"LOVES Me a New Pair of Shorts!"

Yep! And I deserved them... for some reason I'm sure! Here's my back story, surely you'll agree.
I, like many of you, thoroughly enjoy Lululemon. Their products' fabrics, sewing, versatility, and long-last wear have past lead me to purchase several items over the year.
A brief sampling:

Scuba Hoodie, $108.00



Cool Racerback $39.00



Run: Tempo Crop II $86.00

Several of these products as well as those not listed have lasted me not months but years! That's a tall order in the fitness industry! With stretch fabrics like spandex and nylon, it's tough to get a good pair of running crops to last a year without either stretching out or falling apart due to shotty sewing. Not with Lulu's, no sir.

I digress. My past several months have filled with more of a running schedule than a gym schedule, largely due to my somewhat healing piriformis syndrome and definitely healing GI issues. My running wardrobe, however, left much to be desired. My shorts were boring and slouchy. The warmer temps left running crops out of the question. What was a girl to do??

Exhibit A:

Run: Turbo Speed Short $54.00

Don't you LOVE??? OK, I know what you're thinking and believe me, I can respond:

1: No they're not as tiny or tight as they look. They're just right on me and I'm on the taller side of the scale. The waist band feels non-existent. The moisture-wicking, light-feeling fabric keeps me cool. There's even that oh-so-handy zipper pouch in the back of the waistband to fit a car key or phone.

2: Yes, I know they seem pricey. But to be honest, a normal pair of running shorts (that fill the 4th drawer down in my dresser) are priced between $30-$40. None can compete with the Run: Speed Short in comfort, style, wear- ability, fabric, and quality. I'd probably replace those cheaper shorts 3x more frequently than the Lulu's. Let's face it, I saved money!! Right?

3. No, they don't ride up. They don't move. No chaffing. No slouching. It's seriously like they're not even there. Did I say that already?

Have I proven my point? One special shout out to my sis-in-law, Jamie, for gifting me a $25 Lulu gift card for my BDay. Thus, giving me all the more reason to shop till I drop!!

** Nope, Lululemon has no clue that I just spent a good 20 minutes gushing about their amazing products. No sponsorships needed! Pro-bono props!**

My Favorite Things

I know, I know. I'm not Oprah so therefore the privelege of having a "Favorite Things" posting may not necessarily be mine. Maybe some day, right?

However, there are WAY too many cool gadgets and gifts out there in the health and fitness world to shy away due to a lack of Oprah-factor. Read on to find out....

1. Apple Nike + iPod Sport Kit

Personal work out coach. Keep track of your distance, pace, time, and calories. Challenge other runners through the nike+ website, created just for you. AND you can map your neighborhood run. Your car will be jealous without you depending on the odometer.

Create a nike+ profile by clicking HERE. Want it? Amazon has great prices HERE.

2. Body Bugg Personal Calorie Management System

Whew, long name. Long list of benefits too. Not only do you get to track your calorie intake every moment of the day, but you also receive full access to the body bugg website. This full arsenal of fitness resources, nutrition tips, and personalized dietary programs helps you fine tune your energy intake.

Remember: Calories in vs Calories out. It's that simple.

Start exploring here.

3. SPI Belt

Ever try running with your keys, wallet, money, lady items? Doesn't work unless you're the type still doning a windbreaker in 75 degree weather. Or if the jingle of stuff doesn't bug the crap out of you. For the rest of us, here's the answer.

I first spied the SPI belt when I ran the Seattle Rock n Roll 1/2 marathon. I saw a women putting her keys and phone in this spandexy belt around her waist. Jealous!! I hate having to check my keys and phone with the race staff prior to the run. Or shoving my car key in my shoe. What better way to keep your stuff with you in a discrete manner, rather than sporting the dreaded fanny pack. Hyper-color neon green of course.

I already decided for you. Click here to make your purchase.

4. Syntha-6 Protein Powder

Nope, not just for body builders and highschool boys trying to get "ripped". This protein powder is packed with the 6 complete proteins, essential to muscle repair and development. With two serving suggestions (one for men, one for women) and a long list of dessert-tasty flavors, Syntha-6 has really covered all the bases on this one. Best consumed post-workout for optimal results and avoidance of that pesky blood-sugar drop. You'll crave the chocolate peanutbutter flavor, found here.

5. SPF Protective Outdoor Apparel

Hopefully we have all learned our lessons regarding sun safety. But, have you ever tried to go for a distance run, outside of course, with SPF 50 slathered over your body? Icky... AND did you know that some activewear fabrics don't even protect your skin from UV-B rays? You might as well run naked. Our friends at REI, Athleta, Lululemon, and SPF store have more than enough fashionable options to get you through a run wrinkle and skin cancer free.

Very affordable, function friendly tank at REI

Ultra light-weight jacket at Athleta

Run Into The Gap!

Ah, the Gap. Memories from junior high conjur up images of the Gap sweatshirt, Gap jeans (long & lean, baby!), and the coveted "Adirondack" jacket. Whelp, erase those images because Gap has transformed.

Quality Yoga and Sportswear. They have cute seperates, layering pieces, and an array of sizes, appealing to those of us who don't fit the 5'5'' national height average.

Quality Fabrics. Face it. You're a "sweater". We all sweat. Normal people sweat. If you're not dowsed in perspiration at the peak of your workout, work harder. Gap uses sweat-friendly fabrics so you don't have to wring out your clothes post-gym. The above Drawstring Active Tank contains spandex and polyester which help keep the sweat off your skin. Instant cooling sensation + super cute top!

BONUS! Athleta is also a part of the Gap empire! If you have yet to experience the world of Athleta, get out there! You're behind the times! Here's just a hint of what they have to offer in Yoga & Activewear.

This tank has built in support cups! A dress made from activewear material! These pants come in 3 different lengths!