Need for Speed

Speed workouts are so important to training. I don't do them nearly enough, but I have been working on adding at least one track workout a week to my training plan. Today I met three other ladies at the track for a speed session. After a one mile warm up and some strides, skips, twists and a little backwards running, we were on to the session. We did eight 300m sprints at an almost full out pace with 100m recovery jog. When the workout was complete I had logged just over four miles. 

After the workout we took off our shoes and ran through the sprinklers! It felt so good. We should have done that before the workout. Running in 90 degree weather on a hot track is not that fun. Still, it was worth it to run through the grass and sprinklers and act like a kid again. It was kind of freeing. I would definitely do it again!

Nike Lunarglide+ 4 Breathe

As previously shared, it was HOT today! The temperatures are heating up here in Ukiah and I have been looking for a shoe to keep my feet cool on longer runs. I found these sweet shoes on the Nike website and could not be more excited about them. They have the potential to be my next great running shoe. I love the Lundarglide for marathons and their new addition to the line is excellent. This version has a breathable upper mesh that keeps your feet cooler than previous models. This is definitely important with the temperatures heating up so rapidly around here. I'm hoping I have the chance to add these shoes to my collection soon!

I hope your training is going well. If you don't have many speed sessions in your training right now, I suggest that you add a few. You will notice a difference very quickly! Start with 100 and 200 meter sprints and then work your way up to 400's. Let me know what you think after a few workouts!

~Karen

Please Santa, I've Been Really Good This Year!

Please Santa?! I've been really good this year! All of these items can easily fit on the sleigh, and if not - a gift card will always do!

It's time for another wish list! So here goes...my top gifts for this Christmas season! They all seem to have the same theme with Nike Running products at the top of the list!

Nike Element Shield Max Running Jacket $250

What can I say? Strategically placed stretchy panels, waterproof finish, wind blocker, waterproof zipper, mesh inserts and an adjustable hood with removable face gaiter. And the best part - long sleeves and thumb holes!

Nike Lunarglide 4+ Shield Running Shoe $120

I love my Lunarglide 4's! I can't get enough of them, but they just didn't stand up to the elements this past Sunday for the California International Marathon. My problem, I didn't have the Shield version! This shoe has a weatherized mesh on the upper to keep rain out and your feet dry and running strong! It also has a reflective upper and a glove like fit. I truly do feel like I am running on clouds when I have this shoe on. 

Nike Slouchy Sphere Women's Training Hoodie $100

I am always cold! This shirt is the perfect combination of heat and style. With cozy insulating fabric and a slouchy neck that can be pushed up or down, it's perfect for keeping the elements at bay. With a longer length and thumbholes to keep the sleeves from riding up, this shirt has it all! 

Nike Women's Pro Hyperwarm Shield Tights $60

The panels on the front create a wind and water barrier, keeping you dry and comfortable during your runs. Also, the fabric is warm and sweat wicking so you can focus on your run and not on your pants. The double waisted band is comfortable and stays put too. Yes, I need these!

Run The Edge iPhone Case $12.95

My phone needs to be protected during all my fitness activities, and what better way to do that than to have a phone that is a constant reminder of what I want to do? Run, run, run! Thank you to Tim Catalano and Adam Goucher, authors of the amazing running book, Run the Edge, for selling this great stocking stuffer (hint, hint!).

Stay tuned for more of my wish list's leading up to Christmas and share with me your top gifts! 

New Gear for the Final Countdown!

I got my flight details and hotel stay information this week for the Nike Women's Marathon and could not be more excited! The marathon is just over a month away and actually seeing my weekend details in print really brought it home that my training is on the downswing. Bring it on San Francisco! I've been training my heart out and I know I am ready!

This week was a new gear week! With the Nike Women's Marathon just 5 weeks away, it's time to break in some new gear. I just love each item and have been trying them the past few days. I wore my new running shoes, the Lunar Glide+ 4's today and loved the cushioning. You can check out the items I received below and feel free to follow the links if you want to check them out on the Nike Store Website. 

Nike Panel Mesh Print Tank

The mesh panel down the back provides excellent breathability and the tank is the perfect length and doesn't ride up during my long runs. It's an instant favorite!

Nike Relay Running Capris

These capri's are awesome. They have a great zip pocket on the side, instead of the back, for easy access to your keys or a power bar. Also, there are reflective accents on the pant legs to keep you safe when running in low light conditions. Winner!

Nike Mixed Method Training Tank
This is the softest tank ever! I barely felt like it was there. If you are looking for a lightweight top with flat seams to minimize chafing than look no further that this tank!

Nike LunarGlide+ 4

These shoes are amazing! They offer great support with minimal weight. I love the updated flywire addition to the lacing system, it creates a glove like fit. My new favorite runners! I'm taking them on their first long run this weekend. 18 miles of pure bliss!

What are your favorite training pieces? I'd love to know. Share your thoughts in a comment below. Happy training!