Fitness Jobs

Today I am linking up this post with Jill Conyers for her Fitness Friday Linkup.  If you have your own fitness related post, make sure you stop by her blog and add yours to the link-up!

I decided to do something a little different.  A lot of us love health, sports and fitness.  Have you ever wondered if you could turn your hobby or sport into a job you love?
If you were to think of a job in the fitness field most would likely first think about Fitness Trainers, but their are so many other options.

Maybe you are due for a job change, or have hopes of finding a job one day that you can relate to and enjoy much more than what you are in now.  In case this may be something you might be thinking about I thought I would share a few options that you may not know about.

Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy & Sports Medicine - Want a career helping people get back to living an active lifestyle?  One of these may be the job for you.  They will require college and certification programs.

Supplement Companies - Maybe you've tried them and maybe not.  But their are hundreds of different sports supplement companies out there to help athletes recover faster, workout longer.  They have jobs in administration, outside sales, even work from home jobs.  Although management levels may require additional education or experience.  Most positions are entry level that you can work your way up.

Coaches, Umpire, Referee - Although some coaching jobs especially in schools will require a college education.  Did you know that you can get jobs within your own community, working for your local county or city in these jobs?  Although some may be part time or seasonal, there are paying jobs in these fields.  Some may require certifications and a lot of them may provide the certifications for you upon hire.  If working with children, teens, adults in various sports is something that might interest you, you should look into these jobs within your area.

Personal Trainer, Yoga, Pilate's, Zumba - It is true for these jobs they'll require some education and certifications.  But if having a job in these area's is something that interests you, you can look into community education training programs in your area.  These programs cost a fraction of what you would pay if you went to a college, and you can get the same certifications to teach these and other fitness classes.

Fitness Directors and Gym Managers - Some of these may require a degree in management, however others are just looking for dedicated individuals who love life, health and love to share it with others.  These are usually full time jobs, that pay quite decent.  You can look for these types of jobs in your local gyms in your area's or within your city and county rec centers.

Sports Retail Stores - Running Specialty Stores - You may think that having a job in retail store is something that would only provide you with minimum wage.  However, what you may not know, specialty stores often look for more experienced individuals who are looking for careers. The pay and benefits are likely much higher than you would assume.  Sometimes your own running and sports background can put you into the expertise these companies are looking for.

Gyms, Cruise Ships - Their are so many jobs in these places that are everything from full-time to part-time, and most don't even require any specific higher education.  Others will even pay you to go and get your CPR and other certifications to have these jobs.  You'll find jobs from minimum wage on up, however one thing to keep in mind with these jobs.  They may also provide you with free memberships, free travel and room and board.

Sporting Goods Distribution - Ever thought about the companies that make everything from treadmills to backpacks?  Well these companies have hundreds of various different jobs everything from entry level to management.  Some even send you out to travel to different expo's and places to present and show off their products.

Recreation Coordinator - Most communities have different recreation facilities whether that be gyms, tennis courts, tracks, parks, etc...  These places need recreation coordinators to help promote healthy lifestyles for the residents within the community.
Additionally, did you know most companies employ at least one or two individuals to help promote healthy lifestyles for their employees?  In most states it gives them a tax break to do it, so don't rule out the company you work for now, maybe its a change in positions you can look forward to in your future.  Maybe you can even create this job within your current company!  If you can propose a way it will benefit them cost wise, and health wise you may have a pretty good chance.

Sports Reporter - Although it would be awesome to be a famous sports reporter like the ones you see on TV.  Did you know there are numerous other ways you can get paid to be a sports reporter?  Newspapers, Online News, Local & National.  You can sign up with different papers and news area's to be a journalist, or even a freelance reporter.  You can even get paid to write content for larger blogs, fitness sites.  Sometimes all you have to do is ask, instead of wait to see a job opening in these areas.

Race Directors & Coordinators - You run races, you volunteer.  But have you ever thought about getting paid to help put these races on?  Sure they are high stress, but they have dozens of positions that are paid, and believe it or not most medium and large races and organizations hire full-time individuals.  If it is something you love, you might not even mind the stress and just enjoy the environment.

School's Colleges Fitness Programs - Most public schools require degree's for these positions.  But did you know that private schools do not necessarily require a degree to teach these programs?  I know crazy huh, but it is true.  This is something you'd have to look into, and each school is different.  But there are many jobs available in schools and colleges that will allow you to get hands on with involvement in the health and fitness lifestyle.

I listed a few options above to get your mind thinking.  However, if you dig into it a little more you will discover as I have that the opportunities within the Health, Fitness & Sports industry are vast.

My advise if you are looking to change jobs, or thinking about these for the future:

- Decide which jobs you would most like.
- Look into what skills, education, qualifications you will need.
- Start working on those skills and qualifications as you have time.
- Keep your eyes open for ways to volunteer gain experience that will beef up your resume for when you are ready to apply for jobs in this field.
- When your ready, apply and keep your mind open to looking within your community for different places and options you may not be aware of.
- Go out and get it, don't let fear or uncertainty keep you from finding a job that will provide you with happiness.

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CURRENT GIVEAWAY

I'd also just like to quickly mention there are a few days left to enter the current giveaways going on right now for the Heat it Up Health and Fitness Giveaway.  14 bloggers and over 14 awesome health, fitness and running related giveaways.  You can visit HERE TO ENTER.

BLOGGERS WANTED

If your interested there are a few days left to add your blog to the list, for the giveaway blog hop that starts July 7th.  Make sure you read and agree to all the rules  HERE before you add your name to the list.

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So tell me, do you already have a job you love?  Do you have a job in the health and fitness industry?  Is it something you'd like to look into for your future?

Circuit training and soon to be back to running

Originally I had a 6 week plan.  I was going to work out 6 days a week, and do a circuit training program DVD by Jillian Michaels.  However, just as I started doing it, I became ill and well lets just say my 6 week idea, has now turned into a 4 week idea.
Why 4 weeks?  Well my original plan back in January was to drop as close to possible of 30 pounds before I took off on my cruise.

If your wondering why I picked the Jillian Michaels DVD, well with just a few minor alterations on a few of the jumping moves.  I am able to pretty much do all the rest, with allowing my work injury to not re-injure.  It's a 40 minute circuit training program and judging from how sore I am this week, works my body pretty much all over!  It also combines cardio and light weights, so you get the benefits of fat burning and toning at the same time.

So my goal is like I said above to do the entire workout 6 days a week for the next 4 weeks.  I am happy to say, with only tomorrow to go.  I have made it through this week.
I also am happy to say, I am sore!  I love the soreness, I haven't been able to have this feeling in over a year now, and it feels incredible!
I am so excited to see my results in the coming weeks! 
In addition to the daily circuit training, I have also altered my diet significantly.  I have dropped my daily calorie intake to around 1,200.  I no longer drink Pepsi everyday.  In fact, I haven't in over a month now.  I also rarely eat out, and have improved my diet in the healthy standards to a level I am far more pleased with!  I do allow one day a week that I call my cheat day, this is the day if I am going to eat out, or if I do want a soda I will have one.  However, the healthier I am becoming, the less and less my cravings for cheat foods are.  Which is why as of earlier this week on Monday I'd lost 16.5 pounds so far (Since Jan 5th).

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Now onto my other news.  So for about 14 months now, all you've heard me talk about is the stupid work injury.  Well, after many visits with Dr's and Specialists, numerous X-Ray's and MRI, several months in a boot up to my knee, lots of Physical Therapy appointments, as well as lots of in home Physical Therapy. 
I am happy to announce that it has finally been mending and showing incredible signs that it is healing nicely.
It allows me to walk up to 3 miles a day at times with no additional pain or flare ups.

Also, when I started Physical Therapy back in I believe it was September.  For those who read my blog, may know that I could not even go up on my tip toes even once.  In fact, I had zero muscles there so I literally physically could not do it, and trying to do so brought on lots of pain.
Well, it's taken many months, and even up to a month ago I still struggled to go up on my tip toes more than 1-2 times.  But I am thrilled to announce, I can now do it double leg going up on my tip toes well over 30 times in a row.
Additionally, I can do it single leg style up to 10 times, all without any pain!  (I might be able to do more, but it's a gradual process so I haven't gone beyond that yet.)

So what does this all mean, it means that its a definite possibility that my body may be ready to start running again.
Doing so will be a slow process I may only be able to run 20-50 meters at a time or a day.  With a couple day's break in between to watch for flare ups.  But it's a start, and I have had to go at this whole injury thing slowly anyway so that I could be certain I would be able to run again.  So I guess you could say patience has been forced upon me, and I can handle the slow build back into running again.

Now this part may sound incredibly crazy to you.  But even as bad as I am itching to get back into running.  I have to say, I am actually scared to death to do so.
I know weird huh!
Let me explain, this injury has been so long, and I've had so many setbacks and restarts on recover that there is a part of me that is terrified that if I start running again, even as little as it may be.  That it might bring on a flare up and set me back again.
But then there is this other part of me, that deep inside knows it's time to move onto the next phase and incorporate running back into the recovery process again.

As for when, well I am actually planning on giving it a try on Monday.  If things go well, then I will try again either on Wednesday or Thursday.  So we will see what happens.
I've learned a lot going through this, so I know to stop at any sign of pain and I will force myself not to go to much.  So we will see what happens.
Hopefully, by next Friday I will be thrilled to announce that Runaway Bridal Planner is finally getting back to running again....  Wish me luck!

I know I have a lot of runner friends heading to Disney this weekend, I wish you all the absolute best of luck!!!  

Running with my Tendon Injury

Linking up with Jill for Fitness Friday and Running Bloggers Fitness Friday

I feel like I am starting to sound like a broken record, because every fitness activity I do seems to revolve around the stupid tendon injury!  However, this week I have been running with the injury.

On the good note, every morning when I wake the injury is HARDLY noticeable.  I have been running daily this week and WHILE I have been running I've only barely noticed the pain and even then it's only on the uphill portions.

However, on the down side.  Between 2-5 hours after I run I can barely walk....  But all the icing and evening/night rest by each morning the pain is back down to hardly noticeable again.  So all I can say is thank goodness for high heels, because without them I wouldn't be able to walk at all in the afternoon and evening:)

Normally I would never push the running with the injury.  But with the appointment with the Surgeon 13 days away, I figure what more damage can I really do to it at this point, (in theory).

Regardless, I have felt great this week.  Even if my mileage is very small and maybe not worth mentioning - But I still will anyway:)

Monday - 1 Mile Running
Tuesday - 2 Miles Running
Wednesday - 1 Mile Running
Thursday - 2 Miles Running
Friday - 3 Miles Running
Saturday - Rest day - I've 2 weddings to decorate this day, so that will be enough Workout:)

On top of it all, I have successfully started working on a 2nd goal.  Which is to quit drinking Pepsi, except for 1 day a week:)  (Gotta have one splurge day:)  If I make it through today, then I will have gone 6 days without it.  I've had minimal headaches and I think this has also attributed a lot to my feeling so great!

All in all, it's not much.  But it's been a successful week for me, and despite the injury, its been great!!

So tell me, what successes have you had this week?  Any races this weekend you're looking forward too?

Beat the Heat, Hydrate Properly!

So for Fitness Friday today, and with the summer heat increasing daily.  I thought I would offer some of my own hydration tips I have used through the years to avoid dehydration and get proper hydration while out running.

FIRST the best times to run to beat the heat.  Early in the morning before the heat comes on.  If this isn't possible run in the evening when the sun is going down.

DO Set water bottles out on your course in places you'll know where they are to pick them up.  I generally pick area's that I can hid them, but still recognize the spot. I do this a lot in my long runs of 16-20 miles.

DON'T carry a water bottle in your hand.  If you are just going a mile or so, it might not be so bad.  But if you are going to be going several, just that small imbalance can effect your running and believe it or not, has been known in some cases to cause knee or leg injuries.  (I know it sounds funny, but it's true.)  Besides, who really can enjoy running with a heavy bottle of water sloshing around in their hand???

DO Pick a course that has parks or stores that have drinking fountains you can stop at.  For me I have several of these on many of my favorite courses.  I don't mind a bit walking into my local Walmart all sweaty and taking a nice cold drink out of the fountain:)  They don't mind either, (I spend a lot of money there at times.)  Besides, its Walmart my sweaty running attire is still far more classy than what most wear who venture into the store! (You know you just smiled because that is true!  If you didn't smile and are clueless to that, then maybe you should re-think your shopping wardrobe, just saying:) ha ha

DO carry a camel pack.  Okay, I am not going to lie, I don't actually do this (but I hike with one!)  However, I have talked to a lot of runners who do and they seem to like it for longer runs, and say they even freeze part of it to keep things cool.  One tip if you do this, I have been told the chaffing can be a nightmare (I believe them on that).  So make sure the shoulder straps are either over a shirt, or you use lots of glide or Vaseline and take some with you!  I would imagine if the pack bounces at all, even something to protect your back or more glide on that would be helpful...

DON'T take a nice ice cold drink after a long hard run that you feel slightly dehydrated from!  It's not good for your body to get an immediate swish of cold after a hard workout, especially if you might be a little dehydrated.  It might not sound as great, but you'd do better to drink just tap cold water until your system is ready to take something cooler.  Let me just say if you don't, that cold rush of water in your system may cause some vomiting... Just a warning:)

DO drink Gatorade or other Sports Drinks.  Normally I don't drink these, just to save myself the calories.  But running in the sun, can deplete your body of its salts.  Drinking one after a run can help replenish some of these at the same time as hydrating you.

DON'T think that running shirtless or in just a runners bra will help keep you cooler on your run.  It will actually do the opposite, letting the sun just bake your skin.  Even though you may feel a t-shirt is too much clothing on a hot day, a light weight moisture wicking fabric will actually keep you cooler than bare skin will! 

DO wear a runners moisture wicking hat.  I know the cute headbands are all the trend right now.  But if you want to keep some heat off your head and additionally provide a little protection from the sun on your face as well as a little shade for your eyes.  Pick up the hat and leave the cute band behind!  I know this from many years of running.  That hat will keep shade on your head, which will in return help you keep a lot cooler and reduce your overheating chances.  (You can save that cute stylish headband for a shorter early morning race:)

A FEW OTHER TIPS THAT MAY HELP

*  Keep hydrated all the time, in your daily life!  It may sound gross, but you should keep an eye on your pee color.  A light hint of yellow is the perfect color.  Clear, you are drinking too much.  Dark yellow or brownish, you need to get water in your system.  You should be having to use the bathroom every 3-5 hours, that is normal!
*  Drink regularly and get the liquids in early on in a run or race!  If you start getting thirsty in a long run or race, it's too late to do anything about it.  What you drink in miles 3-8 determine how you are going to feel in miles 16-26.2...

HUMIDITY VS. DRY CLIMATES - This is one of the biggest mistakes I see runners make who travel to run.  A person training in a humid climate goes to a dry climate to run.  They are used to seeing the sweat (humidity) all over their body, and they're used to using that for their subconscious to tell them it's a sign to drink water to replenish.  They go to a dry climate and notice they are not sweating much, so they figure they don't need to drink as much.. (BIG MISTAKE!)
I've also seen dry climate training runners go to a humid climate to run a race and make mistakes too.  They feel they are sweating to death and think they need more water than they do.  What they don't realize is in a humid climate all the moisture they see on their skin clothes is not all entirely sweat, they end up over drinking.
Knowing how to drink correctly, and knowing what your body needs through practice and training will help you combat any climate!  Sure at times and on super hot days, your going to need more water than on cooler days.  But practice in training running in different conditions or times of the day!  It's all about learning and becoming a smart properly hydrated runner!  Training to run a race isn't just about the fitness part.  Training means, experimenting and learning all aspects of the sport and hydration is a BIG part of the training process!

ALSO - Do you ever see those runners who pull over to the side early on in a race, even before miles 5 because they have muscle cramps and they are making an over dramatic fuss?  (And you are like, what is their problem it's only mile 3?) Or has this ever been you? (Hope not:)  Did you know there is a pretty good chance that this person was not hydrated properly before starting the race?  It's true, not being properly hydrated before running can cause muscle cramping early on...

A WARNING - Don't over drink in the heat or in a hot race.  I'm not going to go into all the problems for this, but google it or speak to your doctor for more info.  But you can actually poison yourself by drinking too much water, and in extreme cases it can cause death.
If you are running in a hot race and you get dehydrated and start chugging and chugging the water down in large quantities hoping to get the hydration back, its not gonna won't work!!!  Your best chance is to pull out of the race, or even better don't allow yourself to get into that situation to start with!  
Drink properly in a race.  Most people start drinking water at mile 3 (some at mile 2).  Drink as you have been training.  Just because some larger races have water stops every mile, doesn't mean you should stop every mile for a drink.  Drink smart, don't over drink and don't under drink!
- A person can't really tell you how much to drink or when to start drinking when running even though generally a runner will drink a cup or cup and a half every 2-3 miles.  You need to be your own judge of that.  Practice in training, after all that is what training is for.  Learn what your body needs to drink smart and get the liquids in early so that when you do enter a race, you already know how much you need!

Okay, I could go into this more, but I think that is enough for now:)  Be a smart runner, and stay hydrated properly!!!  You don't want to be one of the ones I run past early on in a race and roll my eyes at because I can't believe someone who spent so much $$$ to enter a race wouldn't spend a little time learning about how to hydrate properly for it!  Ha ha.. (Yes I do that!  In fact I also roll my eyes at the ones who come to a race under-trained too, but that is post for another day:) ha ha ha...

(If I offended you with my sarcastic humor because you've made any of these mistakes before, I am sorry!  But on the plus side, maybe you've got enough info now to put you on the right track so hydration isn't a problem in the future!)

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MY PERSONAL INJURY UPDATE

So on a side note, I have some good news about my injury that has kept me from running for the better part of the past 5 months.  You may know I took several weeks off work, and then only walked around on crutches and avoided walking on my injured foot/ankle as much as possible for the past 4 weeks.

The good news is, I felt a significant difference yesterday when I started walking on it again (even if for only a short time).  I can feel it is on the mend now.  It's an odd feeling, the pain is pretty much non-existent.  But I have a sense that its teetering beyond the brink of healed and injury.  So I know I need to be careful not to cause re-injury.
Originally, I had a predetermined date that I set a few weeks back in my mind.  I was bound and determined to start slowly running on it again next Monday.  However, after careful thought I believe at least one more week is needed to allow the healing time to really set in.  So next week, I only have plans to start walking on it, likely a little more each day.  Additionally, I will begin some physical therapy to strengthen the weakened areas.  I will see how next week goes, before I decide when actual running will begin!

I've been off running for this long, and I have spend a lot of money on doctors bills and then there is the loss of income from not working for the past 4 weeks.  I think it would be stupid of me to get to "runner happy" and get out there running on the recently healed areas too soon.  I'd hate to have to start this process all this over again.  One more week may or may not be all it needs, but the fact that I can walk on it now virtually pain free is a very, very excellent sign!  I have a really good feeling about it all this time, so I guess we will see:)

 

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Fitness Friday - Trying New Things

Participating today in Fitness Friday

It's been a while since I have shared my recovery process.  Months ago I starting running again, only to have to stop again.  More Dr.  visits and in short.  Pretty much I know this is going to be a longer recovery process than I had ever thought.  The injury is still Peroneal Tendinitis, but they believe also has some Bursitis and now likely scar tissue build up from the prolonged inflammation.

My injury hasn't been healing, not because of running (I didn't get it from running, and I haven't been doing it either).  But because I keep doing the "thing" several days a week that caused it.  (Working my part time job. Arggghhh)  However, I won't lie, I am looking for a new 2nd job because of it!  (But I am picky, but that is something I won't go into and bore you with:)

This is the lovely hand held at home device, that's been helping me.
I don't want to show the brand since I am not a medical professional.

However, when I did visit the Dr. last.  I mentioned I owned a home ultrasound therapy device.  I told him, I had read online that people have experienced some faster recovery with them and what his thoughts were before I tried it out.  He told me it couldn't hurt and to give it a try, and gave me some tips on when and how to use it correctly for this.

I have been using it for almost 3 weeks now, and have been seeing some steady improvement.  It's hard to explain, but the injury pain and inflammation is slowly changing.  I know my body pretty well, and injuries even more, LOL...  I can feel it's on the mend.  Do I think I will be running on it in a week, probably not.  But for the first time in months I finally feel significant change and pain decrease.  YAY!!!!  I really do believe its from the Ultrasound Therapy Treatments!

This has been a long and a not exactly thrilling journey of recovery.  I am not sure when it will be over, even though I hope and pray very soon!  I have had a difficult time watching all of the many races I had planned to race this spring. (well over half a dozen now) Come and go.  But even though my favorite passion in life is on hold.  I am trying to remain upbeat about other things.  Busying myself with other activities and keeping my mind occupied.

A few good things have come out of my being unable to hit the pavement with my running shoes.  I am thrilled with the other achievements I am making.  One of them was blogging more often and exploring the blogging world.  I think I am addicted to blogging and following other blogs:)  

Sometimes we are meant to go through a few struggles to appreciate the good times and successes in life all that much more.  With that said, I am very much looking forward to appreciating every detail of being a runner again.  And oh how great it will be to run that next marathon, which will also be #40:)  Hopefully soon, I will get to plan out which lucky 26.2 this Fall gets to be the big 40...

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So tell me, do any of you have fun race plans for the weekend?

GIVEAWAY and REVIEW of BESTOWED & DISCOUNT

- Participating in FITNESS FRIDAY today- 

   
     I received an amazing opportunity to try out the April month box of Bestowed.   What is Bestowed?  Bestowed.com is a new monthly subscription service that gives you a way to try out different healthy snacks and foods and brands that are the market.  All items are hand picked by the founder Heather Bauer.

     So this past week I have been sampling them and basically having a lot of fun trying them out in different ways.  One thing I loved when I received my box, was that they provided a sheet with a description of each product.  This sheet listed health and nutritional facts as well as some tips on what the product can help do for you.  Additionally, the sheet provided tips and different ways to eat and use each of the products.

     Here's a little on my thoughts of each product.  At the end of this review you'll find my giveaway.  Or for those interested in trying out these monthly subscriptions I can give you $5 off by using this discount code:  5OFFBESTOWED01 when you order at Bestowed.com.



     So my favorite were these little HEMP HEARTS!  I had never heard of these before, and I wasn't exactly sure what to expect when tasting them.  I loved them, honestly couldn't get enough of them!  I am a seed lover to begin with.  I love sunflower seeds, and found the Hemp Hearts to be similar but a little nuttier in taste, and smaller and softer to the chew.  Delicious!!!  The information sheet suggest trying on salad, cereal and yogurt.  I tried sprinkling them on my morning yogurt one day.  But for me my favorite was just eating them plain.  On top of it all, they are high in protein, vitamins and essential omegas.

     Kind Healthy Grains Oats & Honey Clusters.  Who doesn't love granola?  These were pretty good just as a snack, healthy lightly sweetened granola.  I found them to be yummiest sprinkled and mixed with yogurt as my own little mini morning parfait.  They are also very low calorie and gluten free for those who search for these types of products.   The tip sheet suggested trying this mixed with oatmeal, I really enjoyed it this way!  I kept them handy all week whenever I needed a snack.  A healthy way to fill a snack craving!

     I also had some Pink Lemonade EBOOST to try.  It's super easy to make, just mix with water and ready to go.  The formula consists of vitamins, minerals and nutrients to help give you extra energy.  The tip sheets suggest drinking an EBOOST instead of your afternoon caffeine drink.  Again this is a healthy product, both gluten and soy free.  I don't usually enjoy dietary drinks like this, but maybe it was because I had a Pink Lemonade flavor???  Not sure, but I actually really liked it.  When I mixed it with the recommended amount of water, I found it to be a little strong so I just added a little more water to my own preferred consistency and enjoyed a few afternoon pick me up drinks during the week!

     Gnu Foods Hi-Fiber Mini's, they are small but packed with six whole grains, minerals, antioxidants and to top it off only 70 calories.  Plus like in the name, they are super high in fiber, which made them quite filling!  I found them to be just okay as a snack alone.  But decided to try them out with one of their tip suggestions but in my own way.  I dipped them in yogurt for my lunch one day and once I did that I can say I really enjoyed them!

     OLOVES Hot Chilli Mama Olives, doesn't that title just make you smile and grab at your curiosity?  Basically they are pitted Green Olives with Habanero Chillies.  They kind of hooked me after the first one.  I love hot spicy foods, and didn't find these to be something I would consider way hot.  But they were full of flavor.  You can't eat just one, I swear they got better and better as I ate them.  I can definitely see myself snacking on these again!  They are only 50 calories a bag, so obviously a great low calorie snack.  I probably shouldn't say this, because it's not going to sound so healthy.  But as I ate them, I couldn't help but think they would be a fabulous topper to some cheesy nachos.  But I can't say for sure, because I downed the whole bag in a few short minutes:)

     When I tried my Nektar Honey Crystals, since I don't drink coffee or tea that need sweeteners I decided just to add them to a yogurt to see how a little hint of honey would taste.  Not bad, I enjoyed it, but decided I could be more creative.  So I took another package the next day and did something a little different and mixed it with my peanut butter and spread the honey peanut butter spread on my morning toast.  Yes, now that was a tasty way to enjoy it for me!

     An iTrain $25 Gift Card also came in the box.  This is a pretty cool little gift, you can download workouts straight to your ipod or MP3 and have them customized to fit what you need.  Each workout has background music and a trainers voice providing you with easy to follow instructions to get you through your workout with a little extra motivation.  I didn't try this (because I have a foot injury right now), but they also have iTread workouts to help spice up a boring treadmill run as well as iStretch yoga lessons, that you can do in the privacy of your own home.  I think that is kind of cool!

I received my box for free from Bestowed for this review. The opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.

     If you are interested on where you can get any of the above listed products you can click HERE.  A subscription to Bestowed only costs $19 a month, however if you would like to try it you can click HERE and use this discount code to save $5 off your order:  5OFFBESTOWED01

**  I am also hosting a giveaway for bestowed, they'd like to give 1 lucky winner their own one month box FREE.  (Note: the items listed above are from their April box, the winner of this giveaway will likely receive a May Bestowed item box.
The only limitation to be a winner you must be a US resident.**

a Rafflecopter giveaway

WHEN YOU NEED A LITTLE EXTRA HELP TO STAY HEALTHY

Linking today with Jill Conyers blog for Fitness Friday.

I have to share this really cool thing that has helped me stay healthy and illness free for many months and all through cold and flu season.  First, let me give you my mini background so you can see where I am coming from.

For the past several years and especially when I was hitting a 26.2 each weekend or even every other week.  I would get sick (cold, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia, you name it and I would catch it...)  Pretty much every 2 to 3 weeks, some new illness.  If I could make it 4 weeks without catching anything, at the time I would think it was a miracle.
Part of it was because marathon running can break down your immune system and make you more susceptible to things.  The other part was my fabulous (NOT) Epstein Barr virus:(  Even when I would have a month or two off in the summer for races and my mileage was lower, I would still catch any stupid bug if anyone pretty much sneezed in my direction.  And let me tell you, it is so NOT fun to have to pull off a marathon, when you can barely lift your head off the bed!  Trust me, I have done my fair share of them this way!

Last fall I went to a Dr. because my hair seemed to be getting thinner and far too quickly for my liking.  Well because I was running so many 26.2's my body wasn't getting all the nutrients it needed in my food.  So my Dr. recommended I take an over the counter Prenatal Vitamin as well as Biotin as supplements to my diet.  She told me to take Prenatal instead of a multi-vitamin because they have more of the vitamin combo that women who's bodies use up a lot of nutrients need.

Since I started taking them around Mid November last year, I haven't caught a single cold or flu and haven't had so much as a sniffle.  I doubt the Biotin had anything to do with it, but I will say my hair is coming in thicker and my nails are looking fabulous and I think the Biotin has had a bit to do with that part.  But those Prenatal Vitamins (and no I am not pregnant) have been a miracle worker for me!

Nothing fancy either, these are just straight grocery store brand:)

No, I don't believe they are some miracle cure or pill to avoid illness altogether.  But I do believe they have have had A LOT to do with my being able to stay so healthy all through cold and flu season. (I do work a part time job with the public in what I call a germ infested place, the library LOL.  Just so you know I wasn't hanging out in seclusion or in a closet:).
It's true for me the real test is going to be in the coming months as I build my mileage back up.  But I am already a believer of what they have done, even though I doubt my illness free streak will last forever.  I just believe it may help build up my immune system up to avoid so many.

I think eating healthy and eating the right foods is absolutely necessary and the best way to go!  But occasionally in some people like me, its not always enough to make sure you are getting all the vitamins you need.
So I thought I would share my story, just in case any of my fitness and running friends have/are experiencing excessive illnesses.  However, I DO recommend you double check with your doctor before trying anything new, for any illness problems.  And of course prenatal vitamins cannot be taken by men, because of the iron in them:)

On a side note, my ankle has been a little better this week.  But I do have a doctors appointment scheduled, just to be sure nothing is seriously wrong.  However, I am very hopeful that everything will work out, and I will soon be able to work on building that mileage back up, and getting back into finishing my marathon in every state goal.  Especially since I only have 19 more to go:)

So, do you have any cool tricks or things you have come across or taken that have helped you stay healthy and strong?  If so I'd love for you to share!