2017 goals

Alright, we're already into the second month of the year, and I thought it might be a good time to finally chat about my goals for the year (yes, yes, I'm late haha).

I'm not into resolutions. Maybe it's just the use of the word, but to me it hold some negative connotations as something that always fails. I prefer to say goals, and I feel like they can be big or small, or maybe a group of small ones that lead to a big one. Either way, I work hard to achieve my goals, and it takes a lot of dedication, as I'm sure the majority of you are aware.

1. 2017 miles in 2017. I joined the challenge again this year. I met 2016 last year in that I counted every step and mile I accumulated throughout the day. I hit 2016 in November. Total activity miles (running and walking activity data from Garmin) was 1207.8. A huge increase from 2016. For 2017 I plan to use only walking and running data (not all steps/miles accumulated throughout the day, but when I go for a walk or run). I have doubts that I'll hit 2017, but the real goal is to get more than last year.
2. PR the Half Marathon Distance. I'm writing this set of goals late, but I've had them in my head, and I actually hit a PR at my first race of the year by nearly 6 minutes! Mission accomplished. However, of course it isn't quite good enough. I want to hit a 2:45 HM this year, so that's what I'm aiming for next.
3. 6 hour marathon finish. I am currently registered for two marathons currently – Illinois Marathon at the end of April and Chicago Marathon in October. I'd love to get that finish time in April, but if not, I feel it's definitely achievable in October as long as training keeps going as is. This might be a lofty goal as I need to take off about 17 minutes off my current PR to beat this. I think it's attainable, though. I've been working hard and my pace is improving, and I feel like it's something I can push my way towards by the end of the year, if not sooner. And if not, then it gives me a goal to keep working towards in 2018. (PS Want to run Illinois Marathon, Marathon Relay, Half Marathon, 10k, or 5k? Use code bibravebonus to save $10. You can also use it on any of the I-Challenges (Full, half, etc). Read more here or here.
4. Race at least once a month. This usually isn't too hard a task, but I like to keep it on my list so I don't forget. I think I have just about all of the months covered... I need a March race and I think maybe June and August.
5. Continue to up my hydration game. Last year I improved leaps and bounds on my water intake (cutting WAY back on pop). I want this to continue for 2017.
6. Focus more on nutrition/diet (by diet I mean the food that I habitually eat... not a diet trend kind of thing like Paleo or anything). I know that better running performance and recovery has a lot to do with nutrtion, and I'd like to hone in on that a bit more (I never pay much attention to what I eat, and honestly, I love some Taco Bell, pizza, fries, beer, and Cheetoh's... so cutting back on eating that stuff is part of it). I have the cookbook Run Fast. Eat Slow. and have made three of the recipes in there and loved them all. That's rare for me. I'm very picky and don't always go for the healthiest options, and I'm not big on veggies, so that doesn't make it easy. I feel like some of the recipes help hide the veggies so I get their nutritional values, but not the taste (like carrots and zucchini in the Superhero Muffins).
7. I originally forgot this one when I initially posted and just remembered as I was looking at my watch! Oops. I want to hit 10,000 steps a day. My watch is set as auto goal, so I'd love to hit that goal everyday, but I know some days it might not be feasible (as the more I hit my goal and go over, the more steps it wants me to do the next day haha). I believe I've hit 10,000 everyday so far and only missed the goal my watch set for me once. Not too shabby, for me at least. I know on days I didn't run I had a hard time hitting those 10,000... and honestly 5,000 sometimes wasn't even in the cards. By trying to hit goal 1, it helps me meet this goal each day as well.

So those are my main goals for the year. I know I won't always be perfect, but trying to improve my health and happiness is priority for me. I know if I stay focused and try hard, that's what matters most to me. Sure, I'll have slip ups, and that's ok. It's just about doing my best.

Do you set goals or resolutions?

staying hydrated with ultima replenisher

Disclaimer: I received Ultima Replenisher 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!*

The opportunity to test out Ultima Replenisher couldn't have come at a better time for me. My old favorite had changed their formula, and I was in the market for a new electrolyte drink. I was a little weary at first of trying Ultima, as it has stevia – an ingredient I am very sensitive too (and not a fan of) and seems like I taste it (or maybe just more bothered by it) more than others – which means I was afraid I wouldn't like it. I spoke with some others that use Ultima, and are also stevia sensitive, and after hearing their thoughts and recommendations, I decided to opt in (and thankfully was chosen, because now I know how awesome it is).

Lucky for me, the stevia didn't bother me at all, and I do believe I've found my new favorite. Ultima sent me a box of Raspberry sticks (20 come in a box) as well as a small canister of 30 servings of Lemonade (so nicely packaged, too). I love that from the small canister you can get 30 servings. Plenty of bang for your buck, plus, doesn't take up much space in the cabinets. The sticks are awesome to put in your purse/bag and for on the go. I can easily store one in my Orange Mud pack when I'm out on a run if I need to re-fill my bottle, or for post-race water bottles. That's what I did for Rock 'n' Roll Chicago. I had the 5k Saturday and the 10k on Sunday, and of course it's always crazy hot and humid that weekend, so I wanted to make sure I was hydrating properly Saturday so be ready for Sunday's race. I tossed in the Raspberry powder into a bottle of water post-race, and it was delightful.

After a trail run, I mixed up the raspberry for my first test of Ultima.
It was very refreshing and I was pleased that I didn't notice too much stevia :)

I'm not one of those ladies that just glistens a little when working out. I'll step outside in humidity and start dripping in a minute. You'll find me wearing tanks, t-shirts, and shorts in temps as low as the mid-40s. I heat up quickly when I start to run, and so in the summer, my clothes are usually pretty drenched a few miles in. Super attractive, right? Whatever - I like to keep it real with you all ;)

See that small patch of light color? Yeah, my shirt was almost completely drenched.

See what I mean? Uber sweaty.

Obviously with all the sweating I do, I'm losing electrolytes, so it's important to drink something other than water. I've found that I enjoy drinking Ultima before my run, but it is crazy refreshing as a post-run drink, too. A great way to replace what you've lost during the run. I mix it up, toss in some ice, and chug away. It's so yummy and tastes amazing after a run in this crazy summer weather (so hot and humid! Seems like all of my runs have been done in 80 degrees + with about 80% humidity or more. Woof.). Electrolytes will help avoid cramping, which is a sign that your body is low on them. It's important to consume electrolytes in a consistent manner so you can go into your workout or training session adequately hydrated. Start out with everything your body needs rather than try to add them in during the workout, which is usually too late. 

Symptoms of dehydration include: headaches, fatigue, leg cramps, sluggishness, and even hunger (what often appears as hunger is the body signaling for hydration; another reason why people say to drink water if you're feeling hungry, because you might just be thirsty instead.)

After hiking Mt. Abraham it was time to rehydrate and get ready for race day.
Always fun when it matches your nails.

Side note - it's important to get these electrolytes year round, not just in the summer. Even in winter, when you might not sweat AS much (I still sweat plenty haha, just not as much as in the summer heat and humidity), you'll still need these vital minerals.

Some tips from me to you:

• Use a shaker bottle. That whisk ball thing helps mix the powder into the water really well
• Mix and then add ice (doing so beforehand will cause the powder to clump and not mix as well)
• No blender bottle? No problem. I also stirred with a spoon, let it sit a minute or two, and then stirred again. Sometimes one stir works – just depends on how cold the water is. The colder it is, the more likely you'll get clumps (very small balls of powder), but if you let it sit for a minute, they usually dissolve without any issue.
• You can also just use a water bottle and shake it up. This worked well too, and I noticed a lot of the other BibRave Pros used this method.

What are the 6 electrolytes you're looking to help replace in your body after all the sweating?

1. Calcium
2. Chloride
3. Magnesium
4. Phosphorous
5. Potassium
6. Sodium

You can read more about these electrolytes and why you need them here.

Ready to go for Mad Half! Ultima is in my gear check list.

Ultima's new formulation includes MORE of these electrolytes. They increased the amount of magnesium, potassium, and sodium. You can see the comparison in the below image. They've also reduced package size by 45%, so more environmentally friendly. Scoop size has decreased and it's made to mix with 16oz rather than 8oz. I never had the old formula, but I like what they've done with the new one.

What's in Ultima? 

"Ultima contains a perfect balance of all 6 electrolytes plus support minerals that work together to provide complete hydration without stomach upset so you can feel and perform your best. Ultima is sweetened with stevia leaf and made with real fruit flavors that taste delicious. This formulation contains Vitamin C (Calcium Ascorbate) which supports a healthy immune system, protects the cells from oxidative stress and contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Calcium to support muscle contraction and nerve function. Phosphorus to deliver oxygen to muscles, Selenium as an antioxidant support, Zinc for recovery and neuron support, Magnesium for preventing muscle cramps, Potassium for cardiac muscle support, Sodium for muscle contraction and nerve function and Chloride for osmotic pressure support."

Ultima Replenisher is Non-GMO, Vegan & Gluten-Free. Zero Sugar, Zero Artificial Flavors, Zero Calories, 100% Awesome!

Ultima recently changed their formula. Here's some info from the website about it:

"Each serving of Ultima now has increased magnesium, potassium, and sodium — all very important electrolytes — and zero calories. By removing virtually all of the maltodextrin (except for the tiny amount that the natural flavors use as a carrier) we were able to create a formula that will hydrate without added calories. We care about what you put into your body as much as you do. With all 6 electrolytes plus support minerals, real fruit flavors and plant-based colors, vegan, nonGMO, no caffeine and gluten-free — we’re happy to be your go-to choice for healthy replenishment so you can feel and perform your best."

Rock 'n' Roll Chicago 5k.

"Our News is Good For Your...

Health:

• 12 X more Magnesium
• 3 X more Potassium
• Zero Calories / Carbs
• Removed most Maltodextrin
• Non-GMO, Gluten-free, and vegan certifications pending

Wallet:

• 100% bigger drink size!
• Same price
• Same number of servings

Environment:

• 40% less waste due to smaller packaging"

All the fun colors! Ultima uses natural flavors and fruit/vegetable extract for coloring.
The bright colors in raspberry, cherry pomegranate, and orange comes from beet juice!
Top: Lemonade, Raspberry
Bottom: Cherry Pomegranate, Orange, Grape

I loved the raspberry and lemonade so much, but I wanted to try the other flavors to find my favorite (and then order a 90 serving canister!). I ordered myself two of the variety stick packs, which come with all 5 flavors: orange, lemonade, cherry pomegranate (a new flavor), grape, and raspberry. While they are all delightful, cherry pomegranate is my favorite. Since it's a new flavor, it's been selling out quickly, so I am patiently waiting for the 90 serving canister to come back in stock. I think just about everyone can find a flavor out of the bunch that they would enjoy, if not all of them.

Love drinking Ultima after these hot, humid summer runs.

Do yourself a flavor (haha) and order yourself some! I have a 35% off + free shipping code for you to use = BIBRAVE2016. Ultima is already very reasonably priced, but it's always nice to save some extra cash, isn't it?

Ultima Variety Pack.

Cost of different products (before 35% discount):

20 count stick packs - $19.99 (about $1 per serving)

30 serving canister - $19.99 (about $.67 per serving)

90 serving canister - $39.99 (about $.45 per serving)

Obviously, going with the 90 canister is your best option price wise, but for traveling and on the go purposes, I really do enjoy having some sticks on hand too. Whatever you choose, I'd say the price is pretty comparable to other electrolyte drinks/supplements on the market.

You'll want to buy online for as long as the discount code is valid, because hello, free shipping and save some dough (no expiration date as of now, but if there is one, I'll update the blog), but just so you know, you can also find Ultima Replenisher at local stores such as Whole Foods Market,  Natural Grocers, Earth Fare, Sprouts Farmers Market, and more. You can go to the store locator on the website, input your address or zip code to find locations near you. I found some stores or workout studios that I wouldn't have thought to look at. Pretty cool.

The person (people) running their twitter and instagram account are very interacrive and helpful. I've bothered them with questions, such as when certain flavors will be back in stock, and they always get back to me quickly. Super helpful. 

Speaking of out of stock, they've had a few things come and go out of stock quickly, especially the Cherry Pomegranate flavor, which is their newest one. It has been super popular, and so goes out of stock just as quickly as it comes back. Snatch it up if you see if in stock! They currently have the individual packets, but not the 90 serving canister. Just a heads up if there are certain flavors/sizes you want, but they aren't available at the moment - they'll be back! Just keep an eye out on the website.

Enjoy cooking, baking, or finding new fun recipes? Check out the recipes using Ultima: http://www.ultimareplenisher.com/recipes/

Ultima Replenisher will be sponsoring #BibChat over on Twitter on Tuesday, August 2 at 8pm CT. Join us for some fun chatter along with a chance to win some Ultima for yourself!

Connect with Ultima:

website | twitter | instagram | facebook | pinterest

*All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I am always honest with you! Have a question? Just ask :)

friday five: five ways to beat the heat

Happy Friday, all! I am linking up with the DC Trifecta again for another Friday Five: Courtney at Eat Pray Run DC, Cynthia at You Signed up for What?, and Mar at Mar on the Run. This week's theme is "Five Ways to Beat the Heat". A great topic, now that summer is arriving (and with it, the heat and humidity - eek!)

1. Wear moisture wicking and breathable materials. I can't tell you how many people I see wearing cotton t-shirts out when they are running, and I always wonder how they can stand it. I hate being hot and sweaty, so it's important for me to wear a shirt and shorts that pulls the moisture away from the body to the shirt, where it can dry quicker. I wear looser tops in the summer, because I like some airflow, plus, I'm very uncomfortable when the clothes are sticking to me from all the sweat. Loose is better (in my opinion, anyway). I'd also suggest wearing lighter colors that reflect the sun, rather than absorb it.

Source

2. Wear a visor. I can't do a hat in the summer, even if it's a sporty one, because my head gets too darn hot. I like the visor because it keeps the sun out of my eyes and off my face, absorbs some sweat that's on my forehead (helping to prevent sweat in the eyes), and allows the top of my head to breath. I also cannot stand if hair is on my neck in the summer, so I wear a high bun on the top of my head, and then the visor tames the flyaway hair. Often times, if it's extremely hot out, I dump water on my head to help cool me down. Which brings me to 3...

3. Wet your hair down before heading outdoors. I find my runs to be more bearable if my hair is already wet when I begin, because it (at least seems to) help prevent over heating. 

Source

4. Hydrate. This one is sort of like a 'duh!', but you know there are plenty of runners that don't drink enough water (myself included, though usually on a run I drink a lot, it's pre- and post-run where I have trouble). Plus, even more so in the summer, it's important to also hydrate with electrolytes. With the heat comes more sweat, which means your sodium and potassium levels drop, two items you can help replenish by drinking some Nuun, Gatorade, or whatever your sport drink of choice is (water on its own doesn't replace the sodium and potassium lost, hence the need for electrolytes). I prefer Nuun, because it's a lighter flavor than other sports drinks. You can read more about why I love Nuun here (from last week's Friday Five). 

P.S. Does anyone know if you can still get a bottle like the one in the photo above anywhere?

Source

5. Take some frozen grapes with you. During a hot/humid day, it can be a nice treat to eat some frozen grapes while out for a run. Not only is the cold factor refreshing, but you are also getting some sugar and vitamin C.

A few extras might include (but certainly aren't limited to): running early before the sun is up (or even after, either way it's usually cooler in the morning than the evening. I will admit you will never see me waking up to go for a run before the sun has made its appearance), working out indoors on the unbearable days, and go swimming! I sometimes switch up my training schedule (move days around), depending on how the weather is looking. If the day after my scheduled long run is going to be cooler, I'll switch my long run to that day instead.

What do you do to beat the heat/humidity? Any special tips, tricks, or advice? 

Thanks to Courtney, Cynthia, and Mar for hosting! Make sure to check out their "Friday Five: How to Beat the Heat" posts (links to the specific posts are at the top of the page) and link up if you are joining in! There are always a lot of blogs linked up, and it's interesting to see everyone's takes on the theme. I always find some great tips/ideas. I suggest taking a look at a few (or all, if you have the time). 

Have a great weekend, everyone! I hope you have a chance to enjoy the outdoors, and it isn't too hot/humid where you are!