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I Miss My Running Endurance and A Giveaway

ash run

Happy Monday!

If you follow me on Snapchat (@healthyhappier) you already know that this morning Bo and I laced up our shoes for our first morning run together in ages. It’s easy to forget how simple running is in comparison to other workouts. Just ten minutes after the alarm went off we were running through the neighborhood. Since we were only running for 30 minutes, we just had to change clothes, lace up our shoes, chug some water and push start on the stop watch.  The simplicity of this, in comparison to our morning workouts in the city, left us smiling and relaxed. We immediately decided that starting out the week with a morning run is the best way to kick off a healthy week and transition from the weekend to a busy work week. The F train has driven us crazy the past few weeks, running a reduced schedule during peak times, which has changed the morning commute for workouts from 20 minutes to almost 45 most mornings.

Don’t get me wrong, we aren’t breaking up with cross training or ClassPass anytime soon. But, due to a few upcoming races and healthy bodies, we are going to spend more time hitting the pavement. This morning’s run made us both realize just how much training we have ahead of us in order to be race ready.  The run wasn’t easy but we still loved the time together and the fact that we faced the harsh reality that we’ve both lost our endurance and Summer training will be tough.

6.6.16 run

Our route this morning was a flat and shady 3.5 mile route which took us through Cobble Hill, Boerum Hill and Carroll Gardens before ending in Gowanus.  Our average pace was around 9:45, which felt more like sub 8-minute miles.  Even though I ran two half marathons and a ten miler this Spring, it has been a while since I consistently trained for a race. Now that we’re both healthy – I’m excited to focus on running.  Our goal is to run three times per week – speed, long and tempo. This week is a base-building week which will include two four mile runs an done 6 mile run.  Due to weekends in Vermont and down in Avalon, New Jersey there aren’t many races during the Summer that work with our schedule but here is our tentative race schedule. We are using a few of the NYRR Open Run 5k as speed work and diagnostic runs. In addition to these, we will be doing long runs each weekend to build our endurance.

In addition to running, we will each continue using ClassPass (<–link to save you $) for cross training, taking 10 classes per month using the new NYC Core Plan.

To celebrate my return to running, I have teamed up with Timex to give one lucky reader a Timex Ironman Colors watch of their choice!  I’ve been using the Timex Sleek 150 and Sleek 50 models this Spring and love the fun colors, large buttons and easy to use features.

timex pic

To enter, leave a comment with your favorite running song or which color Timex Watch you’d choose.  I will pick one winner (US only) at 11:59 Tuesday, June 7th. GIVEAWAY CLOSED – WINNER CHOSEN 

 

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Instagram Fashion: April 2016

Insta Fashion April“Where can I buy that shirt? Who makes those shoes? Those tights are awesome, who makes them?” 

It’s time for this month’s edition of Instagram Fashion workout gear round up! This month I mixed things up a bit by sharing items beyond workout gear. April’s weather was far different than I expected – chilly and rainy, which therefore limited the amount of fun, new workout gear I could wear. The forecast for the next few days is warm and sunny so I’m sure that May will bring the beginning of Summer’s heat and humidity.

  1. An athleisure moto jacket that combines fashion with the technical details you’d expect from an athletic brand sounds too good to be true, right? This New Balance Shadow jacket is a favorite of mine as I dash home after a sweaty workout since it’s breathable and made of sweat-wicking material. Anytime I wear the moto jacket people are in shock when they hear it is New Balance.
  2. Is there a more fun combination than stripes and pom-pom details on a shirt? I love pairing this navy and white striped top with jeans or white shorts for a casual, yet fun weekend look. Since buying it last month I’ve worn it five times AND bought it for two friends. It’s on super sale right now, so snag it before they sell out.
  3. I’ve worn this outfit combination a few times this month as it’s perfect for the transitional weather. The Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity tights are lightweight while still providing compression and fun details, while the Brooks Ghost tank is so light I forget I’m wearing it. While I’ll probably not use the tights for Summer workouts, this tank will be a staple for the next few months as I run through the heat and humidity.
  4. I wore this same outfit on three different flights this month as it is comfortable and keeps me warm during chilly flights. The Patagonia Nano Puff  is compact and lightweight so you can easily stuff it into your suitcase if you don’t need it.  Available in 30 different color combination, the Brooks Chariot Heritage shoe is a great everyday shoe that provides great foot support while still being fun and colorful. Last but not least, the Timex Ironman Sleek 150 is a great update to their classic sports watch, allowing me to keep track of time and my workouts with a pop of neon.
  5. There is no question about it, the Brooks LSD Running Jacket was my single favorite item of clothing in April! It’s available in 7 different colors but I love pairing the neon yellow with solid crops or shorts for wet or windy runs.
  6. I wore this vibrant, flattering Jill Stuart dress to a beach wedding down in Avalon last month and loved it so much that I was tempted to buy it after my great Rent the Runway experience. The fun open back and high neck flattered my shoulders and back, two areas I love to highlight.
  7. As soon as I saw this tank in Target I knew I had to buy it! This fun, flowy and inspirational muscle tank has been the perfect top for barre classes and HIIT classes alike since it has side vents and is lightweight.
  8. I’ve owned this Athleta bikini (top and bottom) for four years and it is constantly my favorite for everything from laying out to riding the waves.  The halter top is adjustable and has removable cups – making it a great option for those of us who want just a little bit of padding.

Your turn: What was your favorite item of clothing last month? 

Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored and instead is a list of the things of my favorite things this week. As normal, it includes lots of beauty and fashion items which means there are a few affiliate links via ShopStyle. It takes time and money to maintain a blog so I thank you for the support and few cents that come from clicking through the links!

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Instagram Fashion: March 2016

Insta Fashion March

 

“Where can I buy that shirt? Who makes those shoes? Those tights are awesome, who makes them?” 

It’s time for this month’s edition of Instagram Fashion workout gear round up! Since so many of you enjoyed last month’s first Insta-Fashion post, inspired by Jenna’s monthly Instagram fashion round up, I wanted to keep things going by making this a monthly post. The weather in March was almost always a little chilly, therefore causing me to repeat a lot more outfits than usual for my outdoor workouts. Even though I’m not excited for the heat and humidity that comes with Summer, I am looking forward to breaking out the shorts and tank tops.

  1. There is no better cure for the Sunday blues than fresh air, a great run and neon workout gear! I’m wearing Brooks head to toe including these kicks, this long sleeve running shirt and these crops. How fun is this pink and green neon watch? It’s part of the new Timex Ironman Colors collection!
  2. New gear can make any run feel faster, right? This speed workout in Prospect Park was fueled by neon kicks, these awesome, new tight stuff crops and an old favorite top.
  3. This beachy look included a lightweight aqua top, these tights and my new favorite sunglasses. Seriously, if you’re looking for fun sunglasses for Summer, check out Vira Sun!
  4. Even though the half marathon didn’t go as planned, my running attire was perfect for the blustery, chilly morning! I ran in this Nike top, these tights, these shoes and this bra.
  5. It was an awesome feeling to finish the first shorts run of the season! I’ve had these shorts (similar here) for years and always receive compliments on their vibrant colors. I paired the shorts with my Nike Berlin Marathon top for one very bright Friday morning run outfit.
  6. Spring running is all about layers that will keep you warm without over heating. When Ashley and I headed out for a 10-mile training run in Central Park the sun was shining but the breezy temp still was in the 30s. I paired my oldest pair of running tights with this Brooks vest and turtleneck to ensure I wasn’t freezing the entire time. Luckily the turtleneck is lighter than most Under Armour gear, making it perfect for warmer Winter weather or cooler Spring days.
  7. I’ve worn this Sweaty Betty combo at least once a week over the past few weeks as it’s perfect for the windy, cool weather we’ve had in New York City. The pants have vents behind the knees which allow them to breathe and the top is flattering and bright, aka perfect.  You can use code SB16RE03AC07 to get 20% off and free shipping on any Sweaty Betty order this week!
  8. This picture is from late October when I shot photos for the blog with the talented Nick Ortega. As soon as I posted this snap I immediately regretted chopping my hair. Also, it should be noted, that five months later this is still a favorite outfit choice for HIIT workouts as this Nike tank (sold out but similar found here) breathes and is the perfect length to be tied back, the tights are funky but flattering and the bra doesn’t let anything bounce around.

Due to lots of travel in April, I have no doubt that there will be a few tank tops and shorts in next months round-up!

Your turn: What was your favorite look last month? What is your favorite piece of workout gear right now?  

Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored and instead is a list of the things of my favorite things this week. As normal, it includes lots of beauty and fashion items which means there are a few affiliate links via ShopStyle. It takes time and money to maintain a blog so I thank you for the support and few cents that come from clicking through the links!

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