When a little EXTRA protection can go a LONG way!

Disclaimer:  I received SabreRED Runner pepper spray to use and review as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), 

and check out BibRave to review, find and write race reviews.

With all of the running-related crimes happening around the United States, it's hard not to be concerned about our safety while out on a run.  As a woman, who mainly runs very early in the morning and often in the dark,  I've taken notice!   It's a shame that we have to be concerned with our safety while we're doing something we love; especially when we want to enjoy our surroundings and connect with nature or even simply just clear our minds and relieve stress!  

I have always had a small pepper spray that I routinely carry with me when I am out by myself.  Thankfully, it's never been used!   However, I was recently given the opportunity to test out the SabreRed Runner Pepper Spray and I am so excited for this product!

You may be thinking... 'With everything runners have to carry while running, how will they have room to carry one more thing?'  Great news!  This pepper spray has an adjustable hand strap and it requires no grip.  It sits effortless around your hand via the strap and the spray is cradled in your palm.  I have used it several times while out on the run and I've barely noticed it's there! Shown below in this picture.

Additionally, I love how easy this pepper spray is to use!  Just a quick click of your finger and you are ready to FIRE!

It’s as easy as a quick flick of the finger to activate the stream of pepper spray! It’s inconspicuous, the hand strap makes it easy to carry and it will help keep you SAFE on your run! #SabreBR #bibchat @SabreRed @BibRave #bibravepro #safetyfirst #selfdefense pic.twitter.com/d4kKBlx5fH

— RUN gina RUN (@ginahanzelfit) November 11, 2018

Because I run in the dark for the majority of my runs,  I also run with lights for safety.  You can imagine my suprise when SabreRed also gave me the personal safety alarm as well to try!  This product has an intense alarm that can be activated if needed and also a blinking light.  It fits easily on your clothing - I have worn it attached to my hydration belt.  Who can't be excited for another level of protection and a blinking light in the dark!  It's also very affordable too at just $14.99.  It just doesn't pay NOT to be safe!  See this product below.

Also - because I love to live on the edge,  I HAD to spray it.  I will say that it sprays in a very even orange stream and a long ways!  I hope I never have to use it, but if I do I'll have a long distance!

If you're interested in hearing more about this product, make sure to check out our #bibchat on Twitter at 8PM CST on Dec. 4th!  You will be eligible to win some pepper spray of your very own just for participating!

Sunglasses to Fit Your Lifestyle!

Disclaimer:  I received the Knockaround Premium Sunglasses to use and review as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), 
and check out BibRave to review, find and write race reviews.

It's no secret that most people wear sunglasses everyday.  And, if they are anything like me, they want to accessorize their outfit with the perfect pair of shades!  When I found out that I was going to be able to test out the Knockaround premium shades I was pumped!  I have been seeing these beauties popping up on social media and just KNEW I needed a pair for myself. 

Imagine my surprise when Knockaround not only sent me one, but TWO pair!  And, they get bonus points too because each pair were so unique!  You can see the traditional tortoise shell below.  I love the different shape that these have.  Fun and feminine, but subtle too!

I have worn a pair of these shades literally everyday since I've received them.  I even ordered another pair that are all blue!  The blue pair are SO FUN for the pool!  My husband actually asked me yesterday, "How many pair of sunglasses does one person need?"  My reply... "as many as possible."  

In my opinion, one of the great perks for this brand in particular is that they come in so many different options and the price point is awesome.  Most pair are just $15!! And, they max out at $25.  Now that's a price I can get behind; which is maybe why I ordered a pair so fast!   

These shades have even made an epic rafting adventure THAT much more cool!  And... they stayed firm on my face even with the crazy Class II/III rapids!  That's a WIN! 

If you're wanting a pair for yourself, you can WIN a pair THIS Tuesday, Sept. 4th, if you tune into bibchat on Twitter!    Or, you can use code "BibRaveKnocks20" for 20% OFF your very own pair! 

Don’t miss #bibchat THIS Tuesday September 4th at 8 PM CST where we’ll chat ALL things @Knockaround .

You can WIN your very own pair ... or if you can’t wait... use code “BibRaveKnocks20” for 20% OFF your pair! #knockaroundBR @BibRave pic.twitter.com/cwmV1WhgHh

— RUN gina RUN (@ginahanzelfit) September 2, 2018

A Runner's Dream - Your Own Personal Shopper

Disclaimer:  I received a FREE box from  Mercury Mile box to use and review as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave 

to review, find and write race reviews.

To say that I was a little bit excited about this opportunity to test out a Mercury Mile box would be an understatement.  If you're a mom, you know exactly what I'm talking about.  Shopping? That word does NOT exist for a mom. We are lucky to set foot in a mall two seconds after we birth our babies.  Then, those children grow up and we are running in all different directions, it's amazing we wear clothes at all.  

I'm kidding of course, but online shopping is truly the ONLY way I can shop at my current stage of life.  To find an available couple of hours to leisurely peruse a mall in hopes to find cute clothes; dream on.   Plus, if you look in my closet at any given time, you will see that I "mom" and I run.  My closet is 80% running clothes and 20% casual.   So, when the Mercury Mile opportunity came along I was doing the jig in my living room!  

So, what IS Mercury Mile? 

Mercury Mile is an online athletic/athleisure clothing service where your own personal stylist does your shopping and ships your items directly to your door with your own specifications in mind!  How cool is that?  I simply go online and fill out my online profile, that includes my measurements, and other fun get-to-know-you questions.  There is a $20 styling fee that is applied toward any items you keep!  That styling fee is well worth it in my opinion because the gas alone to the mall is half that!  

Once you have told your stylist what you're looking for, in a few days your box appears at your doorstep with 4-6 hand-picked items!  You have 7 days to try on and choose what you'd like.  If you need to return any items, just pop them back in the postage paid bag and you're done.  Any items you keep are charged accordingly.  Easy Peasy!!

But, I bet you're curious as to what came in my box?  I couldn't WAIT to open it!  Check out my un-boxing video here!  

For my first box, I requested hot weather running gear.  I wanted lightweight tanks and shorts to compliment the hot and humid Minnesota summers.  When I opened my box, I received a personal note from my stylist and fantastic options!  She sent exactly what I wanted and a few surprises too!

KEEP

This tank!  Well, it's a stunner and it's my absolute favorite piece of workout clothing I currently own.  It's incredibly comfy and flows well.  My stylist knocked it out of the park on this one.  I'd wear it everyday if I could.  This was a definite KEEP.  It was $48.

These were my next items.  This amazing orange tank and ASICS shorts.  To be honest I love it ALL, but realized that I didn't have to have the shorts, they didn't get me super excited, so I decided to return them.  They were priced great though.

Would you look at how cute the back is on this tank?  Um, yes please.  And, it was unlike anything I have so it was a KEEPER!  Again, she listened to my specifications and this tank was also incredibly lightweight and comfortable!

I also received these adorable pair of white sunglasses.  These were a surprise and affordable, so I had to keep them.   Again, very lightweight and perfect for SUMMER.  They've been attached to me since I got them!

My stylist did throw in a pair of running socks too and if I didn't already have 1,900,000 pair, I would have kept them!  What is a girl to do?  I like socks!  I figured even though they weren't expensive, I didn't really need them. 

The only bust for me was the tank pictured below.  I liked that it fit my specifications of lightweight and cool, but the cut and fit was just a bit off.  I also didn't like the high neckline - I felt a bit closed off and it was difficult to get over my head. 

I am in LOVE with this service.  Mercury Mile goes above and beyond expectations!  It's incredibly convenient and I'd be lying if I wasn't excited to see my surprises in the box.  Do you have budget concerns?  You can set your specific spending limit so no worries about getting items shipped to you out of your budget!  Plus, you can shop in the comfort of your own home.  Now that's a WIN!!

 If you'd like to try a box for yourself, use code " BibRave10" for $10 off your styling fee!  I'll definitely be ordering again! 

Put Some Spring in Your Step - My review of the Brooks Levitate Running Shoes

Disclaimer:  I received the Brooks Levitates to use and review as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave 

to review, find and write race reviews.

Christmas shopping.  Long lines. Black Friday Chaos.   It's much like the experience of a runner getting FREE running shoes!  Everyone is up before the birds and are standing in lines waiting to snag that "too-good-to-be-true" deal.   Except,  I was gifted a FREE pair of Brooks Levitates to review and I didn't have to stand in line!  I call that a WIN! 

But, let's get to the important review. I love running shoes.  I have tested many over the last 8 years of running!  Many have been retired after hundreds of miles; some to the running-shoe graveyard.  May they rest in peace.  

I was so excited to test out these shoes because I have been a loyal Brooks runner for about 4 years.  I appreciate the heal cushion and roomy toe-box of the Glycerins.  I honestly had never tried any other model of the shoes, so when the opportunity came to test the Levitates, I jumped at the chance.   I was one of the lucky nine who tested! 

I was like a kid at Christmas when the box came to my door, would they be white; or blue; or black?  It was all just so exciting!  I was pleasantly surprised to have the black color.  I appreciated the fact that I could wear them with anything; even out and about with athleisure.  

So how do they perform?  From the first moment I put them on, I could tell they had ample cushion.  Cushion is a very important feature that I look for in a shoe.  They were a little snug on the top of my foot, but I found that after my first run, they loosened up just fine.  The toe box was roomy which is a huge plus!  Even though I don't have a wide width, I have long toes and wear thick socks.  Those of you looking for a wider toe box will love these shoes. 

I also immediately felt the springy sole when walking.  Plus, it was as if I was bouncing on air during my runs.  My farthest run in these shoes was 10 miles, but I could easily run a marathon in them.  They are a neutral shoe and weigh 9.7 ounces; although I'd be lying if I knew the difference between how light shoes are when compared to others. 

Nice reflection on the soles

These shoes have been through rain and snow and are perfect for running on the road.  I also use these shoes daily for my strength and HIIT training workouts.  I'm finding that I am jumping and bouncing a bunch during these workouts and my feet are supported very comfortably.  

The overall look of these shoes is somewhat simple.  Usually, I go with a very flashy variety.  When picketing out my shoes, I first choose comfort and then I choose as bright of a color as reasonably acceptable.   What can I say?  If I'm spending my hard earned money on a running shoe I want them to be cute.  My only complaint of these shoes is that they didn't seem as breathable as I'm used to.  Although, I do wear very thick socks, so this may not be a fair judgement.  

Overall, these have been a reliable running shoe for me and I would definitely buy them again! They retail for $150 but right now on the website they are on sale for $119.95.  That's a great deal for quality running shoes!

 

The BEST the City Has to Offer! The Seattle City Guide is HERE!

DISCLAIMER:  I am promoting the Infinite Energy Seattle City Guide as part of being a BibRave Pro. 

Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), 

and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

When it comes to racing, there are many things to consider in order for you to have a great race!  Of course, the most important variable for any runner is toeing the starting line with the right pair of shoes; I love my Brooks Levitate.  But, a great race isn't all about the shoes.  Although, it SURE is nice to feel comfort on your feet and to complete your race blister free!

Planning your best "race-cation" usually comes with weeks to months of careful planning.  Where will you stay on race weekend?  What will you eat for Pre and Post race fuel?  Does the city you're visiting have lots of places to eat and visit?

I am delighted to tell you about the newest City Guide!  The Seattle City Guide is a place where runners can go to experience all that the city has to offer!  It's presented by Brooks and Bibrave and will be SURE to keep you entertained and well fed after your big Seattle Rock n' Roll weekend,  June 8-10th!

You can check out this pinterest guide for all of your city needs during your stay in Seattle!

Here's a sneak peak of what the guide has to offer!

Maybe a morning jog down to the waterfront is just what your legs need to get ready for race day? You will definitely not want to miss it even if you're not planning on a jog!  There is lots to see and enjoy at the waterfront and it's close to Pike's Place Market!

Or maybe you just need to have some last minute running questions answered, or grab some new gear before your run!  Find out where in this guide!

And, let's NOT forget donuts! There is something about a donut after a run that has my mouth watering!  Don't these look delicious!

Seattle is such a fun city to visit!  Here's to your best race yet!  Enjoy every minute and don't forget to take the guide along as your own personal tour guide while you're there!

You CAN'T WIN Them All

Disclaimer:  I received a race entry to the Festival Foods Grandad Half Marathon as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave 

to review, find and write race reviews.

Well, you WIN some and you LOSE some.  It's not that running is all about winning or losing; it's more about the sense of accomplishment brought to you at the finish line.  This past Saturday, quite honestly I was just grateful to finish. 

I was so excited for my return to this half marathon.  First, it's in my hometown.  I know the course like the back of my hand.  It's a fun race and the SWAG and post race is so fun!  I always enjoy meeting up with old friends and enjoying the scenic course along the way.  

This was my first half marathon of the year and lucky #12.  Is twelve lucky?  At any rate, I had a decent training cycle, and I was confident I could maintain my paces.  I was shooting for a HUGE PR; unrealistic?  Maybe.   My goal time was 1:49:59.  I had been training with paces in the 8:15/8:30 range for most of my speed work and I knew that the first two miles of the course I could put up some faster paces as it was all down hill. 

I felt amazing through mile 5 and was on pace.  My breathing was under control. My legs were light.  Then as fast as the fleeting thought of my PR, I was hit like a brick wall.  I'm not sure if it was the full sun and 75 degrees, the fact that I was running solid 8:15's, or it just wasn't my day!   

The first 7 miles of the course are quite variable with slow burn hills and twists and turns, and by mile 7 I was toast.  Put a fork in me toast.  I actually called my hubby at mile 7; walking.   The frustration was palpable.  But, at the same time I had a weird sense of calm.  Why did I need to break records?  What was this competition all about?  Just for me?  To impress someone else? 

I continued walking a few minutes and then did a walk/run combo the rest of the way to the finish line.  This is something I have never done during a race and it actually works pretty well.  I was able to give my tired legs and body the rest it needed and still pick up the running pace.  

It's always so fun at the finish.  You run up a road with the river on your left and the crowd on your right. My boys are always waiting for me at the finish line with their hands stretched out for high-fives!  

Needless to say I was happy the medal was around my neck!  It's a beauty too!  My kids always ask me if I won the race.  I always giggle and say "no a chance."  But it's sure fun to share the moment with them when I'm done!  They are goofballs. 

My official finish time was 2:03:16.  Surprisingly I still finished in the top 1/3 of all finishers with a field size of 808.  I was number 16/47 for my age group.  Unfortunately, it was my slowest half marathon to date.  I'm not sure how I feel about that, although this past week I've been googling other great half marathons!  Lol - I'm sure that this won't be my last.  If you're looking for a great Spring half, this is the one.  Make sure to shoot me a message so I know you'll be there as this is one I typically do every year!  If you want to see my race review for more details about the race, you can go here.  

** On another note:  This race was a featured Athlinks Race.  Once I went to the half marathon website, I was able to look up my results and claim them, which then took me directly to the www.athlinks.com.  This is a very cool website that stores all of your race results. Check it out. Make a profile and let's be friends! 


Which half marathon do YOU recommend within driving distance from Minneapolis MN? 

FlipBelt Crops - In One Word - AMAZING.

Disclaimer:  I received the FlipBelt Crops to use and review as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave 

to review, find and write race reviews.

You may have heard of the Flipbelt before.  In fact, this belt which is a loop that fits perfectly around your waist when you're active, was my first ever running belt!  I loved it.  My phone, my keys, my money and my ID fit so nicely in the waistband; it was the only thing I needed to keep my valuables secure when I was running.   

However, fast forward a few more years, and Flipbelt has outdone themselves. When the reviews are THIS good, I was absolutely ecstatic to try the NEW FlipBelt crops! 

"Just got my running crops.....AMAZING!!!! Fit is perfect, material is great......I absolutely LOVE   them!" 

"These running tights are amazing! I wish I had them 5 years ago when I started running again!       Everyone should buy a pair!"

These multi-functional crops are truly amazing.  What makes them so unique is the waistband.  It's brilliant actually; two products in one.  A pair of crops AND the Flipbelt!   From the moment I unwrapped them, I knew they were going to be my favorite pair that I own.  And, honestly, I love them so much I almost didn't want to sweat in them.  They are perfect as a comfortable everyday crop as well!

My Iphone6 fits comfortable!  HINT:  I even have a PopSocket on the back! 

The material of these crops is a polyester-spandex blend, but I was especially excited about the details that make these crops so special.  Maybe it's just me, but I love that the bottom, which sits about mid-calf, is tapered and skinnier.  What that means is there is absolutely NO riding up!   I have other crops that start out tight at the bottom, but inevitably within minutes I'm adjusting and pulling them back down.

There is also a special clip for your keys which tucks nicely into the belt while running or doing other exercise.  Overall, they are perfect for storing your race day essentials!

Over the past month, I have done a variety of different exercises in them; from running, to strength training and even dancing.  You can see from the video below just how well these crops do with any type of exercise!

Strength Training For RUNNERS: With the @FlipBelt crops!

They are amazingly comfortable and versatile! Two HUGE thumbs up! 👍 Use code “BIBRAVE” for 25% OFF!! #FlipbeltBR #bibchat #bibravepro #mwpro @bibrave pic.twitter.com/CMUv4lzpYK

— RUN gina RUN (@ginahanzelfit) April 5, 2018

Strength Training For RUNNERS: With the @FlipBelt crops!

They are amazingly comfortable and versatile! Two HUGE thumbs up! 👍 Use code “BIBRAVE” for 25% OFF!! #FlipbeltBR #bibchat #bibravepro #mwpro @bibrave pic.twitter.com/CMUv4lzpYK

— RUN gina RUN (@ginahanzelfit) April 5, 2018

Running is my passion!  I have been pleasantly surprised by how well these crops perform on runs.  I have run shorter tempo runs as well as longer runs; up to 9 miles.  Most recently, I ran 6 miles in the early morning hours with little light.  Safety is a concern for me when I run in the dark, so I carry my Iphone6, and mace.  My valuables can be safely and securely stowed away in the waistband. You can't even see them in the photo below and there is NO chaffing or slipping!

These are the silkiest and by far the most comfortable pair of 3/4 tights that I own.  My only regret is that they are not in different colors because I would be ordering more!  If you must have a pair for yourself.... and you MUST;  make sure to use BIBRAVE at checkout for 25% off your very own pair!!