I. Must. Go. Running.

I know, I know. It is so hard to keep up with your schedule and than add running to the mix. Believe me, been there done that! I also know how bad running in the cold sucks! Like my previous post said, I really need to go shopping for appropriate winter running clothes. Lately, I have been having difficulty running in this weather we are having. No matter what, I try my best to run at least three times a week outside. Preparing for the colder weather now will boost my ability to run when it get's to be freezing outside.

The basic reason why I run even when it is freezing outside is so I can be ahead of the game when spring roles around. Next May, I plan on running the Pittsburgh Marathon. That is 26.2 miles. The only way I will ever be able to do that is if I start training now. So, I must go running. Even if I wasn't training for a marathon, I would still run. Taking long periods of time off from running in the winter will just make it harder for you to start up again. That being said, I hope you will stay keep running even when it's frigid outside. I'm not saying to run for hours in the freezing cold, but at least three miles, three times a week. If necessary there is always the treadmill. Personally, I would rather take on the cold air than a treadmill. I don't feel like I get a good run on any machine, but that is just me. Don't kill yourself, but just remember how hard it was to run when you first started and that is what will happen if you ditch all efforts now.

Believe me the bitter taste of the frigid air and the burning that runs through your chest as you take each breath in is all worth it once you can breeze through an 8 mile run.

Here's some more winter clothes for running:
Note: It is better to sweat than be sorry.--A frequent runner.

1. Fleece Jacket!
C9 Champion Women's Fleece Athletic Jacket
Price:$29.99

2: Ear muffs are a must!

DEGREE black ear muffs
Price: $14.99

3. Under Armour!
Women's longsleeve Coldgear
Price: $49.99
I know it's expensive, but it's necessary.

Fact: Running in the cold sucks!

Yesterday I decided it was a good day to go for a run. It was only 50 degrees at the time when I decided to go, but I thought it would be good preparation for what's to come when I run during the winter months.

I made sure to wear a long sleeve shirt, but I had no choice to wear shorts. Silly me forgot to wash my running pants! I realize now that sooner or later I need to spend some money on new running pants. I figured that you may also need to grab some gear for the winter. Below are some nice pants to have in the late fall through winter. There are a variation of prices for those who are looking to save more than spend. Enjoy!

Thermopolis LT Tight Asics
Fitted for performance and comfort, there’s a nice soft brushed feel to these tights. Designed to keep you cozy.
Price:$60.00

Xersion™ Athletic Pants, Performance Legging
Athletic pants are the perfect combination of form and function. These fantastic performance ankle leggings look sharp and feature reflective accents for safety after dark.
Price:$24.99

Running to feel better

There is truly nothing better than running in the fall. The sound of the leaves crunching underneath my running shoes makes me feel at ease in that moment. My favorite season is fall, so naturally I enjoy being out and about and especially running. Even though midterms start next week and I have a million things on my list to do, I cannot pass up a chance to run on a beautiful fall day. Running takes me away from all the stress I'm under and gives me something to look forward to after spending hours doing school work. Some people would say I am crazy for using running as my break from life, but I honestly feel much better about everything when I can go for a run at the end of the day.

I wish more people would consider adding exercise into their life as a form of relaxation and stress relief. To me running is killing two birds with one stone: 1. I can relax and just enjoy the moment and 2. I get a good work out. If everyone thought like this then we would all be a little less stressed and better prepared to conquer whatever obstacle comes our way. Because at the end of the day when I can take 20 or 30 minutes out of my day to run, I am less stressed about the work I have to do so I get it done faster. Do yourself a favor, shut up and run! I promise you will not regret it.

Here's a weekly running workout I put together myself for beginners:

Sunday: Run 3 to 4 miles easy

Monday: Run 3 to 4 miles easy

Tuesday: Cross-train: run stairs, yoga, zumba, etc.

Wednesday:OFF day!!

Thursday:2 to 3 miles easy

Friday: Kick it up a notch! Try 5 miles at a faster pace

Saturday: OFF day, but if you're up for it try more cross-training

I try my best to run as much as possible, but I know life does get in the way sometimes. I try to think of running like another task I have to complete before the day is over, that seems to help me stay on track and feel less stressed!

Enjoy the below slide show of my day of running:

Running - flash slideshow maker

Time to Get Some Shoes

Let's be honest, when it comes to shoes you really need the best. I have and, probably always will, rely on the wonderful brand of Asics. I've gone through two pairs of these comfort driven shoes and I probably have more miles on them than I do my car, but my car is in worse shape. What I like most about the shoes is simply the comfort they provide when I am running long distances.  Having athletic socks is another must when it comes to running. If I don't have the climate control running socks I will usually end up with nasty blisters. Making sure both your socks and shoes are breathable, provide moisture control and ultra comfort. I know everyone is different and some runners have higher arches or completely flat feet, no worries, there are shoes out there for you too! Below is a pair of Asics that I would love to call myself the owner of.

Gel-Kayano17

Photo Courtesy of asicsamerica.com

Personally, I think these shoes are a perfect fit for everyone. They have enough gel to provide the most comfort possible and the laces tie along the side, so the tongue of the shoe doesn't move around and cause discomfort when running. Most importantly, they have a sockliner, which provides ultra protection against blistering. They may be priced at $140.00, but I know you are getting your money's worth if you decide to buy these shoes. The shoe is designed for high quality running performances. The flexible lining gives the runner the best gait achievable, which will enhance the running experience.