Since I am really into running, nutrition and health, people always ask my my opinion on exercise trends (e.g., barefoot running (IMO – great if you live near a trail or beach, maybe, but terrible in cities and no I am not going to try it – I like my shoes thank you very much!), Crossfit (IMO – too intense, too competitive, too cultish – don’t care about your WOD – sorry! and not good for beginners)) and diets (e.g., Paleo – sorry love my carbs, Atkins – sorry love my carbs, South Beach – well, you get the picture!). I LOVED this article and research in the NY times – about high protein versus high carb diets called “In Dieting, Magic Isn’t a Substitute for Science“. The studies showed something I really believe –if you EAT MORE calories than you burn – you GAIN weight and if you BURN MORE than you eat you LOSE weight. Voila, end of story! Check it out here. Does this article make you happy, sad or indifferent?
Another thing that people always ask me about is theme/obstacle races. People who know me well know that I am awfully clumsy and can’t really abide by obstacles. I have declined many an invitation to Muddy Buddy, Warrior Dash and Tough Mudder. I also am no fan of costumes for running (or in general, actually), but have done several Santa Hustles — beard, hat and all — and am planning to do the Undie Dash in a few weeks (with my gals all wearing the tiny lululemon Seawheeze half marathon shorts which seem as small as undies to us!). The Greatist has a list of the 21 best themed races. What do you think? Costumes and Obstacles?? Either/Or or None??
Links I like dedicated today to diet and exercise:
– Not all “nutrition”/energy bars are created equal – check to see if yours is on the list. Top 5 best and worst energy bars from Well + Good NYC.
– Ever since Stacy made grilled pound cake and peaches with balsamic, I am hooked on grilling unexpected foods. Check out 27 unexpected grilling recommendations from the Greatist.
– Do you believe in Super Foods? Check out Refinery 29s super food recommendations. My fave on this list is kale and pumpkin (and hey where is quinoa?!)
– Love farmer’s markets but not sure how to use all of the produce? Check out Health Castle’s Farmer’s Market guide.
– Love the foam roller? I do. Check out this awesome info-graphic from the Greatist on how to do it right!
A few deals – didn’t see too much that inspired me over the weekend!
Want to be like my husband and try out some track driving (in a MUCH more expensive car)??
Travelzoo Local Deals in Chicago has a deal – for $149, regularly $399, drive your dream car around a closed course at Standard Bank Stadium in Crestwood. Thrill-seekers can choose from a Ferrari or Lamborghini. The experience includes driving instruction, 3 laps behind the wheel and an opportunity to take photos with the cars or for $279, take 6 laps and save even more on the normal $798 price. (NOTE: Driving experiences are available Aug. 16-19 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. ONLY.)
Daily Candy Deals has $29 for $60 or $39 for $80 of Pacifica online – I LOVE their candles and fragrances! (And of course lots of other great deals if you are interested… I like this deal for 42% off of awesome stationary at Hello! Lucky among others!)
Gilt City Chicago and Gilt City New York both have deals for one month or 3 training sessions at David Barton gym for $39/one month or 3 sessions for $150 and a pay $100 for $200 at Blue Nile (online) for jewelry.
Hey Runners, check out Cool Point and Get 30% OFF with discount code ACTIVE12. The claim “this handheld cool gel pack makes the difference between a good day and a bad day in the heat!” May be worth a try – especially today!
Friend’s Find
Need a dress for a special occasion and want to not be like me (ordering and sending back SIX dresses??) Deb G. asked if I had tried Rent the Runway. I have not but Molly M has several times. Seems like I should have tried it! What do you think? Rent or Own??
Thank you to all who supported George Gallegos and Wheels of Progress for the NYC Ironman. There is still time to donate… However, my “contest” is over… And the winner is…. Angela from NYC!
That’s all for now! Have a great week and send me some finds if the mood strikes!