Runners Roundup

Back on My Feet Running Festival Recap

September 21, 2021 by Michelle 30 Comments

Last Saturday I participated in the Back on My Feet (BOMF) Running Festival. While I have slowed down on doing virtual races this year, I’m always up for supporting a good cause.

Disclaimer: I received a free race entry 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!

Back on My Feet Running Festival Recap

BOMF is a great organization working to combat homelessness in 14 major cities across the U.S., including my hometown of Boston. With all the challenges of Covid, BOMF opted to host one large virtual running festival this year, instead of attempting multiple in-person events.

I liked that the Festival offered a range of distances (5K, 10K, 15K, 30K, or you could run all 4 distances) so there was something for everyone! I had originally planned on running the 15K, but my hip had other plans. When I couldn’t make the longer training runs work, I opted to swap distances. The beauty of a virtual event is that there were no restrictions to changing plans – so 10K it was!

As a perk of participating as a BibRave Pro, I received a free race t-shirt (there was a $100 fundraising minimum to receive a shirt). While I didn’t participate in the fundraising I did make a donation as this was a cause I really wanted to support.

A week before the Festival started I also received my bib, along with a GU gel, and finish line banner. I thought the finish line banner was a fun touch!

Race morning I woke up to less than ideal conditions – light rain and off-the-charts humidity. For half a second I toyed with the idea of holding off, but since I did not know how I was going to feel following Monday’s cortisone shot, I stuck with my plan. I had hoped that the rain would make for a cool, refreshing run, but unfortunately, the rain stopped shortly after mile 1 and then the humidity really cranked up. Miles 1 – 3 went by fairly quickly, but my right hip did not love the long gradual climb of mile 4.

The final stretch

I did my best to stick to my 4:1 intervals, but between the humidity and my increasingly angry hip, I was glad I had chosen to just do the 10K. On the plus side, the roads were quiet so it was a nice peaceful run. And, a huge shoutout to my husband J for being a mobile water stop and cheerleader around 4.5 miles!

Just because it’s virtual doesn’t mean you can’t run “with” friends! Cari, Deborah, and Fellow BibRave Pro Kim also took part in the Festival.

Kim, me, and Cari! Thanks to Cari for the photo skills 🙂

The only downside of the Festival for me was the lack of communication from the event organizers. Especially with it being a virtual event, I think this was a missed opportunity to create more excitement among runners — maybe even to have provided a way to connect runners in the 14 cities they operate in.

Overall, I would recommend the BOMF Running Festival and supporting this great organization addressing homelessness across the country. (The Festival is being held through Saturday, September 25th, so there’s still time to get in on the action – click here to register and use code BibRave5! to save $5 off the registration fee).

I’m linking this with Kim and Zenaida for the Tuesday Topics Link-Up.

I’m also linking with Debbie, Deborah, Lisa, Jenn, and Laura for the Runners’ Roundup.

Filed Under: #BibRavePro, #BOMFBR, race report, Runners Roundup, Tuesday Topics

BUFF® DryFlx+ Collection Product Review

December 29, 2020 by Michelle 14 Comments

Disclaimer: I received a BUFF® DryFlx+ neckwarmer and headband 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!

While temps around here yoyo’d for a bit, there’s no doubt now that winter running season is in full effect. Having the right gear can make all of the difference when dealing with the elements, which is why I jumped at the chance to try out the BUFF® DryFlx+ neckwarmer and headband. I’ve been a long-time fan of BUFF® products so I was really interested in seeing what this new collection was all about.

Well, if you’ve been following me on Instagram then you already know that both items have become staples on my runs. I am especially in love with the neckwarmer! It is warm and cozy, yet does a great job of wicking away sweat and offered great breathability – especially important when using it as a face mask. I also appreciate the seamless design which helps to avoid any potential rubbing or chaffing.

The headband is also designed as a one-knitted piece using the same material as the neckwarmer. While I tend to be more of a hat girl for winter runs, I can say that I liked that this headband stayed put, wicked away sweat, and kept my ears warm. Can’t really ask for more than that, can you?!

Overall, the DryFlx+ Collection is another win for BUFF® in my book and why they continue to be one of my favorite brands.

Sharing my review of @buff_usa DryFlx+ Collection! #BUFFRunBR #bibravepro #bibchat #tuesdaytopics #runnersroundup #winterunning Share on X

If you’re interested in BUFF® products, be sure to go to https://buffusa.com/bibrave and sign up for the BUFF® newsletter to receive 15% off your purchase.

You can check out other BibRavePro reviews here:

Run, Eat, Ralph

RunCanvas

Running on the Other Side of 40

Fun Size Athlete

Running on Pixie Dust

Fit x Brit

The Late Runner

The Valley Isle Runner

Ken Stands on Things

Are you a fan of neckwarmers? Headbands or hats?

I’m linking this with Kim and Zenaida for the Tuesday Topics Link-Up.

I’m also linking with Debbie, Deborah, Lisa, Jenn, and Laura for the Runners’ Roundup.

Filed Under: #BibRavePro, #BUFFRunBR, product reviews, Runners Roundup, Tuesday Topics

Knockaround Sport Sunglasses Review

September 8, 2020 by Michelle 19 Comments

Disclaimer: I received Knockaround Sport Sunglasses 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! All opinions, as always, are my own.

Knockaround Sport Sunglasses Review

I have been looking forward to trying out a pair of Knockarounds since I read Janelle’s review earlier this summer. I love sunglasses, but I don’t always love how much you have to pay for a quality pair so I was very curious to see what Knockaround had to offer.

Well after wearing them on runs, walks, and just out and about running errands, let me just say that there is just so much to love about these shades!

Great protection – Knockarounds feature polarized mirror lenses with UV 400 protection which filters the light coming through the lens so you get a crisp and clear image all while protecting your eyes. And, as an added bonus, the lenses are also impact-resistant.

No slipping – We all know how ridiculously humid it’s been this summer, and yet my Knockarounds never slipped. The Sport Collection has these subtle, but highly effective rubber grips on the nose – perfect for those sweat-fest runs!

Lightweight – Knockarounds are made with a super lightweight polycarbonate material which means you can just put them on and forget about them.

So many colorways and styles – Knockaround offers fifteen different frame styles in a wide range of colors, plus special Limited Editions. While I love the “Fast Lanes” I received in Clear Grey frames and Green Moonshine lenses, I’m already eyeing the many other color combos and styles available. You can even custom design a pair to make them uniquely your own.

Affordable – Prices for Knockarounds with polarized lens start as low as $20, and just $15 for the regular lens.

Sharing my review of @knockaround sport sunglasses #knockaroundbr #bibchat #bibravepro #tuesdaytopics #runnersroundup Share on X

Functional, stylish, and affordable – it’s really not hard to see why Knockarounds are so popular!

If you haven’t tried them yet for yourself, then let me sweeten the deal by offering code BibRaveKnocks5 for a 20% savings on your entire order (one use per customer).

Do you wear sunglasses when you run?

I’m linking this with Kim and Zenaida for the Tuesday Topics Link-Up.

I’m also linking with Debbie, Deborah, Lisa, Jenn, and Laura for the Runners’ Roundup.

Filed Under: #BibRavePro, product reviews, Runners Roundup, Tuesday Topics

BUFF Pack Run Cap Review

July 21, 2020 by Michelle 18 Comments

Disclaimer: I received a free Buff Pack Run Cap to review as a BibRavePro. As always, all opinions are my own. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

OK so let me cut right to the chase – the BUFF Pack Run Cap is a winner and perfect for the swampy weather that is this summer! Let me share some of the highlights…

Light as a feather
The first thing I noticed when my Pack Run Cap arrived was how unbelievably lightweight it is. Seriously, it weighs just 1 ounce. You put it on and forget about it.

Great fit and feel
Thanks to the 4-way stretch fabric and adjustable elastic cord at the back, this Cap is a comfortable fit. It’s designed with Fastwick fabric side panels and a low profile sweatband, which helps to wick away sweat and improves breathability. I love the silky feel of this Cap.

Easy to pack
As the name implies, the Pack Run Cap easily folds down to about palm-size making it ideal for travel, whenever we return to planning race-cations.

This Cap has carried me through some swampfest runs and held up well to the challenge!

Find out what I love about @buff_usa Pack Run Cap! #buffrunbr #bibchat #bibravepro #tuesdaytopics #runnersroundup Share on X

If you’re interested in trying the Buff Pack Run Cap for yourself, sign up for the BUFF newsletter here to save 15% off your purchase!

Have you tried Buff products before?

I’m linking this with Kim and Zenaida for the Tuesday Topics Link-Up.

I’m also linking with Debbie, Rachel, Deborah, Lisa, Sandra, and Jenn for the Runners’ Roundup.

Filed Under: #BibRavePro, product reviews, Runners Roundup, Tuesday Topics

NOW Sports BCAA Blast and Effer-Energy Review

March 25, 2020 by Michelle 43 Comments

Disclaimer: I received NOW Sports BCAA Blast Powder (Natural Raspberry) and NOW Sports Effer-Energy tablets (Tropical Punch) 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 use a number of NOW Foods supplements, so when the opportunity to try NOW® Sports BCAA Blast and NOW® Sports Effer-Energy tablets came up I was super excited to try them out!

Sharing my experience with @Nowfoods BCAA Blast & Effer-Energy products #nowsportsbr #bibravepro #nowgetfit #bibchat Share on X

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are the essential amino acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine, which support building muscle and post-workout recovery. BCAAs can be taken before, during or after a run or workout. I have actually used NOW’s Branched Chain Amino Acid capsules and found them to be helpful so I was curious to see how the BCAA Blast would compare.

I used the BCAA Blast before both my runs and Orangetheory workouts and definitely felt I got an extra energy boost – especially on those late afternoon OTF classes. Each scoop of powder delivers 5 grams of BCAAs and 100 mg of natural caffeine. I really appreciated that I felt energized without feeling jittery, an experience I’ve had with other brands. It was also super easy on my stomach, which is so important, especially when using it before a run or workout! I definitely plan to continue to use the BCAA Blast for a pre-workout supplement.

The Effer-Energy tablets are an electrolyte supplement designed to support energy and recovery. I tried the tablets post-workout but, to be honest I struggled with the taste. I played with increasing the amount of water beyond the 16 oz that is recommended, and it did seem to help, but overall this just wasn’t a good fit for me – perhaps a different flavor would have worked better.

Both the BCAA Blast and Effer-Energy are soy-free, vegan/vegetarian, nut-free, dairy-free and egg-free – a win for those with various food allergies.

Interested in trying these or other products in the NOW Sports nutrition line?

Use code NOWSPORTS20 for 20% off your purchase of NOW® Sports products at nowsportsproducts.com.

Offer valid 2/1/20 through 11:59 PM Central Standard Time 4/30/20. Offer valid only on products found at https://www.nowfoods.com/sports-nutrition/sports-nutrition-all-products. Prices are as shown. Some exclusions 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 & handling. Offer cannot be used on previous purchases. NOW Health Group, Inc. has the right to end any promotion at any time.

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

And be sure to check out the reviews of my fellow BibRave Pros:

Kim
Shannon
Lacey
Stephanie
Sarah

Do you use any pre- or post-workout supplements?

I’m linking with Debbie, Rachel, Deborah, Lisa,
Smitha and Jenn for the Runners’ Roundup.

Filed Under: #BibRavePro, BCAAs, product reviews, Runners Roundup

Body Helix Thigh Compression Sleeve Review

February 25, 2020 by Michelle 19 Comments

I wanted to put the Body Helix Thigh Compression Sleeve through its paces before sharing my review, but if you’ve been following me on Instagram or Twitter then you already know this sleeve has been a win for me!

Body Helix Thigh Compression Sleeve Review

I received a Thigh Compression Sleeve from Body Helix as a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews. As always, all of the opinions expressed here are my own.

A few weeks back I started experiencing a lot of discomfort in my upper quad. It seemed that I had strained it – not enough to stop working out, but it was definitely slowing me down. In typical runner fashion, I pulled out all the resources possible to keep my legs moving. So when I was offered an opportunity to test out the Body Helix Thigh Compression Sleeve, I was all in.

According to the Body Helix website, the thigh sleeve is made of “medical-grade compression in the range of 20- 30 millimeters of mercury (or mmHg in the scientific community). The higher the number, the more pressure we feel. Research shows a drastic decrease in pain sensation when compression is applied to injuries.”

During my runs and workouts, I can say that my quad felt more supported and, as a result, I felt that my range of motion was better – I wasn’t altering my gait. Definitely a win! I also tried the sleeve as part of my recovery following runs and Orangetheory workouts and was happy to feel significant pain relief.

The sleeve fits like a glove, snug but not tight. And, once on, it stayed in place without any slipping. My one challenge was fitting it under my thermal running tights which are …well tight. While I could get my tights over the sleeve I felt a little bit like a sausage. However, I had no problem wearing it under my running skirts, shorts, and capris.

And, one more bonus – the sleeve can be machine washed and dried so it was always ready to go for the next workout.

So while my quad continues to heal this compression sleeve will most certainly be a key part of my arsenal.

Sharing my review of @body_helix thigh compression sleeve! #BodyHelixBR #BibRavePro #BibChat #movethroughit Share on X

Want to try it for yourself? Body Helix makes a wide range of compression gear to support everything from wrist and elbows to knees, calves, and ankles. Use code BH15BR for 15% off all products on their website now through 4/1.

And be sure to check out the reviews of my fellow BibRave Pros on the Body Helix products they tested:

I’m linking this with Kim and Zenaida for the Tuesday Topics Link-Up