Friday, July 29, 2011

When you need Electrolytes, you need Elete.












When performance counts and being at your absolute best is absolutely crucial, count on elete Electrolytes to stay hydrated, keep muscles working in tip-top condition, and recover quickly following exertion. elete Electrolytes provide balanced ions of magnesium, potassium, sodium and chloride without carbs, sugars, or any artificial ingredients.
elete provides products that support the unique needs of athletes, allowing them to perform at the next level.
elete Electrolyte products include:
elete Electrolyte Add-In
The original, pure, liquid electrolyte concentrate that contains four essential electrolytes—sodium, magnesium, potassium, and chloride. elete Electrolyte Add-In instantly turns water or any beverage into electrolyte-fueled water.






































elete Electrolyte Add-In
The original, pure, liquid electrolyte concentrate that contains four essential electrolytes—sodium, magnesium, potassium, and chloride. elete Electrolyte Add-In instantly turns water or any beverage into electrolyte-fueled hydration.
Original elete Electrolyte Add-In provides the best value available
Demonstrated in a clinical study to transform water into dramatically more efficient hydration
Minimal flavor when mixed according to recommendations (to good quality drinking water)
Taken straight, elete Electrolyte Add-In tastes salty
No calories, carbs, or artificial ingredients



































Elete CitriLyte Add-In
Also a pure electrolyte concentrate but with a light, tart flavor. elete CitriLyte contains sodium, potassium, magnesium, and chloride plus zinc, an essential trace element, and citric acid, which participates in the Krebs cycle (as a pathway involved in energy conversion.)
When mixed, elete CitriLyte adds a light, tart flavor in water—almost as if you’ve added a lemon wedge to your water
Designed to be more palatable for more concentrated mixes (i.e., when a stronger dose of electrolytes is desired) or if used in less-than-perfect tap water
Ideal for those individuals sensitive to mineral flavor
Easier to mix when dosing electrolytes without precise measurements (e.g., drops, squirting, etc.)
Contains original elete Electrolyte Add-In but with the benefits of zinc and citric acid
No calories, carbs, artificial ingredients (colors, flavors, preservatives)
Easy clean up in hydration packs and bottles; will not stain or leave a residue.





























Empty pocket flask
elete’s handy empty pocket flask allows for individualized, as-needed instant dosing of electrolytes and can easily be refilled with the refill sizes of original elete Electrolyte Add-In or elete CitriLyte.
Refillable with either original elete Electrolyte Add-In or elete CitriLyte Add-In
Carry anywhere convenience with low cost per each
Supports family and friends usage with larger bottle.



































Elete Tablytes
For those who prefer tablets, elete tablytes provides a higher dose and broader range of electrolytes with the convenience of swallowing a pill with water.
Provide nine electrolytes to support hydration, performance, and endurance -support optimal muscle function* (This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease)
tablytes’ electrolytes are in true electrolyte form for rapid absorption and assimilation
All-natural ingredients
The most concentrated, comprehensive balanced electrolyte product available
Offers the convenience of quick, concentrated dosing of a “swallow-whole” tablet
The best value in a comprehensive electrolyte tablet
Contains original elete Electrolyte Add-In as a major ingredient



Why elete is the Superior Electrolyte



Clinically tested and shown to be significantly more efficient for hydration than water alone.
Unlike sports drinks, elete provides four essential electrolytes to replace all of the minerals lost in sweat–not just sodium and potassium.
No sugars, calories or carbs to undermine health and fitness goals or cause GI distress. Safe for those individuals with health conditions for whom sugar-laden, high-sodium hydration beverages may be contraindicated.





They help our body absorb water and control fluid balance. Although drinking water during exercise is critical to avoid dehydration, drinking plain water that is devoid of electrolytes can lead to a serious condition called hyponatremia. Hyponatremia occurs when blood sodium concentration falls to extremely low levels, which can result in seizures, coma, and death. Electrolytes not only prevent dehydration, but they’re critical to muscle function, nerve conduction, energy production and flow, and heart function. For the endurance athlete, a major benefit of electrolytes is that they help prevent muscle cramps, which can impede performance.
Athletes must be careful to avoid a shortage of electrolytes during training: Loss of electrolytes through sweat must be replaced, but most sports drink and electrolyte replacement supplements, powders, and gels ignore the fact that the body also requires more minerals sodium alone. One essential electrolyte is magnesium, which is necessary for energy production, muscle contraction, cardiovascular and respiratory function. Another important reason athletes need to supplement with a balance of electrolytes is that if electrolyte minerals become depleted, negative effects like cramping occur. Magnesium – not sodium – can help prevent muscle cramps.









Sweat contains more than sodium and potassium: While sodium and potassium are two important elements in sweat, they are not the only ones. Sweat also contains magnesium, chloride, and other trace minerals. So why hydrate with a sports drink that provides only one or two electrolytes?




It is better to replace electrolytes throughout activity: The best way to replace electrolytes is in moderated quantities every time you drink, not in short, concentrated bursts.
Sugar-laden sports drinks can be overwhelming: While carbohydrates are necessary for the body to manufacture energy, drinking sugar in every gulp fatigues the palette, causes nausea, and, in some instances, provides more calories than is necessary. Did you know that a serving of most sports drinks contains as much sugar as Kool-Aid* (*Kool-Aid is a registered mark of Kraft Foods Holdings, Inc.)?







Add either elete add-in formula (elete Electrolyte Add-In or elete CitriLyte) to your water to make pure electrolyte water and to replace water and the essential electrolytes lost in sweat and activity. elete also converts any beverage into an instant electrolyte-replenishment beverage. Use elete with your preferred beverage to replenish and increase the body’s store of essential electrolytes. In a recent study, electrolyte water made with elete was shown to be significantly more efficient at staying hydrated than plain water.




Elete is the only electrolyte supplement fully compatible with hydration systems: Unlike sports drinks or electrolyte-replacement powders or gels, elete can be added to your hydration system without compromising the integrity of the bladder, hose, or valve. In addition, elete requires no more cleanup for your pack than plain water. In a recent review of elete, Gear Review.com stated, “For hydration packs, elete is a must.”





I know that this is a lot of information but I thought that this was an amazing product. To think that I could add in my own electrolytes to my water and not have to lug around bottles around to make sure I am hydrates made me smile. For race day, you better believe I will have some tablets on hand. If you are looking for a product that stands up to it's name and information, this is it! NO taste at all and I felt completely hydrated even during my longest runs! Thank you Elete for making such a great product! I give you guys a 10!




Please go to thier site to check them out!








-Heather

Monday, July 25, 2011

Pro Bars!

This just in! I usually dont post twice in a day but I am not planning on being near a computer to blog for a few days! So here you go! Please make sure you read the whole thing ;)
It's so worth it!!!












Check this out! I found a company that makes some pretty amazing looking bars! Here's a little bit about the company!









PROBAR is the perfect example of necessity giving birth to invention. In the late 1990s, Art Eggertsen, a natural food chef and snowboard fanatic, was living, working and playing at Utah’s famous Snowbird Ski Resort. He had “the life”: a great job, lots of friends, and plenty of deep snow and steep mountains surrounding him. As a natural chef advocating health and good nutrition, Art quickly built a strong reputation and became known as the local “Food Coach”.
Little did he know his passion for whole foods, and supporting others through their nutritional journey, would soon lead to an explosive opportunity. One day while hitting the slopes, Art found himself absolutely starving. He searched his pack only to find bland-tasting, rock-hard energy bars, which he’d sooner chuck to a squirrel than force down his throat. He considered and quickly rejected the next alternative, greasy slope-side-fare of cheeseburgers, fries, and soda. Lucky for us, his empty stomach would not let him continue so famished.
Determined not to let another day of fresh powder go to waste due to hunger, Art took things into his own hands. He needed a better bar - one that not only tastes great, but packs a substantial nutritional punch. He went to his kitchen and started experimenting. He shared each new bar he created, and there were many, with his food-coaching clients. Soon they were begging for more.







The buzz was contagious. The talk caught the attention of one of Art’s entrepreneurial friends, and before Art knew it he was blending up his first big batch of bars in a local test kitchen. PROBAR was born.






Made from whole, organic, raw foods, and 100 percent vegan, PROBAR is a natural alternative to other nutrition bars which contain unrecognizable, hard-to-pronounce ingredients. Not only are Art’s creations nutritious, but also they actually look appetizing - like real food! Just to top it off, they taste delicious too!


Since that summer of 2001, PROBAR has been challenged to keep up with the high demand. PROBAR now distributes everywhere from big chains such as Whole Foods Market, Vitamin Shoppe, REI and EMS to local coffee, bike and outdoor shops. They can even be found at many medical offices, yoga studios, and some hotel chains. In 2007, the company doubled its sales every month of the year. PROBAR has won four prestigious product awards during 2008, and the year is only half over. Spring 2009 promises more great products from PROBAR: not just bars, but other real and nutritious foods!





The reason for our success is simple - Integrity. Compared to other bars, PROBAR tastes better and contains high quality ingredients. From the beginning, PROBAR has remained committed to convenient, natural, high-performance nutrition. PROBAR is Art’s project and has never strayed from the integrity of his original recipes. Thank you to everyone who enjoys real food!






Please go to the site so you can see for yourself just how many different bars they have, I was practically drooling after going to the site: WWW.THEPROBAR.COM




























This is where award-winning whole food meal replacement started! Delectable combinations of 15 whole foods including grains, chunky nuts and delicious fruit in 8 flavors that will satisfy. With Art’s Original Collection you’ll find the incomparable recipes that continue to win rave reviews from critics and customers alike.
Art's Original Collection is a Delicious meal replacement
Certified Organic, 100% Vegan
Rich in Raw foods – 70% Raw
Good source of Omega 3 and 6
8-12 g of plant based protein







Are you drooling yet?!?!! Well, take a look at this!
















Here are a few of my favorites that looked OH SO GOOD!







PROBAR Sweet and Savory bars are a twist on the delicious, organic meal replacement we’re known for. With flavors like Cocoa Pistachio, Maple Pecan, and Cherry Pretzel you’re sure to find rich, gourmet flavors that appease salty sweet cravings and introduce you to flavors unlike any other bar.
Sweet & Savory is
Gourmet meal replacement
Salty Sweet flavor combinations
Balanced blend of carbs, good fats and protein
Certified Organic, 100% Vegan
5 g of fiber and all the same nutritional benefits as our Original Collection






And if that wasnt enough check this out!







Just because the folks at ProBar rock they are going to allow you to receive 40% off your first order when you visit www.theprobar.com/shop and enter code BLOGGER at checkout.











Let me know what you think! I will too!












-Heather

Sweat in fashion!


Happy Monday to you!!!

I'd like to introduce to you a headband like none other! Are you ready? Well I hope so!


SWEATY BANDS!!!


They’ve turned perspiration into a fashion sensation! Sweaty Bands are the ultimate sports and fitness headband, uniquely designed for women and girls who want to show their style, even when they sweat a while! Slip into one today and become a Sweaty Bands believer. Like potato chips, you can’t have just one, so check out their monthly six-pack. Go ahead; turn on the Sweaty Jukebox, take your time, and enjoy your visit!
Sweaty Bands - Hot Looks


Here is a little bit about the maker of this fantastic product!






Hello! My name is Donna. I'm a married mother of three. I have been teaching group fitness classes and personal training for 20 years. It is my passion and my hobby. I started making Sweaty Bands as a way to supplement my income. I have an obsession with having the freshest tunes to keep my students motivated. My entire paycheck was going to new music! Selling a few Sweaty Bands out of my gymbag was a way for me to keep buying music and pay for continuing education. Sweaty Bands have provided me the opportunity to do what I love and make a little money on the side. I hope you LOVE them as much as I do!
Fitfully Yours,Donna












These are the headbands that I recieved and let me tell you, I put these babies to the test! I ran, I swam and I slept in one by mistake even! I tell you what, THEY WORK! They didnt slip or slide. They are SUPER cute and even made my old gym clothes look cool! I LOVE LOVE LOVE these headbands. I have already gotten a ton of compliments! If you are looking for a headband that will stay put AND look cool, this is it!




They have so many to choose from you wont want to just get one. TRUST ME ON THIS ONE!


I give sweaty bands a 10!


Thanks so much! I never want to take mine off!

-Heather

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Socks that talk the walk!

Hey there! I have a great post for you this morning!

I was out to find the best socks for hiking and running. I decided to check out some forums to see what people thought. I typed in "running must have's". There were several people that thought this company sold the best out there! So off I went to the website. I was so excited when I saw what they had to offer and thought "Wow, This is just what I need!!!" Let me tell you a little bit about the company and product I received!










Injinji has embraced the changing world, specifically identifying the need for a biomechanically and medically advanced product that would allow the foot to perform at its best. Makers of “The Original Performance Toesock”, Injinji modified the basic structure, shape, and fiber of the traditional sock. “Optimal foot health is a key part of our overall wellness”, says Jason Battenfield, CEO. “Our toesocks provide each wearer with proper toe alignment which improves posture, gripping and balance, strengthens the muscles in the foot and leg, encourages healthy circulation, manages moisture, and prevents skin on skin friction.”
After five years of extensive research and field testing, the Injinji Performance Toesock™ was recognized for its innovative design and awarded two design patents in 2004, one of them for its innovative AIS: (Anatomical Interface System) technology™. The medical community soon followed when they awarded the Injinji Performance Toesock™ with the prestigious American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance in 2008. Says Dr. Brenner, Injinji Consulting Podiatrist, Founder and Chief of the Institute of Diabetic Foot Research in Glendale, NY, “The majority of the cases I see as a podiatrist could have been prevented if people just paid a little more attention to their feet. Just like tires to a car or a foundation to a structure, without the feet, the body simply doesn’t function, so we need to start respecting and protecting them.”
Whether you are a professional or recreational athlete looking to enhance your performance, or just mindful of taking care of your body, your overall wellness starts with properly caring for and treating your feet with the respect they deserve. Paying more attention to your feet can not only prevent painful foot ailments, but stave-off more serious health issues. Injinji remains dedicated to promoting foot health awareness and preservation through their innovative, twice patented products, including the award winning Performance Toesock™ Series, Outdoor Series, Liner Series, Travel Series, Yoga Series, and Compression Series.
The transition has begun…Free your toes™.

















































































The Original Weight Performance Toesock is engineered to separate your toes with a CoolMax® moisture wicking fiber that we blend with durable Nylon and Lycra® to create an anti-frictionmembrane that is light and breathable. Seamless in construction, the Performance Toesock™ forms to every contour of your foot. This allows for true restriction free and natural movement from your heel to five toes. This design encourages healthy circulation and eliminates skin on skin contact between your toes to prevent blisters.
MSRP: $12.00
Length: Micro
CUSHION LEVEL: ORIGINAL WEIGHT








Please go to: www.injinji.com








I thought that these socks were amazing! They are totally lightweight and I lOVE the separate toes. My toes couldn't of been happier after my run today. If you are looking for breathable, lightweight socks that will never give you blisters in between your toes, these are the socks for you! I give these socks a 1o! Thanks so much injinji for sending a pair my way! I am sold!








See you all tomorrow with more news and reviews!








-Heather

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Power Systems




Hello everyone!


Have you ever been sore the day (or two days) after an intense workout? Well, I just may have the answer for you! First I'd like to tell you about the company that sent me something that truly amazed me!




Power Systems:


















When looking for quality training items, look no further than the Power Systems’ brand. Power Systems offers a wide variety of dumbbells, kettlebells, and barbells, as well as speed, agility, and quickness and plyometric training tools. The variety continues with balance products, foam rollers, strength training equipment and accessories for all your training needs. Rest assured when you see the Power Systems logo, you are getting the highest quality for the best price. This is true when you go to their site you will see for yourself. Quality products at a price you can afford. I was asked which product stood out to me and I saw this baby!



























Premium Textured EVA Foam Roller:
POWER SYSTEMS BRAND. These rollers are just like our Premium EVA Rollers but have a textured surface that helps to add comfort during myofascial release.
Additional shipping charges may apply. Foam Rolling or Body Rolling is a form of self-massage used by fitness enthusiasts, athletes and therapists to relax or “release” tight muscles. This form of massage is designed to increase elasticity of connective tissue therefore relaxing the muscles allowing them to respond more efficiently and effectively during activity. Foam Rollers can be an invaluable tool for core development, stabilization and strengthening. Foam rollers can also be used to enhance balance for everyday activities or sports. Rollers come in various sizes ranging from 12” up to 36” in length and are usually 6” in diameter in full or half models. The longer rollers are typically used for massage as well as postural alignment. Whereas the shorter rollers are ideal for acute massage or make an excellent travel companion for on the road self massage. The half round versions are sometimes used to enhance some balance exercises or to decrease the need for balance for other exercises. Either way, foam rolling is a bonus to any exercise routine!

When I got this thing I thought "this is it....it's just a big piece of foam!!!" Well yes, it is a big piece of foam but it is also an amazing tool. I used this after my long run on Saturday and no soreness whatsoever. I swear! I couldn't believe it!

Go to: www.power-systems.com

to see what amazing products they have to offer. If you want the exact foam roller that I got go here:

http://www.power-systems.com/p-4092-premium-textured-eva-foam-roller.aspx


When I went to their site I loved the fact that I could not only get great workout gear but I could also get some great info! I give Power Systems a 10! Here is a article that I got right off their site! What great info!

Ready to Roll
by Michael Boyle

"Interested in providing a massage therapist for each of your athletes? Try handing them a foam roller."

A decade ago, strength coaches and athletic trainers would have looked quizzically at a 36-inch long cylindrical piece of foam and wondered, “What is that for?” Today, nearly every athletic training room and most strength and conditioning facilities contain an array of foam rollers of different lengths and consistencies. What happened to bring foam rollers into prominence? The change has been in our attitude toward massage therapy. We have been slowly moving away from an injury care mode of isokinetics and electronics to more European-inspired processes that focus on hands-on soft tissue care. We now realize that techniques like massage, Muscle Activation (MAT), and Active Release Therapy (ART) can work wonders for sore or injured athletes. In addition, the understanding at the elite athlete level is: If you want to stay healthy, get a good manual therapist in your corner. Thus, athletes at all levels are starting to ask for some form of soft tissue care. What does all this have to do with foam rollers? As coaches and athletic trainers watched elite-level athletes experience success from various soft tissue techniques, the obvious question arose: How can I make massage available to large groups of athletes at a reasonable cost? Enter the foam roller. National Academy of Sports Medicine President Micheal Clark, DPT, MS, PT, CES, PES, CPT, is credited by many—this author included—with exposing the sports medicine community to the foam roller. In one of Clarke’s early manuals, he included a few photos of self-myofascial release using a foam roller. The technique illustrated was simple and self-explanatory: Get a foam roller and use your bodyweight to apply pressure to sore spots. Since then, many of us have discovered more uses for foam rollers, including injury prevention and performance enhancement. We’ve also moved away from the accupressure concept and now use them more for self-massage. And we’ve come up with specific protocols for different situations. Essentially, foam rollers are the poor man’s massage therapist. They provide soft tissue work to the masses in any setting. But you need to know their nuances to get the most out of them. What, How & When A foam roller is simply a cylindrical piece of extruded hard-celled foam. Think swimming pool noodles, but a little more dense and larger in diameter. They usually come in one-foot or three-foot lengths. I find the three-foot model works better, but it obviously takes up more space. They are also now available in a number of densities from relatively soft foam (slightly harder than a pool noodle), to newer high-density rollers that feel much more solid. The denser the athlete, the more dense the roller should be. Large, heavily-muscled athletes will do better with a very high density roller whereas a smaller, younger athlete should begin with a less dense product. The application techniques are simple. Clarke’s initial recommendation was based on an accupressure concept, in which pressure is placed on specific surfaces of the body. Athletes were instructed to use the roller to apply pressure to sensitive areas in their muscles—sometimes called trigger points, knots, or areas of increased muscle density. The idea was to allow athletes to apply pressure to injury-prone areas themselves. The use of foam rollers has progressed in many circles from an accupressure approach to self-massage, which I’ve found to be more effective. The roller is now usually used to apply longer more sweeping strokes to the long muscle groups like the calves, adductors, and quadriceps, and small directed force to areas like the TFL, hip rotators, and glute medius. Athletes are instructed to use the roller to search for tender areas or trigger points and to roll these areas to decrease density and over-activity of the muscle. With a little direction on where to look, most athletes easily find the tender spots on their own. However, they may need some instruction on the positioning of the roller, such as parallel, perpendicular, or 45 degrees, depending on the muscle. The feel of the roller and intensity of the self-massage should be properly geared to the age, comfort, and fitness level of the athlete. This is one of the plusses of having the athlete roll themselves—they can control the intensity with their own body weight. There is no universal agreement on when to roll, how often to roll, or how long to roll, but generally, techniques are used both before and after a workout. Foam rolling prior to a workout can help decrease muscle density and promote a better warmup. Rolling after a workout may help muscles recover from strenuous exercise. My preference is to have athletes use the rollers before every workout. We also use them after a workout if athletes are sore. One of the nice things about using the foam roller is that it can be done on a daily basis. In fact, in their book, The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook, Clair Davies and Amber Davies recommend trigger point work up to 12 times a day in situations of acute pain. How long an athlete rolls is also determined on a case-by-case basis. I usually allow five to 10 minutes for soft tissue activation work at the beginning of the session prior to warmup. If my athletes roll after their workout, it is done for the same length of time. Some Specifics While the foam roller can be used on almost any area of the body, I have found it works best on the lower extremities. There is not as much dense tissue in the upper body and our athletes are not prone to the same frequency of upper body strains as lower. The hamstrings and hip flexors seem to experience the most muscle strains, so we concentrate on those areas. Here are some protocols I use: Gluteus max and hip rotators: The athlete sits on the roller with a slight tilt and moves from the iliac crest to the hip joint to address the glute max. To address the hip rotators, the affected leg is crossed to place the hip rotator group in an elongated position. As a general rule of thumb, 10 slow rolls are done in each position (although there are no hard and fast rules for reps). Often athletes are simply encouraged to roll until the pain disappears. TFL and Gluteus Medius: The tensor fasciae latae and gluteus medius, though small in size, are significant factors in anterior knee pain. To address the TFL, the athlete begins with the body prone and the edge of the roller placed over the TFL, just below the iliac crest. After working the TFL, the athlete turns 90 degrees to a side position and rolls from the hip joint to the iliac crest to address the gluteus medius. Adductors: The adductors are probably the most neglected area of the lower body. A great deal of time and energy is focused on the quadriceps and hamstring groups and very little attention is paid to the adductors. There are two methods to roll the adductors. The first is a floor-based technique that works well for beginners. The user abducts the leg over the roller and places the roller at about a 60-degree angle to the leg. The rolling action begins just above the knee in the area of the vastus medialis and pes anserine, and should be done in three portions. To start, 10 short rolls are done covering about one third the length of the femur. Next, the roller is moved to the mid-point of the adductor group and again rolled 10 times in the middle third of the muscle. Last, the roller is positioned high into the groin almost to the pubic symphysis for a final set of 10 rolls. The second technique for the adductors should be used after the athlete is comfortable with the first one. This exercise requires the athlete to sit on a training room table or the top of a plyometric box, which allows him or her to shift significantly more weight onto the roller and work deeper into the large adductor triangle. The athlete then performs the same rolling movements mentioned above. Although I primarily use the rollers for athletes’ legs, they can also be used with upper extremities. The same techniques can be used for pecs, lats, and rotator cuffs, although with a much smaller amplitude—making the movements closer to accupressure. Assessing Effectiveness Foam rolling is hard work that can even border on being painful. Good massage work, and correspondingly good self-massage work, may be uncomfortable, much like stretching. Therefore, it is important that athletes learn to distinguish between a moderate level of discomfort related to working a trigger point and a discomfort that can lead to injury. When an athlete has completed foam rolling, he or she should feel better, not worse. And the rollers should never cause bruising. Ask the athlete how his or her muscles feel after each session to assess if the techniques are working. I also judge whether foam rolling is working by monitoring compliance. If I don’t have to tell athletes to get out the foam roller before a workout, I know the techniques are working. Most do it without prompting as they see the benefits. Rolling vs. Massage The question often arises: “Which is better, massage therapy or a foam roller?” To me the answer is obvious: Hands-on work is better than foam. Hands are directly connected to the brain and can feel. A foam roller cannot feel. If cost was not an issue I would have a team of massage therapists on call for my athletes at all times. However, having an abundance of massage therapists on staff is not in most of our budgets. Therein lies the beauty of the foam rollers: They provide unlimited self-massage for under $20. Sounds like a solution to me.

Michael Boyle, MEd, ATC, is a strength and conditioning coach and consultant based in Boston. He has trained numerous athletes, from amateurs to Olympians and professionals, and can be contacted through his Web site at: www.michaelboyle.biz. Training & Conditioning, 16.9, December 2006, http://www.momentummedia.com/


Let me know what you think about foam rolling...you never know....there could be a surprise attached to this ;)

Thank you so much Michelle for sending me this wonderful product. Power Systems Rock!!! BTW: I will be posting about my beach vacation, no worries! Keep reading!

-Heather

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

The three R's

Hey there! I am so excited because I am leaving tomorrow for vacation!!! I am hoping that I will be recharged and back to 100% after some much needed beach time! I wanted to leave you with a really good post and I think that this is a really good topic! I hope you enjoy and when I get back I will be sure to post lots of pictures for you to see!

If you wind up on the injured list, a health care practitioner will usually tell you to follow the RICE acronym—rest, ice, compression and elevation. Take note that the very first letter— “R”—stands for “rest.”
When you have a cold, the doctor tells you to “get some rest.”
As you prepare for a big race, you probably spend the last few weeks of training in “tapering” phase which is just another word for rest.
Are you sensing a trend here? Doesn’t it seem like rest is an important part of the process? Then why is it so hard for a runner to incorporate more rest in to their training schedule?
Here are some reasons that have been given for not resting:
Losses and Gains. If I stop or slow down, surely my fitness level will decrease and all my hard work will have been for nothing. This will certainly lead to weight gain followed by a deep, dark depression. I’ll lose my confidence, self-esteem, job, and significant other. My dog will shun me. All because I stopped running or cut back the mileage for a couple of weeks.
Mileage Envy. How come he gets to run a 15-mile trail run this weekend, and all I get to do is go swimming? Why am I stuck running a measly 3-miler when she has a cool track workout planned? And what about all those people entering cool races!? Not fair!
Invincibility. I’m having an awesome season, I just don’t want to stop. What if I have another PR in me and I miss my chance to run the perfect race? Must. Keep. Racing.
Revenge. I can’t believe I didn’t PR at that last race! There’s another race in a few weeks. No need to waste all this training…I’ll just try again. And again, if necessary. The season isn’t over—I’ll get that PR yet!
Need Fulfillment. I have to run. Have. To. Run. Must run. If I don’t run, I can’t be held responsible for my behavior. I’ll go crazy if I don’t run, which will lead to depression. I’ll lose my confidence, self-esteem, job, and significant other.
In reality, a couple of weeks of rest will not have any long-term, irreversible effects. As a matter of fact, slowing down or stopping for a while will actually be good for your body and will most likely assist in preventing an injury. Cross-training is a great alternative for active rest if you just can’t stop moving.
Rest means repair—give your muscles a chance to heal, grow and rejuvenate. Spend your rest phase planning out a new training schedule. Peruse the race calendars. You may even have time to read a book for pleasure or spend time sleeping in. Think about how excited and motivated you’ll be to get back out there!

See ya with more news and reviews when I get back!
-Heather

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Xagave







This is my second bottle of Xgave I have already done a post on this product and gave it a raving review. However, agave has been getting some mixed emotions on the Internet from people. I wanted to set them straight! First let me tell you about Xagave. What is it?


About Xagave: Xagave brand is Premium Agave Nectar is a wonderful sweetener and food that will help you achieve your health goals, whether it be weight loss, improved digestion, more energy or enhanced immune system. There are differences in Agave nectar's, and not all are created equal. The following should give you a quick overview and understanding of why our blend is so special and different from anything on the market. We believe that it should be the only sweetener in your diet. We are 100% confident that you will taste and feel the difference.


Here are a few facts to help you understand what makes Xagave so special: Premium Blend.Xagave is a unique and special blend of the nectar's derived from Agave Tequiliana (Blue Agave) and Agave Salmiana (White Agave) plants. This proprietary, premium blend provides the best tasting, best cooking qualities, most versatile and healthiest product on the market. No other product has the same concentration of calcium and inulin (a pre-biotic fiber and the only product on the market with a standardized inulin content). Once you have tasted and cooked with Xagave, we are sure that you will agree that no other brand can compare or even come close to the neutral taste and health properties. Truly our nectar is unto a class of it's own. Organically Grown.


Xagave is derived from the Agave Salmiana plant, which takes about 7 to 8 years to mature. The plants are grown under strict guidelines that meet USDA organic certification requirements. The farms and processing facility are part of a co-op of 700 farmers -- we purchase our nectar from farmers that we know -- not in the open market and we believe in fair trade and pay a fair price for the product. We know where our agave comes from and who grows it and the standards utilized.


Agave plants are processed and how our product is stands above as a premium organic and raw product Low Glycemic Index.


Xagave is a very low GI food. Xagave, a low glycemic index food (approximately 30 to 35), does not raise your blood sugar levels and, in fact, the inulin (a soluble fiber), helps to further moderate it. We recommend that you check with your doctor, but a significant number of our diabetic clients have noticed that the consumption of Xagave does not have a significant impact on blood sugar levels and love how they feel after consuming the delicious foods made with Xagave. Just look at the nutritional info here! With only 60 cals you wont believe how good this stuff tastes! It is better than honey in my book any day. I like to drizzle on fruit,coffee, Greek yogurt, PB and bake with it. There are so many ways to use it that I cant even list them all. I LOVE THIS PRODUCT and I LOVE the benefits....What are some of the benefits you ask? I will tell ya!
FROM THIS TO

THIS! Agave Quick Facts: Xagave is the Sweet, Satisfying and Sensible choice to sweeten your foods. The following outlines the key benefits of this wonderful sweetener.


Sweeter than Sugar. Xagave is sweeter than sugar. In fact, it is 1.4 times sweeter than sugar so you use less to achieve the same level of sweetness.Saves Calories.Xagave can be used in all of your favorite recipes. Typically, you will substitute 1/2 cup for every cup of sugar called for. Thus, saving between 25 to 40% in carbohydrate calories. In addition, the inulin (a pre-biotic fiber) permits the reduction of fats in baked items which significantly reduces calories even further.


Tastes Delicious. Xagave is a great-tasting, natural sweetener. It is even being used by restaurants in beverages and sauces and is preferred over sugar. The neutral sweet taste does not impart any other flavors to your cooking unlike other nectars and it has even been teenage-tested in Kool-Aid, Zucchini Bread and numerous other recipes without detection or rejection. Finally a sugar substitute without strange aftertastes!


Low Glycemic Index. Xagave is a very low glycemic index food. It is approximately 30 on the glycemic index scale. Anything below 50 is considered to be in the low category, which is recommended for a healthy diet. This low glycemic index rating also make it diabetic friendly.


Contains Inulin, a Prebiotic Fiber.Studies have shown Inulin, a prebiotic fiber, promotes the healthy function of your lower intestine. It has also been shown to promote regularity, boost the immune system, increase calcium absorption and increase bone density.More Satisfying and Great for Dieters.The combination of low GI and inulin make Xagave a very satisfying sweetener. Unlike sugar, honey or high fructose corn syrup, you'll find your blood sugar levels do not spike; thereby avoiding the highs and lows of sugar and corresponding cravings and over consumption associated with roller coaster blood sugar levels.


Versatile and Easy to Cook With. Xagave is highly soluble in hot or cold water, making it easy to work with in the kitchen. It is a wonderful sweetener for coffee, tea and cereal. It is also an amazing sweetener for cooking, canning and baking as evidenced by the highly-rated recipes in our cookbook "Delicious Meets Nutritious" for jams, cakes, breads, salad dressing, desserts, cookies and sauces. In addition, we provide on each bottle, our cookbook, and on our website a Sugar Exchange Table that shows how to use Xagave in any recipe -- it truly is the Complete Sugar Replacement.


Contains Calcium, Iron and other Vitamins and Minerals.Xagave is a natural and organic certified product, derived from the agave plant. The nectar is processed, in order to prevent fermentation, at temperatures that do not exceed 117°F which is considered "Raw" by most standards. It is not derived from an animal and is appropriate for a vegan diet. Due to its raw condition, Xagave retains its naturally occurring vitamins and minerals and has a particularly high concentration of calcium -- 17% of daily requirements in one (1) tablespoon.






Go to their site and see for yourself!!! You wont be sorry you did!








I totally give this company two thumbs up from me. I LOVE the taste, I LOVE the company and I LOVE the benefits! You can use it for so many things and it is the perfect sugar substitute!




Please let me know what you think once you try Xagave. I also wanted to tell you that I saw it in Kroger just the other day so it should be at your local store. If not ASK for it!!!


I hope you all have a wonderful Thursday!


-Heather

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Long time no see!





















Good Morning All!

I am so sorry that I have been M.I.A. but I do have good reasons as to why!

I started a new job, I had to get in some MUCH needed family/alone time and I needed a breather from blogging. I am now back (I promise) and going to go full force! I really want to keep up with some amazing reviews of products out there and for the next few months I would like to focus on running, health and nutrition. I am gearing up for the Athens Half Marathon. Yes, you read right. My butt will be running a half marathon Oct 23rd. I want to blog about my experiences, product use and training along the way. I hope that you join me for what I am hoping to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I have started a running group and meeting a TON of folks that love running. I like to call this, cheap therapy! Please join me on this journey and I promise, I will not let you down. I hope to post every other day, if not every day! Get ready folks, this is going to be a sweat filled summer!


Thanks for stickin with me!

-Heather