Perfect Workout

Shanny has volunteered herself to be my Bridal Boot Camp Sergeant for the remainder of this year. I want to feel my best and look my best for the BIG DAY!

We've discovered an awesome workout...P.S. You'll feel like shiza during the run, but light as a feather and energized to the max when you finish.

Here it is:

1 hour run (the key is - no stopping allowed! Jog very slowly or speed walk if you need a break)
When you get home:
50 crunches
25 leg lifts
50 bicycles
25 squats
15 sumo squats
50 calf raises
50 arm circles (with 5 lbs weights)
15 push-ups
50 Jumping Jacks
1 minute plank

Good Luck!

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Asics, Brooks, Saucony, New Balance or Nike? Running Shoes

Ok, so I’m a little tossed on which shoe to pick. I’ve needed a good pair of running shoes for quite some time now but I’m having trouble on finding the perfect shoe. Today I went to Roadrunner and got a running analysis done. They said that I am a neutral runner for the most part, but my left ankle seems to overpronate and needs more support (a Dr. Scholls might fix the problem). In a perfect world, I would need two different shoes to address the needs in each foot….OY VEY. Do any of you have a great pair of running shoes? What is your favorite brand, make and style?

Here are a few I was thinking about...

ASICS GEL-Kayano 17 have undergone a noticeable transformation -- slimmed down and toned up. Having recently lost some weight, this version is their lightest ever. Focusing on improved fit and comfort, loyal fans are sure to notice the shoe moves more effectively with the foot. Plus, it's synthetic fabrics are made from recycled materials, ensuring a more ecologically friendly direction. 10.4 ounces $139.99 YIKES!(these seem to be everyone's fav on internet reviews)

Women's BROOKS GHOST 3: The updated Brooks Ghost 3 feels so great on your foot, it's almost supernatural! With generous cushioning and just enough stability, this shoe delivers a feeling of bounce throughout your run, and its newly designed upper gives you a custom-made fit that will make you shiver with delight! Now in widths, the Ghost 3 is the ideal shoe for neutral runners who want great cushioning, fit and feel. 9.2 ounces $62 (These look great! They also won the runner's choice award)

Women's SAUCONY PROGRID RIDE 4: You'll forget all excuses with this lightweight, versatile runner. The Blown rubber outsole of the ProGrid Ride 4 shaves off weight while increasing shock absorption and comfort from the moment you put them on. Comfort improvements include more luxurious collar and tongue linings. A great everyday choice for neutral runners. 9.7 ounces $99 (I don't know if I'm diggn the look of these, but I've heard good things about their performance)

Women's NEW BALANCE 1226: Like to rack up the miles? Get lots of cushioning and support in the updated women's New Balance 1226 featuring greater heel impact absorption, durable stability, and the best-fitting, most supple upper ever! PL-1 Last - Performance fit. 10.4 ounces $94 (I like the look of these!)

Women's NIKE AIR PEGASUS +28 BREATHE: One of the more popular Nike shoes, the women's Nike Air Pegasus +28 Breathe is a solid, lightweight running shoe that offers minimal rub and reflective detailing for warm summer or fall evening runs. The environmentally preferred rubber in the outsole is durable for all surfaces and provides great traction for the mildly underpronated to mildly overpronated runner. The Flywire midfoot panel holds the foot in place, and the mesh top keeps your foot aired out in the hot sun. 9.2 ounces $89 (Nike is always great...but I wonder if I should try a new brand. Is the Pegasus any good?)

Here it is in peach and grey

-B

Wet 'n' Wild Toronto Marathon

Today was the Goodlife Toronto marathon which thankfully, I did not have to run in but I did however volunteer as a Bike marshal.  It was cold, wet, rainy, dirty, and did I mention, freaking cold!

Well, it's Sunday evening now and the races are long over so hopefully all runners are now warm in their beds and probably passed out I imagine.  After a hard marathon or even 4-5 hours of bike riding around the cold weather helping the runners, rest and good nutrition are key elements to great recovery.

One of my most favourite pre- and post-work-out drinks to have are protein smoothies (all vegan of course), super delicious and nutritious, here are two of my favourite, easy mixes.

 Cranberry Protein Smoothie

3/4 cup almond milk
1/4 cup water
1/2-3/4 cup of frozen (or fresh) cranberries (however many you like)
1 tsp sunflower butter
1 scoop of vanilla flavoured brown rice protein powder like Sunwarrior

Blend all ingredients together in a good blender and enjoy!

I like mine with ice.

 Green Banana Protein Smoothie

3/4 cup almond milk
1/4 cup water
1 medium ripe organic banana
1 tsp almond butter
1 scoop of vanilla flavoured Vega Sport Performance Protein

Blend all ingredients together in a good blender and enjoy!

I don't discriminate, I personally love most all raw vegan protein powders and sometimes like to mix it up to get the full benefits from each throughout the day.

Congratulations to all the amazing runners today!