Fly High (And Fast) with Brooks Levitate 4

Sponsored by Zappos Running. All opinions are my own.

Although running can sometimes leave us feeling depleted, it has the somewhat magical power of making us feel energized at the same time. If you are into running, like me, then you know how addicting the process is—working on improving performance through strict planning and dedication. We strive for that feeling of effortless miles at our goal paces. It’s fun to see and read about others in the running community setting new records in races or weekly mileage, but unless you are runner, you fail to see the hard work—blood, sweat and tears, that go into the process. Good thing we have tools around us that can help us stay motivated and feel our best during the grind.

One of these tools is running shoes. Runners are a bit obsessed over the newest gear and updated technology. Every year we see running shoes coming out with new ways of getting lighter, springier, and more supportive. I’ve been a fan of the Brooks Levitate series for the last couple of years. I’ve had the pleasure of running many miles with the Levitate 2 and 3, which both made running feel easier. My newest addition is the Brooks Levitate 4 from Zappos, where I get almost all of my running gear. I’m a rewards member so I get the best benefits like free expedited shipping, exceptional customer service, and free returns for an entire year! I always find everything I am looking for!

Take Flight

In a nutshell, the Brooks Levitate 4 make me feel like I’m gliding through the air. It’s no wonder why they named this style “Levitate”. I was excited when I read one of the updates was a weight reduction by a whopping 20%. I really wanted to see what the shoe can do for my training, since it consists of mostly longer runs. I always take out new pairs for a short run before trying them out for anything too intense. My first impression was how comfortable the more compressive-like fit is, which I noticed just by walking around. I thought they would end up feeling tight after a few miles, since my feet normally swell during runs. I had zero complaints after my 40-minute session, as the materials ended up being stretchy so pretty much conformed to my feet and left me without swelling!

For my longer run test, I went for 70 minutes in my Levitate 4. This is when I felt the light, springy update that made me feel that “flying” sensation. I kept it easy for the most part, except for a handful of 20 to 30 second pickups after the halfway point to see how the shoes responded to the faster paces. Since I was already used to the previous version’s ability to quickly react to a speedier cadence, I anticipated the same from these, and they did the job well! I’ve mentioned before about my excessive heel strike pattern and how firm shoes don’t work for me since I need an extra smooth transition from heel to toe. Thankfully this pair is flexible enough to make this happen.

A Shoe with Multiple Hats

Once the Brooks Levitate 4 passed the easy run and mini stride test, I took them out for next level trials—a tempo run. For me, this workout consists of easy running for 30 minutes, straight into 30 minutes at a hard effort, then back into easy running for 30 minutes. This session made the updates even more obvious, as the lighter weight makes sustaining faster paces easier. The only drawback I believe some runners will have is the narrow fit, which is more evident the longer you run. This was not necessarily an issue for me since the compressive knit that creates the upper part of the shoe helps me with controlling swelling and makes my foot feel a bit more supported than most other speed shoes. So, in my opinion, the “narrow” is there for a reason!

Given the 2020 circumstances, most of us have had to change our goals. Once I realized I probably won’t get to race this year, I chose to use this time to improve my running form, along with my endurance. Including Brooks running shoes into my rotation has been a game changer for both my mechanics and foot health. The addition of the new and improved Levitate 4 will help take my running to the next level throughout the rest of the summer, when it’s hardest to train. Zappos has several color choices for this style, so I’m looking forward to getting my hands on another pair soon!

A Long Run Shoe You Can Count On – The Under Armour HOVR Sonic 3

Sponsored by Zappos. All opinions are my own.

If there is one thing I look for in a long run shoe besides cushioning, it’s flexibility. Nothing feels worse on runs over an hour than a stiff shoe. It leaves me with sore feet for days! Since I am prone to plantar fasciitis and have had a history of several foot and ankle injuries, I have to be a little picky about my running shoes. Most runners should be anyway, especially if they plan on training for a half or full marathon. After all our feet carry our entire bodyweight during any standing activity, so if you don’t take good care of them with supportive shoes, you will risk injuring another area in the body on top of limiting your performance.

I am happy I was able to get my hands on a pair of Under Armour HOVR Sonic 3 from Zappos. With their incredible selection of products, it’s always hard to choose just one pair, but this time I was in search of a good long running shoe and the Sonic 3 sounded perfect! As a Zappos rewards member I get free expedited shipping, so my shoes arrived the very next day after placing my order! Another great perk of the rewards member program besides the excellent customer service and speedy shipping, is the 365-day free return policy. If you haven’t joined yet, you are missing out!

Energy Saving

One of the key factors every runner tries to improve for distance running is endurance. It’s all about the way we teach our bodies to store energy and stay strong in order to last as long as possible. Shoes can have this ability, too, just in a different way. The lightweight technology of the Under Armour HOVR Sonic 3 helps transform the energy we put into our steps into energy released by the shoe for a more powerful and efficient stride. For a while, I made the mistake of wearing the wrong shoes for my long runs—shoes that felt light, yet stiff, and definitely not responsive at all. Switching to the Sonic 3 immediately made this energy-saving feature obvious from the start.

As usual, I took my brand new pair out on my regular Sunday short, easy run to test them out. They really didn’t need much ‘breaking in’, and I was surprised at how flexible they felt since I thought the heel counter would make the shoe feel a bit stiff. The heel counter is a great addition to the shoe for me, personally, because it keeps my foot in place. I tend to get annoyed when my shoes get loose during my runs, and this feature made sure to avoid that problem!

Lasting Comfort

As for long runs, this shoe does exceptionally well. First off, the materials are ideal for the intense heat and humidity I run through every day. The upper not only keeps my feet dry, but it provides a compression-like fit, which hugs my foot throughout my entire run—in the lightest way possible! It’s hard finding a shoe that not only feels light for high mileage, but also cushioned enough to keep my feet from getting sore in the days following. The Under Armor HOVR Sonic 3 is the perfect combination of these two features!

Running Tips Straight from the Gait

We rely heavily on the data from our running watches—cadence, pace, heart rate, etc. It’s a never-ending list that can get overwhelming when trying to improve our performance. What if I told you that your shoes can provide you with this information directly? Yes! The HOVR Sonic 3 are one of Under Armour’s connected gear that you can pair to your Map My Run App to get all of the insights of your gait pattern during different runs. The technology provides you with tips in real-time—like DURING your run, to help you correct faulty patterns that can lead to injuries. I’m constantly trying to work to improve my performance as a runner, so I’m excited to have this feature available to me!

The Under Armour HOVR Sonic 3 is officially part of my long run rotation, with its flexible upper, cushioned and compressive fit, and lightweight materials. I highly recommend this pair if you are looking for a light, neutral shoe for daily runs. Zappos has you covered with 5 sleek color options and super fast shipping when you sign up for the rewards membership! You’ll be sure to find any shoes or gear you are looking for when you shop!

Summer Training Success: Featuring Asics GEL-Kayano 27

Sponsored by Zappos. All opinions are my own.

Training during these hot summer months can definitely make even the strongest of runners feel so out of shape! The good thing is that the rumors are true—training in the heat helps build fitness. Every time I’ve planned a fall race, I end up dreading the fact that the bulk of the training and the most intense weeks will land on the hottest part of the year. This is coming from someone who lives in a warm climate year round! Miami is regularly warm, so you would think I am used to it even when summer comes around. But it is a different kind of heat from June through September—very high humidity and dew point and a “feels like” temperature of 100+ degrees almost every single day!

Sadly, we’ve had the majority of our races canceled for the rest of the year, so it can be tough to find the motivation to train at all, especially when it’s stifling outside. I mentioned before and I’ll say it over and over again—new shoes can do wonders to give us a push to get out the door! I’m on my fourth week of using my ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 from Zappos and I’m truly loving them for the bulk of my training. Since my focus is improving my endurance, I’m incorporating several longer easy to medium-paced runs and this pair has been perfect!

Keep It Light

This goes for not just your summer training load, but also your entire outfit. The most comfortable way to run when it’s extremely warm out is with the lightest gear. You don’t want your clothes sticking to you, so make sure you wear light, breathable materials that keep you dry. This is especially important when it comes to shoes. You don’t want your sweat to keep you from reaching your pace goals! I, myself, am definitely not a fan of running shoes that absorb all my sweat and end up feeling heavy and sponge-like—no thank you!

The GEL-Kayano 27 have been the perfect pair for summer running since they are made with a mesh upper that allows air to flow through the shoes to help keep you dry. This is a bit of an update from the previous version, since they expanded the space in between the material’s fibers. Even the sock liner inside the shoe stays dry! By the way, the sock liner actually adds extra plush cushioning that I feel makes long runs much more comfortable! My feet tend to get sore, especially since I’ve had 12-years full of bouts of plantar fasciitis, so any extra cushioning that does not add weight is a plus.

Versatility

I have a neutral running stance and normal arch height, so I generally don’t have to worry about finding a good stability shoe. What I’ve noticed when researching running shoes is that it’s hard to find a pair that works really well for both neutral and overpronating runners. Usually the stability aspect tends to feel stiffer along the outsole if you are a neutral runner, therefore not as comfortable for speedier runs. 

The ASICS GEL-Kayano 27, however, is the best of both worlds! The DUOMAX support system helps limit the foot rolling inward (overpronate), but not at the cost of cushioning. It’s made with softer materials so from when the foot strikes the ground all the way to the push-off phase, it keeps the impact less intense, while providing the springiness we want to run at any pace. I noticed this the most when making turns on my runs—the shoe feels like it conforms to the shape of your foot like a foam mattress would, but kept my ankle secure as it rotated.

All in all, I feel the ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 does a great job at protecting my injury-prone feet during my high-mileage training program. After trying them out for every type of run—easy, long, sprints, tempo runs, and hill running, I find they work well for each, but are truly the perfect fit for medium to long consistently paced runs. Since these have been my go-to pair for the bulk of my easy and recovery runs, I even bought a second pair! There are several colors to choose from at Zappos, so take a look for yourself and don’t forget about signing up for the Zappos rewards so you can take advantage of the many benefits, like free expedited shipping, points on every purchase, and a 365 day return policy! 

Shoe Review: HOKA ONE ONE Clifton Edge

Sponsored by Zappos Running. All opinions are my own.

Is heel striking really that bad for you? This is a common concern in the running community and has been a topic of debate for years. An extended amount of research has been done on foot strike patterns but has ultimately been inconclusive as to whether it actually is the cause of injuries and/or limits performance in any way. Poor performance and injuries are usually caused by a mixture of things—overall weakness, history of other injuries, overtraining, and faulty form, all together are major culprits, among others. Believe it or not, wearing the wrong types of shoes for YOUR feet can be a primary cause as well. The good thing is many shoe brands are coming out with so many options that it’s actually not so hard to find a good pair—as long as you do your research!

I was lucky to get my hands on a pair of HOKA ONE ONE Clifton Edge from Zappos and was impressed from the moment I tried them on! First off, the color choices, although only two, are amazing, so I’ll probably make a purchase for the moonlit ocean color very soon! Zappos offers a free VIP membership program that comes with a package of benefits like free expedited shipping, free returns for 365 days, excellent customer service, along with their incredible selection of products.

Running with Less Impact—Yes Please!

If you are a distance runner, you know the trauma that running all the miles can do to the body. I, myself, love a high mileage program. It’s worked for me for years, but only if I incorporate the proper recovery and take care of my body. The HOKA ONE ONE Clifton Edge has a visible extended heel that may scare some runners into thinking it will limit their pace or just feel uncomfortable, but my review on this feature is a positive one. It actually felt the opposite for me—it made the constant pounding feel much less impactful.

I am a big heel striker, which used to make me anxious until I learned that it’s actually not directly linked to injuries after all. The problem with heel striking is that it shoots the pounding all the way up the joints. Within the first few steps of taking my Clifton Edge out for a short, easy run, I noticed the shoe actually promotes a more mid-foot strike pattern. This is a plus for me, because it made the transition into the push-off phase much smoother. In turn, I felt since the shoe created this mid-foot strike on impact, it allowed me to apply a slightly better forward lean, which is part of good form! Of course, any permanent form improvements are made by the runner, not the shoe! 

The Best of Both Worlds

An extremely lightweight shoe is usually not the most cushioned one. The HOKA ONE ONE Clifton Edge, although a narrower shoe, provides a comfortable ride compared to what you may think when holding the shoe by hand. The Women’s shoe weighs about 8 ounces, which is on the lower to medium end of most supportive shoes. Instead of feeling tighter with the narrow fit, it felt more “fitted”—meaning the materials conformed to the shape of my feet as to support them. It has just enough cushioning to protect my feet during long runs, but not so much that it compresses my foot when I want to go fast. I have a neutral foot and gait pattern so this stability pair was perfect for me for runs of any distance.

So far I’ve taken my Clifton Edge out on a short 45-minute easy-paced run and a 90-minute aerobic run and they felt just right! I’m looking forward to trying this pair out for race-paced workouts and hill sessions, since the comfortable ride and smoother heel-to-toe transition are more ideal for fast and higher impact running. If you are a neutral runner looking for a lightweight shoe that’s also super good-looking, I highly recommend the HOKA ONE ONE Clifton Edge from Zappos. Don’t forget to sign up for the VIP membership and take advantage of the many benefits!

Shoe Review: Asics GEL-Kayano 27

Sponsored by Zappos Running. All opinions are my own.

No races? No problem! You don’t need a race to keep on running. It’s true we find a good amount of motivation when we sign up for a big race, so it’s normal if we are feeling a bit bummed during this time as mostly all races have been canceled for the year. The thing about running that we often forget is that you can do it year round and get good at it, too—whether or not you have a race on the horizon. I, myself, think of other ways to get motivated. I create a list of short term goals for running that get me just as excited as my race goals do, and remind myself that reaching these smaller goals will only lead to better progress when I can finally race again.

Another way I motivate myself is with cool, new running gear. My favorite part of my wardrobe is running shoes, of course! I recently got another brand new pair from Zappos—the Asics GEL-Kayano 27. I shop from Zappos all the time, since they have an amazingly large selection of everything. I am a VIP member which also means I get free, super fast shipping, plus free returns for a year! I always have the best shopping experience and find everything I am looking for.

Next Level Performance

With the many months we have until our next races, it’s a great time to break up the time into different training blocks. One of the best ways to improve in distance running is to focus on the whole package, which takes time! So having lots of it is a good thing! Running in the Asics GEL-Kayano 27 is a perfect option if you are looking for a high-level stability shoe. My first impression of the shoe was how lightweight it is, especially after reading about the different systems that make up the shoe, which I thought would make the shoe feel heavy.

As I usually do with every new pair, I tried out the Kayano 27 for the first time on a short easy run. The first thing I noticed was how conforming the shoe felt during every part of the gait cycle. This is my favorite feature of Asics—the GEL that runs across many of their styles. It’s what lets the shoe move with the foot. Shoes without this feature tend to feel stiff when you push off the ground with the toes. The Kayano 27 does a good job with this transition and provides a springy step.

Built-In Comfort

Since I have a history of ankle and foot injuries and have dealt with plantar fasciitis for almost my whole running life, I try my best to find shoes that have a decent amount of cushioning but still provide the responsiveness I need for speed work. I have a pet peeve with running shoes—shifting of my heel, which is non-existent in the Asics GEL-Kayano 27! The external heel counter of the shoe truly holds the heel in place and makes it feel “locked”, so you can count on these shoes to feel more fitted than most other styles.

The DUOMAX support system is a game changer for those of you who overpronate naturally while you run. It’s what gives the shoe the stability aspect and controls that inward rolling of the foot. Not controlling overpronation during running can lead to a long list of injuries such as direct ankle and foot problems, runner’s knee, IT band syndrome, and low back pain. It’s important for runners to pay attention to this when choosing the right shoe. This pair also has a specially designed trusstic system in the women’s shoe compared to the men’s, with softer foam.

I’m excited to keep using my GEL-Kayano 27 for the bulk of my training since so far I find that they truly protect my feet from the constant impact of my daily running. I highly recommend this pair for medium to long runs at a consistent pace, although they are pretty good at quick pace changes, as well! I’ll keep you all updated as I continue to break them in and use them for different distances and run types. In the meantime, check out all of the colors on the Zappos site and don’t forget about the VIP membership benefits! 

Shoe Review: Asics GEL-Cumulus 22

As runners, we love our shoes. We love them so much, we dread when they wear out too quickly and we have to toss them. It would be great if all the shoes we loved would last just a little longer, but unfortunately, since we also like our shoes to be light and fast, we have to sacrifice durability. What if I told you that this is not the case with the brand new pair I was lucky to try out from Zappos?! The Asics GEL-Cumulus 22 is made with lightweight materials that last longer than most other shoes—you can actually tell the difference from the first time you wear them rather than waiting to see at the end of their lifespan.

Zappos has been my go-to for all my running (and much of my non-running) gear. They have an extra large selection of products, so I always find what I’m looking for. Since becoming a VIP member, I’ve taken advantage of the benefits, including the free expedited shipping, expert customer service, and free returns for a year. If you haven’t joined, you are missing out!

Long Run Comfort

When trying out a new pair of running shoes, I always take a day to walk around in them first, then follow that with a short run to break them in further before attempting a longer run. These shoes are definitely more supportive than the lightweight shoes I am used to. The structure of the shoe is on the firm side, yet flexible enough to conform to the motion of the foot during the constant pounding on the ground. Some runners stay away from more rigid shoes because they feel it will limit their speed, but you definitely want some firmness if you are looking to run more than a few miles. That’s where the support comes from!

My first longer run in these shoes was a 14-mile run up and over the causeway several times, and I was surprised with how comfortable they felt during the inclines. Instead of the firmness limiting my push-off on the inclines, it actually helped! Asics’ FlyteFoam technology is what gives the midsole this responsiveness. I was a fan of the GEL-Cumulus 21, which I used for most medium runs for a couple of months. This updated version feels much softer, which is going to be great for all of my bridge runs!

A Summer Running Essential

Running in 90+ degrees and 95%+ humidity every single day has its benefit of building a great deal of strength and fitness. One of the worst problems of running in this climate is finishing every run with soggy shoes. It’s merely impossible to not get sweat into your shoes during these hot months, so it’s great when a shoe is made with the right materials to let your feet breathe and not get weighed down. The Ortholite X-40 Sockliner in the Asics GEL-Cumulus 22 provides the shoe with better moisture management than any other shoe I’ve used lately. The upper part of the shoe is made with a mesh material, which also helps the feet stay dry.

I lean more towards a neutral/supinated foot strike, so these shoes felt just right. If you are an overpronator, you may actually still find this shoe can work for you since it is extremely roomy for any orthotic. I actually tested this out by removing the insoles and replacing with my plantar fasciitis insoles I use sometimes and they did not feel tight at all! For those of you that fall into the overpronation category, the increased pressure through the heel when running can definitely cause pain and other foot and ankle issues. The GEL-Cumulus 22 is made with a gel cushion that you can visibly see in the heel of the shoe that reduces this pressure and provides the foot with better shock absorption—something that will greatly reduce your risk of injury.

All in all, the Asics GEL-Cumulus 22 is a well-designed shoe that feels great for just about any run. I will be using these for medium to long runs since the materials are longer lasting than other lightweight shoes I own. I highly recommend this pair for short to long distance training, so give them a try in one of the ten color options from Zappos. And don’t forget to take advantage of the VIP membership program!

Shoe Review: Brooks Hyperion Tempo

Sponsored by Zappos. All opinions are my own.

With fall racing around the corner, most of us are gearing up for an intense summer of fast miles in the heat. As tough as it is to train during this time, we just need to find what motivates us to get up and get it done. I don’t know about you but a fast pair of running shoes really does the trick to get me excited to work hard. There are so many to choose from, though, so it can get a little overwhelming trying to find the perfect shoe rotation. There are several components to shoes that determine what they are best used for. You have to consider the weight, materials, responsiveness, and cushioning levels when picking what to wear for long runs, speed sessions, track workouts, and your every day easy runs.

I’ve been so happy with my recent addition of the Brooks Adrenaline that I got so intrigued by what else the brand has to offer. I’ve been in search for a shoe that works for longer distance speed work, since that’s my goal for the summer. Thankfully I got my hands on a pair of the Brooks Hyperion Tempo from Zappos. The Hyperion is a line that was created with input from some of the top elite runners, so you can probably guess they are made to go fast!

Zappos never lets me down. I can always count on finding any pair I’m looking for with their extremely large selection of running shoes and expert customer service that is always ready to answer all of my questions. As a VIP member you not only get these benefits, but also super fast and free shipping—even during the pandemic I got my shoes within a couple of days! Free returns for a year is also part of the VIP program, which you won’t find anywhere else. If you love to shop and want the best selections, I highly recommend being a VIP member, which is also free by the way!

Weight Matters

Most runners try to find the lightest pair of shoes for every run. In general, this is a good idea. No one wants to be pounding the pavement with a bulky pair. Normally the lightest shoes are made for short distance speed work like track sessions and for racing, and developed with materials that most likely are the least supportive and cushioned since this will add weight to the shoe. The tricky part about finding the right shoes for half and full marathon training is that you have to look hard for a shoe that has both components—lightweight AND supportive. The Brooks Hyperion Tempo falls into this category.

Faster Recovery

I first tested these out for a short, easy run to break them in a little, and then added a few strides at the end to see how they felt for faster paces. I was impressed to find that they really didn’t need to be broken in—they felt flexible and soft from the start. The DNA FLASH midsole is infused with nitrogen, which is what helps the shoe give off a superb energy return. This is important for fast running because you want that force you’re putting into the shoe to be used to push off and accelerate as fast as possible. Basically, the goal is zero waste of energy, so that you can recover faster. Shoes that don’t provide this make your feet and muscles work harder to gain the speed you are aiming for, therefore increasing fatigue and delaying recovery.

Unlike other distance running shoes, the Brooks Hyperion Tempo are far from rigid. The upper is made with stretchy material that hugs the foot, but are pretty roomy in the forefoot. This means when feet swell after long distances, which is normal, you don’t have to worry about the shoes feeling tight during the second half of those long sessions. After using these for the second time on a 12 mile run in 85-degree weather, I was happy to see that they truly felt breathable even given how much I sweat during these hot summer runs! Breathable shoes means less risk of painful blisters and chafing, which can be a major limitation to any amount of running. You are guaranteed to feel light on your feet, since this pair does not hold on to moisture.

If you are preparing for a half or full marathon this summer, the Brooks Hyperion Tempo is a great option for longer and faster runs. There are two sleek color combinations to choose from, so head over to Zappos to order yours today and sign up for that VIP membership so you can reap the rewards!

Shoe Review: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20

Sponsored by Zappos Running. All Opinions are my own.

Stability, cushioning, responsiveness…it all sounds like the best way to describe a good running shoe, but what do these terms really mean? Do all running shoes really have the right amount of everything to protect us from injury and help us run our best? The answer is no. All shoes are made differently and it takes time and patience to find the right pair. If you ask a hardcore runner what they want in a shoe, most likely they will say “fast” is their priority. The problem is shoes that help with speed, are not the most comfortable. You pretty much have to give and take when it comes to deciding on the right pair. The most important feature to look for in running shoes is support. After all, that’s what shoes are made for—to support our feet.

In comes Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20. I was lucky enough to snag a pair from Zappos, where I regularly buy all of my running clothes and gear. Their extremely large selection of products guarantees that you’ll find what you need every single time. As a Rewards Member you get free expedited shipping and free returns for a year, so there is no reason to shop elsewhere! I’ve heard great things about the Adrenaline GTS 20 so I wanted to try out a pair myself. It was a hard choice out of about two-dozen color options. I selected the peacoat/light blue/copper, which looks even better in person!

Chain Reaction

Did you know any problems that arise in the feet could lead to issues and injury in higher joints in the body? For example, if you overpronate, this causes the foot to buckle inwards, which causes the knee to rotate and pressure to get unevenly distributed even up to as high as the lower back joints. Ankle and foot problems are frequently the initial cause of knee pain in runners. This is one reason why I love the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20. It is actually made with a system that controls motion in the foot to minimize this chain of reactions. Stabilizing the foot with GuideRails, you can count on the Adrenaline GTS 20 to provide you with much more comfortable and pain free runs.

Dual Cushioning

Cushioning is cushioning, right? Yes and no. The term makes runners think of soft, plush materials that hug your feet, but the cushioning in the Adrenaline GTS 20 does much more than that. DNA LOFT is the softest of Brooks’ cushioning and is what adapts to your foot’s shape, positioning, as well as your bodyweight. I felt a good amount of that pillow-like support when running in this pair, yet with a springiness that I normally get in a lightweight racing shoe. This is what the second layer of cushioning is responsible for. The BioMoGo DNA was created to give a shoe that’s part of a “cushioned” line a speedy element. Don’t worry—having this extra layer does not add any bulk.

I took my Brooks on a few different runs—8 mile easy run, 12 miles with 3 miles at tempo pace in the middle, and an 18-miler long run at aerobic pace. They felt extremely comfortable and well-cushioned, but I was surprised at the stability I felt given they weren’t too stiff like most motion control shoes. This must be the GuideRails technology mentioned earlier. I was hesitant about the 18-miler since the shoes felt extremely lightweight for a long run given I have significant instability in my foot and ankle joints. Thankfully they felt supportive enough and did not give me any pain or soreness in my feet as I usually get after using lightweight shoes for longer sessions.

As for my speed session, I was pleasantly surprised! Since I already knew about the two layers of cushioning and the stability technology, I was anticipating a less than ideal assist for my fast miles. It turns out the addition of the BioMoGo DNA that is supposed to help with responsiveness, really does provide the spring you want when trying to run faster. I’m still waiting to try these out for an even faster workout on the track to really test this technology!

If you are looking for a sleek, lightweight, and cushioned shoe, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 is a good option, especially for every day runs. This line is made with durable materials, so you can count on this pair to last you longer than many other brands. Don’t forget—Zappos has a full stock of over two dozen color options, so you can be sure to find a print that matches your style!

Staying Motivated During Uncertain Times

Sponsored by Zappos. All opinions are my own.

We all start off the year with ambitions and more so this year, 2020, since it’s a whole new start of a century. Since January, though, there have been major circumstances that have gotten in the way of that “best year yet” feeling. For over a month now the world has been dealing with a never-before-seen pandemic—one that has caused most of everything around us to shut down, a significant drop in any economic gains, and even worse, causing many people to lose their lives. Although most of us are working from home with more flexible schedules, we are struggling to keep motivated to stay fit and healthy. Even runners, who are generally the most motivated of the bunch, seem to be having a difficult time sticking to any kind of training, since all races have been canceled. It almost feels like we are working towards nothing.

It’s time to turn the light switch on and change our mentality to the positive. Just because there aren’t any races on the schedule until Fall doesn’t mean we should put a halt to our training and goals. I know Fall is even uncertain at this point, but we should use this time to embrace running for everything it is, instead of being solely focused on completing a race or reaching a PR. Those things are great, but running does so much more for our lives than make us fast. It’s a good time to take a step back, reflect on what we should improve, and focus on self-care. It can make all the difference once these crazy times are behind us and life gets back to normal. Put on your best outfits and give your body what it needs during this hectic time—MOVEMENT! My new Mizuno Inspire 16 from Zappos is giving me a big pep to my step these days!

Keep a Routine

The biggest struggle for those who are used to a set work schedule has been maintaining good time management throughout the day. Before when the workday started at 9AM, we were up at 4AM to get that speed work done and feel accomplished. Now almost everyone seems to be sleeping in, scattering work duties throughout a 12-hour day and leaving any training we were thinking of doing for the end of the day, which may or may not get done. Since our big goal races this Spring are not in the picture any more, runners don’t see the need to be so strict about their running schedules. Just for the mere fact that we can all use a little stress relief, running and exercise itself should actually be a priority these days. A little sleeping in is also good for us, but why not keep running on the schedule as the first task of the day? It will make you feel accomplished, refreshed and ready for a productive day. Keeping a similar routine as when you were at the office will also help with the transition of working from home to back to normal life again.

Add in Variety

There is no better time to change up your workout routine than when you have months before your next race. I’ve personally decided to keep running every morning, but lower my mileage and add in a mix of exercises I’ve always wanted to fit in but skipped out on because I was too tired from running. Switching up to new workouts wakes up and strengthens weak muscles and improves our fitness even further—both very helpful for when racing season comes along again. Without a gym and tons of equipment, there are still plenty of options to switch up the program. Since running is still allowed, following social distancing guidelines of course, find a route that passes by a set of stairs and get in a few sets of bursts up in the middle or end of you run. After a month of including these climbs I can notice my legs feel more powerful when I run uphill, which has always been a struggle for me. The Mizuno Inspire 16 have been great for stairs and hills since the WAVEKNITupper is super flexible and helps push off the ground more comfortably than with other pairs. They definitely look and feel extremely light, so you would think they lack cushioning, but the midsole is very plush and gives a soft landing, something that not only makes running feel good, but also when adding in my jump roping, box jumps and the many other plyometric moves I’ve been incorporating these days. So, there you have it—three new exercises you can add in at home to give a boost to your fitness: stair running, jump rope, and plyometrics.

Run Love

As much as I love running, I find myself finishing my morning workout not even remembering anything I saw throughout the hour or two I was out. During marathon training we are always so focused on our pace, form, and hitting certain goals, we often forget to take in the environment around us. If we are lucky to find a quiet route where there are not many people, we should embrace our surroundings. I always talk about how pretty my side of town is, but it wasn’t until this past month that I truly paid attention to everything around me. I run by the ocean every day, which is probably my favorite thing in the world, and scoping out every part of it while running puts a smile on my face. I love easy to moderate long runs where I can relax into my pace, so I’m opting for these most days of the week, because I actually have the freedom now to do the workouts I love and only those if I want. Don’t get me wrong, speed work can be fun and is an important component to improving and reaching my race goals, but I don’t HAVE to be so strict about them right now. Running the way you LOVE can remind you why you started running in the first place and bring a whole new sense of self—less stress, more energy for the rest of your day, and a positive outlook on any situation. 

The Mizuno Inspire 16 has been a great medium to long run option. They are cushioned enough to prevent sore feet from the constant pounding, but extremely light so they don’t weigh you down halfway through the run like most well-cushioned shoes. The upper material is also super breathable, which is a major help in the extreme humidity I run through here in Miami. You can shop these in so many other colors at Zappos, which is where I get most of my running gear. Being a Zappos Rewards member has amazing perks—free expedited shipping, free returns for a year, and the best customer service to answer all of your questions and resolve any issues. You can sign up for free and start a shopping list for when these crazy times are over and you can be ready to race your best this Fall!

A Colorful Shoe Review: Asics Gel Nimbus 22

Sponsored by Zappos. All opinions are my own.

If there is a way to get a runner hyped for their training program, it’s with a fun, new pair of shoes. My motto for gear is: the brighter, the better! Along with an energetic color, of course my running shoes need to have the right qualities to lead me to fast and comfortable miles. I tend to choose my running shoes based on the type of run I’m going for—easy, tempo, sprints, or long runs. If you’re like me and have issues such as plantar fasciitis, a history of foot or ankle injuries, or simply weak ankles, then support is the number one quality to seek.

I got a new pair of Asics from Zappos and I’m obsessed, especially since they are the brightest any running shoe can be! If you’re not into the neon colors, Zappos has so many others available. I get pretty much all of my running apparel and shoes from Zappos and they satisfy my every need without fail! You can always count on their knowledgeable customer service to help guide you to the best picks and take care of any issues. They also offer free expedited shipping if you are a VIP rewards member (which is FREE to sign up!) and free returns for one year. It’s the best place to shop for all running essentials!

Every Day Runner

If you are looking for all around cushioning, Asics Gel Nimbus 22 is a good choice. It’s packed with their signature Gel Technology both in the forefoot and rearfoot to provide comfort to the entire foot, while absorbing shock during impact. I’ve been running in the Nimbus 22 for about 6 weeks now, and they’ve only gotten better with every run. I’ve tried them out for every type of workout, but seem to love them the most for my medium to long easy runs. These are the sessions that I use as both recovery and aerobic work so I can tell you the Nimbus 22 are perfect for keeping my feet from getting sore or overworked.

At first this pair took a couple of runs to really break in. They felt slightly stiff, but by day three they were extremely flexible, yet still supportive throughout the gait cycle. Push-off feels springy, but not so much that excessive pressure rolls onto the balls of the feet and toes. One update from the previous model that adds to the responsiveness is an extra 2 millimeters of plush FLYTEFOAM Propel technology. It keeps it springy with a softer landing. The “stiffness” I felt is actually a benefit because it aids in supporting the foot when making turns especially at a fast pace. My ankles are on the weak side, so any time a shoe keeps my ankle from rolling is a bonus!

Durability is Key

The unfortunate issue year round distance runners have to deal with is the quick wear and tear of our favorite pairs. You would think speed workouts wear away shoes quicker, but for me it’s the every day pairs—the ones I wear for my easy medium to long runs, since they make up the bulk of my weekly mileage. Most brands create running shoes with the lightest materials possible, since it truly does make a difference for speed, but unfortunately make the shoes less durable. Asics uses a technology called Trusstic System, which enhances the structural integrity of the shoe, but still keeps it lightweight. Usually a significantly supportive shoe will be the opposite—heavy and bulky. There are other materials built into the Nimbus 22 that also improve the lifespan, such as AHAR (Asics High Abrasion Rubber), which is embedded within the outsole of the shoe and does not add weight at all. If you come across a running shoe that lasts longer than the typical 200 to 300 miles, you have found a winner! I have not yet reached this mileage yet with my Nimbus 22, but can already tell how much they can withstand after over 120 miles in them so far.

As I mentioned in the beginning, running is much more exciting when you are wearing a good shoe and even more so when the shoe is bright and colorful. In my opinion, something about neon hues brings energy to my runs! These beauties are part of Asics’ Run in Color collection and are currently my favorite out of the many pairs I own! Again, if you are not a fan of the bright colors and are looking for a more minimal-toned, neutral, or less shocking shoe, Zappos has it all!