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Why Gaia Herbs, in particular? Well, just as I like to shop at local farmer’s markets so I know where my produce comes from, I like the same level of detail when it comes to herbal supplements.

Every product manufactured by Gaia has a “Meet Your Herbs” number printed on the label, which allows you to trace every aspect of the product ingredients. This includes where the plants were grown, production methods, laboratory test results of safety and purity, along with information about scientific research and traditional use of herbs.

If you’re like me and are conscious about what you put into your body, that kind of transparency is much appreciated.

**Enter to WIN** Gaia wants to know how you ‪#‎livelifebrighter‬: Show how TurmericBoost helps you live a brighter life for a chance to win the ultimate smoothie pack + tons of healthy weekly prizes. Click here for details and to enter!

Do you ‘spice’ up your recovery process with supplements? 

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Disclosure: I received samples of Turmeric Boost and received additional compensation from Gaia Herbs for testing their product, but all opinions are my own.

Brace Yourself: Title Nine Fit Fest (+ giveaway!)

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If you read my recent piece on the nine things you just shouldn’t wear when working out, you know that one of my pet peeves is unsupportive sports bras. Because the last thing us ladies want to worry about during a workout is painful, sag-inducing bouncing, right?

Ain’t nobody got time for that. 

But who actually enjoys shopping for sports bras?! Most of us are unsure about our size (all the measurements!) and are even more clueless when it comes to how it should fit (strap ’em down or hike ’em up?). And don’t even get me started on the process of trying them on; it takes a Cirque-du-Soleil level of contortionism to wrestle into some of the styles out there.

If you’re anything like me, you emerge a hot, sweaty mess from the dressing room with nothing more than a deflated ego to show for all that effort. So you make an educated guess, hope for the best, shell out some cash and then get the hell out of there with something — anything.

Sound familiar? 

Well, it turns out that bra experts at Title Nine feel our pain — literally — and are making it easier (and more fun) to find the correct sports bra by hosting local “FitFest” events to help every athlete find her perfect fit and get on the road to a more comfortable workout.

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As we all know (or should know), the most important foundation for any workout is a bra designed specifically for each of our unique body types, sizes and activities. Title Nine’s FitFest aims to help ladies address all those pain points — and more — by featuring:

  • Personalized bra fitting advice from a “bravangelist” expert
  • An expanded assortment of bras for every size and shape
  • Bras for different activities: sports, work-to-workout, everyday and date night
  • A “Bounce-ath-a-lon” for people to put bras to the test, with stations like hula hooping, jump roping, running and burpees
  • Snacks and drinks (because, duh, pretty much anything is more fun with a glass of vino in hand)

So when the invitation for Portland’s FitFest landed in my inbox, I knew we were in store for an interesting evening of bonding over…boobs! I’ve never been professionally fit before, and with all the different workouts I do, I figured my Bravengelist would have her work cut out for her.

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Jamie, Tasha, Liz and I met up for happy hour, and then we made our way over to the event to check things out. After mingling with some of Portland’s fittest ladies (bloggers and industry folks), the Bravangelists met with us one-by-one to get down to business.

First, they took personalized measurements and asked a few questions about our preferences, lifestyle and favorite activities. Next, they combed the racks for styles that would be a good match.

My Bravangelist, Jamie, pulled several bras that would be good for high-impact workouts, as well as a wide range of cross-training activities. Basically, I told her I needed the girls to be able to take whatever I throw at ’em, so she went straight for the heavy artillery styles with all kinds of snaps, straps and adjustable pieces.

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As I tried on each style, Jamie came in to check the fit and how well it performed with a variety of bounce tests. Mostly this consisted of me jumping up and down to test the support of each bra.

Normally I grab a cute one, guesstimate my size and try it on to make sure it fits ok, but after going through the FitFest, I see now why it’s so important to try a range of styles at once. Not only does it give you more variety from which to choose, but when you try them on in succession, you also have a much better idea how they perform in comparison to one another.

Also — I’m not a fan of mirror selfies…but in the interest of #keepingitreal,  I’m including one shot of the bra I ended up choosing.

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I picked Moving Comfort’s She Be Fierce Bra in Celery Stripe ($44), which delivers all the features us less-endowed ladies demand without feeling overbuilt, overpadded and overdone. It’s easy on/off, there’s separate encapsulation inside to avoid the dreaded “uniboob,” plus the material’s supposed to dry crazy-fast after the sweatiest of workouts.

And I just love the name, which happens to be based on Shakespeare’s line, “And though she be but little, she is fierce.” Whether he was talking about this bra or the wearers, I’d like to think he was right.

But the best part of the evening? 

Well, if boobs are funny, then boob balloons are funnier. And apparently we’re all 30-something-going-on-13 because we really got a kick out of these things.

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Interested in attending a FitFest in a city near you? Visit TitleNine.com for a full list of participating locations and details.

Or, better yet, CLICK HERE TO ENTER my giveaway for a FREE PERSONALIZED FITTING (either in-store or by-phone, depending on location) and ONE SPORTS BRA! 

Note: Winners within driving distance of a Title Nine store will be asked to redeem their prize at the closest/preferred retail location.

Good luck, and remember to give your girls some support!

5 Surprising Myths About Running Socks

Source: Runner's World

Source: Runner’s World

Too often we’re seduced by the lower price of a product that invariably costs more over the long haul. – Bill Howard

What is the single most important piece of equipment for runners? If you said shoes, you’re close – and like many of your fellow pavement pounders, you’ve probably invested a good deal of time and money in finding the perfect pair.

But as the only source of protection between your feet and a potentially run-crippling blister, socks can mean the difference between a triumphant or a terrible outing, even in the highest-quality footwear.

I wrote a while back about some of the best socks for runners, but with a mind-boggling number of options available, how do you pick the pair that’s best for you?

Gus Blythe, founder of Drymax Sport Socks, was kind enough to weigh in on a few of the common myths about sport socks; he’s made it a mission to keep athletes’ feet happy and give them one less thing to worry about when training and racing.

So…let’s talk socks, people!

Myth #1: What you see is what you get

Contrary to what most of us probably think, socks are not to be used exclusively as decorative ornaments or as a way of helping to compensate for the imperfections inside of shoes; rather, they are standalone pieces of equipment and should be evaluated as such.

Simply put, pretty socks may be easy on the eyes but could very well be hard on the feet. It’s important to remember that feet are blind when shopping, says Blythe. After all, how much will you care about the color or logo on your socks mid-race?

Myth #2: Soft in your hands means good to your feet

When I’m sock shopping “soft” is one of the top criteria on my list – but what feels heavenly at first touch doesn’t necessarily indicate high quality, so dive deeper and look at what the sock is made of to be sure you’re not being sold smoke and mirrors.

“Many manufacturers use a fabric softener so their socks feel soft on the shelf to your hands,” says Blythe. These socks will work better after they are washed once, but may feel different afterwards, as opposed to brands such as Drymax, which Blythe says are softener-free and race-ready out of the package.

Myth #3: One style fits all

Unfortunately, just as there is no hard and fast formula for choosing the ideal running shoe (I’ve shifted loyalty among several different brands since taking up the sport nearly two decades ago), choosing a type of sock tends to be part art, part science — so prepare to experiment a bit in order to find a good fit.

For example, if you wear orthotics or insoles, you’ll probably need to look for a thinner sock with more protection in potential trouble spots, whereas a runner with narrow feet might want a bulkier sock to keep feet from shifting in shoes.

But regardless of your situation, remember that every foot is different, and what works for one person may not work for the next, so take into account these personal preferences when shopping.

Myth #4: Price is an indicator of quality

When buying socks, it’s better to think in terms of value instead of price. And even though we’ve been trained as shoppers to equate high price with high quality, it’s more important to consider the fabric and features versus getting caught up in the marketing magic.

Fewer bells and whistles might work for a quick workout or light cross-training, but do your homework if you’re looking for socks that will last for the long haul. Alas, there are no shortcuts, and what you skimp on at the register your feet could end up paying for in the end.

“If you think you can find the best sock by looking at price or by the best-known brand, you’re wrong,” says Blythe. “It’s foolish to pay too much for a sock, but it’s worse to pay too little.”

Myth #5: You’re not a real athlete if you don’t get blisters

In the past, we’d applaud runners who were able to forge on despite having horrible blisters. But thanks today’s new sock fabrics and technologies, athletes can continue to push their limits more comfortably — racing smarter, not just harder.

That means taking proper precautions to prevent blisters in the first place, which requires feet to be kept as dry as possible. And while many socks provide adequate protection for a few miles, the addition of sweat and repetitive movements over many miles, plus shifting up and down hills, makes blister prevention an increasingly difficult task for non-specialized socks, says Blythe.

“Choose your socks wisely,” he cautions. “Your feet depend on it.”

How do you keep your feet comfy for the long haul (and those long runs)?

Recipe: Baobab Recovery Smoothie

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After spending too many hours passed out on the couch after long runs, I finally perfected a formula for being able to salvage afternoons after intense training sessions:

Hot shower + Smoothie (*consumed in shower) = Ticket to feeling like a million bucks

And the more nutrient-dense the smoothie the better, so my body can start repairing itself as I go about my day.

Which is where Baobab comes in: I just heard of this most “super” of the superfruits recently and decided to give it a whirl after learning about its almost-too-good-to-believe benefits…

  • More antioxidants than any other superfruit, even acai, blueberries and pomegranate
  • High soluble fiber content (50% by weight)
  • A raw, whole, organic food
  • Ethically and sustainably harvested, even helping impoverished African communities
  • The planet’s highest plant source of calcium
  • More iron, potassium and magnesium than most other superfoods
  • Six times the Vitamin C of oranges
  • Rich in electrolytes and has a very high bioavailability
  • Contains no fillers or added sugar, sodium or preservatives

With a sweet, tangy and pear-like flavor profile, it’s an ideal addition to recovery smoothies to help boost your immune system, minimize inflammation and enhance digestion after tough workouts.

I think it’d work best for enhancing the flavor of berry-based smoothies, but I put it to the test in my standard peanut-butter-and-banana protein shake and was pleasantly surprised by the light taste and slight tang.

It did the trick post-run, but it’s also an excellent option for a quick grab-and-go breakfast!

Baobab Recovery Smoothie

Ingredients: 

Directions:

  1. Add first six ingredients to blender, and blend until desired consistency.
  2. Top with sprinkle of granola. Relax, sit back, and enjoy!

Fun fact: Since Baobab has a high pectin content (around 25%), it offers the benefit of being a natural thickening and binding agent for a nice, rich texture in recovery shakes.

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Harvesting baobab provides a cash crop for women in southern Africa and encourages protection of ancient Baobab trees, so it’s an ingredient you can actually feel good about using.

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Plus, the flavor’s also light enough where it’ll blend in seamlessly with pretty much anything — from smoothies and other drinks to oatmeal, baked goods, yogurt and sauces. Cheers to that!

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Got any other good tricks for post-workout recovery?

8 Tips for Ditching Runner’s Trots for Good

To quote that infamous childhood book, “All living things eat, so everyone poops.”

True enough, especially if you’re a runner. And if that’s the case, there’s a good chance you know this all too well, having likely discussed it extensively with a handful of close runner friends.

The Diarrhea Dilemma

While we like to think our workouts are accompanied solely by philosophical conversations, some inevitably spiral into war stories about bodily functions. But as prevalent as these intestinal issues (aka “Runner’s Trots“) may be, it’s a topic that’s not addressed in all circles.

So what’s a trot-troubled runner to do?

Well, first, realize that you’re not alone — more than half of us have experienced exercise-related GI disturbances. And, second, there’s a lot you can do to prevent (best-case) and handle (worst-case) it. But it also helps to understand exactly what’s happening so you can make an informed plan of attack.

Desperately Seeking…A Restroom

According to the Gatorade Sports Science Institute, “there are three main causes of GI symptoms: physiological (reduced blood flow to the gut), mechanical (bouncing effect of running, for example) or nutritional.”

As you exercise, the body diverts blood flow away from internal organs to support working muscles and cool the surface of your skin. Combine that with intestinal “jostling” and heavy/fatty/fiber-filled/sugary foods, and you’ve quite literally got a ticking time bomb in your gut.

Avoiding The Runs on Your Runs

Don’t want to make “that” emergency call during a long training run or veer off-course for a mid-race porta-potty pit stop? The former used to happen to me frequently, and the latter got me at mile 16 of the 2002 Chicago Marathon…sans TP; ’nuff said. 

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Here are my eight tried-and-true tips for taming those tummy troubles for good.

1. Develop a pre-run routine. Develop a system (mine’s coffee) to “get things moving” before you head out the door, and you’ll drastically decrease your chances of a mid-run meltdown.

2. Hydrate before, during and after. Dehydration compounds stress on the GI tract, so be kind to your colon and it may just return the favor.

3. Avoid common triggers. Things like NSAIDs, ibuprofen, sugar and fiber are known to irritate or stimulate your intestines, so refrain from ingesting ’em in advance of workouts.

4. Track your habits. Keeping tabs on what you ate and how it affected you during a run can be quite revealing! I know that quinoa, for example, leaves me doubled over…while I can eat potential triggers like dairy, beans, dried fruits, etc. with no issue.

5. Experiment with fuel type. Again, what works for a runner and his/her digestive system can vary from person to person, so take the time during training to see what agrees with you — and what doesn’t.

6. Play with fuel timing. Some people start jogging while chewing their last bite of breakfast, while I prefer to give myself a few minutes to digest before heading out the door. It may take some trial and error to find your rhythm, but it’s well worth the time.

7. Slowly increase intensity. Going too fast or too far too soon can result in GI backlash. Allow your body to acclimate to the stress of speed workouts and long runs by easing in with a warm-up and building a foundation before going all-out.

8. Whip your gut into shape. I consider probiotics my secret weapon for not just gut balance, but also overall health. After experiencing success with them over the past few years (i.e. long runs that bring joy instead of fear), I’ve been taking Sound Probiotics, which came highly recommended from my Coeur pal, Erin, who’s also an accomplished Iron(wo)man.

A little PSA: Sound’s the first probiotic engineered for the competitive athlete.

Why’s this important?

Well, during training you’re more susceptible to illness and fatigue due to the sheer amount and intensity of exercise. And since as much as 80 percent of your immunity resides in your digestive tract, I consider these little pills my insurance policy for optimizing training and recovery.

After an initial adjustment period (very mild bloating), I’ve been thrilled with the results. Not only have I been able to up my mileage without incident, but I’ve also managed to avoid all the nasty bugs circulating this season — which is especially impressive considering my daily ClassPass studio-hopping habit.

That’s a small investment for exponential results. Need more incentive? Use code KINETICFIX for 10% off if you want to try ’em yourself. 

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If all else fails, though, consider stashing some toilet paper and a few wet wipes in your run belt for peace of mind. Plotting routes with public restrooms also helps, but if you’re concerned it might be something more serious, consult with your doctor to check for underlying health issues.

And whatever you do, don’t underestimate the effect that soothing your gut can have your overall experience, let alone performance, during training and racing. After all, as marathon legend Bill Rogers once famously said, “More marathons are won or lost in the portable toilets than at the dinner table.”

How do you prevent those mid-run stomach rumbles?