Pro Compression Review and Giveaway

Time to write about one of my favorite items in my running drawer (or should I say, drawers), compression socks.  I love these darn things.  They keep my calves going when they should be screaming for me to stop.  I only wear them for runs above 8 miles and slip into a new pair after that run for recovery.  

Pro Compression was kind enough to provide me with a pair to try out and I love them.  I have the sleeves and the ankle socks from them and now the marathon socks.  I've tried a few other brands but Pro Compression socks have definitely held up better than some others.  I love them and will continue to purchase from them.  This month the the Sock of the Month compression sock is an awesome black with neon dots.  I LOVE this sock!!! 

Here's a little only the company:

Pro Compression

PRO Compression socks are designed specifically to deliver both maximum comfort and speedy recovery times. The science is complex, but benefits such as improved blood flow, stability and comfort are universally understood.  The moment you put these socks on your feet and incorporate them into your game, you will feel and understand the difference.

PRO Compression socks are noticeably tight and require more effort to put on than standard socks in your drawer. But it’s that extra effort and much-needed compression that make all the difference. Be patient and your feet will thank you.

The only down fall to EVER pair of compression socks is the amount of effort it takes to take them off after a long run.  The last thing I want to do is battle with my socks but I know they've done their job when I have to lay on my back and pull or have my husband pull them off for me.

Here's the good part, they've given me pair for one of my lucky readers.  Enter below.

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Pear Review for Girls Gone Sporty

I was recently selected my my Girls Gone Sporty  crew to review the Pear Training Intelligence System.  I was super excited to try it out as I want to get into heart rate training and this app/system offers training plans while monitoring heart rate for optimal performance.  

It came very quickly but I found that I couldn't use it with my Iphone.  I downloaded the app to my phone but the blue tooth sensory never connected so sadly I couldn't use the heart rate monitor part of the device but did get to use to workouts on the treadmill.  I tried the Hill Power Workout and the Tred N' Shred Beginner 1 workout.

I loved the workouts but am disappointed in not being able to use the heart rate monitor. Maybe when I get a newer Iphone I may be able to use the HR monitor and will really appreciate the device! 

I will continue to use the free training plans, they do offer an upgrade for plans but without the use of the HR monitor, I think I'll just stick with what I have!!

Thanks Girls Gone Sporty for the opportunity to review it!

Energybits Review and Giveaway!

Recently I won a sample of Energybits and gave it another try.  I've used them before but not consistently like I've been doing lately.  As I've gone on and on and on about my sensitive stomach I'm always concerned to try things for multiple days.  I will say, I only use them on my runs that I don't fuel on.  I am still not confident enough in my stomach to try to mix them with my Hammer stuff.  

Here's what I think----- After taking about 20 of the little bits (DO NOT CHEW THEM) I always feel like I am getting a little more pep in my step. I finish my runs strong and have enough energy to handle my three littles, cook dinner, clean the house, entertain the masses, etc.  

I do plan to continue using them and Energybits was kind enough to offer me a sample to giveaway!!! Here's a little on the product and the giveaway will be at the bottom!!

Here's a bit more info: ENERGYbits is a new Boston based sports nutrition company. Our “bits” are rapidly becoming the fuel of choice for athletes and people looking to lead active lifestyles. ENERGYbits have the highest concentration of protein in the world and deliver a steady stream of energy, all naturally and all without sugar, caffeine, chemicals or stomach distress. Even better, ENERGYbits are the only protein in the world that also contain natural antioxidants and Omega 3 which reduce muscle inflammation, iron which prevents fatigue, chlorophyll which builds the immune system and electrolytes which replenish mineral imbalances, all for just one calorie per tab. No other protein offers all this.  

ENERGYbits are all natural too, because they are a food, not a supplement. They have just one ingredient - 100% organically grown spirulina algae. Algae has been used by Olympic athletes for over 50 years, but is still virtually unknown in the USA and Canada. We are the first company to bring algae to national attention as a high protein, high performance snack food for athletes and active consumers. 

ENERGYbits are only available at ENERGYbits.com, and Jonathan (their Brand Manager) has shared with me that he'd be happy to connect anyone with a current ambassador to share a discount on a bag of bits - you can email him at jlevitt@energybits.com

" a Rafflecopter giveaway

Races Plans for 2014

Snow has come to VA but just enough to make it muddy, not enough to take my littles outside and have a good time. 

I had such hopes of getting another outdoor run in this week, looks like I'm stuck on the treadmill for another round of miles.  

Thought I would update everyone on my races scheduled for 2014:

March 15th- Martha Jefferson 8K

April 5th-Charlottesville Half Marathon

April 26th- Waynesboro Half Marathon (questionable)

May 4th- Carytown 10K

May 18th- Marine Corp Historic Half (questionable)

June 7th- 4 The Wounded 5K

June 14th- Lawyer for Love 10K

September- Colonial 70 (if my team gets it's butt together)

November 9th- OBX Marathon

I guess this is a good start to a great year.  I always worry myself when I make these lofty plans and goals as an injury is always one step away.  My husband knows about 75% of the races and I will slowly work the other ones in.  While he supports me 100%, they are costly and time consuming and some interfere with his one passion, hunting.  

After the full in November, I found a 16 week Ultra program that I believe I'm going to try.  I'm trying to get my self fully prepared for the Lt. JC Stone 50K Ultra Marathon in PA that I've been eyeing up for about a year.  

Anyone with advice for a newbie Ultra wanna be?  I've found the plans and I have a while to get

myself psyched up for it.

Anyone know where I can find a race fairy for the MC Historic Half? Do they comp bloggers

in exchange for a review???