Just for Run

Here’s a bit of fun for y’all. I don’t mind checking out my monthly horoscope or grabbing a fortune cookie. But how about instead of what’s your love sign, what’s your workout sign?

Health.com asks, What’s Your Workout Personality?
They have an awesome star guide to help you find the right fitness regimen. Mine was actually pretty spot-on. Although I think I’m more of a biker than a dancer, ha.

Sagittarius
Your adventurous spirit craves scenery changes and new, exciting workout goals.

Watch out for: Static, repetitive exercises. They’ll lose their luster in no time.

The stars say: Indulge your curiosity. Learn to swing dance or sign up for a long-distance bike ride.

What does your sign say about you?

Cinque Terre – Hiking…drinking and eating our way through the 5 Lands

April 26, 2012

Just for Run, Travel

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The hus and I returned this week from a magnificent vacation in Cinque Terre, Italy. If you are more of a layout on the beach and sip pina coladas kind of traveler, this destination might not be on the top of your list. Cinque Terre means “Five Lands” and we spent our time walking the few miles of terrain between each lovely village.

Throughout our trek we would stop in each town and have a local delicacy, which meant anything from pasta, FRESH seafood, gelato, to vino or Lemoncino. The smells and flavors of each town were similar to Italy but unique to the region.

It’s something that I think you have to try, especially as I know many of y’all are very athletic. You’re hiking in the most beautiful scenery, and I can only imagine the smells and views in September when the vineyards are full.

Here’s a breakdown of Cinque Terre:
Riomaggiore -> Manarola – 25 minute paved walk via the Via Dell’Amore (“Love Walk”). Fantastic sea views.

Manarola -> Corniglia – map said 3 hours, we did 1:45, beautiful walk in the vineyards. Best views of the entire coast from atop the mountain. *We stayed in Manarola, which is that beautiful pic above.

Corniglia -> Vernazza – OK this is a no-no, but we didn’t know the path was closed, due to the floods last October. It was a gorgeous trek, not bad at all, in an 1:10.

Vernazza -> Monterosso al Mare – a great hike, easiest of them all, but Monterosso was not my favorite. We only visited once; odd as Monterosso is where mostly everyone stays.

Overall, I am finding that my best vacations have been ones where I am constantly going places and seeing things. There’s still so many places we are looking to visit and I can’t wait to continue exploring.

What’s been one of your most unexpected activities on vacation?

You Keep Moving

April 24, 2012

Just for Run

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Today, you’re moving. Be it from the car to work, your house to a morning/evening run. Celebrate movement. I have heard some amazing stories from the finishers at the Boston and London marathon.

While the runners breaking records and PRs are reason enough to celebrate, the stories of those that triumphed over adversity shows the pure awesomeness of the human spirit. I cannot imagine getting a leg cramp, knee sprain or other injury during a race – much less one that is 26.2 miles. For these participants to push through the anger, the pain, and carry themselves through to the finish is truly inspirational.

So for everyone today – celebrate the ability to conquer and keep on moving.

Where are you moving today?

Happy Blogiversary To Me

April 18, 2012

Just for Run

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I honestly don’t know what to say – yep, there’s a first. I’m celebrating two AMAZING years with Live for the Run. Back to where it all began.

What started out as a hobby has grown into a relationship. I have met the most marvelous people that have turned into close friends. I’ve also been inspired by so many of you that have shared your comments and stories. I am blessed to be able to share my personal moments, thoughts, and musings with you, albeit many are absolutely random.

I want to thank each and every one of your for being such a fantastic support system – keeping me motivated and passionate about running and life. Y’all are the bestest!

Thanks for joining me in my journey – keep on running and doing what you love!

On that note, let’s all have some cake…

Monday Motivation – Cheerleading: A Bystander Sport

April 9, 2012

Just for Run

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I’ve recently read some great posts about people volunteering or going to support a friend or loved one at a race. This kind of healthy energy is contagious.

Typically I’m the one racing, but this weekend I took a seat on the sideline and went to support the hus in a mountain biking competition.

Me and mountain biking do not mix, so no crazy ideas you’ll ever find me in one of these races. Andrew however is naturally athletic and happens to be a dayum good mountain biker. It was fun helping him get all set-up for the race, including making the best peanut butter and jelly sandwich – tasty fuel. I cheered from the sidelines and watched him come in 4th overall and tops in his age group for the mini-marathon.

Later this month I’ll be cheering on Norak as she goes out for the Nashville Rock & Roll Half Marathon.

It’s awesome to be able to support and applaud my family and friends, and it’s something I encourage us all to do more of. This week, be it at a race or your local gym, go show some support for a friend. Your enthusiasm and encouragement does wonders for motivation.

What’s the best cheer sign you’ve ever seen at a race?

April Goals – Inside & Outside the Gym

April 2, 2012

Just for Run

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Clearly, since I’m writing you, I was not a lucky lottery winner.

Hello, April. It’s time to get on the spring goal train. Things to keep me focused, and general things that I would like to improve.

April Motivators:
- Practice more quality time – did you hear that iPhone?
- Get back full-on with my morning workout routine
- SCHEDULE a race
- One vegetarian day a week
- Eat clean
- Limit mindless browsing to 30 min per day; including the social networks (you know who you are!)
- Read at least 15 minutes a day
- Keep faith in myself and work for it

What’s on your list of goals for April?

The Aftermath of Adult Spring Break

March 20, 2012

Just for Run

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I’m back! Well almost. Trying to recover from a long week. My brother is officially and honest man. Thank you all for your very sweet wishes.

Happy first day of spring!!

Running in the warm Florida sun was such a treat, and I can’t believe I stuck to my running plans on vacation — definitely a first. Norak kept my beach buns in check.

Apart from seeing loads of St Patty’s celebration pics from the weekend, seems there were dozens of my friends doing races in places like Atlanta, DC, and New York. Congrats to everyone who ran! I am beyond itchy to find a race. Spring race fever is upon me. I’m looking for something like a fun run or maybe a half.

When trying to find an activity like a race, what resources do you use to choose one?

Adult Spring Break

March 12, 2012

Just for Run

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Hope everyone had a lovely spring-like weekend. I think the general consensus is that we like daylight savings, but would also like our hour back.

I am heading off to the sunny, warm Florida Keys for my big brother’s wedding. That’s right, I’m going to Key West during spring break, as an adult. The last time I saw Duval street I was in college and let’s just say it was blurry at best.

This time around, I’m looking forward to running the beach with Norak and sticking my toes in the sand. First stop is Orlando for a taste of Braves Spring Training.

I’ll be on a blogcation but will miss you all!

Anybody else planning a mini spring break?

Running Flashback: Where Were You One Year Ago?

March 1, 2012

Just for Run

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This past weekend marked the anniversary of me and my mom’s first half marathon. Oh, Disney Princess Half Marathon how we missed you! It wasn’t until I saw all the tutu and glitter coverage online that I realized it has already been a year! Time ~~runs~~ flies by.

While I am still figuring out my race plans for this year, I look back to this time last year. Racing with my mom (unreal!) and training insanely unbelievably hard for my first marathon.

As for Norak, I got her the Garmin 405 Forerunner (yes, a model up from mine!) for Christmas and she proudly told me last week that she’s clocked 150 miles in two months. Proof running never gets old.

I think it’s important to make sure you keep tabs on how much you’re growing, be it from one month, a week, or a year. Look back and give yourself some credit.

Running or otherwise, what surprises you most about where you were a year ago?

Giving Things Up For Lent: Not So Fast

February 22, 2012

Just for Run

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Did you celebrate Fat Tuesday? I sure as sugar did. I love a good random weeknight carb-fest!

Many of you might be preparing for Lent and have plans to give up certain types of luxuries or food. Even those that are not “religious” often take part. If you are going to be giving something up, may I offer some advice…

At the beginning of the month I gave myself a 29 Day Challenge to cut carbs, nix sugar, and get a jump on my morning workouts. I happily report that the carbs and morning workouts were not an issue, but the sugar certainly was. I’m OK with admitting I fell completely off the wagon. The wagon rolled right over me. Forgoing sweets sent my body into shock. I ended up going through an entire Cadbury candy bag quicker than you can say, “Woah, there Easter bunny!” I decided after my chocolate shame to go for more of an “in moderation” route, treating myself on the weekends, and this seems to be working out.

When giving up one thing you might replace it immediately with something else – be wise about the choices you make. Moderation is key in keeping Lent in perspective.

On what I might give up for Lent – give me back my chocolate – I could take a break from some of my social media habits. There’s something to rejoice about.

Are you going to partake in Lent? If so, what are you considering giving up?