ENERGYbits - Product Review - Part II AND A GIVEAWAY!!!

 

Well this is a first.

I've never given any product TWO reviews before on here!

 

But ENERGYbits is a product that I felt like the information was too vast for me to put into one posting.

 

You can click that link to take you to the original review/post and read up there as well!  Its important for the whole picture.

Taste/Smell
When I first received a sample of ENERGYbits, I was a bit thrown off by the smell of them. Yes, their taste would probably be a bit strong (if you chewed them) but what can you expect when it is made of 100% Spirulina algea. I would recommend swallowing the bits whole with a glass of water.  I read that if I chewed the bits it would leave a greenish color in my mouth and I sure didn't want that!

Additionally there was absolutely no burping smells of the sea either, and believe me I tested it!  Can you say carbonated water?  That'll help those burps along!

Size
As I mentioned in the previous post, I was apprehensive about swallowing that many pills.  I mean I can swallow 4 Tylenol no problem and these are way smaller than those.  I actually swallowed 5-6 at a time with small sips of water since I didn't want that whole sloshy belly thing happening before a run of ANY distance, let alone 16 miles!

2nd trial run
So I had a few bits left from the sample tin that I had received (I kept some back on purpose to try again), and because I felt kinda ouchy in my right foot/heel, I decided to go ahead and take that rest day on my schedule and wait until Monday morning as planned.

So Monday morning about 20 min before I headed out, I took what was left of the sample tin of bits, I think maybe 18?  Cant remember.

It was extremely humid and honestly my legs felt a bit like lead and this time around the bits, while did make me a bit more 'clear' or awake, I struggled physically.  I figured it was that I obviously hadn't had enough of the recommended dosage among one thing or another.

I had already decided before this that I was going to order a bag of 1000 bits just off the one successful outing I had on the 16 miler and regardless of how a measly 4 miler went, I wasn't ready to just change my mind so quickly.

So I went to the ENERGYbits website, did more reading, read some more blog reviews then decided to click on the Contact Us button to inquire about whether there was a refund or money back guarantee policy.

Within 10 min I received a response back from the CEO and co-founder of the company telling me that due to FDA regulations they could not do any of that if a package was opened and could not be resold.

Made perfect sense in this case.

Additionally she offered up another option to where since I was not quite ready to pull the trigger on the investment that they have a sample buying program where you can buy individual servings (30 bits) for $3 plus a $2 shipping fee.  (I cannot say how AWESOME their customer service is!)

I ordered 2!  This should give me enough of a sampling on a couple more longer runs to confirm what I already suspect and that these things are the real deal!

Now I will stalk my mailbox until they arrive (hoping hoping hoping that they show up before Saturday!)  Even though its just 11 miles this week for a long run, would be nice to have a great experience (weather is supposed to be craptastic  :O(

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So do YOU want to have an opportunity to be #poweredbybits ???

ENERGYbits has graciously extended an offer to one reader to sample ENERGYbits or any of their other line:  RECOVERYbits, SKINNYbits, VITALITYbits

Make a choice and leave it in the comments section below!
An additional entry for a tweet out; just use "I want to be #poweredbybits like @glitterrunner with @energybits".
An additional entry also will be awarded if you LIKE EnergyBits on Facebook

So that's 3 chances to win!

If you Tweet or Facebook 'like' please put in an additional comment for each.

I will use random.org to choose the winner on Wednesday, August 7th at noon MST.

Good Luck!


Please Note: I am not sponsored by ENERGYbits and received no compensation for this post. I just like to share my experience with different products out there that can help runners. All opinions expressed are my own.

 

 

 



ENERGYbits - Product Review

 

 

 

Recently on Twitter I had been seeing lots and lots of tweets surrounding a product called ENERGYbits.

 

Let's face it, I follow and am followed by probably 98% of runners and/or some other type of athlete.

 

So a tweeter sees a LOT of product promotion.  A.  LOT.  :O)

 

However every once in a while a product hits a home run.

 

At least in my book.

 

Not always the case though.  Remember FrogFuel?

 

Poor FrogFuel!  Even with my disclaimer about not all products affect everyone the same, no one took the opportunity for a giveaway.

 

 

Then ENERGYbits happened!  Glorious glorious ENERGYbits!

 

After a question or two to fellow tweeters, I was contacted by their social media dude to see if I wanted to try them out!  SURE!  I mean they are pricey, and I am not one to shell out that kind of money based on other peoples reviews, no matter how many glowing reviews I had read.

 

Just google.  You'll see.  LOTS of reviews out there for this product!

 

So an email or two, and about 3 days later the ENERGYbits arrived in my mail.

 

Instead of trying out right away, I wanted to save for my 16 miler I had on my schedule.  There was only mild apprehension in another new product on a long training run after the FrogFuel and Gatorade PreFuel fiasco.  I mean the worst review I had read on the bits was just that 'they didn't work for me'.  It wasn't horror stories.  Just didn't work. 

 

I also had maybe just a bit of apprehension as to how I was going to swallow that many pills before a long run!  Or ever!  LOL!

 

 

You are instructed to take 30 of them 15-30 min before.  Now given that I had 16 miles to do and knew it was going to be like 3 hours, I asked the guy at ENERGYbits how to handle.  He told me what he did on longer runs so that was my plan.

 

So after my coffee, I took only 23 (I know such a weird number!).  I figured being small maybe I could go with that number.  I did NOT eat anything prior to leaving the house as I usually do.

 

Now it could have been the cooler weather to some degree, but that cooler weather DID NOT contribute to the clarity and just being more 'engaged' in not only my running but in my surroundings.  I didn't feel anxious about the distance, I felt calm.  Before I knew it I had completed 3 loops (almost 7 miles and I was like whhhhhhhhhhaaat just happened?)

 

So I took 15 more of them with my Nuun and began to run again.

 

I never once felt hungry (although I did have a gel after the 4th loop for the calories; the ENERGYbits don't have a lot of calories (1cal each tablet), nor does NUUN, and well you NEED calories when running a long distance run no matter what).

 

The sample I received had 50 tablets in it, so I had some left over which was my intent for a follow up run to have that 2nd go at them to be certain (more on that later).

 

What happened for hours later though was truly what had me sold.

Not only did I complete my mileage feeling better than I had in weeks after long runs, but I went home, took a shower, drank my chocolate milk, I went outside and began mowing the lawn. Then I came inside and did 2 loads of laundry, walking up and down stairs over and over.

CRAZY!  I felt like I had done maybe 5 miles or so.

And never felt hungry. Sometimes in a long run, thinking about what I'm going to eat is always at the top of my
'what can I think about so I am not thinking about running' list!  

Not even after I laid down for a couple of hours which generally ALWAYS happens.

Now I do not condone not feeding your body after a workout or run (hey I had my HUGE glass of chocolate milk!), but if I wasn't hungry, I wasn't hungry.

Spirulina (component of both ENERGYbits and SKINNYbits) is scientifically proven to aid in managing a healthy weight.  Well that I can definitely say was a side effect of the bits I had that day.  It wasn't until late afternoon/early evening before I ate.  And I didn't have that marathon training hunger, let me eat all the foods starving feeling I have been feeling for weeks and even now (because of course I don't have any bits!)

I have actually now done a TON of reasearch on spirulina since being introduced to the product first on Twitter and then first-hand.  So if you are interested, just use google.

I have provided enough links throughout this post to link you back to ENERGYbits site to get information on the product AND the company, which I have to also say is A+++++ in customer service as well!!!

I have reader giveaway to do, but since I left the paper at home with the details, I will do a separate post on that ALONG with the details of what happened on the 2nd short run (yesterday morning) when I had a few bits left from the sample...

If you already know about ENERGYbits or just want to order, you can type BLOG into the box on the online order form to receive 10% off.

Stay tuned for more review and a giveaway!

 

 

Please Note: I am not sponsored by ENERGYbits and received no compensation for this post. I just like to share my experience with different products out there that can help runners. All opinions expressed are my own.



Frog Fuel - Product Review

I’ll try anything once…or twice. Unless it is completely awful and I had a bad experience with it the first time.

Frog Fuel is one of those products which my just fit into this category. This is my review of this product. (Frog Fuel had no input on this review. They provided me with a sample and the opportunity to pass it on to you, my readers.)

I had mentioned in a previous post that I took one about 20 min before heading to the gym but that I was going to try them out on my long run this past Saturday before I reviewed.  Which I did.

 

I tried one of them.  I thought the taste was 'bad' the first time around, but it was doable you know?  But going into this 2nd one on Saturday I knew ahead of time what it was going to taste like and I had to force it down.  It just does not taste good.  I thought it tasted a lot like a 5 Hour Energy. They both share the same berry flavor and a slight bitterness. It’s not bad, but it’s pretty strong, and not something I’d eat just for pleasure. 

 

I am used to Gu (Peanut Butter all the time!!!) and use to be a PowerBar Gel gal, but once Gu came out with PB, it was all over with for me.

 

The product touts 15g of protein. That is a punch! It contains zero carbs, however, which kind of defeats the purpose as a running booster. I could, however, see using the product throughout a P90X workout or after a tough, physical weight lifting session might be beneficial?  But honestly I'd rather just drink a tall glass of chocolate milk!!  It is made from collagen protein and it contains glutamine and taurine. Those are two amino acids that assist in muscle growth through fast repair. That being said, I see little gain from using this product during a long or modest run.

Not to suggest, however, it is worthless by any stretch of the imagination. And if you are one who might like the taste of a super concentrated Lime Gatorade, this might be your product! If not, just dilute it. And if muscle gain is your game, this is a valid contender!

 

I know that not every person responds to a product in the same way, whether its negatively or positively.  I use to tell every new runner that when they would come into Luke's Locker with questions on nutrition on long runs or in the actual marathon.  Its trial and error.  And don't give up on a product after one try (hey I did try it twice).  I took the gel after 5.5ish miles this past Saturday and ugh...but I soldiered on.  After that my tummy just never felt right.  Not in the GI sense that we runners are accustomed to when a product doesn't sit right with us, but rather it was more of a nauseous thing..Which if you read my post about the run in general you know I threw up during the run.  Now granted I cannot say with certainty that this product resulted in that, it could have been a combination of that and the high sugary Gatorade Pre-Fuel that I had...I don't know.  All I know is that I got sick and I don't like getting sick.  And I certainly don't like getting sick when it interferes with my long run!

So while it didn't do so well for me, maybe it will for you?  If you want to give it a try, then read below for more information on the product and how to enter.

I wish I would have loved it, but I just didn't.

 



Why use FrogFuel?

1. It's hydrolyzed. Faster absorption means better performance and quicker recovery!
2. It's a Pure Collagen Protein - Improved skin, muscle mass and tone, increased joint flexibility, healthier bones, arteries, hair, nails and eyes.
3. Contains Taurine - Help rebuild muscles faster!
4. You can toss it in your go bag.

Unlike many other companies, the founders and owners of Frog Performance not only use their own products but also live and breathe the lifestyle they preach! You've got one body so treat it right and enjoy life. Performing like a lean, mean, green machine!

 

There are no banned substances, sugars, fats, carbs, gluten, cholesterol, lactose & excess ingredients.

Wanna get your hands on some FREE FrogFuel?  Here's what you gotta do. Watch the video below and take the Frog Performance quiz. I'm a free spirit! Tell me what your Fuel level is in the comments! (That will be your entry. Easy right?)

I will select a winner via random.org on....oh let's say a week from today?  July 24th?  Noon (Mountain Standard Time)

I'll post the winner on either Wednesday or Thursday.  Just make sure to come back to see if you've won in case I don't have your email. The winner will receive three FrogFuel 1oz Protein Shots.

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Feel free to check out the FrogFuel workouts and FrogFuel Fitspiration. And of course, follow them on the social media links below.

 

 

FrogFuel - New Product!

 

 

I was recently contacted by the folks at FrogFuel to try out their new product.

 

I just received it over this past weekend AFTER my long run so I didn't have the opportunity to try it out.

 

I plan on giving it a go this Saturday on my 15 miler, so a product review will be forthcoming.  I like the no carbs, no sugar, all protein bit already!!

 

In the interim though, here is a little bit about the product!

I will also be hosting a giveaway pack after my review so stay tuned!

FrogFuel is an advanced formulation protein that WILL take your workouts to the next level and get you seeing results quicker!

Why use FrogFuel?

1. It's hydrolyzed. Faster absorption means better performance and quicker recovery!
2. It's a Pure Collagen Protein - Improved skin, muscle mass and tone, increased joint flexibility, healthier bones, arteries, hair, nails and eyes.
3. Contains Taurine - Help rebuild muscles faster!
4. You can toss it in your go bag.

Unlike many other companies, the founders and owners of Frog Performance not only use their own products but also live and breathe the lifestyle they preach!

 

You've got one body so treat it right and enjoy life. Performing like a lean, mean, green machine!

There are no banned substances, sugars, fats, carbs, gluten, cholesterol, lactose & excess ingredients.

 



Product Review - Tropical Traditions Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil

Disclaimer: Tropical Traditions provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was under no obligation to review it. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.

New favorite

I have been using coconut oil for a few months now and was using the Whole Foods brand (seen below).  


For obvious Paleo reasons, and most recently because I found out that coconut oil is so wonderful on so many levels.  I am in no way offering advice on any health benefits that may be or not be attained by the use of coconut oil, only that there are so many other uses for it...Or for a visual you can view some uses on YouTube.

Prior to receiving my complimentary quart size container of Tropical Traditions, I had went in on a deal with NC where you buy 1 get one free, so now I have a gallon of coconut oil!  Won't have to buy any for a long time!


One of the great things about coconut oil is that it takes a lot less oil than any other type you may want to cook with, so like I said, I will be set for quite some time!

Old Standby

Since I had about a 1/3 of a cup left in my 365 jar, I added some salt to it and use is as a scrub to get any dry skin off during the shower sessions.  You could also use sugar, but I don't keep sugar in the house, so that was not an option.

I am just in the process of implementing the use of coconut oil in more and more of not only food but in everyday life.

The one thing I immediately noticed (and liked) about Tropical Traditions is that it does not have an overwhelming smell of coconut.  It gives a hint of it to your food, but not like other coconut oils I have used, which seem to be a bit overbearing.

Today instead of EVOO and balsamic on my salad that I brought for lunch, I drizzled some of the Tropical Traditions.  SO GOOD!

Tropical Traditions is allowing for a giveaway to a lucky reader of All That Glitters!

Here are the 'rules' and one entry per method:

• Sign up for the Tropical Traditions Newsletter
• Leave a comment here on if you use coconut oil now, or why you want to try it
• Leave a separate comment if you are a follower
• Facebook the giveaway (leave separate comment)
• Tweet the giveaway (leave separate comment)

You will get one entry for each comment left but only one comment per requirement stated above.

Contest will end at 3:30pm CST on Tuesday, May 22nd.  I will do a random draw using random.org

 

 Win 1 quart of Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil!

Tropical Traditions is America's source for coconut oil. Their Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil is hand crafted in small batches by family producers, and it is the highest quality coconut oil they offer. You can read more about how virgin coconut oil is different from other coconut oils on their website: What is Virgin Coconut Oil?

You can also watch the video they produced about Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil:

Tropical Traditions also carries other varieties of affordable high quality coconut oil. Visit their website to check on current sales, to learn about the many uses of coconut oil, and to read about all the advantages of buying coconut oil online. Since the FDA does not want us to discuss the health benefits of coconut oil on a page where it is being sold or given away, here is the best website to read about the health benefits of coconut oil.

Reebok Studio Lite Max - CrossFit Trainers

First things first...lets get caught up... (if you just want the deets on the shoes, then scroll down).

Thursday:  20 min bike, 20 min treadmill, 20 min elliptical

2000m row 

1 hour on weights, which included actually being able to do lunges, KB goblet squats, and deadlifts.  I went light on the weights during those, only 10lb KB and then 20lbs on the deadlifts.  I just wanted the stretch and the movement and to get a workout in the legs.  There was no pain, but I had taken an Aleve a few hours earlier so that explains that.

My back (disc), and my sciatic are under control thank God, but my left piriformis was still way angry the next morning.  It seems to get more aggravated through the day due to sitting on it and even though I get up at least a couple of times an hour, still...

I really pounded on my biceps, back, triceps and shoulders during that hour.

Friday: When I woke up, my piriformis sure let me know it was still there and angry, but nothing an Aleve doesn't help.  However what really got sore through the day were my legs, but I sure didnt mind!  It was great to feel that soreness again only working out with weights will give you.

So after work I hit the gym and settled on just an hour walk on the treadmill, but not just any walk on the treadmill.  That just won't do.  :)

I had a 10lb plate and then 2 3lb hand weights.  I wanted to do more on the plate, but I was too wonky on there with the 10lb weight, anything more I sure would have lost my balance.

So I took it every other song alternating between holding the 10lb plate above my head (yes, arms extended up), and then the next song I would throw the plate down, grab the 2 baby hand weights and either just walk with them, or do overhead presses or front shoulder/chest raises.

Today (Saturday):  Nada.  Resting the piriformis completely.  It had also stormed all night, was still raining when I got up, so I knew for sure I wouldnt be riding today, which actually was a blessing in disguise.  As I am typing this, its actually beginning to really feel so much better and I haven't had an Aleve since 6am  :O)

******************************************

 Studio Lite Max

 

I guess its been 8 months or so ago, I was contacted by Reebok to see if I would be interested in receiving, testing and reviewing their products.  

After you agree, and you give them your activitie(s) of choice, periodically they will email you if they have a product that fits you.  At first, when I was 'just' a runner, I always received emails for running shoes.

Studio Lite Max

I haven't done the review here on the blog for the last pair of running shoes I tested for them, but I did road test them and provide feedback to them.

For your time and effort, you then can be compensated in a number of ways, one being to request the test shoes back.  You have to send them off with all your notes and then they will send them back to you.  Since the running shoes I tested were not my cup of tea, I opted for a track suit.

I was then contacted again after the Houston Marathon to test out another pair of running shoes, however the miles and hours they wanted on them per week was not something I was prepared to commit to.

I responded to their request letting them know that I had incorporated CrossFit into my regime and would be a better candidate should they have a need for testers for CrossFit shoes.

Reebok just recently laid their name onto the CrossFit arena and are one of the top manufacturers for CrossFit and cross training shoes in general.

Shortly thereafter I was contacted and I ended up with the Studio Lite Max CrossFit Trainer.

 

 I love love love these shoes!  I had been wearing either my NB Minimus or my Nike Free's to CrossFit, but to be honest I always felt "off".  Its important to have really great stability when doing CrossFit.  You certainly should NEVER wear running shoes as they are built to make you go 'forward'.  Something you never want in CrossFit due to lifting high weight for one thing.

The first time I wore these, the WOD had a run in it and I will say that at first it was weird running in these, but the next time it was awesome.

They are extremely light and feel really 'plastic-y' which kind of turned me off at first, but I got use to that especially the way they felt when working out.

I felt more stable on the floor which is always a great thing.

The only negative I gave these shoes in my feedback to Reebok was that I thought they should throw some color either on the body or the sole.  Especially for the girl version.  I didn't like the all black with only the splash of pink up top.  :O)

I sent them back with my results and thoughts with the request that my compensation be that they return the test shoes to me.  I HATED sending them back!  

Its been a few weeks now since I returned them so I am hoping they show back up on my doorstep soon!

Two thumbs up Reebok!

Product Review - Garmin 610

Remember back when I posted that I got a new toy?

Well I have actually run with it several times and thought I would give you my thoughts on it.

I have been running with the old school Garmin 205 for several years now, and while the thing still works splendidly (only had to replace the strap just recently), I was longing for the new Garmin 610 once they came out with it after the disaster that, in my opinion, is and was the Garmin 405 and 410.

I was recently gifted with this lovely 'time piece' and couldn't wait to try it out.

After initially charging it up, I began the set up, which I will admit, using the touch screen takes a bit of getting use to (amount of pressure for example).  A few times I would get aggravated (after the initial set up) when trying to manuever through screens to change some things.  Once I got down the amount of finger pressure to use, it went much more smoothly.

I love that you can set up to 4 custom screens that you can scroll through for information during your run, at a water stop, or whenever.  I however do not need all that since all I care about are distance, pace and overall time (1st photo below).  This is how I have my main screen programmed.

I do love that the 2nd screen is the actual time in big fat numbers (no picture posted)!  On my old Garmin, I never knew what time it actually was, but with just a touch/slide the time shows up then after a few seconds reverts back to the original screen.

Pony had said that she remembered reading on another review (possibly Runners World) where the fact that it was difficult to manuever through the screens while running. First off I have no idea why one would be doing that, unless like me you want to know what time it is (which I don't care while actually running a route), but to see if it was a hinderance, I tried it this past weekend.

Wasn't that difficult.  Took me 2 swipes before the screen moved but again, set the thing up the way you want it, and you shouldnt have to do it and if you do, and its difficult then stop for a few seconds.

Blurry photo huh?

One of the best things about this Garmin is the big fat numbers.  The older Garmin, while I could make out the numbers, it wasn't always easy and certainly not while actually running.  This one is clear and easy for someone like me with vision issues for anything small and closer than arms length :O)



Another great thing that I love about this new Garmin is the ability to wirelessly connect (see picture below).  You just put the ANT stick into your computer, set the watch within an inch or so, and bamm!  It starts connecting and downloading.

The one thing though is the first time I couldn't figure out why it wouldn't connect and download and it was because I hadn't 'ended' my run.  I had stopped the watch, but I hadn't reset it (which is done the same way as the Garmin 205/305; by holding down the reset button (bottom right) until you see the 3-2-1.  Then it will connect and download.

In addtion to the easy peasy wireless download of data, I really love the slick new and updated screens of viewing and analyzing of the data from your run.

Route by street; while not new feature, it seems slicker, easier to view/read

Elevation and/or changes; side bar has useful information as well such as running time, actual time, pace for each, etc.

Splits

I absolutely love love love this new Garmin!  Its thin and light weight so if you wanted to, its ok as a watch as well.  I am not a fan of the band, but after a few times I'm use to it.  Its just thicker than my velcro band, plus its new and just not very pliable just yet.  I'm sure once its broken in, it'll be better.

All the old features are still there, intervals, running partner, etc, but there are 2 features that are new that I am absolutely in love with!!!

1. It vibrates.  Meaning it vibrates first when its found its satellite, so you don't have to continually stare at the screen waiting...waiting...waiting...It also vibrates at every 'lap'.  In my case I have my laps at each mile. So every time I hit a new mile marker it vibrates and flashes the last miles pace.  In big numbers too!  It will also vibrate if you are using intervals.  So if you are doing 400's with a 1 min rest instead of having to listen for a beep, it will vibrate.  This is great for someone like me that loves to run with music and never hears a darn thing.
2. In addition to the intervals still being there, which most people used for run/walk as well, there is a new feature located under Alerts called....you guessed it....Run/Walk.   LOVE!  I tried this feature out the first day (which is the screen shots from above if I am not mistaken) and haven't again since, but I did indeed love it.  The only thing is that when you turn on the run/walk alert, you have to remember to turn it off the next run if you are not wanting walk/run vibrate/beep alerts.  And yes, it also vibrates whenever its time to walk and when to run again.  Again this is pure gold for anyone that listens to music or just has a bit of a hearing issue.  I use to miss the beeps all the time even when not listening to music since I would zone out, traffic would be loud or something.
   
   I used it again this evening during our hill workout which were relays (2 person teams) and I liked that I had it on auto pause when not moving (since I had to wait until my person hit a certain point before beginning my hill loop again), so it would vibrate when I stopped moving and then vibrate again when I started running.  I was easily able to see the numbers to know that each 10 min session I was moving faster than the last 10 minute session.  I haven't downloaded the data just yet, but anxious to see what kind of feedback it gives me on the workout.
   
   My old Garmin is officially retired.
   Love love love this new Garmin.
   
   Questions via comment or email will be answered!

Bright, Shiny, New AND Thin! - Garmin 610

Lookie what I got! 

I have wanted one of the new Garmin 610's ever since they came out!  Sleek and thin and easy to manuever (at least just in my initial set up of it yesterday). 

I have a perfectly OK old school Garmin 205 that I have had since around Christmas 2007, so I have never could justify spending money on something I didn't need just because its new (and lets face it the 405 was (and is) a waste of money IMHO).

Even now my 205 works just fine (all I have had to do is replace the band which just recently broke), and I certainly didn't (and wasn't going to) want to spend $400 on a new running watch...but thankfully in this case I didn't have to!  :O)

So now I have this new-fangled watch, and just yesterday charged it, and set it up, but haven't had the chance to actually give it a go yet, so obviously I cannot review it. 

I might try it this evening just as a test go, but more than likely I will first test it out on a long run on Saturday instead.

Anyone else that reads my blog have this Garmin 610? 

Do you love it, hate it or just indifferent?

Product Review - PureFit Nutrition Bars

A few weeks ago I was contacted via email by a representative of PureFit Nutrition Bars to try their product.  Of course, I said!  I received a package with 5 bars, all different flavors.

A little about PureFit bars from their site:

PureFit was established in July 2000 with the express purpose of educating individuals about how to achieve optimum health and fitness through nutrition and exercise. Concerned with current trends in nutritional supplements that contain highly processed or even harmful ingredients, founder Robb Dorf insists on all-natural ingredients. PureFit bars are high-protein; they do not melt; they contain no wheat or gluten; they are non-dairy; they are Kosher-certified; they contain no sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners; they have no hydrogenated oils and no trans-fatty acids.

PureFit bars were developed as 40-30-30 bars, consistent with weight-loss regimens like The Zone. Because PureFit bars do not contain wheat or gluten, they can be enjoyed by sufferers of celiac sprue disease. PureFit has proudly supported dozens of regional celiac support groups. PureFit has been named "Nutrition Bar of the Year" by Bike Magazine.

I will say that prior to being contacted, I had never heard of these, and never noticed them in the store(s), but then again I never notice anything that remotely resembles a PowerBar.  I loathe PowerBars and/or most bars for that matter.  I have tried a few but typically stay away from them because they are usually very dense, small and packed with calories.  If I am going to eat 300-450 calories it will be in the form of actual food.

When I got these in the post, I looked first at the packaging and immediately thought, ugh...PowerBars.  I looked at the back, noticed the nutrition and the calorie count etc., and thought OK, I will give them a go.  It was probably a week before I actually tried one.

Boy oh boy!  I love these things!  No where near what those yukky PowerBars are (at least to me!).  The taste is great, the texture is awesome and not like what I remember PBs to be which almost seemed to be waxy and difficult to chew.

I havent actually eaten a whole one at one time, but snacked on one throughout the day when I felt the desire to eat 'something'.  I usually break off half, eat that, then piece off the other half through the remainder of the day.  Most times I am not really hungry, just the act of eating is what I want, so just taking a small bite satisfies me and I'm good to go for another hour or so :O)

The chocolate brownie one actually TASTES like a brownie, or as close as one can get I suppose, so I really like that about that particular one.  I only have one left, the Berry Almond Crunch because I bet that is the one I am going to like the most, so I have been saving it!  Oh wait, thats not true!  I have one in my purse for emergency hunger!!!  We all know that happens!!

Quite possibly the most complete and health conscious nutrition bar available on the market today.  Although not as sweet, tasty and delicious as a candy bar...it certainly was not meant to be - and still pulls off being a very enjoyable bar to support a serious fitness/nutrition program.

I too have just usually resorted to a Lara Bar every now and then for a pick me up or before a long run, as until now I didn't know of any other bars out there that were quite as natural; still might not be as natural as Lara Bars, but I dont have one to compare side by side.

All I know is that I loved these, and if I see them in the stores, I would definitely pick up a few, to keep at home, in my desk and also always one in my purse.

Thanks PureFit Nutrition for giving me the opportunity to try these!

**this opinion for PureFit Nutrition Bars was my own and I was not compensated for the review.  I always give a honest opinion and these vendors know that when I try something, I might not like it! 

ZipFizz - Product Review

I mentioned a while back that a representative from ZipFizz had contacted me to product review their product on my blog...so here goes...

I will review the Zipfizz energy shot which retails for about $1.99. This little 4 ounce bugger only has 30 calories, only 8 grams of carbs and contains zero sugar. The Zipfizz energy shot is marketed as a healthy alternative to energy drinks for those above reasons. Along with the liquid shot, Zipfizz also offers mixable flavored energy powders. Other than that I don't know too much more about Zipfizz so I will just start the review. That's probably all you care about anyway.

Zipfizz has 120 milligrams of caffeine, taurine, green tea extract and an unbelievable amount of b-vitamins. What's an unbelievable amount? How about 41,667% of your daily allowance of vitamin B-12. So yeah there is a lot of energy ingredients packed into this.

The package came with 7 (or was it 8) different flavors and honestly they were all good!  I especially loved the grape and the creme orange flavor most!  There was maybe one that I didnt care for (raspberry maybe; can't remember now).  For the past 3 weekends, each Saturday morning before my long runs (18, 13 and 20), I drank the 20oz bottle (also provided) just before leaving the house.  Now I cannot say for sure if it had anything to do with the awesome runs I had, but I am gonna go out on a limb and say, Yes!  

They remind me of Nuun (which I dont like though) as when you put it in and add the cold water there is a fizzing thing that happens and once you close the little top and shake, be careful as the first time I did this, it blew the top open!!!  Nothing spewed out but it scared the bejeezus out of me!

The other times I drank it; either before a work out and once just because (before work) I will say the high from this is extremely stable and hasn't yet given me the jitters. Everyone reacts differently though so to guarantee 100% that you will not get the jitters would be a lie. When I take it, I feel very awake, alert, and clear headed.  And I seem to perform better whether its running or at the gym.

 I have one vial left and I will use that this coming Saturday before my short long run :)  ... I haven't seen it in the stores (but I hear you can get it at Costco), but I am in the process of seeing if anyone here in town besides Costco is carrying it!  Otherwise I will order direct I guess!  I really really really love this product!!!

Good taste, fast acting kick, low calorie count, no sugar. What more could you ask for right? Maybe some more B-vitamins?  All joking aside I don't think I would change a thing about this energy shot.

Product Review Coming! - ZipFizz

I was contacted recently by a representative at ZipFizz to find out if I was interested in receiving, testing and reviewing their product on my blog and to my readers/followers.

I just received the package via UPS, and have mixed up my first bottle (provided in package) to drink before my long run in the morning...I chose Grape for the first guinea pig!

Will be following this up with a full product review in a week, once I go through all the tubes and have some basis for review.

They have provided me with information for savings for the readers/followers so I will pass that along once I am able to give a thumbs up or a thumbs down.

Stay tuned!

Product Review - Gatorade G Series Carb Energy Chews

Last weekend on my 21 miler I mentioned that I had grabbed a gel from my stash that was just downright nasty and I couldn't even ingest it (ClifShot Double Espresso for the record), therefore I was down some calories for the long run.  

Thankfully when I got back to base for Kenyan Way, there were boxes of packages of Gatorade G Series Carb Energy Chews - Orange (yum! I love all things orange!)  Each package contains 4 chews.  I don't like chews normally because they aren't that easy to carry on a run (unless you use a SpiBelt or something), and I find it difficult to actually chew them while running and they always seem to stick in my teeth.

Since I was at base, I opened a package and ate one.  Yum!  They are a thinner consistency and were easy to chew.  I ate 2 of them before taking off again.  Then ate the last 2 when I was about 2 miles from home.  I thought they gave me just enough oomph, which was what I needed at the time!  The packaging for transport is unfortunate, but you could take them out and put in a snack sized baggie for easier handling while on the run! I'm actually going to do that for tomorrows run.

I really liked them a lot and was glad that I had stuffed 2 other packages into the tiny pockets on my shorts :)

One Package:  4 chews

Calories: 120

Carbs: 31

Sugars: 21

Yeah I don't like the high sugar, but it is what it is and lets face it when you are out there on a long run, you need the boost.  I certainly wouldnt take these, just like I dont eat gels on runs shorter than 10 miles, but thats just me.  If a person needs it, a person needs it, no matter the distance.  I am a firm believer though that a person can go 10 miles with minimum intake of calories if you eat something beforehand.  Even if its just a banana.  Or lets say, a PopTart.  :O)

When I went into Luke's on Sunday for a shift, I figured out where the boxes at KW had come from.  Luke's had oodles of them and had dropped some off for the Saturday runners.  I grabbed a ton of the packets and would like to offer 5 packages of them off as a giveaway!

So to have the 5 packets sent to the one and only YOU! the following applies:

1. Be a follower (leave one comment as to that)
2. Tweet it (separate comment) linking this post
3. Facebook it (separate comment) linking this post
4. Leave a comment as to your go to nutrition on long runs (separate comment)

That's 4 entries each person can have to have a chance at winning!  I will draw the lucky winner by random draw on Monday, November 28th.  I use random.org to generate the number.

Good luck!

Product Review - New Balance 1400 - Womens

With the minimalist movement in full stride, some runners are making the switch while many runners are asking questions and are on the fence.  As with everything in my life, I am moving more and more towards minimalism, even though I will never be one of those runners that can run more than 10K probably in a minimalist shoe.  I wouldn't be able to walk for a week afterwards!

If you’re one of those runners that want to make the switch, but aren’t ready to make the switch to a true barefoot running shoe, I suggest transitioning a lightweight trainer or adding a lightweight trainer to your running shoe collection.  These are my 2nd pair of not only minimalist shoes, but 2nd pair of New Balance.  I think they are definitely on to something.  (My first pair being the Minimus; not sure where the PR is for that one as I couldnt locate it on my blog).

Using a lightweight trainer or racing flat gives you a little cushion so you can ease your way into forefoot running instead of making a significant change in running your form in a short amount of time.  Now I’m not saying making a drastic change isn’t good for you, you just need to ease your way into it.

The New Balance RC 1400 is in the racing flat category, which typically has shoe characteristics of being lightweight and not having a lot of support or cushioning.  Sound familiar?  It should if you’ve been paying attention to any of the past minimalist running shoe claims for the past couple of years.

From New Balance: The RC 1400 weighs in at 7.1 oz. for the men’s shoe and 5.7 oz. for the women’s shoe.  Compared to the standard running shoe that weighs between 9-12 oz., this is a fairly significant amount of weight taken off a shoe.  The midsole is comprised of foam called REV lite which is lighter than traditional EVA foam and provides plenty of bounce, or response.  For most runners, you won’t notice a significant difference compared to other EVA foams used.  The upper of the New Balance RC 1400 is very minimal is design. Instead of having multiple layers of mesh, the upper in the RC 1400 has one single layer of mesh.  This helps cut down on weight and bulk.

One of the downsides to consider when using a lightweight trainer or racing flat as an everyday running shoe is the life of the shoe.  Since the original design of the shoe was to go fast and be lightweight, durability and longevity sometimes takes a back seat.

I personally found the New Balance RC 1400 running shoe to be a fun shoe to run in.  It’s light, comfortable, I can log a shorter run in them (definitely not anything over 10K for me in these things!), and they would definitely turn heads with the fluorescent color patterns being used.

The RC 1400s will be a great travel shoe because they are so flexible, light weight, and take up virtually no room in your bag.  I can bend them in two and smash down in a carry on, no problem.  The upper is seamless and has a nice snug, but not overly tight wrap for my average width foot. There is plenty of room in the toe box without feeling too clunky. My only beef is with the tongue (no joke intended), which has a habit of rolling up on itself while in use and creating some bunching when worn with socks.

I also got a pair of new Nikes this past weekend, which haven't even hit the shelves yet.  The name/style of them escapes me right now, but I have the box in the car and I have only worn them for a few hours while working at the store on Sunday, so no review yet. 

These are touted as a cross trainer, so I will be trying them out in the gym on non-running days (do those even exist?)  :) 

One of the perks of the job, even at part time, I still get cool things for free!!!

What is something new you've tried and liked?  Or disliked?  I am always looking for something new and exciting in the running arena!  Shoes.  Shorts.  Tops.  Nutrition.  Anything?

Product Review (Sorta) - Brooks Ravenna vs Asics DS Trainer

For months now I have been running in the Brooks Ravenna which is for those that slightly overpronate, but yet also want a lightweight trainer.

I truly love love love this shoe.  I am on my 3rd pair now, the most recent pair bought yet again at Running Warehouse online for a cut rate cost of $49.00 because the color was being discontinued (purple not the orange).  This shoe weighs in at 9oz and again, I am just in love with this shoe.  I think its lightweight enough to not feel like you are wearing bricks on your feet, but not so light to where you feel like you are having aches, pains and possibly injury if you like a bit more of the 'safety' of a shoe outside of a flat with no cushion, no stability, etc. to carry you long(er) distances.

Since I just bought another pair, which are to be my pair that I run Chicago Marathon in (in 6 weeks!!!), I will still more than likely still run in those shoes come race day.  I've worn them now on 2 maybe 3 runs, but nothing over 11 miles.  I honestly dont want more than 50-60 miles on them come race day.

This weekend I ran across the new DS Trainer by Asics.  Now I have always wondered about this shoe, but honestly the higher price tag has always swayed me back to reality and the fact there wasnt anything wrong with my Nike Triax (previous lov-ah) and now the Ravenna.

But then I just kinda feel in love with the fact that their newest model is purty. 



Behold the pink!

Now I am not a 'pink' person at all, but quite frankly I am sick of white or gray and then some other splash of color. 
And its not like I hate pink.

And they are 8.5 oz.  Even lighter than the Ravenna!!!

I got a pair from the back, slid off the Nike Free's I had on, and put on a very cushiony shoe.  Honestly in the toe box area it felt like a squishy sponge.  Obviously this doesn't matter to me really because I wear SuperFeet inserts unless I am running on the treadmill and then I generally just use the inserts that come with the shoe.  Yes I just change them in and out as I see fit :O)

I walked around the store in them for a bit, ran the track in the store (cannot be conclusive I know), and decided I wanted to give them a try. 

A little bit of pleeeease and a little bit of smile and I had a pair of the new Asics DS Trainers in my hands to try out and product review.  :O) 

Groovy.

I havent run in them obviously as of yet, but I am sure itchin' to!   Will let you either thumbs up or thumbs down once I put a few miles on them.

Anyone out there run in DS Trainers?  Thoughts?  What kind of runner are you?  Neutral, over/underpronator?  What is you favorite color when it comes to running gear?

Can You Hear Me Now?

Ears.  Everybody has them, and everybody’s are different.  So different, in fact, that it has been suggested that our ears might be suitable as a basis for biometric identification.  So if our ears are as unique as our fingerprints, why is it that our earbuds are not?  Yurtopia is a company that was started in an effort to address just that problem, and I was recently given the chance to try out their solution to the issue: Yurbuds!

The Yurbuds themselves are simple caps of medical-grade silicone that fit over your earbuds.  They look somewhat alien compared to regular earbuds, because of their more organic shape.  Their appearance may be off-putting to some — they certainly don’t look as sleek and modern as most high-end earbuds, but then again, these are going in your ears, so who cares?

Let me say this for the record:  never before has putting something in my ear made me so happy.
The fit — as before — was perfect, but this was something else entirely.  I could hear every sound coming out of the headset with surprising clarity.

So do you have trouble with your earbuds from your iPod or other device not fitting in your ear(s) properly?  Falling out?  Or just not fitting well enough (like with me my ears are a small opening and the regular earbuds dont fit, they actually hurt).  Well these babies can solve your problems!  They are indeed sized so you actually need to be 'fitted'.

Well how about you give them a try!?!?!  I have a pair of Yurbuds to give away ($20 value)!  They are a size 6, which is basically what I think is about the average for most folks, especially women.

I want them!  I want them!  You do?  So how can you receive these?
Here are the rules:

1. Be a follower of this blog, or become a follower  AND
2. Leave a comment on how music helps you on your run/bike or workout in general (if you are not a follower, then your comment will not be counted)

If you are a follower on my Twitter (juniebrunner) then leave a SEPARATE comment here saying as such for an additional entry

I will draw the winner by using random.org on Thursday, August 18th.

Additionally I have 2 Smart ID shoe tags to also go with the Yurbuds!  Why 2?  Because doesn't everyone have more than one pair of running shoes???  Retail value of each is $3.25.

OK, Go!