Obsessed

Come on COLD...You can do it...Just for Sunday...

That, and...

I think it looks worse than it actually is. Better to get the hills over with in the beginning anyway. I have heard that little incline at the very end is "like climbing a flight of stairs." The last thing you want to do after running 26 miles.

My final pre-marathon obsession:

My customizable pace band from MyMarathonPace.com We're not sure if the elevation info is exactly right, but it's close enough. A pretty neat website. Offers a free 5-day trial, or $6 for 6 months of access to the marathon info, customizable spreadsheet, and wristbands for your race of choice. I thought it was worth it.

Ok, lets get this show on the road!

Ouch

I ran 8.5 miles through steady rain this morning, and... I forgot the Body Glide. I won't go into the details of the chafing, but there is a lot of it in some strange places.

Biofreeze

As much as I love it, I'm a little disturbed by how huge that jug is. You've all heard the story about the girl who died from using too much Bengay? It's true!

Anyway, I've been using Biofreeze for this funky shoulder/neck tendinitis-like thing I've had most of my adult life. I do a combination of Biofreeze and Boiron arnica cream to get most icy hot numbing healing action for the least amount of stink. Highly recommended. If used as directed.

Warmest Socks Ever.

Feetures. I love them. I got mine at Slope Sports - if you happen to be in the neighborhood.

*Sierra Trading Post*

Holy mecca of running apparel DEALS.

Brooks Podium Half-Zip Top - Long Sleeve(For Women). $24.40
I got it in pink. Must have sold out.

I also got a Hind jacket for $9.99. No joke. It must have sold out.

I don't know why I didn't buy this sports bra: Moving Comfort Sports Bra - Cameo. I go through sports bras at a surprisingly fast rate. Gotta protect the girls. $15.99 makes that a much more affordable task. Luis got the steal of the day on Craft jacket. He'd been eying a similar for $180. He found his on Sierra Trading Post for $50. Again, no joke. Unfortunately, they must have sold out. Craft is pretty much the gold standard for winter running. Somehow they manage to strike the perfect balance of very warm, breathable, and comfortable. They also tend to be insanely expensive. So although this isn't the prettiest jacket I've seen, for $62.00, I'd snatch the Craft Action Stretch Jacket (For Women) in a heartbeat if I didn't already have one.
Clearly, stuff moves quickly on STP. So shop early and often.

Are these nerdy?

They're the limited addition Asics Gel Kayano 15 commemorating the New York City Marathon. I kind of want them. But are they a little too "Look at me! I ran the marathon!" Like the horrid orange shirts they gave us last year? A little running-nerdish?

The official description from the marathon website really makes them sound dorky:

The design is truly unique, with race scene graphics on the upper, a ING New York City Marathon lacing set-up, and ASICS' exclusive Comfordry sockliner with graphics that depict a map of the course, including mile and kilometer markers! The race map sockliner will be sold at the expo as an accessory item as well. You’ll also get a commemorative shoe bag with every GEL-Kayano 15 NYC purchase.

So why do I still want them???

Most Awesome

I had often admired Coach Lisa's scarf/hat/hanky thing, but never asked about it. Yesterday she gave us a demonstration of the Buff. Now, I must have it.

P90X

I want it! Too many sleepless nights spent watching infomercials you ask? Not in this case. In this case, the infomercial makes NOT want to buy it. I really don't want to be "ripped" and I have no interest in the "diet" part of the whole thing.

Actually, Coach Michael has been raving about P90X for weeks. Supposedly it's amazing cross-training, very runner-friendly (or adaptable to be such), and uses limited non-house-cluttering equipment. Apparently, it's also really hard. Christina G. tried the ab workout and could barely stand up straight for a week.

But I still want it! As you may know, I do have a tendency to buy such things and...never use them. Which is why I'm trying to convince Luis it get it. Since he's a coach, it's a tax right-off. But Luis also has been known to make impulsive purchases then not use them as well (have I mentioned he bought the Perfect Pushup - and used it once?).

So what to do? Any feedback? Any reader reviews? Comments please!

P.S. I do have some self-restraint. I still haven't bought the new Garmin, even though I still reeaalllly want it.

Follow-Up: The Never-Ending Search

According to my mom, all the shoes I posted are ugly. I can't say I disagree. I just thought they were maybe a little less ugly than some other really orthopedic, clunker sandals. I have a new prospect:

'Air Bria Stretch Thong' by Cole Haan, $149. A little pricey, but I thought these had such potential that I actually ordered them. From Zappos - free returns. They have 3/4" heel and Nike Air Technology for "ultimate cushioning." They come in pretty colors too! If the black works out, I may go back for the vintage silver.

I also took a closer look at these:



The 'Jody' slide also by Cole Haan, $129. I though the other ones looked more supportive. These have an "anatomically designed footbed," but no Nike Air Tech.



How do we feel about these:

Timberland Kelby Thong, $79. These feature "Comforia™ contoured, multi-density footbed for all-day comfort and support."





The only reader suggestions I got were Birkenstocks and Crocs. Thanks Jim, but nay to both, I think. Any other suggestions are more than welcome!

My Never-Ending Search

For a sandals that are comfortable, relatively cushioned and supportive and cute. Relation to running? Well, before I started running, I'd walk anywhere in any shoe. Walking miles in 3 inch heeled boots, flip-flops, or ill-fitting shoes was probably a big contributor to my serious bouts with IT-band syndrome while training for my first 2 marathons. Since I gave up heels (I'm working on flip-flops), no IT problems.


Here are the criteria for the elusive comfortable and cute sandal:

• Can't be just a flip-flop. Podiatrist says flip-flops are one of the worst things for your feet.
• Must have some sort of ankle strap or extra strap across the foot to keep shoe in place.
• More than 1/8 inch between my foot and the street. Must have some sort of cushioning.
• Preferably some degree of arch support.
• Not orthopedic grandma shoes.

Here's what I've come up with:

Sundance Aurelia Sandals, $58. They're promising: ankle strap, arch support, comfy cork sole. But are they cute enough. I can picture them working with certain outfits, but not sure about dresses.







Clarks Thunder Perf, $74. Arch support and cushioning are good. No ankle strap, but that extra strap across the top looks like it would help keep the shoe in place. Cute? Meh.







Mephisto Affia, $184. Similar to above, only more expensive. Maybe slightly cuter because of buckle detail? Too expensive anyway





Teva Conchita Thong, $69. I have the sister sandal of this, a regular flip-flop. These have that extra strap across the top that looks like it would add some support.

Comments? Suggestions? What do you guys wear on your feet during the summer?

Blister Prevention

Summer = Sweat = Blisters

The NY Times did a review of some really cool blister prevention/treatment products. Stuff I never even heard of: SAM BLIST-O-BAN? Cool.

Product Review: Brooks HVAC Mesh Cap

This is the cap that I liked the most in the NY Times review of running hats. I liked it because the reviewer said it felt the lightest and because he said it sat higher on his head. I figured this meant it was a more shallow hat with less potential for accentuating my bucket head. I decided I needed an alternative to my much loved, much worn TNT mesh cap, as it clashes a bit with some of my running tops.

Well, I got the hat yesterday and tried it out last night. It truly is light as a feather - very, very comfy. And it is a pretty shallow hat, which looked great, but with just a very slight headwind, it felt like it was going to blow off my head. The key is to pull it down lower on the head, but then this interferes with the cute factor.

In the end, I decided I loved it. I can pull it down on my head when I'm running and not when I'm not.

Follow up to "To Buy or Not to Buy"

Rearding the previous post, TNT Coach Lisa, who I should credit with intoducing me to both the SPIbelt and calf stretcher, had some comments and suggestions:

"it's the de-calf-inator! get it? DECAF? come on!... ;^)"

Yeah, I do know, but somehow I got in the habit of calling it the calf-erator. Decalfinator is a better pun, and it really makes more sense - use it to de-tighten your calves. So I'll work on it.

Also, Lisa sent me a link to Gracie's Gear. This is a line of ladies running (and other sports, I suppose) apparel that has built in pockets.

This is the sports bra:

Here's a tank with the pocket in use:

Normally, I'm not a fan of storing things in the bra. I once worked with a woman who carried her cell phone in her bra, and it just looked like her chest was deformed. But Lisa swears by Gracie's Gear, and assures us that once we try them, we'll never look back. I have to say, I've never noticed Lisa's chest looking deformed, so perhaps these keep things tucked in a bit more subtly than my ex-coworker's method. I'm intrigued. THANK YOU, LISA!!!

OMG - I forgot a title! How about "To Buy or Not to Buy"

The buzz surrounding the Garmin Forerunner 405 is finally getting to me. I want it!!! There are some issues with this though. First is the price - $299 is steep. Do-able, but steep. Second is that I'm not really the best with technology. I still have trouble recalling the splits on my little Target Timex watch. Last, I have a propensity toward buying things like this and never using them.

But you know, I have bought a lot of running gear that I do use. Regularly. Here's some of it:

First is this calf stretcher, otherwise known as the calferator. Luis actually bought this one (at footsmart.com). Great if you don't have any steps in your apartment. Luis and I both use all the time.

I bought the SPIbelt (small personal item belt) at the Chicago marathon expo. I was looking for a way to carry my phone while I ran. From the creator's website: Sleek, expandable, secure and does not bounce. Can hold an iPod™, Blackberry™, cell, keys, up to five GU™ packs, and other small personal items. The SPIbelt does not bounce, ride or shift while running or doing other activities. Agreed.

RaceReady Shorts. I wore them during all 3 marathons. I recently bought a pair of capris, and I may wear them for the Brooklyn Half. From the website: Five mesh pocket compartments, plus two velcro-closure pockets on the sides, make these shorts functional for carrying many and various items. Numerous and different items too.

The foam roller. It feels like a torture device, but it's what got me through a bad bout of IT band syndrome. I still use it to loosen up my tight hips. Runner's World has a nice article about other exercises you can do on the foam roller.

Last, but not least, the fuel belt. How I wish there was a less obtrusive way to carry fuel, but this is the best I've tried. What else can I say...it gets the job done.

There is a common thread here - these things are all inexpensive and non-technical. Hmm... Plan b with the new garmin is to let Luis buy it first, mooch for a while, then decide if I need one too.

Need a new running hat?

You're in luck. The NY Times tested a bunch. Here are the results.

I'm into the Brooks HVAC Mesh Cap myself.

In Honor of St. Patrick's Day

I'm considering buying the Asics Gel DS Trainer. Love the green accent - I'm 1/4 Irish, you know. And I'm a girl, so my love for shoes extends to running shoes as well, and it's much easier to justify the purchase --> I think I'm getting to that point where I'm running enough to justify a lighter trainer for speed work and races. Damn, first the tights, now a trainer - next thing you know I'll be blowing snot-rockets and keeping a training log.

Confessions of a Glamour Girl

After finishing my runs, I sometimes get the comment, "You don't look like you just ran 10 miles!" Not so much in the summer when I pour water over my head and end up with Gatorade stains all over my shirt, but I did win the "glamour girl" award during my first Team in Training season. I have certain tricks that help keep that fresh, just-starting-my-run look, even after a 15 miler, which is important, not only for sparing others the utter grossness of which I am capable, but also because, as previously discussed, it's all about the pictures.

1. Revlon Colorstay Light Make-Up - ColorStay Active® Light Makeup provides smooth, natural, light coverage that lasts up to 16 hours. Patented SoftFlex® formula provides a lightweight, comfortable feel. Makeup is sweat proof, sun proof, and rub-off proof*, even during exercise. Designed for all skin types in 10 just-won't-quit shades. Oil-free. Non-pore-clogging. Non-irritating. SPF 25. Yes, it actually does all that. Love it. Available at drugstore.com

2. Tinted Chap Stick -Regular lipstick gets cakey. Lip Smackers work great. The Cherry Coke and Dr. Pepper flavor, among others, have a slight reddish tint. For slightly more intense color, I like Neutrogena Moistureshine Tinted Lip Balm. Someone also recommended Kiehls once, but it's a bit much for something I'm using while I run.

3. A hat - It really covers a multitude of hair sins. In the summer I have my favorite TNT hat, that I love because it's all mesh and I look the least bucket-heady in it. In the winter, I use a fleece headband. Keeps the bangs in place, all side-swept to offset the big forehead.

4. Baby Wipes - For after the run. I use them for wiping salt off my face. Also useful for Gatorade and energy gel drips and dirty ankles in the summer. I suppose you could use those fancy face wipes, but these are cheaper. And regular hand wipes are too harsh for my face.

Running Gadgets I Bought and Never Used

This isn't to say they are universally useless...it's just that I haven't used them. Here they are:

CW-X Stabilyx Tights - These are supposed to support your knees, core, and lower back through their patented "Conditioning Web" design. I bought these during a nasty bout with IT band syndrome...and never wore them. Luis says it's because I didn't like the way they looked on me. Partly true - I was looking for a complimentary top, never found one; then a year later, I can't find the tights??

The Stick - It's a massager type thing. Not a bad product, but I prefer another person's hands for my massages.

Heart Rate Monitor - Luis used it a few times. I think the sensor was too tight, and he started getting chest pains. Of course he assumed it was a heart attack. Me? Never used it, not even once.

And finally, the most expensive of my unused running gadgets:

Custom Orthotics - An injured runner can be a fierce consumer. I had plantar facitis and IT Band syndrome. The podiatrist made the sales pitch and I fell for it hook, line, and sinker. I did use them for a few months, but I found a regular stability shoe to be lighter, more comfortable, and just as effective.

A few of my favorite things

Brooks Trance 7 - Brooks came through for me in a pinch when Asics changed the heel cup (so it digs into my ankle) on my go-to shoe, the Kayano. The Trance 7 fits well and offers a smooth ride with shiny silver uppers!

Emergen-C + Wellness Herbal Resistance - Latest news is that vitamin C is useless in preventing colds, unless you run marathons. I add Source Naturals Wellness Herbal Resistance to cranberry flavored Emergen-C, and I've got a nice blend of imune boosting vitamins and herbs.

My iPod Shuffle - No, it's not Nike compatible, but it gets the job done. Besides, they're now cracking down on the iPod ban on race courses - 30 people were disqualified in the Grandma's Marathon in Duluth, Minn - it's best not to become too dependent synching your pace with your music.

Speaking of running music...

Melissa Etheridge's I Run for Life - It just never never gets old.