I've always loved running. Getting outside and taking a breath of fresh air is so energizing and mediating for me. Over the years, I've learned to use running as a way to clear my head and focus on life and all I'm grateful for. Running is a cheap and easy way to get active and it can be done anywhere. Get some good tunes going and call it a fantastic situation.
My runs can go from anywhere from 25min-1hour. My most favorite way to run is getting outside and hitting the trails.
Sometimes my runs are with a stroller and sometimes solo. Whatever they are, I look forward to them and crave them. For me, I see the best results in my body when I am consistent with my runs. A full body cardio workout that I adore and feel grateful I am able to move my body. Before my run, there’s a process to prepare for the run.
First, I love to run in the morning on an empty stomach. I’ll have a glass of lemon water and a coffee and lace up. Here are a few of my running rituals and essentials:
Intention
Always set an intention or a mantra for your run. By setting an intention or a phrase you say over and over, you are training your subconscious mind. Pretty cool, right? Some of my favorites mantras are: I am strong, I am energetic, I am joyful. Trust me, it makes a difference in energizing your run.
Sneakers
Asics all the way. I first wore Asics when I started to train for races and I will forever be devoted to them. The perfect running shoe for me. Do you for the shoes, whatever you feel best supported in, grab them and go.
Good Pants
So important here. I can’t be stopping and having to stop to pull up my pants or adjust when I’m in the middle of a great run. Momentum gets lost when I like having to stop and sort. I’m a huge fan of Lorna Jane or Lululemon. Their pants are a snug fit and sit perfectly on the hips. Soft and breathable (and super cute).
Headphones and a Kickass Playlist
Nothing gets me energized more than some good jams. So many times, I’ve laced up my kicks to go for a walk and it’s turned into a run cause a good song got me all juiced up. Music moves me and igniting me in a way I can’t describe. Having a good pair of headphones that stay in my ear and on my head is equally important. My favorite headphones are the ones that sit on my head and fully cover my ears. Yes, I may look like I have full earmuffs on, but I’m in my zone and hyperfocused.
Sports Bra
Ladies, how many times have you been running and you stop to adjust so you are not fully exposed? It’s no good! I love a good sports bra that fits snug (not too snug) and gives good support. Am I right about this?
Lip Treatment
Pucker up and protect your lovely lips before you head out to the cold air or hot sun. A lip balm with peppermint in it gives me that little blast of energy and the smell kicks the run up a bit. Also, don’t forget the sunscreen. Rain or shine, have it on.
Watch
There is something so gratifying for me when I’m running and I can look at my watch and see my time and distance I’ve gone. If I’m training for a race, my watch is a must for me. It’s always fun the try to beat my last run time and distance. This Garmin watch, I’ve used for years and I love it. It’s GPS easily tracks my distance beautifully.
Post Recovery
After your run, be sure to hydrate and replenish those electrolytes you lost. My go-to is adding a Emergen-C into my water bottle. Also, don’t forget to fuel your beautiful muscles with a good source of nutrients. Ideally, this would be within 30 minutes for optimal muscle recovery. Grab yourself a carbohydrate and protein combo here. Eg. Oatmeal with eggs, or apple with almond butter. Of course, a good smoothie is also always a good choice.
If you are thinking about nutrition before a run, think a complex carbohydrate about an hour before your run. Complex carbohydrates fuels your body (much needed on those longer run).
Your turn- are you a runner? Do you have running essentials? Comment below!
With love,
A: Connie
Hello- this is such a refreshing and motivational blog! Love it 😍. You are so beautiful inside and out! Thanks for sharing and motivating me!
Starting my day on a positive note………❤️ Connie
Gina Laurella
Big hugs to you and thank you for your sweet words!
XO
Tricia
I used to be a runner and would love to get back to it. There is nothing more invigorating, stress-relieving leg toning then regular runs. Your Instagram posts are great reminder to get out on good days and bad.
Gina Laurella
So true! Running is my favorite way to de-stress and I’m always feeling 100% afterwards.
XO