Creating Fits: Collaborative Creation

By: LL
While in Bozeman, MT, Cool J and I stumbled upon a quaint bead store downtown on Main Street called Old Bozeman Beads. They have a great selection and excellent customer service. And, let me say that it was great fun to spend a little time in the store with Cool J as we worked together to pull beads for a necklace design that she wanted. Much to the dismay of our husbands, we did laps around the store while balancing our trays and coffee. It was a great change to have a little collaboration on a necklace, as I normally have to depend on my own taste with choosing supplies. Here is a look at the process to DIYing my most recent necklace.

Cool J had this necklace in mind:

{Anthropologie Seraphim Necklace}

So, after long deliberation, we slected these beads:

After returning home, I began work on the necklace, which has a total of six strands: 3 of each pattern. There are eight different styles of colored beads and two different styles of gold beads (one for the necklace and one for the rings). Whereas I was using this necklace as inspiration, I try to change the design just a little bit with each of the ones that I make. So, I spent quite some time playing around with the patterns.

Once I was happy with the combination, I strung the beads using 0.5 mm wire. It is important to make sure that each of the strands in the same pattern are as close to the same length as possible (I know that this can be challenging with beads that are a variety of shapes). Then, I used gold-plated crimp beads to pinch of the ends of each strand and looped the ends through a small, gold-plated link. I connected the smaller links (two on each side) to a larger gold-plated chain. Make sure to loop the strands through one another before looping them through the small link (to create the center of the necklace).

Finally, I struggled with the rings holding the strands together midway through the necklace. I could not find the right beads (and maybe if I stumble upon them, I will change the necklace design), so I used the large, gold-plated links to group the strands and connect them to one another on each side (a total of 3 on each side).

Here is the finished product:

I might make some slight adjustments prior to shipping this out to Cool J, but there is something fun about working together on a necklace design. It also helps me when my creativity is lagging. Thanks, Cool J!

Fitting Debates: Running vs. Walking

By: Cool J
I don't think I'm alone when I say that I had always heard that no matter the pace, a person burned the same amount of calories during 1 mile - walking or running. I had always heard that even if you're walking, you burn approxmiately 100 calories a mile, it just takes a lot longer to finish that mile than if you're running.

Even though this is what I had been told, I questioned it's validity. I mean, it's so much harder to RUN than to WALK a mile, right? You MUST be burning more calories!

Well, Runner's World recently published an article about this topic that justified my doubt.

According to this research, running actually burns MORE calories than walking. In fact, it is one of the most efficient means to burn calories.

Find the article here.

"When you perform a continuous exercise, you burn five calories for every liter of oxygen you consume. And running in general consumes a lot more oxygen than walking."

In "Energy Expenditure of Walking and Running," published last December in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, a group of Syracuse University researchers measured the actual calorie burn of 12 men and 12 women while running and walking 1,600 meters (roughly a mile) on a treadmill. Result: The men burned an average of 124 calories while running, and just 88 while walking; the women burned 105 and 74. (The men burned more than the women because they weighed more.)

When you walk, you keep your legs mostly straight, and your center of gravity rides along fairly smoothly on top of your legs. In running, we actually jump from one foot to the other. Each jump raises our center of gravity when we take off, and lowers it when we land, since we bend the knee to absorb the shock. This continual rise and fall of our weight requires a tremendous amount of Newtonian force (fighting gravity) on both takeoff and landing.

Now that you understand why running burns 50 percent more calories per mile than walking, Thanks to the Syracuse researchers, we now know the relative NCB of running a mile in 9:30 versus walking the same mile in 19:00. Their male subjects burned 105 calories running, 52 walking; the women, 91 and 43. That is, running burns twice as many net calories per mile as walking. And since you can run two miles in the time it takes to walk one mile, running burns four times as many net calories per hour as walking.

The bottom line: Running is a phenomenal calorie-burning exercise. In public-health terms--that is, in the fight against obesity--it's even more important that running is a low-cost, easy-to-do, year-round activity. Walking doesn't burn as many calories, but it remains a terrific exercise. As David Swain says, "The new research doesn't mean that walking burns any fewer calories than it used to. It just means that walkers might have to walk a little more, or eat a little less, to hit their weight goal."

The article also included this handy calculator to help you determine just how many calories you burn. Check it out!

What's the Burn? A Calorie Calculator
You can use the formulas below to determine your calorie-burn while running and walking. The "Net Calorie Burn" measures calories burned, minus basal metabolism. Scientists consider this the best way to evaluate the actual calorie-burn of any exercise. The walking formulas apply to speeds of 3 to 4 mph. At 5 mph and faster, walking burns more calories than running.
	Your Total Calorie Burn/Mile	Your Net Calorie Burn/Mile
Running	.75 x your weight (in lbs.)	.63 x your weight
Walking	.53 x your weight	.30 x your weight

Fit the Bill: Spring/Summer Transition 2012

 

By: LL

Interested in getting a little extra cash during your spring transition? No, not the surprise cash that you might find tucked in the pockets of your spring coats or purses (but that is great, isn't it? Better than the stick of gum you might also find...I wouldn't chew that!). I am refering to the cash that you can make by selling some of your gently used clothes.

 

I am certain that all of us have a few older items in our closets with which it won't kill us to part. You know the ones that I am talking about - the metallic leggings that you only wore once for NYE, or that sweater that you bought even though it really is a size too small (but it was on sale!!).

 

Take some time over the next few weekends, before you put your winter clothes in storage, to assess whether you REALLY will wear that item next year. If not, then consider selling it, donating it, or even tossing it.

 

When folding up your clothes this season's end, follow the steps below:

1. Designate four piles: KEEP, SELL, DONATE, TOSS. All your clothes/accessories will be categorized into one of these piles.
2. Begin by taking inventory of what you have. Are you hoarding two identical cream sweaters? Make sure that you are not storing duplicates. Be honest with yourself and only keep the one that you like best (or is in the best condition) and you truly will wear again.
3. "If you didn't wear it last season..." Again, be honest. Calculate how long it has been since you wore an item. This season? Keep. Last season? Probably donate/sell/toss (unless of course it is one of those specific occasion pieces - like a holiday cocktail dress - that maintains its style qualities year after year).
4. After you have finished sorting, revisit the sell pile and determine which items you could sell to a consignment shop (i.e., Plato's Closet, which only takes items that are less than a season old and in excellent condition), auction online (i.e., eBay, which is best for selling name-brand or designer labels), or sell at your neighborhood rummage sale (which really doesn't give the item as much exposure). If you aren't sure what will sell or not, it is worth a try to sell it through at least one venue. And, after it doesn't sell, then donate it.
5. When taking your clothes to donate, make sure to get a slip from the agency (i.e., Goodwill) that documents your donations so that you can claim it on your tax return for next year. You can deduct the estimated value of the items.

But let's take this slimming down process one step further and also look through the spring/summer items that you are pulling back out of storage.

1. Follow ste one from above.
2. Try on everything. I'm not suggesting that things won't fit, but more along the lines that they might not fit how you would like them to. Personal preferences on lengths and cuts can change very quickly, and it has been months since you last saw these garments. Heck, they could be too big on you (here's hoping).
3. "If you didn't wear it last season..." Again, be honest. You know what you wore last season and what you will wear this season. Don't continue to hold onto things that you will not wear. They could go to good use in another person's closet. 
4. Follow step 4 above.
5. Follow step 5 above.

It might be hard to part with some of your clothes. I get the same way, with the thoughts of "but if the right occasion comes up," or "if my other similar item gets ruined..." This past weekend, my husband made me go through this process with my shoes (I do not even want to mention how many pairs of spring/summer shoes I have been hiding in a crate under our guest bed), and I donated or threw out a lot of shoes that I truly will not wear again. So, I know that the process of trimming and organizing can be difficult (but necessary if you live in a small space). However, keep in mind that selling your items is an activity that will fit the bill, giving you the extra cash to purchase a few of the items that you so desperately want for spring/summer 2012. And, if you donate your items, you are potentially helping out someone in need. Plus, as the saying goes: One man's trash...

 

Fresh New Fit: Neon

By: LL
Spring time is all about incorporating color back into your wardrobe - maybe starting with a pop of color in a silk scarf, then stepping out in an emerald dress. As naturally bright colors return with flowers and wildlife, it is only natural for us also to return to color.

For SS2012, there are definitely a lot of new, exciting colors to embrace - starting with mint, coral, and yellow. But once we pass the Easter holiday, it might be time to shift from the pastels to the neons! Afraid of looking all 1980s or like one large neon light? Don't go overboard. Instead, integrate small pieces of neon into your wardrobe. Pair a neon pink skirt with a navy blouse. Wear neon green jeans with a white t-shirt. Or, even simpler - add in neon shoes or handbags. Here are some great neon pieces at a reasonable price:

1. Old Navy $24.94

2. TopShop $55

3. Delias $34.50

4. Ann Taylor $59.88

5. Echo (Nordstroms) $38

6. GB (Dillards) $44

7. Trouve $88

8. Haskel (Marcy's) $32

And, of course you can always embrace neon in your fitness fashion! Not only are neons practical (you are more easily seen in dusk/dark conditions), but you will also nail one of SS2012's hottest looks, such as these pieces do:

1. Uzzi $18.95

2. Nike $34.50

3. Asics $25

4. Mountain Hardwear $17.97

Failed Fits on the Road

By: The Right Fits
While on vacation, it's possible that you may encounter some failed fits in both fashion and fitness. In fact, LL and Cool J even participated in some of these failed fits while vacationing in Big Sky, Montana.  While we aren't proud of ourselves, we thought we'd be honest with you all, and expose our mistakes right here.


Failed Fits in Fitness:
Exhibit 1: The caramel pecan roll
Exhibit 2: The chocolate covered rice krispie treat.

Failed Fits in Fashion: 

Exhibit 1: Post hot tub towel-skirt, paired with a pair of furry boots and a loose white tee.
Exhibit 2: Tank with snowboarding pants and helmet (it was warm the first day!)

 

While everyone has a failed fit every once in awhile, it's important to admit your mistakes and not dwell on the past. Move forward. 

If you had too way too much to eat last night, drink a lot of water today, go to a yoga class to detox, or go for a run to get back to your fitness regime right away. Head to the grocery store and stock up on healthy snacks.

Do not wallow in your mistakes!

But also be fair to yourself- it's okay to splurge occasionally. You're worth it!

Fits on the Road: Fitness in Tampa

By: LL
As I posted here, I have been at a work conference in Tampa for the last few days, which means incorporating my fitness routine into my busy work schedule, while away from home and all of my regular fitness goodies. But, like a true road warrior, I was able to make it work - 3 days of fitness on only one fitness outfit! (Yeah, it is probably pretty smelly now).

This conference was held at the Tampa Convention Center, which is located right downtown on the bay - just across from St. Petersburg and Sarasota. Beautiful area, but lots of traffic. I stayed at the Embassy Suites next to the convention center. This hotel had a nice enough fitness center, which I used the second morning that I was there. The center only had two treadmills, two elliptical machines, one chair-style stationary bike, and some free weights and medicine balls. Whereas each of the machines had a TV, there was not a hook up for your headphones, so everyone was competing with each other for volume, and everything was crammed into a tiny space. Glad that I got to the free weights and mats before everyone else so that I could stake claim on an area.

{Very cramped space}

{Minimal free weights, but the window outside helped with the space issues}

The first day that I was in town, it was a beautiful morning and I didn't have to be at the conference until an hour later than the other days. So, I spoke to my concierge and inquired about a good route to run outside. I wish that I would have brought my camera! The route was approximately 4.5 miles and was out around the bay, into the Channelside Neighborhood, passed the Tampa Aquarium and into Ybor City (the historic Cuban town). It was a great run, and since I was out before 7:00 am, it was still cool.

The last morning that I was in Tampa, it was raining in the morning, and I didn't want to brave the tiny gym again, so I popped my Corepower Yoga Sculpt DVD into my computer, pushed aside my "sitting room" furniture and set up shop with what I could find (bathroom towel and hotel bottles of water for weights). I am glad that I threw this DVD into my bag at the last minute. I recommend that to anyone traveling, pack a good standby fitness DVD, which is perfect in case the hotel doesn't have a good gym facility or, like me, the weather is not conducive to running outside.

{Hey, sometimes you have to make do with what you have}

Fitness on the road in Tampa - I'd give it a 6 out of 10. The run is what saved this area! And, of course, there were a couple of hours of relaxation poolside, where I tried to give these pasty legs some color!

On a side note: if you have a few hours before flying out, check out International Plaza (exit 40A off of I-275 S) - lots of great shopping!! I definitely made a stop at H&M and Loft before catching my flight. 

Fits on the Road: Work Conference in Tampa

By: LL
After spending a few days in the snowy cold of Big Sky, I headed right off to Tampa, FL for some warmth and sunshine for a work conference. Talk about the shock on my body! What temperature is it? What time zone am I in? If I thought packing for a winter ski trip was hard, I found it even harder to pack for this particular work conference - why? Because there were so many dinners with industry sponsors, presentations, and a few moments to dress casually and relax in the sun. I had to break down and check a piece of luggage in order to get my attire to Tampa without too many wrinkles.

So what did I pack for all of these events?

I went with the fail-safe of a few standby dresses that can be casual or dressier, one summer suit with a few different tops to rotate through, and then one pair of shorts and a pair of dark skinny denim. For shoes, I went with black pumps (can't go wrong there), a pair of croc pumps, simple flats, and embellished sandals. And, of course, a few solid accessories.

{From left: Nine West Dress, The Limited Suit, Dorothy Perkins Dress, Merona Dress}

{From left: Dorothy Perkins Dress, LL Original Necklace, Merona Dress, LL Original Necklace}

{From left: Apt. 9 Pumps, Gianni Bini Flats, BCBG Pumps, Steve Madden Sandals}

Referring to Fodors, Travel Smith, and Real Simple for some advice on what to pack for a 4-7 day business trip to warmer destinations, there was a consensus: 3-4 bottoms, 6-8 tops, a light jacket and/or a universally matched cardigan, 2-3 pairs of shoes (err on flatter heels), and lots of small accessories (necklaces, scarves, etc.). They all recommend that you investigate the area prior to leaving and plan for the unexpected business engagement. It is also helpful to look at your itinerary when packing and plan each day's outfit accordingly, paying close attention to when you will need to move from day to night in the same outfit.

Also, don't forget your workout attire for some fitness on the road! For this trip, which has outdoor and indoor fitness opportunities, I packed one outfit that is functional in both areas and dries quickly. More on that later...

Fresh New Fit: Snowboarding and Skiing

By: Cool J

LL and I spent 3 full days on the mountains of Big Sky, Montana. It was a lot of fun, but also definitely a "fresh new" fitness endeavor.

We both agreed that on an easy run, it's more physically challenging (and in our opinion, you burn more calories) when you are a beginner. LL took a few semi-private lessons with a professional to work on her skills. I'm sure the repetition of the drills was quite the leg workout, whereas if a more experienced skier or snowboarder hits the same trail, it may not be as challenging, (since you're not working quite as hard to stay upright!)

At the same time, a large resort like Big Sky allows a more experienced skier or rider the opportunity to push himself or herself on the vast array of higher intensity runs. I think we all were pretty exhausted by the end of each day. And we definitely enjoyed the hot tub afterwards!

Downhilll Skiing
According to MayoClinic.com and Fitday.com, moderate-intensity downhill skiing burns 314 calories per hour if you weigh in at 160 pounds, and 391 per hour if you weigh 200 pounds. Higher intensity skiing (i.e., beginners, competitive racers, skiing moguls) can burn 450-600 calories/hr (for an adult weighing 165). Downhill skiing is a power sport consisting of short, strong effects followed by periods of rest, which is repeated throughout the day. It is also a full body workout.

Snowboarding
According to LiveStrong.com and Self.com, snowboarding burns between 400-500 calories per hour. Whether you are a pro boarder or can barely make it off the ski lift, the rigorous sport will leave you toned from head to toe (and probably a bit sore the next day). Snowboarding challenges your legs the most, but staying balanced on the board is a great core workout, too.

Both winter sports are great cardiovascular activities, but be careful for issues with the altitude. You can get altitude sickness and you may find it more challenging to catch your breath at the higher levels.

Note: the proper gear is essential. For day long activities like this, it is important that your boots are comfortable, your board/skis are the right size, and that you wear a helmet. Also, we recommend wearing layers. The first day out was very warm - so definitely shed a layer. The last day was cold and wet, so having a waterproof jacket, pants, and gloves was key to keeping us dry and comfortable.

The Right Fits enjoyed this "fresh new fit," and we hope to be back again next year!

Fitting Remarks: Just Shut Up and Run

By Jessie

As we have mentioned several times by now, LL and I were in Big Sky, Montana over the past 4 days. We had three full days of skiing/snowboarding on the mountain, with one day of rest (i.e. shopping and Norris Hot Springs).

This morning, our alarms went off at 3:00 am, for the drive back to Bozeman for a 6 am flight.

Unfortunately (though fortunately for those who still had another day to ski!) Big Sky/Bozeman received more than 10 inches of snow overnight and into the morning. This led to nearly a two hour delay on our flight. We didn't end up at our house until after 11 am, when I had originally planned to go into work with a 9 am return.

So...I only ran once in Big Sky, so I HAD to get my long run in today.

I had so many excuses not to run....

• It was over 70 degrees- didn't my body need to adjust a bit after spending 4 days in the snow and 20 degree temps?
• It was over the lunch hour- I never run well on an empty stomach.
• My body was SORE- snowboarding out West for three days left my legs and core quite tired and sore. My tailbone was sore too from many a fall on those challenging runs!
• I was TIRED- I had slept a bit on the flight, but I was still pretty tired.
• My Garmin was dead (this ended up to be a blessing in disguise).

I listed off all my excuses to my husband, who listened patiently as he always does. Eventually, he said kindly, "you're wasting a lot of time coming up with excuses, why don't you just go run?" i.e. SHUT UP AND RUN!

So I did...and yes, it was pretty miserable. I was glad I didn't have my Garmin with me, as I would have been very discouraged to see how slowly I was running. I had to take several walk breaks, and desperately needed more fuel and hydration. (Though the temps are warm, the water fountains aren't back on yet). However, I survived, and I am glad that I shut up and ran.

I can chalk it up to one bad run, and move forward to the next GREAT run.

When you have a million excuses not to run...my husband's advice? 

Just SHUT UP AND RUN!

Fits on the Road: Norris Hot Springs

By Cool J


Warm temps and rain kept the Right Fits off the slopes yesterday. As mentioned earlier, we headed into Bozeman for the day. A friend of my husband's recommended that we check out the Norris Hot Springs, located about 30 minutes from Bozeman.

"The Water of the Gods is at Norris Hot Springs, a Montana geothermal wonder. Travelers discover a unique place to relax, refresh and enjoy in every season. Located in the small community of Norris, Montana, we're at the crossroads of some of the big sky's most scenic drives. West Yellowstone to Helena, Butte to Bozeman, with the Lewis and Clark Caverns and the majestic Madison River minutes away."

As we pulled up to the springs, we were a little apprehensive. It's in the middle of NOWHERE, and looked a little questionable.

What IS this place?

The four of us paid the $5 entrance fee, changed into our swimsuits, and jumped in....

Not too shabby.

The boys headed to the "pub" to buy us a few drinks. 

The Norris Hot Springs offer wine and beer, as well as lots of different food.

Later in the evenings, there's live music in this little dome.

The water is 100 degrees naturally.

Once we settled in, it was a lot of fun.
Only in Montana!

 

The Right Fits would highly recommend this fun adventure in Montana.
It was a unique experience- a fresh new fit!

Fits on the Road: Exploring Downtown Bozeman, Montana

By The Right Fits

Some rain and warmer temps kept us off the slopes today, so the Right Fits decided to spend the day in Bozeman, Montana, shopping along historic main street, and enjoying this unique retail locale. 

Cosmica Boutique:

Our first stop was the "Cosmica Boutique", where you can find "world finds, clothing, accessories, shoes, home decorations and kids clothing." 

We both found several items that we would have enjoyed, as well as price tags that "fit the bill".

Cool J was the only one who ended up making a purchase. 

She picked out this fun pink polka dot high-waisted skirt.

After Cosmica, we also checked out Sugar, which was a little more expensive, but still lots of cute items.

We had our husbands with us on this shopping excursion, so their "sweet tooth" led us to Chocolate Moose for some Big League Chew, Mike & Ike's, and Reese's Pieces.

There was an old-school soda fountain, and plenty of sweets to satisfy any candy craving. 

After stocking up on loads of candy for the rest of the trip, LL spent some time planning out new necklaces at the local bead store.

Sshh...LL is creating masterpieces!

The men's patience was wearing thin, so it was time for a late lunch 

at the MacKenzie River Pizza Company.

We had a great time exploring downtown Bozeman, but an even better time later in the afternoon at the Norris Hot Springs- stay tuned for a post on this fun adventure! We hope to be back on the slopes tomorrow- pray for more snow!

Featured Fit: Stripes and Polka Dots, oh my!

By: Cool J
Stripes and polka-dots, oh my!

What a beautiful day in the Midwest! The sun was shining, and the temps were in the 60's again. I embraced some mixed patterns on this lovely day. Polka dots and stripes are a safe way to try out this look.

Next attempt? Mixed patterns of DIFFERENT colors!

The polka dots were courtesy of Jcrew- the retro polka dot tunic. It's actually sold as a "beach cover-up."

Cover-up? Well, it's a top for me!

I do like the combination of the polka dots with yellow, so will definitely try that out as well. I think this "cover-up" will be a versatile addition to my wardrobe!

Fitting Debates: To Eat or Not To Eat

{Image borrowed from www.gctraining.hubpages.com}

By: LL
When I wake up in the morning for a longer run (>4 miles), I eat. When I teach an early morning spin class, I eat. When I do my workout (run, spin, elliptical, yoga sculpt, zumba) after work, I eat. However, when I do a short morning workout (30-50 minutes), I do not eat.

I, like most of you, know my body well enough to know whether I should eat before a workout or shouldn't. In college, I had a few friends that could not eat within an hour of working out because they would get sick (or so they claimed). And then, I had the other friends, who would be chowing down on practically a full meal right before taking one of my spin classes.

So the question is, should you eat before you work out?

According to this story by MSNBC, in order to burn more fat, you shouldn't eat before a workout. The story is based on research by a group of Europeans who found that cyclists who did not eat before a workout burned more fat than those who did eat. This 2008 study showed that muscles were able to burn up the stores of fat in the body, and better absorb glucose, which is great for diabetics.

But this is counter-intuitive to most other health professional recommendations (I know that I recommend my participants to eat a small, healthy snack prior to working out). Experts at the Mayo Clinic and ESPN Training Room and even in Fitness for Dummies all recommend fueling up with something healthy prior to working out. They recommend things such fruit, protein/energy bars, healthy nuts (aka almonds), or peanut butter and crackers to give your body the energy it needs to work at optimal levels. Without eating, they claim that you are doing damage to your body - wearing it down - and increasing your risk of fainting or developing other health conditions due to low blood sugar. Also, your performance will be negatively impacted.

This is quite the fitting debate. Do you eat before a workout? Depending on your school of thought, your stomach might already be growling for food as you think about the workout you have planned for tonight.

Fundamental Fit: Stand Tall, Eyes Forward

By: LL
As I went for a run on my 5 mile loop the other day, on a gorgeous spring day - sunny, warm, soft breeze - I was really feeling my run. After about a mile, I found the rhythm of my feet on the pavement, matched with a nice easy breath. It was a great run. And then I almost tripped over a dog that darted in front of me. Dumb dog...okay it wasn't the dog's fault. And it really didn't dart in front of me. As I struggled to regain my balance and stay on my feet, I realized that I was surrounded by so many things. There was a world of commotion and lots of beautiful spring foliage to take in. Yet, here I was, trodding along, looking down at the ground. I wondered why I did that. Why didn't I look up and forward when I ran? I was out enjoying my run and not enjoying any of my surroundings.

According to Jeff Galloway and Runners World Magazine, not only am I missing out on some of the great things about running, I am also exhibiting poor running form. Here are some of their tips for good running form:

{Image borrowed from www.sideofsneakers.com}

Failed Fit: Running in the Rain

By Jessie

It's raining out there, Minneapolis! It's wet, it's muddy, and it's probably not your favorite time to run.

But don't fret! Just because it's raining, doesn't mean you should skip your run. My husband and I ran the Twin Cities Marathon in 2008, when it was pouring rain the entire time. And afterwards, we both remarked on what an adventure it was. We still had good experiences.

Rain does not mean "no run!" In fact, Runner's World Magazine just listed "3 Ways to Love Runs in the Rain!" (This is completely sourced from Runner's World, I take no credit!)

1. SUIT UP- A hat with a brim is crucial for keeping water out of your eyes. A water proof jacket will keep your torso dry and free of chafing. Coat your feet with petroleum jelly to prevent blisters. Wear old shoes; the cushioning in soaked ones never fully recovers.

2. MAKE A SPLASH- Save serious runs for nicer days. Running fast on slick roads or muddy trails could lead to falls, and long, wet outings to hypothermia. Instead, embrace the rain with a short, easy run, making a point to jump in big puddles.

3. DRY OFF-  Get out of wet clothes and into a warm shower as soon as possible. Stuff shoes with newspaper to help them dry out quickly. Don't put them in the dryer; it damages the infrastructure.

Forgettable Fit: A morning on the elliptical

By: LL
Forcing myself to go to the gym early in the morning can be tough. It is hard to get motivated and roll out of bed with a 4:30 am alarm when your body is barely awake and you still have pillow marks on your face. But, the feeling after a morning workout, and the energy that I get for the rest of the day, makes it all worth it.

However, there is nothing worse than psyching yourself up for your planned workout and being forced into something else - like the elliptical machine. Nothing against ellipticals, they can give you go0d workouts, but when you are not planning on using an elliptical, and you are forced to adhere to the 30 minute time limit due to other gym members waiting, it is hard to get in a good workout. And trust me, I tried.

This morning, as I popped my iPod headphones into my ears, and placed my water bottle and towel in their appropriate places, I already felt the tapping feet, waiting for me to finish. I tried to tune them out and used my annoyance as motivation to push myself harder, but I still didn't feel satisfied at the end of my 30 minutes. I really could have used an additional 15-20 to really get into my stride.

So how did I compensate? I went over to the free weights (where there normally is minimal, if any wait for use) and added in some plyometrics to keep my heart rate up for the additional time, and add in some strength training. And, I was pleasantly surprised with how I felt at the end - tired, sore, and energized.

Does this ever happen to you? You step reluctantly off the elliptical (or stair machine, or treadmill even) and do not feel satisfied with your workout, but have no choice but to move on. Well, here are some great ideas to add to the end of your workout, before you do your cool down:

Featured Fits: Share Our Strength Cakewalk

By Jessie

Last Thursday night, Dustin and I joined some friends at a charity event downtown. One of our fellow run clubbers is the event chair for the local "Share Our Strength" organization. This particular event was held at the Fine Line Music Cafe.  It involved cocktails, desserts, and an actual old-school cakewalk, and 100% of the proceeds went to a great cause!

The desserts were prepared by some of our city's top-name chefs, such as James Beard award-winner Tim McKee of La Belle Vie: 

...and the cocktails were created by the well-known mixologist, Johnny Michaels:

My outfit was a repeat wear from this post, but check out the cute outfits below!

These fashionable friends put together some stellar "fits" for this special evening!

Where do these fashionistas find such cute ensembles?

Here are the detes:

Meggan: 

(She's a yoga/barre instructor- you can tell by those Halle Berry-esque arms!)

Skirt: Primp Boutique (cute & affordable clothes in St. Paul & at their new location at  the West End!)

Scarf - Street vendor in NYC

Tank- Gap

Necklace - Target

Purse- Coach outlet

Tights - Banana Republic

Jennifer:

(Jen's gorgeous hair stayed perfectly coiffed through a walk in a snowstorm and the dance party at the end of the night- Jealous!)

Top: Anthropologie

Skirt: Anthropologie

Clutch: Target

Jacket: Banana Republic Factory Store

Scarf: Macy's 

Kelly:

(Kelly is always well-dressed, and when we ask her where her ensemble is from, the answer is often Old Navy! She makes Old Navy look like Valentino- Kelly knows how to put together outfits that "Fit the Bill!")

Dress: Buttons (from Francesca's Boutique)

Leggings: Banana Republic

Earrings: Francesca's Boutique

Necklace: Gifted

Boots: Ciao Bella (from DSW)

Purse: Stolen/"borrowed" from her mother :)

Thanks Kelly, Meggan, and Jen for letting us feature you and your unique styles on the Right Fits!

The event itself was a blast, and the desserts were scrumptious:

And we did get a chance to meet some "local" celebrities, like Andrew Zimmern!

Congrats to our friend Laura on organizing such a successful event. Can't wait to attend more in the future!