Running Mojo

I have a theory that every runner has their "mojo". Certain things they must (or must not do) before a run, in order to ensure a successful run. ie: "don't eat this, must eat this, must sleep __hrs the night before, have to listen to ___ playlist ", etc.I have a  few random "mojo" items like this. For instance, I have to be chewing gum when I run. I don't know why, but otherwise I think my run will be a complete fail. I also always have to be using Apple headphones. Only Apple. I realize there are better headphones out there...but this is my mojo.So those might be random, but today I want to share 5 things with you that I think are essential to every workout routine, that have truly transformed my workouts!

1. Shoes. As a runner, if you don't have the right shoes, you are greatly increasing your chance for injury. Shin splints, bad knees, sore feet, etc. Having the right shoe is an absolute must. I personally swear by Newton's - they are lightweight, amazing quality, and teach you to run more on the front of your foot (your "toe box) than the back. (The ones I linked too are 25% off with free shipping!). Newtons aren't for everyone though - if you are a pronator or supinator you will need something with more support. For a more stability type shoe, I would recommend Asics or Brooks
2. Protein. When it comes to eating before a workout, I know everyone is different. I must have half a banana and 1 T of almond butter before every run though. The potassium in the banana and protein in the peanut butter is just the right amount of fuel to keep me going. I also always have either eggs or a protein shake within 30 mins after my run!
3. Cuteness. There might not be science behind this, but I personally think you are way more motivated to workout if you have workout clothes you feel cute in! My current favorite brands for running or working out: Athleta (get 20% off today with code "DRESS20"!), Zella, Nike
4. Fitness watch / steps tracker. I'll be honest - I was hesitant to jump on this bandwagon. I kept thinking "why does it matter how many steps I get in a day??" I have learned to LOVE my Fitbit though. It totally motivates me to workout so I can make sure I get all my steps in! If you don't have one already, I highly recommend it.
5. Advocare. If there was one thing I absolutely could not live without on those long run days, or the days when working out is the last thing I want to do..it would be my Spark drink by Advocare. In case you're not familiar with Advocare, it's a company that provides innovative nutritional, weight-management, sports performance and skincare products. They have everything from meal replacement shakes, to multi-vitamins, to sports performance products.

When I look at websites like this, I get overwhelmed because there are so many options (based on what your needs are). I personally just take Advocare to improve my workouts, so for that, I would recommend:

1) Spark - it's a sugar-free drink (powder that you put in water) with more than 20 vitamins, minerals and nutrients that work synergistically to provide a healthy, balanced and effective source of energy that won't overburden or over stimulate your body. It serves as an all-in-one solution that gives you a quick boost of energy that lasts for hours. I can tell a HUGE difference in my run when I drink spark beforehand, vs the runs where I don't!

2) Meal Replacement shake - okay, these are actually delicious (my favorite flavor is of course chocolate!). I almost always run in the mornings before starting the day and typically don't have time to make a big breakfast after. So, on those days, these meal replacement shakes are my life saver. This yummy drink has 24 grams of protein and only 210 calories!

3) Rehydrate - also a drink (powder that you put in water) that helps you stay hydrated during physical activity. Unlike other sports drinks, Rehydrate includes antioxidants, carbohydrates, electrolytes, and other nutrients that effectively promote optimal hydration and recovery. Rehydrate Drink has a 1:1 ratio of sodium and potassium, two of the most vital electrolytes that are lost when we sweat.

Okay, lots of info. Do you feel inspired to go sweat now?! If you have any questions about workout tips or Advocare products, you can always email me!Shop some cute workout stuff here:[show_shopthepost_widget id="594036"]

5 FRIDAY FAVES - FITNESS EDITION

For our 5 Friday Faves this week, we've picked our top 5 fitness items! Working out and running is such a huge part of both mine and Lo's lives, so we wanted to share the items with ya'll that make working out so much more enjoyable for us![show_ms_widget id="7774416" image_id="8055704" width="819" height="609"]1. Favorite sports bra:

This all depends on your activity. If it's for a highly active/intense workout, I love to have a lot of support, which is why the Under Armor Eclipse sports bra is my fave. If its for light activity (walking, yoga, etc.) you can't go wrong with a good Target sports bra. So comfortable and easy to wear all the time (but, try and resist!). I have this in probably 4 different colors...

2. Favorite running shoe:

For everyday running, the Nike LunarEclipse takes the cake. What I love about Nike is that they manage to make an amazing product, but keep style in mind at the same time! I love this turquoise LunarEclipse.

3. Favorite workout companion:

Fitbit flex. I had been wanting a steps tracking device for a while and did my research on the different brands. I was won over by the amazing reviews for the fitbit flex and all of it's capabilities. And, let's be honest, it was the cutest one. It tracks my steps throughout the day, mileage from my runs, and my sleep at night. My husband bought it for me a few months ago and it has not left my wrist since!

4. Favorite running sock:

Crazy to think that such a small item makes such a massive difference in running; but it does! I love these tab back socks because they keep your feet from blistering, the sock doesn't slip down into your shoe, and provides the support your foot needs.

5. Favorite pre-work out snack: banana and almond butter - every time! My favorite almond butter is from Trader Joe's.

Shop our favorite fitness products here!:

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