Holiday Shopping Guide: Yoga Lovers

We're getting very close to Christmas, but there's still some time for last minute gifts!  Still stressing about that yoga lover you're just not quite sure what to give?  Don't get all bent out of shape - try one of these great yoga gifts!

Sequence Yoga Mat - Every yogi needs a mat or two or ten!  I hear a lot of people who say "oh I'm sure they already have a mat..." and feel compelled to remind them that mats get dirty and worn out.  Yogis sweat and yoga mat material doesn't always clean up so nicely.  Mats get lost or damaged.  If you see a pretty pattern or innovative new mat option, don't dismiss it as a gift idea!  Most yogis would love to have a couple mats to rotate through or even layer together on harder surfaces.

Yoga Mat Towel - Okay, so maybe they already HAVE a dozen mats and are running out of space.  Why not try a yoga mat towel?  These towels are created to match the length and width of a yoga mat, and often have corner pockets into which the mat corners can be tucked to hold the towel in place.  They're especially great for hot yoga enthusiasts who may sweat onto the mat and lose their grip!  Some mat towels are even thick enough to double as somewhat of a travel mat, since they can roll or fold up easily into luggage.

YogDev Yoga Wheel - Props are a fantastic way to spread the yogi love!  Blocks and straps are easy to find stocking stuffers, but innovative props are even more fun and creative.  Yoga wheels are versatile pieces of yoga equipment that allow deeper poses, more support, and greater challenges - which makes the wheel a perfect gift for ANY level.  Plus, they come in tons of colors, and some wheels are even available with patterns.  Take $5 off your wheel order at YogDev with promo code 5OFFYOGAWHEEL.

Yoga Cards - Talk about a perfect stocking stuffer!  This little deck is marketed as a game for teaching children yoga, but I've also found it to be a very cool tool for improving my own practice.  You can play the game as described in the pack, or just shuffle up a unique flow for your next session!  Or, try working on a pose each day by drawing a random card from the deck.  Any yogi would love to give this pack a try.

TrueLife Fitness Leggings - Apparel, apparel, apparel!  Yogis need clothes too!  In fact, yoga leggings are one of the most fun pieces of clothing to shop for, since there are so many exciting patterns and beautiful designs on the market.  But for the perfect yoga leggings, look no further than TrueLife Fitness.  Available in full length or capri styles, the material is the softest and most breathable of any leggings I've ever worn.  The best added bonus, though, is that each sale from TrueLife sends a donation to Women Win - a charity that helps provide young women with access to sports and physical activity.  Not only are you gifting yoga to your loved one, but you're enriching the world for the next generation at the same time.

Okay!  Time's running out!  Get shopping!  And don't forget to check out my Recovery Stocking Stuffers list for a few extra ideas that will fit almost ANY active lifestyle!  Happy Holidays!

Holiday Shopping Guide: Recovery Stocking Stuffers

Every athlete at any level risks their body every time they train.  Even with proper form, technique, and awareness, the threat of strains, pulls, fatigue, and overuse lingers daily.  Why not help your favorite athlete heal faster and recover better with some great holiday stocking stuffers?!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.

PainCakes - The recovery that sticks!  This awesome little ice pack is self-adhesive and reusable, so you can slap it on your sore spots to get relief, then stick it back in the freezer to have it ready for next time!  No wraps, covers, or frustration necessary.  Great for ANY athlete!

SLS3 Compression Sleeves - Though some people actually wear compression socks or sleeves during their runs, I've found them to be absolutely ideal for recovery post-run.  Graduated compression gently squeezes the blood vessels to allow better flow of nutrients to muscles, allowing for faster rebuilding after putting your fibers to the test.  PLUS, right now you can take 40% off your order with code FITNYX40 through 1/31/17!

Telic Recovery Footwear - After pounding the pavement for miles upon miles, your feet can get more than a little sore, and the constant impact can throw much of your body out of whack too.  With Telic shoes or flip flops, tired feet and legs are more comfortably supported and harsh footstep impacts are reduced.  The heat-activated material conforms to the shape of your foot while you wear them, giving you a perfect fit every time.  Use promo code AMANDAN5 to get $5 off your order!

Massages - Nothing says "recovery" like a massage!  Treat your loved ones' sore muscles to a good rub-down with a gift card to a local massage parlor or a relaxing spa day.  A card makes a great stocking stuffer, OR you can get a little mini-massager (like the foot massagers below) to wrap up with a card or a pre-paid package.

IdealLean BCAA Mix - Whether it's cardio or strength work, post-workout muscle soreness is a very real problem.  Working out hard actually tears your muscles, and it's the rebuilding process that makes them stronger.  Speed up that rebuilding time and provide your athlete with more of the essential branched-chain amino acids that are vital to muscle recovery with one of IdealLean's delicious BCAA blends.  These powders mix easily into water for a refreshing and powerful post-workout beverage!  IdealLean is running tons of holiday specials, and you can even get 10% off your order with code anyx10!

Recovery is a GREAT way to show you care!  Support your favorite runner/lifter/yogi with gifts that will keep them doing the things they love longer and safer - that's a happy holiday all around!

Holiday Shopping Guide: Runners

Runners like to think we're pretty easy to shop for, but that doesn't stop our families from asking us "uhh, so what do you want for Christmas?" every year!  If you're stuck on ideas shopping for that runner in YOUR life, consider some of these great options.

Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links.

BUFF Headbands - Keep your ears, neck, face, and head warm and cozy for winter running with a Merino wool Buff!  Or, in the warmer months, get a UV Buff to protect your face and neck from harsh sun exposure.  Buffs come in dozens of colors and patters, so you're sure to find the perfect style for ANY personality!  They also make bandannas, gloves, scarves, and traditional headbands.

RunLites Gloves - Light up the night and stay safe with RunLites!  These gloves contain removable light packs that rest on the back of your hand, making them much more comfortable than a headlamp and completely unobtrusive while you're running, not to mention easier to aim when you need to scan your surroundings.  There's even an elastic that will hold your race fuel for you!

Race Entries - This is a sure winner!  Pick a dream race or even just an open-ended offer and make your own gift certificate!  Every runner's worst nightmare is figuring out how to afford their race schedule.  Take some of that burden off their shoulders and they'll love you forever...

JournalMenu Training Planner - Fully customizeable both inside and out, this is a gift that can be tailored to ANYone.  From creating personalized covers to choosing your page layout, and even picking supplemental and informational inserts to be included, JournalMenu lets you craft a tool that meets any goal or training program!

Hydrus Performance Hydration - A liquid concentrate electrolyte mix, Hydrus is one of the best hydration products available on the market.  Not only is it excellent for long runs, hot runs, and recovery, it's also being used by major hospitals to help rehydrate patients suffering from symptoms like nausea and vomiting.  The power is in the microbubble formula that will take your insides from parched to healthy in record time! (Use promo code FITNYX to get free shipping on your Hydrus order!)

Polar Performance Watch - For the serious runner, Polar wearables provide a wealth of training feedback, including distance, splits, pace, heart rate, elevation, and more.  All that delicious data helps track goal progress and highlights opportunities for improvement.  Even the casual runner can enjoy the benefits of GPS tracking and step counting!  (Plus, free shipping on orders over $100!)

Shoes - Every runner needs shoes, but do be mindful that it's not ideal to run in just any ol' shoe.  Many runners get fitted for the right amount of support and fit for their gait; some even get custom-formed insoles to ensure the shoe meets their body's needs.  If you're not sure which shoe your runner needs, consider a gift card to a running store instead!

iTunes Gift Card - Runners are music lovers too!  Especially on those long runs, it's great to have a long playlist of all your favorites.  Stuff a little running love into their stocking this year with a gift card to fill their devices with their favorite running jams!

Hope this has helped you find the perfect presents for the runners on your list!  Stay tuned for more holiday shopping guides, including ideas for lifters, yogis, and recovery products for ANY fitness fanatic!  MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Runner's Wishlist 3: Top 10 Destination Races

This past weekend, Disney ran their first ever Star Wars race weekend.  My Instagram feed was blowing up with pictures of costumes and excitement, and I spent about 90% of my Sunday feeling super jealous.  I know it'll be difficult to

Most of these locations are known for holding full marathons - I can't yet foresee myself running actual marathons, but many of these destinations seem to have other distance options from 5k to half marathon, so I'm sure I could find something to suit my abilities.  Here's a list of some of the top places in the world I'd like to run, because wishful thinking never hurt anyone...

Walt Disney World, Florida USA
Yup, I'm a sucker for Disney, just like so many others.  But that's why the RunDisney franchise has so much success - they know we were raised on classic animations, and that we'll eat it all up even if they serve it to us raw.  Most specifically, I'm super excited about the new Rebel Challenge: a 10k on Saturday, followed by a half marathon on Sunday.  I know I'm up for those distances, and it would be a great excuse to get the nerdy hubby involved, because Star Wars.

***Update!  Apparently I didn't pay attention and this race is at Disney LAND in California.  I'm down either way, Cali is awesome too!***

Clearly they all know to let the Wookie win.

Machu Pichu, Peru
How awesome would it be to run the Inca Trail and see one of the most beautiful archaeological sites in the world while you're at it?  I've had a soft spot in my heart for Machu Pichu for decades, and this would be somewhat of a dream come true.  Unfortunately, the race options are marathon or 30k - but I guess that 30k wouldn't be TOO bad if I can manage half marathons...  At the very least, I'd push myself just for the chance to visit Peru!

The Andes are breathtaking - but the trail can be dangerous.

Great Wall, China
I've been to the Great Wall, but I've never run it.  In fact, I took so long walking the section I visited that my bus almost returned to Beijing without me!  I was determined to make the most of the trip, since I did not anticipate a return trip in the near future.  Now that I know they hold a half marathon along the Wall, I'm moving "return to China" higher up on my to-do list.  Plus, bonus - I already speak the language!  Sorta.  I'm out of practice...

Can't WAIT to go back!

London, England UK
Maybe it's the Dr Who fan in me, but I really want to get to London some day.  There's not much of a specific appeal to which I could point, though the British Museum's vast collection of interesting treasures certainly ranks high on my list of "things I want to see"; maybe it has something to do with feeling like this is a cool city I might actually be able to convince my husband to visit with me (he's not a huge travel fan).  Something like the Royal Parks Half Marathon might be just right for someone like me.

Gorgeous.  Even better when David Tennant is running around, eh?

Rome, Italy
I'm an archaeologist and an art historian who specializes in Central Asian art - which is heavily influenced by Greco-Roman styles.  OF COURSE I want to visit Rome, and see all the art and architecture I spent years studying!  A Rome-Ostia half marathon?  I'm essentially already there.  At least in spirit.  The body will catch up someday!

An archaeologist's vision of heaven.

Athens, Greece
I might as well just copy the Rome paragraph - but I'd have to add the very personal reason I've always had such a fascination with Greek mythology: my name.  Nyx was a Greek goddess, somewhat obscure to be sure, but with a large cult following.  She has an entire page in Hesiod's Theogony describing all the divine beings she brought into the world, including Brightness, Friendship, Dreams, and... a bunch of other less positive-sounding things that I shall choose to exclude to save my reputation, lest I be associated too closely with my namesake!  As far as running is concerned, the Poseidonios Half Marathon would be an ideal choice to start, but there are so many other areas of Greece that host enticing race events, I'm not entirely sure I could pick my favorite!

Plus it's like, where the marathon was invented, or something...

Bangkok, Thailand
As a scholar of Buddhism, I've had a lot of time to learn about Thailand and the breathtaking art produced in its religious community.  To witness these treasures firsthand at the Bangkok races would be an honor.  Plus, it's the perfect excuse to listen to One Night in Bangkok on repeat - not than anyone really needs a reason to play such a fun song...

So lavish and bright...  Seriously stunning artwork and architecture.

Cayman Islands, UK territory
Do I really have to elaborate on this one?  Have you SEEN the pictures of this place?  In fact, why bother waiting for a running excuse, just take me there already!

Should I even bother with words?

Niagara Falls, Canada/US
I chose to end the list on my most likely to happen destination to make me feel better about all the amazing places I can't afford to visit (yet, let's hope).  My family regularly took Niagara Falls vacations, and my parents still drive up for a long weekend when they feel the urge.  I'm sure it would be easy to convince my dad to run one of the shorter distance races with me in the next couple years.  I might even get my husband out there, with minimal objections!

So magical!  And close enough to be practical!

Anytown, USA
That's right, I'm being vague.  That's because I want to run in EVERY state in our great nation!  So far I've raced in Illinois and Ohio - this year I will definitely add Wisconsin, Run Disney will get me Florida, and we'll go from there!  Have a great race in your area that you recommend?  I'll add it to the list!

Where in the world have you run?  Do you have a favorite destination race?  Is there one place you MUST run before you retire your shoes?  Is there ANY chance you want to sponsor me on a trip to one of these amazing places?!  Please?  Pretty please?!?!

Runner's Wishlist #2: A good running belt!

Okay, okay, I admit I already have a running belt.  I've been using it all summer, and I love it.  BUT!  As I am getting more serious about running, and going out for longer times and distances, I'm finding myself with a desire to carry more stuff with me.  When you're going around the long block for a mile or two, you don't need much besides music and keys.  Heading out for an hour or two, though...  I want to be able to have my phone, my music, my keys, some cash, and maybe a gel or two with me.

My current little guy from Nathan Sports.

I hear a lot of things about hydration packs and water bottle belts - I think that's a little intense for me at this time.  I'm not in marathon training mode or heading out into the wilderness where survival might be increasingly difficult.  For my neighborhood and race running, having bottles strapped to my hips seems unnecessary.

After a lot of research, well, I still don't know what belt I would actually want!  Currently, the best-looking option has got to be the Flip-Belt, with its width and the all-around pocket with room for ALL your running goodies!

Innit preeeeeeeety?

For now, I can still get by with my little Nathan pouch, but Flip-Belt - I'm coming for ya!

Have a go-to running pouch?  Why do you like it?  What made you pick that one originally?  I need help!

Runner's Wishlist #1: Blerchandise

The more involved I get with the fitness world, the more I realize I'm missing - especially when it comes to gear and gadgets!  Don't get me wrong, I have LOTS of stuff (and if you ask my husband, I already have way too much), but by golly I want more!  And who doesn't?

So I'm starting a new "series" here on the good ol' blog to spotlight some of the cool stuff out there in the fitness market that I want to add to my collection.  Maybe it'll help y'all think of some good gift ideas for the runners in YOUR lives!

Today's wishlist item is actually a bundle of stuff from The Oatmeal.  If you're not an Oatmeal fan, you're missing out: what started as a few simple ideas has actually blown up into one of the most popular webcomics on the internet - and the writer happens to be an avid runner.  His series of posts about "The Blerch" have spawned a nationwide (let's be honest, it's probably worldwide) following of runners who are staying active for their health.

I just found out today that The Oatmeal is now running a Beat the Blerch race in Washington, and providing the option to run a virtual race as well.  The virtual race kit is full of cool Blerch gear, including a Blerch shirt, medal, bib, magnet, stress ball, stickers, and more!  Sadly, the event is this weekend, which means that I'm WAY too late to sign up for the event and get all the awesome Blerchandise swag.

It also means I can put Blerchandise on my wish list for future stuff.   So... it's on the list.  If you know someone out there who has chosen to take up endurance sports to help get in shape and/or stay healthy, Blerchandise can be the perfect gift, both motivational and fun!

Do you run to beat the Blerch?

What kinds of gifts would you love in your fitness career/hobby?