REVIEW: NOW® Sports Effer-Hydrate and NOW® Sports Effer-Energy tablet

"Disclaimer: I received NOW® Sports Effer-Hydrate and NOW® Sports Effer-Energy tablets to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a bibravepro (ambassador), and check out bibrave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!"

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.

Hydration is something I recognize the necessity and importance of but still struggle with regularly. Over the last several weeks I have been testing out NOW® Sports Effer-Hydrate and NOW® Sports Effer-Energy tablets as a means to add supplemental hydration into my day-to-day. Read on to learn more about my experience and thoughts!   

I received the NOW® Sports tablets in four flavors: Mixed Berry, Tropical Punch, Orange Strawberry and Lemon Lime. Overall, I found most of the flavors to be great. Mixed berry was a fan favorite amongst many of the BRPs who reviewed this product. Tropical punch was, for me, a total bust - it was the only packet I didn't end up finishing. The tablet flavors weren't too powerful or sweet which I particularly appreciated. The tablets do take a bit of time to dissolve so be sure to let your water sit for a few minutes once you've popped one in. 

Overall, I enjoyed this product - I felt hydrated and refreshed whenever I drank some. I even used the NOW® Sports tablets during my Pelofondo weekend where I rode 100 miles. I would definitely recommend this to anyone needing extra hydration in their routine.

Want to try these yourself? You can check them out here. Use code NOWSPORTS20 for 20% off your order.

Head over and check out there social to follow for new products and more info on current products.

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Offer valid 1/1/21 through 11:59 PM Central Standard Time 3/21/21. Offer valid only on at products found at https://www.nowfoods.com/sports-nutrition/sports-nutrition-all-products Prices are as shown. Some exclusions may apply. Must use coupon code NOWSPORTS20 in the Promotion Code field at checkout. While supplies last at nowfoods.com. This offer does not apply to applicable taxes or shipping and handling. Offer cannot be used on previous purchases. NOW Health Group, Inc has the right to end any promotion at any time.

IM IN! Missoula (Half) Marathon

"Disclaimer: I received an entry to the Missoula Marathon to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"

Hi Friends!

Long time no see huh? 2020 has been a wild one. While I'm in the midst of writing a post reflecting on my Blogging / BRP / Fitstagram break and explaining what I've been up too lately. There was one update too exciting for me to wait to share. 

I have been selected as a BibRave Pro for the 

2021 Missoula (Half) Marathon!!! 

Missoula Marathon was named the #1 best marathon of 2019 AND 2018 on the BibRave 100 and the Half and Full Marathons were awarded BibRave top races of the decade! - Running this race was an opportunity I could not pass up! 

The race team has already been amazing, I've only been registered for 10 days and I already received an awesome swag bag and note! I can already tell that this trip to Montana is going to be one for the record books. 

With over 6 months until race day, I'll be sharing my training and vacation planning every step of the way. If you're thinking about joining me - be sure to Use code "BR2021" for $5 off.

REVIEW: ROADiD Sidekick!

Disclaimer: I received a ROAD iD Sidekick to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador) at BibRave.com/BibRavePro, and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

If you know me well, you know that I consider my runs "me time" - while I love having a running partner now and again (especially when Riley and I run and chat) most of the time I am running by myself. I moved to the city that I live in now just under a year ago and I live by myself, so it's not super likely that i'd be recognized while out and about on my runs. This anonymity is nice most of the time, but can present some stressors when thinking about if anything were to happen to me and I couldn't communicate. A lot of my fears have recently been addressed thanks to my ROADiD. 

For those of you that may not know, ROADiD is a sort of wearable emergency contact card. It can display a variety of information regarding who you are, where you're from and what should be done if you are ever in an emergency situation and can't call for help yourself. ROADiD also lets you include a fun moto or catch phrase on your ID to keep you motivated whenever to glimpse at it. 

I received the Apple Watch Sidekick ROADid and it hasn't left my watch since. Though I was a tad disappointed that the Apple Watch ID did not come in the rose gold color that would have matched my watch band, there isn't a lot that I would change about my ROADiD or my experience with the company. The ROADiD products are easy to order, clear to read and have engraving that is guaranteed for life.  

I would absolutely recommend ROADiD to any athlete in my life. They come in a variety of styles and sizes (they even have IDs for your pets!) and their customer service is top notch. ROADiD sent ample tracking updates regarding my iD and when I could expect it to arrive. I look forward to using their products for a long time to come. 

To check out what other #BibRavePros thought - Check out the links to their blogs below. If you're interested in trying ROADiD for yourself use discount code SAVE25BRP to save 25% off any ROADiD on their website.

• Nicki
• Meridith
• Ralph 
• Lisa
• Lisha
• Becky
• Mike

REVIEW: Handful Bra

Disclaimer: I received a Handful Closer Bra to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

I was thrilled to be selected as a part of the Bibrave Pro Handful Bra Campaign. I had heard lot of great things about this brand and company in the past and was truly excited to get a chance to try out some new running gear. Handful did not disappoint! 

Here is my "closer" bra right after a run! 

My Handful Bra as a part of my
#flatrunner for the Disney Enchanted 10k!

I was given the chance to test out "The Closer" a style of bra created by handful whose features are outlined below. Handful describes "The Closer" as a" Zip Up sports bra with front closure, breathable stretch mesh panels, and fun strappy design. It's perfect for high impact activities and comfortable enough to wear all day" Mine came in the color "Magnetic" - there are a variety of colors on the website including "Ripple Effect" "Booyah Black" and "Dreamcatcher."

As a pretty busty gal I struggle a lot with chafing in general and find myself pretty particular when it comes to running apparel. I must say that I give this bra my highest recommendation. It is lightweight, comfortable and left me with absolutely no chaffing whatsoever (even after my magical 19.3 mile weekend in Disney World!)

There's no doubt that this bra is now #1 in my workout line up. If you are ready to try Handful for yourself, use code BIBRAVE20 to get 20% off! 

Clif Family Run Club!

Disclaimer: I received samples from the Clif Family Winery as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

As I've mentioned #ontheblog before, Clif Family Winery is one of the sponsors of this years  Napa Valley Marathon. This family owned and operated winery first opened their doors in 1992 driven by a "passion for food and adventure and a desire to create convenient, portable and above all delicious food for today’s busy lifestyles."

While I was researching more about the Clif Family, I learned something seriously cool. This winery has their own running club (say whaaaaat?)

"Club Stride" is the Clif Family's very own running club. Here is some more of the details they share on their website.

Club Stride
Many exciting adventures aren’t just found on two wheels. Club Stride is for those who like to run. Purchase our one-of-a-kind CLUB STRIDE runners kit as part of your membership and receive an exclusive invitation to the annual Napa Valley Marathon and other local bay area races throughout the year. You will receive six bottles of our limited production wines and a case of Clif Bars with every shipment.

*Six bottles of wine plus one case of Clif Bar products, four times per year.*

This really sounds like a company that has their priorities in order. Would you join a running wine club? 

Cliff Family Winery

Disclaimer: I received samples from the Clif Family Winery as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!
This year, a sponsor of the Napa Valley Marathon was none other than Clif Family Winery. This family owned and operated winery first opened their doors in 1992 driven by a "passion for food and adventure and a desire to create convenient, portable and above all delicious food for today’s busy lifestyles."

The clif's family's goal is to inspire you to make their products "a part of your own adventure, reminding you to slow down and find pleasure in everyday life." I don't know about you, but settling in with a glass of wine and some yummy snacks sure sounds like a great way to unwind to me.

How have you taken time for yourself lately? What's your favorite wine to unwind with after a long day? (or a long run!)

Disney Princess Half Marathon: Training Week 1

In just 47 days Riley and I will be running the Fairy Tale Challenge as a part of the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend. For those of you who don't know, this consists of a 10k and Half Marathon throughout one weekend. 

Been looking forward to this since June!

I am truly so excited for this race! One of my New Year's Resolutions Lifestyle Changes, is it commit better to training. I thought a good way to stay accountable would be to share my training plans on my blog. I will be doing a combination of short/long runs and Orangetheory Fitness classes. Here's what i've got planned for Week 1!

• Monday:
• 3 Miles - 6:30am
• Orangetheory 3G Class - 5:30pm 
• Tuesday:
• Orangetheory 2G Class - 6:45pm
• Wednesday:
• November Project BOS - 6:30am (Riley and I will be first time attendees!) 
• 2.5 Miles - 5pm
• Thursday:
• Rest Day! 
• Friday:
• 3 Miles - 6:30am
• Orangetheory 2G Class - 5:30pm
• Saturday:
• 4.5 Miles
• Sunday:
• Orangetheory 90 Minute Class - 11:30am

Can't wait to kick off this week on the right foot! Looking forward to seeing how my speed has improved from OTF workouts during my 3mi morning run.

SWEEPSTAKES ALERT: Runderwear Paris Marathon

Disclaimer: I received Runderwear products to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

Believe it or not, it's not too late to enter to win the trip of a LIFETIME to the @parismarathon sponsored by @runderwear the grand prize covers ALL travel expenses, and some truly amazing items. Don't delay, enter today!

https://www.runderwear.com/pages/enter-bibrave

REVIEW: Zwift Run

Disclaimer: I received a free Zwift Run Pod as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

If you are like me, running on the dreadmill treadmill can be a total downer. I get so bored and the miles just feel like they drag on and on. Luckily, Zwift has come up with a solution for runners like us!

In september, myself and a group of several other Bibrave Pros were sent foot pods, and a opted into the task of using Zwift to train for our fall Turkey Trots. Every Tuesday, we ran as a group in our weekly Turn It Up Tuesday event. 

You may be asking, what is Zwift? Zwift is a global online running platform that allows you to follow structured workouts with athletes from all over the world- anytime! Getting started is simple- you simply download the free Zwift App and the Zwift companion app from your app store. You can use any cell phone or tablet or even an appleTV! You design your Avatar and enter the world of Zwifters. 

Though there are other ways to tap into the Zwift world (bluetooth treadmills etc.) myself and the other BibRave Pros utilized the Zwift footpods. You simply attached the device to the laces of your favorite running shoes, calibrate the pod then sync it to your phone or other device - after that you are ready to run! 

I had some learning curves when trying to figure out the best way to use the pods. Luckily for me, Zwift published some amazing tutorial videos. Once I figured things out I was off to the races figuratively and literally. I had so much fun joining other Zwifter and BRPs on our runs - there really is a pace group and intervals for everyone. These trainings helped me shave some time off the first 5k of my "Turkey Trot" half marathon the weekend after thanksgiving!

Have you used Zwift before? Would you consider a virtual running group with friends?

I'M IN! Delaware Running Festival 2020

Disclaimer: I received free entry to the Delaware Running Festival Half Marathon as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

I am thrilled to announce my second spring race already on the docket! I will be joining several members of Team Bibrave at the Delaware Marathon Running Festival this April! I will be checking off another state on my 50 Half list (and this one will bring me a little closer to catch up with Riley, as she's already done Delaware.) 

This year's #swag - An Under Armor long sleeve!

I spent some time this morning checking out a fellow #bibravepro Becky's past reviews on this race (She lives in delaware so this running festival is a regular for her!) Her feedback and point of view has me even more excited for this race than I already was. I especially can't wait to catch glimpses of the Brandywine Zoo which is a featured section of the course. 

Becky's review also mentions that this course is HILLY. I will need to keep that in mind so I don't repeat the pure exhaustion that was Kansas City. Even though I had an absolutely amazing experience at that race, I can't deny that my fitness capacity on those hills was less than awe inspiring. I hope to knock off some time on my clock for this race, as my Half Marathons as of late have been hovering at least 25 minutes over my old comfortable time. 

Have you run at the Delaware Running Festival before? Share your experiences in the comments! Want to join? Use Discount code "DELAWARERAVE20" for 10% off your registration! 

RACE REVIEW: Kansas City Half Marathon

Disclaimer: I received free entry to the Kansas City Half Marathon as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

PRE-RACE: I received entry into this race for being a BibRave Pro, thanks to my pro status. I was able to register for this race nice and early way back in May 2019. In the several months before the race I received a variety of informative emails covering all aspects of the race and multiple FAQs. I also was able to read more into the race through the race website. Social Media for the race was extremely active and clued participants into crucial elements of race logistics as well as this races' many extra fun elements too. This race even has their own podcast and smart phone app!

This race takes place on a Saturday, so the Expo is held the Thursday and Friday prior. The expo is held in Kansas City's Union Station, centrally located in the city with plenty of parking (both short and long term) the expo was extremely easy to access and was open for over 15 hours during the two day span. Although the Expo was smaller than I was expecting (considering the size and scale of this major race) - it was jam packed with a variety of local and national vendors. Packet Pick-Up it self was extremely easy, there were multiple fast moving lines and participants in all the events (5k, 10k, Half and Full Marathons) could jump into any line and quickly get their bib's, participant sunglasses and event t-shirts. I was able to spend about an hour within the Expo, connecting with fellow runners and a variety of vendors and staff. It's important to note that there is NO race-day registration or packet pick up for this event. Though, registration does stay open through the duration of the expo.

In terms of travel and lodging (as this race is a popular destination race and a must-run for those looking to check Missouri off their 50 states list) the race is located roughly 25 minutes from Kansas City International Airport and directly near dozens of hotel and motel options. The kansas city streetcar (which is free) can also transport your from a variety of KC neighborhoods to the expo and the start line.

THE SWAG: The swag for this race was some of the best I have seen in awhile. All participants received an event t-shirt (available in both men's and women's cuts) along with a pair of race-branded Goodr sunglasses. These were such a cool touch! Lulu Lemon also sold a variety of additional race themed merchandise - this was available for pre-order and at the race expo.

THE RACE: This race is one of the most difficult courses I have ever run on. Featuring dozens of hills at a variety of inclines and lengths, this course offers a challenge for all. The scenery and history featured along this course is absolutely breathtaking and provides numerous, numerous photo ops. Runners get front row vantages points of KCs Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Westport, 18th and Vine Jazz district, Sunset Hill Neighborhood, Country Club Plaza, and more! I was consistently in awe at all I was seeing along this race route. Even tho my race day took place almost exclusively in the pouring rain, I was still blown away by the beauty of this course. Relief from almost 12 straight miles of hills (both rolling and otherwise) comes around mile 12.5 - at this point runners run almost straight downhill for the remainder of the race, all with the finish line calling to you in full view ahead.

Course support for this race was in ample supply. Both water and powerade were available about every 1.5/2 miles and often included medical tents as well. Crowds and cheer stations along this course varied from neighborhood to neighborhood, but featured many pockets of decently sized crowds and plenty of energy. Despite being a major challenge for me, there was nothing I didn't love about this course and race.

BLING: Medals were available for all events during marathon weekend. The medals were designed in line with the theme of the race seen throughout marketing efforts and the race tshirts. I loved these jazzy medals and appreciated how they offered medals in unique colors depending on the race length.

FINISH LINE & POST-RACE: The energy at the finish line for this race is electric. After flying down the final hill to the finish, participants are able to celebrate a variety of accomplishments by ringing the races giant gong. This made for a fun moment and a great photo op. The post-race party includes a free BBQ sandwich (YUM) and a variety of local KC beers. After eating, there was plenty more to do as well - including tye-dye t-shirts! I had so much fun at this race and absolutely recommend it for anyone looking for a memorial experience.

Top 5 Reasons You Should STILL Register for the Kansas City Marathon

Disclaimer: I received free entry to the Kansas City Half Marathon as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

This weekend is the Kansas City Half Marathon and I am so excited to be participating! To celebrate race week I am including the Top 5 Reasons to STILL register for this race and join me (and Team Bibrave!) this weekend in Missouri. 

1. You'll See The Beauty and History of Kansas City

There are numerous Kansas City landmarks along the course including: Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Westport, 18th and Vine Jazz district, Sunset Hill Neighborhood, Country Club Plaza, and more!

KC's Country Club Plaza is Featured Along the Course!

2. You'll Get A Pair of Goodr Sunglasses!

Every runner participating in the Half or Full Marathon will receive their own pair of KC Marathon branded Goodr Sunglasses!

3. You Can Save 15%!

Use code BIBRAVE2019KCM for 15% off!

4. You Could Win A Garmin Forerunner & AfterShokz!

When you see signs for the Garmin Segment Challenge — near mile 8 — run your hardest for the next quarter-mile. Each male and female segment winner for the full and half-marathon will take home a Forerunner® 245 Music device and a pair of Air headphones from AfterShokz.

5. You Can Enjoy Pulled Pork and Beer Once you are Done!

All runner can enjoy a post race pulled pork BBQ sandwich provided by Operation BBQ Relief plus, each participant 21 years and older can enjoy a complimentary beer at the finish line! This years beers include Miller Lite, Boulevard Wheat, and a seasonal favorite, Bob's 47 Oktoberfest.

It's not too late! I hope to see you there.