the peanut butter & banana sandwich: October 2010

Running with Sunglasses

So its not summer, but Sunglasses are a year-round accessory! I almost ALWAYS need them when I'm running.

Many have questioned me on this and "criticized" my sunglasses choices. So maybe I shouldn't wear my typical bug-eyed glasses while I'm running, but most "sportwear" shades are just plain ugly. The ridicule from my friends made me search for stylish lenses made for sports.

Here are some great finds:

Nike

Oakley's

4 Reasons to run in sunglasses anytime

1. It's bright out. Summer sun or winter white snow can be brutal on the eyes, especially if you are outside running for an hour. I know my eyes are sensitive to light so I have to protect them!

2. It's windy sometimes. Who wants road dirt and other things flying into your eyes while your trying to run?? Especially if you wear contacts (a.k.a. me), getting something in your eye is just a pain... well.. in the eye.

3. Keeping my hair out of my face. As much as I can tighten my ponytail, some shorter piecces around my face still fall out while I run. With sunglasses on, I can just tuck the loose pieces behind my ears.

4. Incognito. I like to run freely and usually without interuption. With sunglasses on, I feel like I'm somewhat in disguise. It kind of helps me get in the zone.

RUNshine

Finally a day off with some good weather!! I've been feeling like I have missed out on really nice running weather the past 2 weeks because of work. I know working 9-5 is "normal" and don't get me wrong, I don't hate it. Howev, the best weather occurs right in the middle of my work day! But, I can't do anything about it so on my days off, sunshine is an incredible gift that makes me unbelievably happy. So today I got to enjoy the sunshine while I ran 8.3 miles.

Are you afraid of the Dark?

With Daylight Savings complete, it’s time to transition to running in the dark. Night running is definitely something different but it doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your running altogether. With the right preparation and focus, you can make the most out of any evening workout.

A True Commitment

Getting out of work at 5 p.m. to find it’s already dark outside makes winter running very challenging. You have to stay committed and focused and be smart in the dark!

Here are some thoughts…

Safety First, Then Fitness

Well-Lit Route: It might not be the sexiest route to run on, but the best-lit route will be your safest bet. People will be able to see you and vice versa. Also, you will be better able to see where you are running.

Keep It Simple: Rather than plot out a 10-mile run, try a shorter distance loop that you can do as many times as necessary. This way, you are closer to home and can let family/friends know where you’ll be running in case of an emercency.

But winter running requires more than a few extra planning steps, you have to gear up to get out in the dark!

Be Visible: Wearing Bright, loud colors with reflective material is a must. Add on a few flashing strobe lights (red for your back, white for your front) and you’ll be spotted sure.

Cold Nights: Running in the evening means preparing for lower temperatures. You’ll need to have a variety of gear to keep you safe and comfortable in any weather situation.

Reflective gear isn’t the chicest of looks, but being safe in the dark is always in style. Here are some great night running pieces to reflect on….. ENJOY!

If you're going bananas....

If you are having a rough day, week or anything... go for a run!!! Take advantage of a beautiful day and get outside. Enjoy the sun and you will feel better. Running is a great way to leave you stress and worries behind!

On that note... It was a BEAUTIFUL weekend for running! The weather was sunny with a light breeze and made for a long run day. I decided on 9 miles and mapped out this course on mapmyrun.com. It was one of my shorter runs with a few miles tacked on to the end! I ended up really enjoying the course I came up with! Much needed long run in the sun to break up the cold! Thanks weekend, you were great.

Run Forrest Run

While visiting friends in Hoboken, NJ, we spent a day in New York City. Of all the choices for a restaurant, my friends so kindly let me pick... Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. was the obvious choice! My friends know it is my favorite movie. The restaurant was a blast, with Forrest Gump Movie trivia (which I dominated) and movie set themed decor that made you feel like you were at Mama's house in Greenbo, Alabama! So here are a few pictures from our visit to Bubba Gump!