theinbetweenismine

just a girl living the expat life

Tuesday Topics:  What’s a great new running product that you’ve tried this year?

filed under: fitness, linkup, running, Tuesday Topics

I am linking up again with  Kookyrunner and Zenaida  for Tuesday Topics again today and we’re talking about new running product that we’ve tried this year.

I had to think about this for a minute, because as much as all runners love to try new products (am I right?), I couldn’t think of anything new that I tried recently. Because while I love to try new things, I also love to stick with what works. Contradiction? Yeah, maybe.

Then I did think of a couple of new runner’s items that I could share with you.

1. I won a Lululemon Gift card in an Instagram giveaway a few months ago and finally used it get myself a shiny new pair of running shorts. I don’t know if I would have coughed up $60+ for a pair of tiny shorts on my own, but having the gift card definitely sweetened the deal and I have heard so much good stuff about the Lululemon Speed Up Shorts*. I haven’t actually run in them yet, but I will break them in this weekend, but they felt very comfortable when I tried them on. (Do you also do all kinds of moves and squads in the fitting room when you get new workout gear? Just me?)

2. I also tried the Vega Essentials Chocolate Shake* post-run for the first time and surprisingly, really liked it. I am usually not a fan of powdered shakes, but this one was good. It might have been the chocolate flavor. Do you have a favorite shake?

3. My Garmin Forerunner 235 watch band was getting kind of old, the strap retaining loop was broken already and since a replacement band from Garmin is kinda expensive, I looked for other options. I replaced it with this Fintie Nylon Watch Band* and it turns out that it’s really comfortable and, moreover, doesn’t rub my skin when I sweat (which sometimes was a bit of a problem with the original rubber watch band). If you’re looking to replace your watch band, I recommend this one! (Just an FYI, if you have tiny wrists like me, I had to punch an extra hole in the watch band because even on the last hole it was fitting too loosely for my taste.)

What new running products have you tried this year?

 

* #notanad, This is not a sponsored post. I have not been compensated by the brand or anyone else for linking the websites.

Tuesday Topics: How to survive your first cycling class

filed under: fitness, Tuesday Topics

As you know, because I mentioned it a few times here and there, I have recently started going to cycling classes.

What you don’t know is that I had thought about going for months already, always changing my mind last minute and promising myself “next week, you’ll go”, and then I found another excuse to postpone.

The truth is: while I have done cycling workouts before, I haven’t been to a class probably since college and frankly, it’s intimidating to walk into a room full of people you don’t know. Yes, even for a seasoned gym goer.

Here are some tips that have helped me over the hump.

1. GO WITH A FRIEND!

If you can, let a friend drag you along to your first cycling class. I was lucky to get the opportunity to finally go to a cycling class with my friend Tanja (an experienced indoor cyclist) when I visited her in SoCal last month, which made the whole thing a whole lot less intimidating. I still had to go to my second class by myself, but I was already kinda aware of what to expect.

2. PICK A CLASS THAT DOESN’T REQUIRE PRIOR SIGNUP

If you’re taking classes at your gym, check the class schedule and consider taking a class at a day/time that isn’t super-popular (like Sunday mornings at 8 a.m. at my gym). It ensures that you don’t have to sign up beforehand and that it’s not going to be crowded on your first try.

3. SHOW UP EARLY

If you don’t want to walk into a room full of people that you don’t know who turn their heads when you enter, make sure to get to your first class with plenty of time to spare.

You can scope out the room, pick a bike in the back row (where most newbies will feel more comfortable), and get familiar with your bike. It’s easier to be IN THE ROOM when other people walk in, then being the one walking in. And then…

4. SET UP (OR ASK FOR HELP SETTING UP) YOUR BIKE

If you’ve never been on an indoor bike, chances are that you don’t know how to set up your bike. Asking for help might be uncomfortable, because you’re outing yourself as a newbie, but you can’t just hop on any bike and expect the settings to be right for you (most likely they’re not).

If you’re uncomfortable asking for help, you could do a little homework and learn how to set up your indoor bike correctly before you go to class. That will at least give you the chance to appear as if you know what you’re doing.

But most likely though, you don’t have to fret, someone – another participant or the instructor – will notice that you’re new and offer to check your settings for you, and you just accept it with a smile. (Remember: most people are friendly and like to help!)

5. BRING A TOWEL AND WATER

Don’t be that person that walks into an exercise class without a towel and bottle of water. That will out you as a beginner faster than anything else. And trust me: you will need the towel AND the water. Cycling makes you sweaty and thirsty like nothing else. (I am a sweaty person in general, but turns out, I am especially sweaty when I cycle.)

6. DO THE BEST YOU CAN AND HAVE FUN.

Don’t stress about being a newbie. I know, easier said than done, but I promise you, most people are not there to judge you. They have all been in your shoes at some point (even if it doesn’t look like it).

The first class will be a little overwhelming (just know to expect that). Unless it’s specified as a beginner class, you probably won’t get any other instructions on how the class is going to go. The lights will go off, the music will start, the instructor will yell instructions (and you might not know the lingo). Your body is getting used to moving in a new way, there is going to be the beat of the music you’re trying to keep up with, the instructor will give you instructions on when to “increase resistance” and when to “ take the load off”, etc., etc. Just take it all in, but don’t sweat keeping up with everything. This first class is just to get a feel for what it’s like and you should only do what you can comfortably do. Go easy in your first class, don’t push yourself to the limit (or you might never go back!).

Nobody is going to come over to look at your cycle to tell you you’re not working out hard enough. The instructor might try to encourage and push you, but (s)he’s not going to judge your efforts. Cycling class is not a competition, it’s for everybody to have a good, sweaty workout that makes you feel amazing afterwards!

REMEMBER: Everyone, keep your eyes on your own paper bike.

I am linking up again with  Kookyrunner and Zenaida  for Tuesday Topics.

Tuesday Topics: Favorite cross training activities

filed under: fitness, running, Tuesday Topics

I have to confess that when I started running about 5 years ago, I was really bad at cross training. Sure, I’d do a warm up before and stretching after each run (hey, which should count for something!), but as I was just finding my way into a new fitness routine, I didn’t really do anything else but run (unless you count the occasional time on the elliptical a cross training activity). 

But don’t you worry, I’ve gotten much better at cross training over the years. It definitely helps keeping me motivated (because it’s always good to switch things up), but I also think it’s a big reason why I’ve been (mostly) injury free. I’ve been trying to take advantage of my gym membership which gives me access to equipment and classes and I am usually there 3x per week.

I started going to yoga classes (although I have to admit that I haven’t been to a class in a while) and also do yoga workouts at home sometimes. There is just something about bending and stretching your body in a gentle fashion that definitely helps with flexibility and mobility of your body.

I also started (body) weight and strength training a couple of years ago (and I can definitely see how that has helped my running!). It’s so important to strengthen your core and hips to be a stronger runner. You’re much less likely to get injured due to weak joints/tendons that lead to poor running form.

I’ve been incorporating more core and balance training into my strength training exercises. (For short-term extra boosts of motivation, I’ve also joined the TMAC20 21-day challenges* before, which provide community support and very effective, daily 20-minute workouts that are easy to incorporate into your daily life).

And then, I very recently picked up cycling as a cross training activity and I can see that becoming a favorite. I’d been talking about taking a cycling  class for a while and I am so glad I finally got a taste when I went to a cycling class with my friend Tanja when I visited her in SoCal a week and a half ago. I think it’s safe to say that she most certainly got me hooked (now, if I could got to the cycling classes with her, that would be even better).

All this to say, cross training is fun, it’s important and it keeps me motivated. 

What is your favorite cross training activity?

I am linking up again with  Kookyrunner and Zenaida  for Tuesday Topics.

Tuesday Topics: What are your favorite non-running or non-fitness hobbies?

filed under: Tuesday Topics

Let’s talk about all the things we like to do when we’re NOT running. I, for one, have a lot of non-fitness related hobbies. Too many, if you ask me.

I’ve always been someone with tons of hobbies. As a kid/teenager, I wanted to try EVERYTHING (and I also tend to not be a quitter, so instead of dropping one hobby for another, I’d usually just pile them on.)

Boredom? What dis?

I probably have about 3-4 competing interests at any given time and often can’t decide which should take priority at that particular moment. Sometimes I will start one thing, only to switch over to another half and hour later.

In no particular order, here’s what I love to do in my free time:

Blogging – surprise! If you’ve been around for a while, you know that I’ve been blogging for a long time and I am not intending to quit any time soon.

Traveling – I love to travel, even though I don’t always get to travel as much as I want. (Who does?) I still count it as a hobby, because I do try to get out exploring whenever I can.

Reading – I’ve been that kid that always had a book attached to their hands. I went through phases where I didn’t read as much as I wanted to, but I am happy to say that I’ve established a pretty solid reading habit in recent years.

Knitting/crocheting – I learned to knit/crochet when I was young and I am so happy about it. It’s such an awesome activity to relax and wind down.

Crafting/Card-making – I’ve always loved making stuff with my hand and I’ve been making cards (for all occasions) for years and years. You might know that I did turn my hobby into a little side hustle a few years ago (but it really is just a hobby, I don’t rely on that income by any means).

Baking/Cooking – Is there anything more satisfying than creating something delicious to eat?

I am sure I could come up with more things I like to do, but those are the things I’d consider my main hobbies. So many things to do, so little time. Am I right?

What are your favorite non-running hobbies?

I am linking up again with  Kookyrunner and Zenaida  for Tuesday Topics.

Tuesday Topics: What do you bring along on a run?

filed under: running, Tuesday Topics

 

I am (trying to be) a minimalist when it comes to bringing stuff along on my runs. I don’t really like carrying anything in my hands (although I do bring my hand-held bottle of water for longer runs sometimes), but some other things are non-negotiable for safety and convenience. I came up with a list of ten items that I always take along. That seems like a lot, but you’ll see, many of them are rather “small”. 

Here are my top 10 items:

1. I carry most of the items in this Amphipod running belt*.  I am kinda hoping to replace this one sometime…  the belt is pretty worn out, but it has served me well for the last three years.

2. I rarely run without my Garmin*.  I know, sometimes it’s nice to not be a slave to our watches, but I just love recording my exercises. I am a numbers nerd.

3. I feel like a little motivational arm bling always helps, so I usually take along one of my Mudlove* bracelets,

4. … and one of my Momentum Jewelry* Motivational wraps…

5. … and my Road ID*. That one is more for safety than for motivation. It has my name, phone number and emergency contact information on it and it’s always a good idea to wear that.

6. I also carry my ID and a visa card for emergencies. You never know if you get stranded somewhere or if you need to stop and buy some water or snacks (or a post-run coffee treat). 

7. I always need tissues somewhere along the way, so a pack of tissues is a must.

8. My house key is always one of the items that I obviously have to carry. 

9. Well, and then I bring my iPhone for safety and for listening to music/podcasts on my run. I always tell someone where I am planning to run, but I also sometimes use eCrumb Tracking via the Road ID app*. It basically alerts your person of choice when you stop for 5 minutes or more, and it gives them updates via text about your progress. 

10. Last but not least, wireless headphones are a given. But I always just use one ear bud, so I can still hear what’s going on around me! Stay alert, guys!

What items do you take along on a run?  Any items that I am missing?

I am linking up again with  Kookyrunner and Zenaida  for Tuesday Topics.

* #notanad, This is not a sponsored post. I have not been compensated by the brand or anyone else for linking the websites.

Tuesday Topics: Cold Weather Running Essentials

filed under: fitness, running, Tuesday Topics

To be quite honest, I am not prepared for cold weather running. Like, at all. Cold weather here in California is still well above 32°F and so snow is not a concern and even my layering is pretty minimal. The only thing I’d have to be concerned about is rain, and I guess I should invest in a rain-running jacket at some point, come to think of it (so far has not been that point), but I don’t really need gloves, hats, or anything like that.

Are you jealous yet? (In my defense, we do have to cope with some really hot summer temperatures in return.)

So, my list of cold weather running essentials might look different from yours, but here goes:

1. I don’t really need any lined or extra-warm running pants, regular long running tights* will do during the winter months.

2. I do like my Buff neck warmer* (which can also double as a headband or face mask, if it’s really cold and windy).

3. I always need tissues when it’s cold outside (just me?). I do get a runny nose – pun intended! – when it’s cooler running weather, so I can’t leave the house without them.

4. One of the things that instantly happens for me when it’s cold is chapped lips, so I usually carry lip balm* wherever I go.

5. I usually can get away with a regular shirt and adding a long sleeve shirt on top, but when it does get down to the 30’s or 40’s, I often opt to wear my Fleece Jacket* as well.

6. I use Sunscreen* all year round, because even if it’s cloudy, it’s important to protect your skin. It also acts as a layer of protection against the cold.

7. During the winter month, I’ll wear long sleeve shirts like this one* (preferably with thumb holes! Are you a fan of thumb holes, too?)

Most of my winter morning runs will be so early (before work) when it’s still dark outside that I will opt for the gym, where I don’t have to worry about winter apparel at all.

Do you opt to run indoors when it gets really cold outside?

This week, I am linking up with  Kookyrunner and Zenaida  for Tuesday Topics.

* #notanad, This is not a sponsored post. I have not been compensated by the brand or anyone else for linking the products/websites.

Tuesday Topics: What I love about running

filed under: running, Tuesday Topics


This week is Valentine’s Day, so it’s an appropriate time to talk about the things we love about running!

As most of you know, my blog is not exclusively a running blog, but running-related posts have been sneaking in more and more over the last few years. It’s just become a huge part of my life and so naturally, it has started to show up more on my blog.

I have fallen in love with running for many, many reasons, some of which I’ve talked about before.

Running is “me-time”.

Running has become on of my favorite forms of me-time. I put in my ear plugs, listen to some music or a podcast, and go. I love being outside, seeing other people be out and about, and just moving my body. It clears my head like hardly anything else.  I know that when I am cranky, I have to get outside.

Running burns calories

Let’s be honest, I love and enjoy food and running affords me the luxury to eat some extra calories. I am not much of snacker, but if we’re having a good meal, you can bet that I am getting seconds. 

Running creates community.

I usually run alone (I have yet to try out a run club), but I nevertheless feel like part of a community. I know some people might secretly shake their heads about people that document their fitness journey on Instagram or other social media sites, but the fitness – and especially the running community – feels very supportive and I am so happy to have met so many like-minded people (online and offline).

The reason why I love running the most though?

Running makes me happy.

Running – more often than not – puts a huge smile on my face. I just feel good after most of my runs (even though the run itself might not always feel good). That might seem odd, but that’s a fact.  I feel strong, healthy, and capable and just physically and mentally in a good place.

What do YOU love about running (or your physical activity of choice)?

This week, I am linking up with  Kookyrunner and Zenaida  for Tuesday Topics.

Tuesday Topics: How do you deal with stinky running clothes?

filed under: linkup, running, Tuesday Topics

Photo by @Andyfitz on Unsplash

Let’s talk about stinky running clothes or workout clothes in general.  If you work out on a regular basis, you know it’s a problem. I sweat a lot when I work out and typically you can’t wash your running clothes right away. I usually do a load once a week, but that means most of my workout clothes will sit in a hamper for the better part of the week. Not really ideal, but you can’t do laundry every time you work out. My approach to deal with stinky clothes is multi-layered.

Spray your workout clothes and shoes with Febreze.

Since I often go to the gym during the week before work, my clothes (and towels) inevitably sit in my trunk for most of the day. I bought a Febreze* spray bottle to deal with the immediate smell of running clothes, because they usually have to first sit in the car and then in the hamper for a while.  I spray my shoes, clothes and towels after my workout and it really helps take down the nastiness a notch or two!

Wash your running clothes separately.

I admit that sometimes I have lumped regular clothing (socks, underwear, undershirts) with my workout clothes, but I usually try to wash them in a separate load. It’s just better to separate the really stinky stuff from the regular stinky stuff, ha. I do one load every week and I usually have enough dirty workout clothes by the end of the week to warrant their own load. I also almost always wash my workout clothes in warm (instead of cold) water, because I believe warm water just cleans that much better. 

Use a sports wash detergent.

I use – and love – Molly’s Suds All Sport Laundry Wash* for my workout clothes. I feel it really makes sure they are clean and fresh when they come out of the washer. It’s advertised as preserving wicking capabilities, breathability, SPF and water repellency of your clothing (which is important to me).  It is formulated with non-toxic, food-grade ingredients and without the use of UV brighteners, harsh chemicals, or synthetic fragrance.

 

Let you running clothes air-dry.

Except for my socks, I air-dry all my running clothes on a drying rack. Not only does that help with keeping my workout clothes in good shape, it also makes sure they keep airing out after the wash. I use this collapsible drying rack* from Ikea.

How do you  deal with sweaty workout clothes? Share your tips and tricks!

This week, I am linking up with  Kookyrunner and Zenaida  for Tuesday Topics.

* #notanad, This is not a sponsored post. I have not been compensated by the brand or anyone else for linking the products/websites.

Tuesday Topics: How do you fuel for your run?

filed under: fitness, linkup, running, Tuesday Topics

This week, I am linking up with  Kookyrunner and Zenaida  for Tuesday Topics.

This is a new link-up. Kim and Zenaida took over the weekly link-up spot that was previously taken by the “Tuesdays on the Run”-link up, which ended in December. I am happy to see someone took up the torch.

Today we’re talking about how we fuel for a run.

I have to admit, most of my runs are run on an (almost) empty stomach. I usually have a glass of water before I work out in the morning and sometimes a string cheese. My main fuel comes post-run.

However, I always fuel before a race (or runs that are longer than 8 miles). I figure that it gives me an extra boost of energy to conquer the distance, but I don’t get very fancy. I usually have steel cut oatmeal before a race, sometimes it’s just a protein bar or a banana.

I am still very much a newbie to fueling during a run and I have been experimenting with different things: Honey Stinger waffles, ProBar Chews, and simple things like pretzels or gummy bears. I didn’t want to believe it, but it actually works and gives you a boost right away. I know lots of people swear by the gels, but I am just not a fan of the texture.

Post-run, I immediately re-hydrate with electrolyte and magnesium tablets. I also try to eat something within 30-45 minutes. On the weekends, I make scrambled eggs + veggies with toast, or pancakes or steel cut oats with fruit. During the week, when I have less time (or commute from the gym to work right away), I either have overnight oats ready to be heated at the office or sometimes I just reach for a Greek yogurt or a Perfect Bar to get in some protein.

What is your easy, go-to fuel for your run? I am always open for new ideas!

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