As we mentioned in our very first post, we are training for a half marathon in May (Santa Ynez 1/2 Marathon). This will be my fourth run and I am so excited! Running is a gift that was given to me from my mom, who I can remember waking up early every morning, when I was young, to get in her runs. When I say gift, I mean that running has given to me in many ways over the years. It has been a stress reliever during difficult times, a socializing agent with friends, a relationship enhancer with the hubby (when we train together), and a sense of accomplishment with every extra mile I push myself to complete. Running has always challenged me to set fitness goals…. and in the end I wind up feeling accomplished and proud of myself. I encourage all my friends to run! I try to drag people into running races with me (you all know who you are)…. I believe in it that much! So for those of you just starting out I’ve put together a runner’s tool to get you started!

{The appropriate attire. I like close fitting clothes… anything baggy tends to weigh me down. I run in the mornings, and right now it’s quite cold, so I need mittens and something to keep my ears warm. Outfit details: pants/shirt/sports bra: lulu lemon  Vest: Nordstrom}

{An accurate app to track your progress. My favorite is this Nike running app which will track my pace, time, location, and calories. It also will alert you of your progress while you are running… definitely worth checking out.}

{A  motivating playlist! I’ll give you my top 13 songs for 13.1 miles: I NEED YOUR LOVE- Ellie Goulding, SWEET NOTHING- Calvin Harris, GIRL ON FIRE- Alicia Keys, EUPHORIA- Usher, DAYLIGHT- Maroon 5, SCREAM & SHOUT- will.i.am, FOREVER NOW-Ne-Yo, SIMPLY AMAZING- Trey Songz, FEEL THIS MOMENT- Pitbull, SURVIVOR, BOOTYLICIOUS, & INDEPENDENT WOMEN- Destiny’s Child, & NOBODY’S BUSINESS- Rhianna}

{Sturdy running shoes. I have always preferred Nike. Check out Road Runner Sports. They can provide you with a run analysis and fit you with the right shoe for your feet.}

{A running buddy! Someone for safety, encouragement, and company! I promise you that the bags under the eyes don’t come with the runs…. the chilly morning air will zap those pretty quickly… and if not, stay tuned for a later blog post with my favorite beauty products}

{A yoga mat to complete your post-run stretches! These are crucial to prevent injury.}

{A nutritious post-run breakfast with the perfect balance of carbohydrates and protein. I prefer rolled oats with a Pure Protein shake… this was also in our very first post!}

There is a certain sense of accomplishment at rolling out of bed, when everyone else is sleeping, and finishing what you set your mind to! I encourage you to try it…. you won’t be sorry!

Happy Running!!

~Shannon <3