New Shoe Review: Reebok ZQuick

The following post is sponsored by FitFluential LLC on behalf of Reebok.

Earlier this month, a pair of Reebok ZQuick arrived on my door. I'm always delighted to try out a new pair of running shoes... especially with the promise of "These shoes will make you UNNATURALLY QUICK!"  The television commercials for ZQuick had already grabbed my family's attention with great entertainment. Unlike ever before, the ZQuick's arrived in a cool reusable bag instead of a box. Genius!

The ZQuicks are sharp looking, with a genuine race feel to them. In fact, the running shoes were inspired by the high-performance Z-Rated tires they are named after. The Z-Rated outsole provides superior handling and control with every turns. The grooves in the rubber outsole give unbelievable flexibility and ground-gripping performance to power over any terrain. The CRTek High Abrasion Rubber adds a protective boost to high-wear areas for shoes that last. Combined quickness, agility and comfort, you'll cruise through your run like a winning sportscar.

The upper portion of the ZQuick running shoe features a no-sew NanoWeb for ultimate breathability. The mesh fabric wrapped around my foot with incredible comfortable.  The featherlike weight of the shoe is the first thing I noticed on my foot... my size 9 weighed just 8.3 ounces! The support platform under my forefront felt wide and my foot has plenty of space to spread as the upper was extremely flexible. g

Unlike any shoe I've ever had, the inside of the ZQuick features an inner bootie that snuggled my ankle and locked my foot in. There is no pesty tongue that moves around during your run.

After first walking around with them for a couple hours, I took the Reebok ZQuicks for a test run on the treadmill.  I loved how light they felt... this is where Reebok promises the UNNATURAL QUICKNESS. Who doesn't love extra speed that comes easy?

The EVA foam midsole is designed with a radical new geometry for smooth handling. Your foot changes in dimension at the bottom of your stride as you put weight on it.  Your foot spreads out on impact to distribute force over a broader base.  (It’s about 5mm wider than when it’s in the air.) To accommodate for your body's natural handling, the ZQuick has built-in slashes along the bottom so that the shoe spreads with you. These underfoot grooves allow midsoles to flex and expand, increasing ground contact for a smooth quiet ride.

I really liked how the ZQuick felt on my feet. After a few miles of my test run, however, it became evident that my feet needed more arch support and stability. As you know I've been battling plantar fasciitis (currently at-bay, but I'm fearful on a return). The ZQuick's are a comfy lightweight running shoe for quick short distance, but I think I will need to stick with my heavier stability shoes for long distance.

Check out the wide variety of ZQuick color choices here. These QUICK running shoes retail for under $85, so definitely worth checking out at your local Finish Line store.

Winter Run and a GIVEAWAY!

Today was a good day.
I got outside to run.

It is afterall, a heat wave when you reach over 20 degrees in the heart of February (for Illinois at least).  It was overcast all morning, but the moment I stepped out the front door, the sun popped out and stayed with me for 7 miles.

I wore my Garmin for the first time in months... to my displeasure. I need to start paying attention to my pace again, but it somewhat strips the joy away from my run. With each mile, the watch beeps and almost always tells me, "Not fast enough".  I'm trudging right now, like I'm running in snowboots. I miss that floating feeling in my stride. But the only way to get it back is to get serious about my training. (My next 'A' race is May 4 at Lincoln, NE)  I need to get back to intervals and tempo runs, but it's depressing to actually face the Garmin and see the proof.
The time is now.

My slow feet

* * *

A highlight to my week was when I tried out some new sweatbands from Suddora. I received a collection of the their basic sweatbands and wristbands. There are a rainbow of colors to choose from - my favorite of course is purple! Made with ultra high quality material, the Suddora sweatband doesn't irritate your head and soaks up hours of sweat. Fabric is 80% cotton, 12% spandex and 8% nylon. Starting at only $2.99 with big discounts for group orders - ideal for schools!

 

In addition to the sweatbands, Suddora also has Non-Slip Velvet-Lined Headbands ($7.99 ea.) and the Thin Elastic Headbands (4pk for $9.99) that my kids like so much...

If you like the Non-Slip Velvet-Lined Headbands, get 50% off by using code SUDDORA5 on their Amazon listing here. Code expires 2/28/14.

*** GIVEAWAY ***

The best of news is that I have a couple to giveaway to you!! Enter via the Rafflecopter app below or on Facebook here. FOUR Winners (3 sweatbands and 1 zipper wristband) will be announced next Thursday, 2/20/14. Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

New Shoe Review: Brooks Transcend

Over the past year, I've become more selective in my running shoes. Plantar Fasciitis (PF) entered my world early in the fall and completely ruined my mojo. It's been a long emotional road getting back to my miles. I blame the onset of PF on my playing around with minimalist shoes last summer. I logged miles and miles without proper support and have paid the price. Lesson learned.

So now when a new pair of shoes arrive on my doorstep, I wear them around the house for a good hour, sport them on a trip to the grocery store or the kids' school. By then, it's usually quite clear whether I can run pain-free in them... or not. This week, I was tickled PINK when the new Brooks Transcend passed that initial test.

I could say that they were so comfortable that I forgot they were on my feet... but let's be real. I had flashy new pink running shoes. The only thing on my mind was going for a run!

First and foremost (for any lady runner that I know), these are killer looking shoes. The "diva pink" and "festival fuchsia" combination are super bright - especially against the white snow. Add in the reflective accents and it's pretty difficult to miss me coming in the Transcends.  There is also a sky blue color option for women. For men, electric blue or coral orange are the choices.

The Transcend is classified as a stability shoe (replacing the Trance). Because of its revolutionary build, it may work for neutral runners as well. Unlike other stability shoes, there is no posting on the medial side. Instead, Brooks introduces guide rails for support and assistance in counteracting pronation. Rather than forcing control of the foot, it encourages the natural kinetics of the body, allowing your hips, knees and joints to move within their natural motion.

When I first slipped my foot into the Transcend, the most noticeable feature was the ultra-plush cushioning. In this new shoe build, Brooks introduces what they call Super DNA, offering 25% more cushioning than the normal BioMoGo DNA. This new cushioning adapts to your every stride. I like to think of it like the memory foam in my bed, cradling to the shape of my foot. As someone who suffers from PF, I'm always nervous on the fit of the arch. The Transcend offers a well-built arch support. As I tested out the shoe, my foot was extremely comfortable and I didn't experience any discomfort in the plantar area - during or after my run. The final test to that (if you suffer from PF) is how the arch feels the next morning. A-OK with these shoes!

When shoes boast extra-cushion, it typically means a heavier shoe. Not the case with the Transcend, which weighed in at 10.8oz on my ladies size 9's. By comparison, my normal shoes (Asics GT2000) are still lighter at 9.9oz, but I really didn't notice the difference until I weighed them on my scale. I did however, notice the difference in cushioning comfort. I'll be anxious to see how well (and long) the cushion holds up as I accrue miles in the Transcend. I like to get my money's worth out of running shoes, thus I try to push them over 300 miles. Some make it; others don't.


Typically when I test out a new pair of shoes, I go no more than 3 miles. My initial run in the Transcend was 6 miles... and I was not begging for a foot massage that evening either. That should speak margins on how I feel about the new Brooks release. Newly released this week, I highly suggest giving these babies a trial run... especially if you waiver on that line between stability and neutral like I do.

I won't copy/paste all the shoe specs, but if you're interested in all the details, check it out here.

Many happy runs...
and pain-free feet!


This pair of Brooks Transcend was provided to me by OnlineShoes.com. 
The opinions expressed however are all Jess. 

P.S. Don't forget to VOTE HERE today!!  I thank you!

Review: Apera Yoga Tote

Finding the right bag to lug your stuff back and forth from the gym is a seemingly difficult task. Since I joined my current gym back in 2009, I can honestly say I haven't been 100% happy with any one bag. There's always seems to be one thing that drives me crazy. And let me tell you, I use my gym bag way more than any purse... ever.

As a Spinning fanatic, my cycling shoes make home in my gym bag. As an instructor, I also carry around notebooks, clipboards, attendance folder, and other items I may need for a class. Add in my running shoes, change of clothes, toiletries, ipod and phone. In short, my gym bag holds a lot of my vitals.

Last month, Apera sent me their Yoga Tote to try out. Since there was no purple, I naturally went with hot pink. There is also a cool pearl color, black and blue. I've been hauling this sweet bag around with me, and have received so many compliments on it. It is one sharp looking, snazzy gym bag.

What makes a gym bag great is the inside... and how simply an OCD gal like myself can stay organized. My favorite part of this Apera bag is the built-in shoe compartment, keeping my Spin shoes separate from all the other goods.

This bag has pockets everywhere. In fact, it may be the only fault of the bag... too many that I sometimes forget which pocket stuff is in. Both sides of the Yoga Tote feature large pockets big enough to slip an iPad. I'm always tossing my miscellaneous stuff in these outside pockets - extra headbands, lip gloss, pens, safety pins, ipod, gum, etc...

On the inside, there are three more zippered pockets, where I store spare CDs for class and extra clips for my Spin shoes.

It is vitally important to me that the inside of a gym bag NOT be black. The lighting is dim in the Spin room and a dark bag interior makes it difficult to find items. So I was also very pleased with the light gray color on the inside of my Yoga Tote.

Another key feature on any gym bag for me is a water bottle pocket on the outside. This is a must to not get my stuff wet from leakage or condensation. The other side unzipped the bag wide open so I could dig and easily find stuff.

Finally, the Yoga Tote is specially created to store and carry a yoga mat. The shoulder strap's unique design enables you to slip a rolled up mat in a secure handy spot. Bonus - My foam roller was also a perfect fit in this spot!

Apera bags are constructed with wipeable polyester on the inside, so you can clean it as often as needed with a soapy cloth.  The material inside and out of every Apera bag is treated with antimicrobial protection that works continuously to prevent the growth of bacterial odors on the bag. The vented fabric across the top and sides (what looks like gray dots in the pictures) keeps your bag and items dry and odor-free. Also included with every Apera bag is a mini pouch - a water resistant zippered bag to keep your sweaty clothes separate from the others.

Official bag measurements: 21" width x 12.5" height x 7"depth
Retail Price: $119.00
All BLUE bags are currently on-sale for 40% off

Finally LOVIN' my gym bag!

Now it's your turn...

WIN A YOGA TOTE FOR YOU!

During the month of February, Apera is offering you the chance to WIN a Yoga Tote in the color of your choice. Full details HERE - just sign up for their e-mail updates and you're entered in the monthly prize drawing!! Good Luck!

Review & Giveaway: Core Power Protein Drink

This past month, I've had a chance to try a new-to-me protein drink... Core Power. There's a ton of these drinks on the market - some pre-mixed, some powders.  I'm always a bit leary because of the chalkiness taste that overpowers many of them. I'm happy to report that these Core Power protein drinks taste great and I happily consumed all my free samples!

You may see a lot of Core Power these days in the media. They are the official protein drink of the 2014 Winter Olympics. In fact, they sponsor a whole realm of everyday athletes throughout the country.

Core Power is a natural high protein milkshake - in an easy portable bottle... the perfect post-workout recovery drink for active peeps. Made from fresh, lowfat, lactose-free milk and real honey, Core Power has the optimum protein-to-carb ratio and nutrient-rich profile to be the perfect ending of every workout. From endurance sports and bodybuilding to pilates and yoga, Core Power helps you recover faster, build lean muscle and stay at the top of your game.

Currently, there are 5 selections to pick from...

Banana, Chocolate and Vanilla are the FULL PUNCH options. These three offer 26g of protein and 700mg of calcium in each bottle, which also includes 240 calories. They are also gluten-free. Find full label information here:  Banana | Chocolate | Vanilla

My personal favorites were the LIGHT versions in Chocolate and Strawberry Banana. These two are slightly less on the numbers: 20g of protein, 500mg calcium and only 150 calories. Still gluten-free, the Light flavors offer a protein punch right after your workout without the extra pile of calories. Find full label information here: Chocolate  |  Strawberry Banana

If I'm heading the store, my purchase selection would be... Light Strawberry Banana. It was light and refreshing in taste, yet gave me the perfect amount of protein and substance that I was able to make it home after a tough gym workout before chewing my arm off! The easiest place to purchase Core Power is off Amazon, where there is a one-time $5 off coupon on a case of 12, averaging the bottle price to be under $3 each. What would you pay for a healthy delicious milkshake?

Your turn to try CORE POWER!!
Enter the giveaway contest via the Rafflecopter app below.
One winner will take home this Core Power Prize Pack:
• gym bag
• stability balance ball
• sweat towel
• yoga mat & carrying case
• Camelbak water bottle
• and some Core Power samples of course!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

#WinterMiles Wk 1 - Run with YakTrax!

It's Day 4 of the #WinterMiles Challenge. Have you been keeping track of your miles? If you are unfamiliar with the #WinterMiles Challenge, you definitely need to check it out here. New participants are always welcome! It's easy motivation to push your mileage during the toughest eight weeks of winter. Give yourself a mileage goal each week (this is a commitment to yourself). Then at the end of the week (Sunday), report back your results. If you hit your goal, you're entered into the weekly prize drawing. It's just that easy! Sign up now for the challenge here.

What are you running for this week?
The Week 1 prize is a pair of YakTrax Run!  These shoe accessories slip over your regular running shoe and allow you to continue your training outside in the winter snow. If you're like me, the thought of the treadmill or circles around a track is so discouraging. What makes the run invigorating for me is fresh air and the freedom on the road. When I'm stuck inside, my run just doesn't have the same glory. So YakTrax has become my friend, making outdoor runs possible despite the winter powder.

The most important thing to know is that YakTrax come in various styles - depending on what you want to do...

The original YakTrax is the Pro style. I reviewed these a couple years ago -  click here to read my Pro review.  Today, I'm going to discuss the YakTrax Run style, because I think these are more beneficial to the average runner.

See the difference?

If you are running a surface completely covered in snow (especially trail), then the YakTrax Pro would be your best bet. However, if you're like me... running roads where there is a mixture of snow, thin ice and even some clear spots... then the YakTrax Run will be your best friend for winter stability.

In my opinion, the YakTrax Run have the perfect combination of spikes and coils to keep me on my feet. The removable carbide steel spikes under the forefoot make a smooth pushoff possible in your stride. The 1.4mm steel coils along the midfoot and heel provide an unbeatable 360˚ traction as you move through the snow.

As the flurries start to fall, I find myself excited to lace up and get outside... Running in the snow has that special energy - a spirit that says I'm a kid again! Let's go play!  So as the hubby snowblows the driveway and the kiddos work on their snowman, you know where I'll be - RUNNING in the snow!

Don't be afraid of winter running. Give it a try. The treadmill or gym track will always be waiting for you if it's not your thing. But trust me, once you've done your miles in the snow, you'll discover muscles that you may be ignoring. Plus at the end, you'll feel completely badass for logging those miles outside... in winter!

Now get out there and rack up miles for Week 1 of the #WinterMiles Challenge!
Come back on Sunday, Jan. 12th to report in your results. Hit your goal for the week and you'll be entered into the prize drawing to WIN a pair of YakTrax Run!

Review: Mizuno Wave Rider 17

The following post is sponsored by FitFluential LLC on behalf of Mizuno.

Since I run a lot of miles, I've tried a lot of running shoes through the years. I keep a steady rotation of shoes and typically retire them around 300 miles.  Some brands last longer than others. Some styles just feel better. Thus the point of always testing new brands and styles in search of the perfect shoe.

Last week, I was lucky enough to score a pair of the new Mizuno Wave Rider 17 before they were released. Obviously, power-that-be didn't hear that I was a purple freak, but hey, I need the variety anyway. My Wave Riders are a dark slate (gray) color with aqua and pink accents. I think I'll call them Tiffany because that's what the aqua reminds me of.

First, let's get to the guts of these shoes... The Wave Riders are a NEUTRAL running shoe. Neutrals are for runners who do not overpronote or underpronate. Generally speaking, if you have high arches and need minimal support, neutral shoes are right for you. They allow your feet to guide themselves more naturally through each step for your perfect running gait.

As I slipped on my first pair of Mizunos, I was pleased with how they seemed to wrap around and hug my entire foot. The toebox, or upper part of the shoe, was made of a thin mesh that was extremely breathable. Mizuno boasts a new sockliner for the Wave Rider 17 to increase the resiliency. While the shoe is incredibly lightweight, I found the forefoot and heel cushioning to be satisfactory. Weighing in at just 7.4 oz (womens), this shoe makes a great pick for as a high mileage trainer or even a racing shoe.

I ran both dry and wet pavement in my new Mizunos and liked the bottom traction. I also hit the snowy trails after Thanksgiving. While I like the upper toebox mesh for breathability, I did find them a bit chillier than my other shoes as I tromped through the snow. Hands down, my favorite aspect is the light-as-a-feather feeling, making my run feel smooth and carefree.

Kickin' it in the snow with my the new Wave Rider 17

Now the important stuff... More COLORS!
Both the women and mens Wave Rider 17 come in three sharp color combinations...

The Mizuno Wave Rider 17 were released today, December 5th for sale.
Check your favorite shoe store for stock. Retail $114.99.

Happy Running!

Runner's Holiday Gift Guide

My Christmas tree has been filled with "running stuff" for several years now. It's my obsession; my hobby... and my family knows it. Besides, who really wants a new vacuum for Christmas? Yes, I need one but that's not much fun, is it? Not everyone in my family is a runner, so sometimes I need to give a little guidance... aka the wish list. Sound familiar? Check out the items below for some great ideas this holiday season. And by all means, share this post with your family to drop some hints!

Marathon Sock by ProCompression
For the distance runner, a good compression sock is an important tool for endurance, recovery and travel. The Marathon is a full-length, graduated compression sock. Using compression technology, the Marathon sock helps to improve blood flow, resulting in better, more consistent performance with less fatigue and faster, more efficient recovery. They also provide support to critical muscles and tendons, helping to reduce inflammation and soreness. If 26.2 is on your agenda this year, the Marathon Sock needs to be on your wish list. Shop here. Use discount code BLG13 for 40% off your order.

Running Beads from Milestones Jewelry
For the runner who likes to fashion her sport well after the workout is done, a shiny piece of jewelry will make her stocking sparkle! These beautiful European style beads are custom designed especially for Milestones. Featuring solid sterling silver, they beads are compatible with the ever-so-popular Pandora, Zable, Troll, Chamilia, Biagi bracelets and necklaces. Shop here.

CX3 Neopop Socks from Fitsok
Keep your runner feet looking as fast as they feel with the new CX3 Neopop sock. These colorful low-profile socks are constructed with Coolmax® to provide paramount moisture wicking and cooling technology. Built as a lightweight compression sock, the CX3 sock ensures an anatomically snug fit while spun Coolmax offers a super-soft hand to promote comfort. Each three-pack comes with an assortment of neon yellow, orange and green.  Shop here. Use discount code THEBESTTHINGSINLIFE in the Fitsok Shop to receive 15% off!

SoftFlask from Hydrapak
The new 12 oz, 17 oz and 25 oz SoftFlasks are an ideal gift choice for the outdoor enthusiast and traveling runner. Unlike a bulky bottle, the SoftFlask's durable and flexible RF welded polyurethane material allows it to be easily collapsed, rolled up and stashed. The versatile, easily-compressed and stored SoftFlask is perfect for multi-sport users - from runners, hikers and all the winter sports. These SoftFlask bottles make it convenient to travel and hydrate for a race. Shop here.

Protein Pancake Mix from FlapJacked
For the foodie runner on your list, FlapJacked pancakes mixes are the perfect breakfast before or after a big training run. Ingredients are 100% natural - no GMO, no preservatives, no artificial color or flavoring - just the finest whole grains like quinoa, whole oats and cinnamon to name a few. These pancakes are sure to refuel a runner's body with proper carbs to stay healthy and feeling great on the run. Just 200 calories with 15-17g protein, 4-7g fiber and 21g net carbs in three delicious flavors - Banana Hazelnut, Buttermilk, and Apple Cinnamon! Shop here.

Flat Out Sox from 110% Play Harder
The Flat Out Sox boost circulation and stabilize muscles for optimal performance and maximum recovery. The bold graphics create compression zones for extra stability during tough workouts. Outrageously comfortable, Flat Out Sox deliver the benefits of kinesiology tape without the hassle in a compression sock that looks as good as it feels. Shop here.

Sparkle Skirt by SparkleSkirts.com
Sparkle up your races and events with "the most comfortable athletic skirt in the world," (according to customers!)  SparkleTech skirts feature guaranteed anti-ride undershorts with longer inseams than most athletic skirts, and three HUGE pockets to carry your gear. Dozens of styles, (sparkly or non-sparkly) and sizes XS to 3XL (with 4XL by special order.)  Made in the USA! Shop here.

What's on YOUR holiday wish list this year?

COMING SOON

• • • 12 Days of Christmas Gifts : Dec. 12-23 • • •
• • •  Winter Miles Challenge : Jan.6 - Mar.2  • • •

Shoe Review: KEEN Mercer Lace CNX

As runners, we rightly focus on the shoes we use to pound the pavement. But what about afterward... when you're chasing the kids around the playground? Running errands around town? Shopping the mall? An evening stroll with your spouse?  It's just as important then to give proper care and support for your hardworking feet. Personally, I don't like my "running shoes" for everyday wear. Not only do my feet crave a change, I just don't want the extra wear on my runners. When I'm not logging miles, I like a lighter, more casual shoe.

Enter the KEEN Mercer Lace CNX...

I discovered these shoes at OnlineShoes.com and was instantly drawn to the design and bright color. When my Mercer Lace CNX shoes arrived, I couldn't wait to wear them around town. However, I didn't read the "Fit Tip" close enough on OnlineShoes.com, and they were a bit roomy on me. These shoes run a 1/2 size on the big side. While I normally wear a size 9 in running shoes, I needed the 8.5 in these Women's KEEN Shoes.  I never mind going down a size, and KEEN was great about sending me a new pair.

Once I had the right size, I quickly fell in love with the Mercer Lace CNX. They are lightweight and comfortable on my feet. I found the midfoot support to be perfect for my natural arch and just enough cushioning in the rubber sole without weighing my foot down.

As described by KEEN Shoes...
"The essential KEEN fit and protection lightened up to make every step a natural connection. The Mercer Lace CNX is a low profile, sporty everyday shoe that is at home in a small outdoor town or strolling the city streets. It features a proprietary, lightweight PU midsole, allowing the foot to move naturally. Multi-directional flex grooves on the sole enable more natural motion, and an integrated, contoured arch and metatarsal ridge provide underfoot support."

Always in a hurry, I'm easily annoyed with laces, so I was delighted with the built-in elastic shoelaces, making it easy to slide the shoes on and off. The shoelaces are adjustable to secure the fit that you find comfortable. When traveling, I found this convenient as I like to prop my feet up on the dash (as hubby drives), but they were quick to slide back on for rest stops.

I recently wore them on our 5 hour drive to Wisconsin and received compliments at every single stop. No joke. We stopped to buy my mom some Easter flowers and I was waiting in the checkout line. The lady from the service counter called out, "Hey you with the cute shoes, come on over here." All the ladies at the counter gathered around to ask about my brightly colored shoes. One lady made such a funny comment (that you'll only hear in Wisconsin)... "If you fall face first in a snow bank, they'll surely be able to spot you!"

The official color of my shoes is Barberry. I describe them as a dark raspberry, but my parents call them red. Whatever the label, these shoes are hot and everyone notices them! The Mercer Lace CNX also come in black, khaki brown and green. The colored fabric is a mixture of mesh and suede, making them durable, yet extremely breathable and comfortable.

Looking for less shoe with more support for summer? My next mission is to find a good supportive pair of flip flops. I'll be checking out the Women's KEEN Sandal collection. There are so many styles and colors to pick from.

What are your GO-TO SHOES 

when you're not running??

These shoes were provided to me by OnlineShoes.com and KEEN Shoes, but the opinions expressed are 100% Jess. 

BAMR Bands: Review & Giveaway

I personally love to see a stay home mom develop a small business from her blog. That is exactly what Katie Heddleston is doing when she began making BAMR Bands three months ago. BAMR Bands (Bad Ass Mother Runner Bands) are non-slip fitness and fashion headbands. They measure 7/8" in width and come in a variety of colorful patterns, with new designs being added every time Katie finds a fun new ribbon. Each headband is lined with a velvet ribbon that helps cling to the hair, making them non-slip.

Katie was kind enough to donate four headbands to the #JellyBean virtual race prize vault. She also sent me one to try out... and one for you! (See Rafflecopter giveaway below)  So generous, right?!

When it comes to headbands, they play different roles in my mind. When running or working out, I like the thick sweat-absorbing kind, even a cheap bandana rolled up. I sweat A LOT and really need something that will hold the stream away from my eyes. For me, these cute little headbands get daily wear around the house, keeping my hair back off my face. My daughters also like to steal them. I keep one BAMR Band stashed in my car. When I leave the gym, I slip off the dripping-wet, sweat-infested headband from my workout and slip on the cuteness of a BAMR Band.  The sweat is no longer sitting against my forehead. The whispy hairs are pulled off my face, and I look acceptable (even after the hardest workout) to stop at a store afterwards.

But I see lots of ladies at the gym or in races with these thin headbands - BAMR style! In fact, my BFF (Best Fitness Friend) wears them all the time. She recently pulled a nice favor for me, so I bought her BAMR Band. In my mind, they are the perfect price point at $10 to make a great "thank you - you're awesome" gift.

Can you tell we're inside the gym... Poor lighting, but she's still beautiful, right?!

BAMR Bands also benefits an important cause.  One dollar from each headband purchase is donated to Every Mother Counts - a charity aiming to "end preventable deaths caused by pregnancy and childbirth around the world. Every Mother Counts informs, engages, and mobilizes new audiences to take action to improve the health and well-beings of girls and women worldwide."

Now is your chance to WIN ONE!  
I have a cute summer pattern - circles in orange/white (see it in the photo collage above). I call it Dreamsicle!  One lucky reader will win it by entering the Rafflecopter giveaway below... GOOD LUCK!

a Rafflecopter giveaway