2017 spring marathon

Disclaimer: I received an entry for Illinois 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!

While I had my marathon options narrowed down for the spring (was deciding between Ann Arbor at the end of March or Oshkosh Marathon at the end of April), my choice has been made. I have decided to go with the Illinois Marathon on April 22, which though on my radar, I had already decided no on haha. Read more for why...

Initially I was hesitant for this race because I have a half marathon in Naperville, IL the following day. So, I put this race aside thinking it wouldn't be a good idea. However when the opportunity came up to run for BibRave, I emailed my coach at Sweat Tracker to see what she thought about it. I thought for sure she would reply that I was bananas and it was not a good idea. To my surprise, she gave me the go ahead. She reminded me that while it would be a very big challenge, she didn't see any major issues with it. My risk for injury would be greater, though, and that keeping up my strength training would be key. Along with proper pre- and post-race (and training) recovery.

So here I am, training for my first spring marathon. It will be interesting for sure, and my one main concern is how much time I'll have to spend on a treadmill at the gym if winter is as bad as predicted. I did train through December for Dopey Challenge, however, I feel winter is usually at its worst in January and February, which will be some high mileage months. I've done up to 12 miles on the treadmill, which for me was just under 3 hours. I thought that was my max, but it's likely I'll be on there for up to 5 hours during this training cycle. Eeks. I guess my main concern is getting kicked off for being on too long haha. Usually weekends aren't as crowded, so hopefully it's not a big deal. It will also be annoying having to reset the treadmill every 60 minutes, as that is the max you can set it to run for. Boo.

Anyway, my best bud Angie will be there running the marathon too - far ahead of me - but it'll be fun to hang out before and after the race. Hopefully she doesn't mind waiting around for an hour or so ;)

Interested in running during Illinois Marathon weekend? They have just about every race distance. There's a 5k on Friday evening, and then a 10k, half marathon, marathon relay, and marathon on Saturday. You can take the I-Challenge, which is running the 5k Friday and then either 10k, half marathon, or marathon on Saturday for an additional medal. Who doesn't love more medals?

Marathon entrants will receive a high-quality, gender-specific short-sleeve technical shirt (Leslie Jordan brand in blue - must be fate!) and a drawstring backpack. Finishers get a great medal, a fleece blanket, commemorative heatsheet, finish line food and drink, and one beverage at the 27th-Mile Celebrate Victory Bash on Saturday. (Entrants must display their race bib to receive the beverage).

I haven't been down to U of I campus since my own college days... which is farther back than I'd like to admit haha. I'm sure a lot has changed, and I've never been inside the stadium, so it will be cool to finish 26.2 miles on the field.

The time limit for the marathon is 6 hours, though I did see that they allow participants up to 7 hours (though traffic will not longer be kept from the course, so you need to use sidewalks and follow pedestrian laws). 6 hours is my latest marathon goal, as I did Chicago in about 6:16, so hoping that the 6 hour limit helps push me to conquer it :)

Here's more clarification from the website:
The course will be closed to traffic for participants who are averaging faster than  13:45 minutes per mile. Slower participants may continue after traffic is allowed onto the race course, but they do so at their own risk and must follow pedestrian statutes. Race volunteers, the finish line, and post-race festivities will remain active long enough to accommodate runners taking up to 7 hours.

The next price increase will be January 16. You can save $5 off any distance (except Youth Run) using code 'bibravebonus'. I've already begun my training (even before I knew what race I was doing haha - gotta keep that base mileage from the last marathon going). Who wants to join in on the fun?!

xx2i hawaii 1 review + discount

Disclaimer: I received a pair of XX2i Hawaii1 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!

Remember when I said I was a sunglass hoarder? Well, add another great pair to the list. This is another active lifestyle pair - for running, cycling, etc. They are a new model in the list of XX2i products and are called Hawaii1. Now I have the Hawaii1, USA1, and Bermuda1.

I think the first thing you'll notice when you put on the Hawaii 1 are how extremely lightweight they are. So much so that you can barely feel them when you're wearing them. Major bonus points for that. 

The noticeable difference between the USA1 and the Hawaii1, at least in looks, is that the Hawaii1 doesn't have the frame at the bottom of the lenses, and the arms are thinner. I really like they way they look when they are on. They come in matte white with polar grey lenses, matte black with polar grey lenses, or matte tortoise with polar brown lenses. Unlike most of their other sunglasses, these do not have the option to change lenses (not a big deal to me – I love the polar grey... they look blue and I dig it). The nose piece is adjustable to help fit any face shape for any activity.

It's been summer weather here, with lots of sunny days. If you're read any of my other sunglasses reviews you know that I have sensitive eyes and need sunglasses even on a cloudy day. I squint and get headaches and it's just no good. Plus, wearing contacts, having sunglasses helps protect my eyes from dust, dirt, and whatever weird things are floating in the wind. Also, I have a fear of getting bugs in my eyes, so there's that.

The Hawaii1 are great eye protection. Keeps out the sun and bugs. Again, they are super lightweight so often times you don't even notice them there. I've found for my face size, they fit/stay on best when I tuck them underneath my headphones or visor. Take note that adult sized visors and hats are usually large on me – I'll have them on their smallest possible size and they are still loose. I have been known to wear a child size hat if it's an option. So, if I don't tuck in these sunglasses at all, even after adjusting the nosepiece, I find they are little big for my face. They'll slide a little bit and I'll need to push them back up. It's more of a frame fit than the nosepiece that makes this happen — I think the frames are made for just a little bit bigger face than mine. I know most of the guys testing this particular pair didn't have this issue, so I think it's just my childish head size (it's also why I have a hard time finding regular glasses frames at the eye doctor haha). Anyway, if I keep them tucked in, then no problems at all. And honestly, I'm almost always wearing my headphones and a visor or hat, so it's not much of an issue for me. No bounce, no slide.

Flat Heather for Chicago Spring Half Marathon.

One other thing of note was that without the frame on the bottom of the lenses, there's a bit of space for some sunlight to come through. Not a lot, just a little, and it also depends on how close to your face you wear the sunglasses. I need a little space so that the frames aren't touching my eyelashes, and I don't like them right up against my forehead. This didn't bother me at all, and I liked being able to glance down and easily see the cracks, holes, puddles I'd like to avoid. Sometimes lenses can be too dark and it's harder to see where you are going — makes it easy to trip (not any of my XX2i sunglasses, other brands!).

Chicago Spring Half Marathon.

Some ladies have mentioned hair pulling when taking off their sunglasses. I didn't have this issue with the Hawaii1. Let me tell you my secret. Instead of sliding them onto your head, place them. This means you aren't sliding the rubber temple arms through your hair. You are just putting them on top of it. Take them off the same way. This makes it so your hair is getting caught on the rubber. I'm not sure if my explanation makes sense, so let me know if you need further clarification. I never had any hair come out this way. I don't even think about it, for some reason with sport sunglasses, I've always put them on this way. Unlike my everyday pair that I slide on through my hair. I must have subconsciously learned at some point that anything with the rubber won't work well if I put them on normally.

Flat Heather for United Relay of America Stage 318.

Bright, sunny day in Chicago for the United Relay Group Stage.

I obviously like them, or I wouldn't have worn them during so many runs and races. I've done a half marathon and 10 miler in them + countless training runs of 4+ miles. If they bothered me, I wouldn't be able to race in them, as any little thing that is off/bothersome aggravates me for the entire race. Even the smallest distraction over the course of 13 miles drives me insane (yeah, I'm one of those people). Say, if I had to push them up every few minutes because they were falling down, or take them off because they were fogging a lot. This doesn't happen with XX2i Hawaii1. Give them a try, you won't regret it (and even if you maybe get a style that doesn't work for you, see below for their amazing return policy – try a different style that might fit you better. For anyone with a smaller noggin' like me, I'd suggest a smaller frame).

Summer has hit in Chicago. This means high heat, high humidity, and sun.

XX2i has a lifetime warranty. No questions asked, you break or scratch them, send them back to be replaced for a nominal shipping and handling fee. They also have a 365 day return policy. What does that mean? You can take up to 365 days to determine if you want to keep them and if not, send them back for a full refund less any shipping and handling fee. This is a great return policy, as it can be hard to know when buying something off the internet whether it's going to fit properly or not. Even with something like sunglasses, trying them on in store isn't enough. You need the time to wear them while doing your activity (for me, running), to know if they'll work. It's sort of like your shoes. They might feel great in store for 2 minutes of running, but the real test is when you get them out for long runs (once broken in).

Flat Heather for Soldier Field 10 Mile.

On the 'field' post-SF10. Beyonce's concert that weekend meant the
field was covered. Boo.

The Hawaii1 cost $124.99, but you can get 50% this pair (or any other XX2i\) on their website using code XX2iRocks. I'm actually looking at adding the Crystal USA1 to my stash... don't they look super awesome with the green flash lenses? 

Fellow BibRave Pro and best bud Angie and I sporting the Hawaii1 for SF10.

XX2i will be sponsoring #BibChat on Tuesday, May 31. Join us at 8pm CT over on Twitter. Follow BibRave and XX2i, answer the six questions, converse with running pals, and be entered for a chance to win a pair of the XX2i Hawaii. If you don't win, use the discount code to snag yourself some sweet sweet shades.

Connect with XX2i:

website | twitter | instagram | facebook

What other BibRave Pros are saying:

Angie | Gina | Erin | Sarah | Christine

buff in the wild campaign

Disclaimer: BibRave and BUFF have partnered up for a BUFF prizepack giveaway, and as part of being a BibRave Pro, I am giving you a chance to win! Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

This is the UV Half BUFF that's likely to make an appearance or two.

If you are a frequent reader of this blog, you know I've had the chance to test a few different BUFF products, and I've loved them all. There was the UV Half BUFF, the UV Full BUFF, the Thermal Hoodie, and the Merino Wool BUFF. All great products and I almost always have some version of the BUFF on me when I go for a run.

Here's a #BUFFIE all by my lonesome with my Merino Wool BUFF.

Prize pack of BUFF gear for one lucky winner includes:
1 Original BUFF
2 UV BUFF
1 Merino Wool BUFF
1 UV Half BUFF
1 Headband
1 Shirt
1 Sweatshirt 
Stickers

This all comes to a retail value of $215! Honestly, I wish I could enter! So much awesome gear.

How do you enter? 
First, you'll need to find me at a race in the month of May. I have a few, so if you do a lot of races too, you're odds go up!

May 1: Southwest Half Marathon
May 22: Chicago Spring Half Marathon
May 24: United Relay, Stage 318, Chicago
May 28: Soldier Field 10 Mile
May 30: Ridge Run 5k

On a side note, I'll also be at all of the Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend races, but I haven't decided if I'll be doing the contest there, as it's already a hectic race weekend. Make sure to follow me on Twitter (@HeatherRuns13_1) and Instagram (@HeatherRuns13.1), and I'll post a Flat Heather and let you know whether you should come find me or not. I'll definitely post Flat Heathers before each of the other races, and try and tweet out my whereabouts once I get to the races, so you can better find me :) It's very likely I'll be in my BibRave orange tank or tee for many of these races.

My BibRave BUFF.

RULES:
1. Take a #BUFFIE with a BibRave Pro and post it on Twitter or Instagram.
2. Tag @BibRave & @BUFF_USA (same handles on both Twitter and Instagram).
3. Use hastags #BUFFIE AND #BibChat.
4. Contest runs May 1–31, 2016.
5. For US residents only. 
6. Photo must be taken at a race (so not the expo or a training run)
7. Participants can enter the #BUFFIE contest at multiple events 
8. One #BUFFIE entry per race 
9. Twitter and Instagram entries only* 

An example of a #BUFFIE with my pal Julia.

I'm pretty much game for any kind of #BUFFIE you want - silly face, smiling, being 'buff'. I mean, I have my limits, bit I'll do my best to accommodate the kind of #BUFFIE you'd like to post to Social Media haha.

Let me know if you have any questions. If you know you'll be at one of these races - let me know which one(s) in the comment section. It'll help me keep an eye out for you as well :)

Not in the Chicagoland area? Maybe one of the other participating BibRave Pros will be at one of your races. Check out their posts (I'll update as we go and add the Pros once their blogs are up):

Angie | Mark | Karen | Brenda | Katherine | Lisa | Elizabeth | Samantha | Gina

Remember to keep an eye on my Twitter and Instagram feed for my outfit and locations for the races! You definitely want to win this prize pack!

*This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Instagram or Twitter

chicago quarter marathon recap

You can read my more succinct race review over on BibRave.com.

The Third Annual (and my third time participating) Chicago Quarter Marathon was held on Saturday, March 26, 2016 with a 9:15am start. The start and finish were just outside Soldier Field, so we parked at Waldron Deck for $20. I do love races at Soldier Field. Though parking can cost more than other locations, it's always easy and you don't have to worry about getting a spot. Waldron Deck was wide open still (maybe 30% full) when we arrived, and even if that fills, you can head over to the North Garage.

We were also able to get free packet mailing because we registered prior to January 25. Yay! If you didn't get free (or pay for) shipping, then packet pickup was being held at Road Runner Sports on Kingbury Saturday the 19 and Thursday the 24. You could have a friend or family member pick up your bib (up to 5). This year participants received a red, full zip sweatshirt embroidered on the front with the race logo.

We arrived about 30 minutes prior to the start, so hung out in the car for a while. Weather on race morning ranged from low- to mid-40s, 7mph winds, and mostly sunny. Not bad at all.

Training leading up to this race was a bit off. I had taken some time off to let my minor quad injury (which ended my run streak) to heal, so I wasn't expecting any type of PR. I ran with my mom and we chatted and had some fun.

The course was the same as previous years - line up and start line were on Waldron Drive, then you went south on the Lake Front Path, turn around and come back north to the finish (same as the start line). The path does split at one point, so there wasn't too much of the two way race traffic causing congestion. I'd say there were approximately 1000 runners for this race. Take note that there were no corral, pace signage, or wave start. Everyone just lined up and when the race started at 9:15, we were set loose. I was towards the back at the start, but plenty of people came in behind me once we started moving, but I didn't notice too much congestion and it thinned out quickly enough. No pushing or shoving, which is always nice.

This was part of the course that has the path in two spots, so less congestion.

There were 3 water stops on course, but with it being an out and back course, this meant 6, and there was first aid at the midway point (about mile 1.75 going out, and 4.75 coming back). Pretty much my only beef with this race was that after the first water stop, there wasn't any more water at the following 5 stops - they were all out. I brought my own hydration (I love to use my Orange Mud HydraQuiver VP1 regardless of race distance to keep my phone, keys, water/electrolyte drink, etc.), so this wasn't a problem for me, but I thought of all the other people that didn't bring anything, my mom included, who probably could have used some water after mile 1. There were still plenty of volunteers at the stations, so it wasn't that they weren't staffed well, they just somehow completely missed the mark on cups or water. Disappointing to see this happen. Luckily, it wasn't 80 degrees out, so I'm sure everyone fared fine, I just hope that next year they are better prepared. This race definitely helped remind me why I do bring my own drink on course regardless of how many stations they supposedly have. I don't like to rely on when the stations are and what they have (or don't have). I can carry what I prefer to drink, and drink it when I want. Very convenient :)

Post-Race Party

I was getting nervous that there wouldn't be any post-race snacks for as at the finish line, the way they ran out of water on the course. What if they weren't prepared there either? Luckily, they still had snacks. We grabbed a bottle of water, banana, and choice of Kind bar (I grabbed the Pomegranate Blueberry Pistachio). There was a live band playing, and a special Easter Kids' Hop (Additional fee) where kids got to run around with the easter bunny.

Beautiful day for a race!

Mom and I did running 45 sec and walking 55 sec. We finished with a decent time (not as great as I'd been having before my mini break, but still not bad) and I was happy with how my legs were feeling. This was also the first race I used my Aftershokz Trekz Titanium headphones and they worked great! I could listen to music, but also was able to talk with my mom without having to take earbuds out. They use bone conduction technology, so nothing is actually IN your ear. They're pretty sweet. Plus, they matched my 2XU compression tights for the race haha.

At the finish, participants received a medal (a bit on the cheaper end this year - just went through and saw my 2015 medal and it was a tad nicer). Not a big deal for me, as most of my medals are hidden away in a box, but my feelings are if you are going to have a medal, have a nice one. I generally don't expect a medal for anything less than a half (though I do think it's a nice bonus when there is one). Anyway, I wish it was a little nicer is what I'm trying to say haha.

If I'm available, I'll probably be running this event again in 2017. It's a nice way to sort of kick of the racing season (though I do race all year round, the race choices are more slim in the winter), and I just enjoy racing for fun. It's nice bonding for my mom and I. Also, the race beneficiary is Prevent Child Abuse America - love when races donate some of the proceeds to a good cause.

f3 lake half marathon 2016 recap

Disclaimer: I received entry into F3 Lake Half 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!

Some shots from the race.

I was excited to be able to race F3 Lake Half Marathon for my second year. I really enjoyed it last year and was happy to see that they listened to runner feedback about some things that could have been better in 2015 and were applying it to 2016 (i.e. more water and food at the finish). They had sent out a survey the day after the race (and did the same this year). I'm happy to fill them out, so they can see where their strengths and weaknesses are. Usually, I don't have many negative things to say about a race, and they same went for this one both years. 

Flat Heather ready to go!

The race was being held on Saturday, January 23 with a half marathon start of 10am and 5k start of 10:20. I like doing winter races, because why should race season only be a few months out of the year? It's all year for me! It's a good way to stay motivated throughout the winter (I know some people get a bit depressed about winter weather, but I'm a big fan of running in the cold, as long as I have the necessary gear. Even running in the snow and ice on the trails is fun for me!). 

They had multiple days and locations for packet pickup, which I always give races props to on this. I know it isn't easy to organize such a thing, but really appreciate the ability to be able to pick up my packet when it's most convenient for me during the week rather than having to leave work early to make it on time on a Friday evening (and when a lot are in the city, it is no easy task). Pickup was available from Saturday, January 16–Friday, January 22 (only day not available was on Wednesday), at locations ranging from Dick Pond Lisle, Road Runner Sports Willamette and Downtown Chicago, and RunningExcels Frankfort. Time frames ranged from 10–5, 10–6, 4–8, and 10–8, so you had a lot of options to make it work with your schedule. You were able to pick up other people's packets as long as you had a copy of their confirmation email or photo id (they even stressed not to print, but to show on your phone). New this year was Will Call Race Day Pickup, which was an extra $20 fee when registering.

Was able to meet up with the BibRave ladies - Julia and Cass!

I went to Road Runner Sports in Chicago on January the 17th – received a 10% off coupon for RRS (which I used on some running necessities), and got to see my twitter pal Shawna in person! So awesome that she helped me out, even though at first we didn't even recognize each other. She saw my name for registration and then it clicked. I generally miss people unless their handle is written on their shirt or something haha. Anyway, super easy pickup.

This year at packet pickup, you received your drawstring bag and bib, and then the shirt and beanie were to be picked up post-race inside the United Club. There was a bit of a snafu with the shirts – there was a problem with shipping and the shirts were held up at customs. They had a few boxes to hand out after the race, but they requested that if possible, runners not grab theirs until later in the week when the rest arrived so that out of town runners could grab theirs after the race. Also, for anyone doing the 5k, they could get a beanie instead of a shirt, since those must have been more plentiful and were readily available. They planned on having shirts at RRS Chicago, Killdeer, Willamette, and Naperville, and Running Excels (both locations) during the week, and sent out plenty of emails to update the runners on what the situation was, when shirts could be picked up, etc.

A super awesome perk to this winter race is that pre- and post-race are inside Soldier Field's United Club! So, you can stay in the nice, warm indoors about 10 minutes prior to race and then right back inside when you are done. Great way to warm back up, too. Parking was a special event fee of $19 at the North Garage, and then you don't even have to go outside to get into the United Club – just enter at Level 3. You can use inside bathrooms, or there is a line of port-o-potties outside by the start. I went to the bathroom before the race, maybe 20 minutes before the start, and I almost missed it. There was a long line of men waiting, but no women's line anywhere to be seen. I couldn't figure it out where the ladies room was... turned out, same area, there just wasn't a wait. So strange to see the men have to wait in a line and not have to wait in one myself. What a pleasant surprise! haha.

They had Gear Check (though I didn't use it) which opened at 8am and closed at 1:40. Photographers were at the start (and I imagine finish - I don't remember seeing them though) and maybe at two points on course. Downloads were free. The course had 4 aid stations, each you hit twice, since the course was mostly an out and back. Gatorade first and then water. There was also first aid and bathroom(s). Even though I'm slower than most, still plenty of water and Gatorade until the finish. I remember last year not being able to get water towards the end, so glad this wasn't an issue this year (though I did bring my own hydration, because if you know me, I'm a thirsty lass and like to drink whenever the mood strikes haha).

The start was right outside Soldier Field, and then you ran towards the west, ran north around Soldier Field, headed east, and then got on the Lakefront Path heading south. Turn around was around mile 7.5ish (before hitting 63rd Street). The path was clear of snow/ice and you only had to avoid a few small puddles. The path is definitely not as crowded during winter with cyclists or other runners training, so congestion wasn't much of an issue (for me at least - not sure how it was for those faster folks). Once on your way back, the Finish Line was on the FLP, so you didn't circle SF again. 

After the Start, the first turn to head North. Soldier Field to left.

Race day was a beautiful winter day - about 30 degrees, mostly cloudy, with winds at about 8mph. I warmed up pretty quickly, ended up taking off my Buff, but then on the way back towards SF (headed North), the wind was worse and I had to put it back on haha. I had a great time hanging with my mom and we talked briefly with another woman who was walking most of it due to coming back from illness who was super nice. She had just done Goofy, so we talked runDisney for a bit too :)

Mom and I kept a pretty good pace, and we were pleased with our finish time. We have been slowly getting better times, so I'm happy with our progress. This wasn't necessarily a goal race, so I was happy to stay with her and we kept each other company. The time always passes faster when there's someone to talk to (or just be with - I still listen to music for those times we have nothing to say).

We were able to cheer on runners on their way back, and I got to high-five my goal Jake as well as get some photos of the adorable Julia.

Look at that smile! Julia's having a great time.

At the Finish Line there were bananas, bagels, Skinny Pop popcorn, bottled water, and apparently hot chocolate (I missed that stop, but that's ok - definitely wanted that bottled water more). We popped back inside, and since we were some of the last runners out there, and usually with at least a 2 hour drive roundtrip to get to any of the locations to get our shirts, we grabbed our shirts. I did see an email later in the day that the only shirt sizes that weren't available were women's XS and XL, and men's L, XL, and XXL, none of which were the two shirts we grabbed, so I felt less guilty.

Lake Michigan was a little icy - very pretty.

Post-Race party was at Reggie's in the South Loop. They had a free shuttle to bring people there from Soldier Field, which was a nice race perk. We ended up heading home, but it seemed like a lot of people were going there.

I really appreciated how they sent out surveys after the race so they can improve every year. I also love that they actually listen to what the runners have to say and do improve upon any major (and sometimes minor) problems.

Post-race SWAG for half marathoners:
bottle opener medal, beanie, and long sleeve tech shirt.

I'll definitely be looking into doing this race again in 2017 (there's also a 5k for anyone that doesn't want to for the half in winter time).

My friend and fellow BibRave Pro Cass interviewed the Founder of the race - read it here. Learning what F3 stands for makes the race even better! I also loved learning about how the race got its start - super interested read. Also love that she says the race is for people who like to run and drink beer {raises hand - that's me!}.

You can read a short/less personal review of my F3 Lake Half Marathon experience over on BibRave.

2016: my miles. my gear. my year.

Disclaimer: I received a pair of 2XU Mid-Rise Compression Tights and a pair of 2XU Recovery Tights 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!

Hello and welcome to Day 3 of BibRave series about New Year's Resolutions sponsored by 2XU! I was so excited to be a part of this campaign, as I have fallen in love with everything 2XU. If you have read my post on the MCS Elite Compression Tights or the Hyoptik Thermal Compression Tights, I think you've noticed already. If not, well I'll be telling you more about my new obsession.

2015 was a great year for me. I completed my first marathon as part of the Dopey Challenge, and then a few days later did the Castaway 5k to add two more medals to my collection since it was part of the Castaway Challenge. After only about 2.5 weeks, I had already ran 51.7 miles and earned 8 medals. 

I went on to do about 30 more races in 2015, one of which was my second marathon in October (Chicago), which didn't go so well. My training went great for the most part (I had to take a week off early on due to some knee pain, but came back the next week feeling great). I felt ready to go. Unfortunately, race day came, and with it so did 80 degree weather and full on sun. There wasn't a ton of shade on course, and I am a person that doesn't do well in heat, even if I train in it. I felt sick about half way through the race and never recovered. I made it to the finish line, but was very disappointed in my performance. VERY disappointed.

I partially attribute my poor performance to not having enough endurance for the longer distance. Though I made it through the training cycle without much trouble, I felt that maybe if I began training the longer miles more frequently, I wouldn't have suffered so badly. So maybe longer training plans for the next marathon so I can get those longer runs in more often. For me, I think practice is everything, and the more I do something, the better I get at it. Take half marathons, for example: I didn't do so hot my first few, as nerves and newbie-ness played a huge role. A few years later, I'm doing much better. I don't get nervous much, and my time has improved. I'm hoping that with more knowledge and practice at distances over 13 miles, I'll be able to conquer the shorter time requirements for marathons.

Let me add in that I was pretty sore post-Chicago Marathon (hips were sore, as well as my calves), but I tossed on my MCS Elite Compression Tights right after my shower, and wore them out of the town to hang with other running friends, and kept them on when I went to bed. I woke up and felt amazing. As if I hadn't just done a marathon the previous day. The only problem I had walking was due to a giant blister on the bottom of my foot. So for me, yeah, 2XU compression tights are MAGICAL.

Chicago Half Marathon followed by 5 more miles.
MCS Elite Compression Tights helping with recovery.

At Goose Island with fellow BibRave pals after the Chicago Marathon.
MCS Elite Compression Tights for the win!

And so with the first month almost complete for 2016, I share with you my goals. I am upping my mileage. 2015 saw a total of 584.24 miles. I'm gunning for 1200 in 2016 (so, 100 miles a month is the goal). Yes, that's quite the leap, I know. I am on track for my first month, and am extremely happy and proud. My legs and body are feeling good, so I think this goal is extremely attainable.

Part of how I am reaching this goal currently is through a running streak. I started the Runner's World winter streak, which was Thanksgiving through New Years - 37 days. I've kept it going and hit 60 on Sunday. Today will be day 63. 60 is the amount of days I made it on my last streak, which was in the summer of 2014, so I'm really happy to have passed that this year. 

Now, I am a smart lady, and I listen to my body. If eventually I start to feel injuries coming on, or my legs are too sore/tired to continue, I will stop the streak. And that's ok. I'll still be able to hit the 100 mile goal even if I don't run everyday. I know that rest days can be key to staying injury free, so I listen closely to what my body is telling me. Obviously I'm not going full out every day, and some days I'm only doing a mile at an easy pace, so they are sort of recovery days, right? ;) Seriously though, I want to be able to run for a long long time, so I won't risk major injury which can take me out of the this amazing runner's life I've been enjoying.

Thanks to my 2XU compression tights, I've been recovering much much quicker than I used to. In years past, I would take a few days off of running after a half marathon, because my legs were too sore and I thought rest was the best way to get them back to where they needed to be. I run a marathon (couldn't wear tights since it was so hot), put on my tights for recovery, and feel ready to run the next day. It's pretty amazing.

Have I mentioned that I also joined the 2016 in 2016 challenge as well? No? Well, I did. I am combining walking and running miles to reach this goal. This is also going well so far. I know it's early in the year, but starting it off with a bang is really motivational for me. 

Another way that 2XU is helping me crush my goals is that I can still run outside in the winter. Their Hyoptik Thermal Compression Tights are warm enough to allow me to get in long runs (which for a slow runner can be 3+ hours!). Plus, they are just so comfy to wear around the house for some extra leg love. I've worn them in 40–10 degree temps, but prefer them on their own at about 15/20–35 max. In 40 degrees I was too warm (don't worry, I have other 2XU tights to wear on warmer days now), and on the cold, windy days they are my base layer.

2XU Hyoptik Thermal Compression Tights letting me run outside during winter.

I've also been lucky enough to try out their Recovery Compression Tights (linking to the men's because the women's are currently off the site). They feel oh so good after a long run or when my legs are feeling a bit tired from all the miles. They are made with extra powerful PWX Weight fabric that stabilizes muscles, while graduated compression enhances blood flow for faster muscle repair. I've even slept in them. I wake up and my legs feel refreshed and ready to pound some more pavement (or the treadmill). Another awesome feature? I can wear them under my work pants to get all day compression and relief. 

Pardon all of the dog hair.
It's impossible not to have some on every article of clothing I own.

This is my favorite kind of recovery.
Recovery Compression Tights and puppy snuggles.

And for days that aren't below 30 degrees? You'll catch me in my full length mid-rise compression tights. I have a pair in Black/Cerise Pink , provided by 2XU, and also purchased a pair in the Slate/Lime Light. I love them both. Mid-rise = wider waistband than the regular compression tights. If you plan on doing a lot of bending, I'd recommend wearing underwear that's a similar color. I did find that my bright, colorful patterned ones peeked through a bit if the fabric stretched at all (like if you were doing yoga or bending down to tie a shoe, for example). Wearing black or grey undies to match the tights will help save some embarrassment. They are totally ok though when I'm just standing or running (yes, I had someone else check for me). I did the testing for you so you'd know ahead of time ;) 

Black/Cerise Pink

A view from all angles.

Slate/Lime Light

Some other favorites? Their socks! They are super soft, but offer enough support on my arches to help with my PF. I like both the performance low-rise sock (currently a New Year Bundle sale 3 for $40) and the Race VECTR sock (same deal - 3 for $40). The VECTR offer a little more support, so I prefer those on my long runs.

Pairing my Hyoptik tights with the performance low-rise sock.

I also bought a pair of shorts that I'll bust out once the weather allows for it (anything 50 and up, in my book!). I know, sounds like I bought a lot. I did. But during Thanksgiving week that had an AMAZING sale and I went a little crazy (seriously, with those deals, how could you not?).

I also recently purchased the Element Sport Jacket. It sounded like it would be a good late fall/winter/early spring kind of jacket. It's engineered with a 5:10 STRETCH membrane for complete flexibly and comfort while VAPOR+ SHINE technology maintains maximum protection from the elements. Light weight and breathable, it includes adjustable Velcro sleeve tabs, rear and two from side zip pockets, and shaped upper back panel. There's also a cinch collar toggle for a customized, secure fit.

Attempting to show you the back of the jacket.

It is nice and warm, and I love having some extra pockets to stuff my handful of kleenex. Yes, I'm a kleenex person (I'm a lady after all hehe), and in the winter go through a ton of them on my runs, with my runny nose...

I am so excited for this year of new challenges. What are you doing to challenge yourself in 2016? I would love to hear about it!

PS! 2XU Has offered us a 20% discount code to share with you all so you can gear up for winter—or whatever weather you need gear for... for me, that's all seasons ;) — RUN20 is valid until 2/29/16. Hop to it!

Check out the rest of the BibRave New Year's Resolution posts from my fellow friends and BibRave Pros:

Day 1: Katherine

Day 2: Emily
Day 4: Chadd

Day 5: Jeremy