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The Best of Chicago: Where to Eat, Sleep, Run & Explore

August 15, 2017 admin Comments 0 Comment

Headsweats Ambassador Jill Monroe is preparing for the Chicago Marathon. If you’ll be there too, check out her advice on the best food, lodging and places to run in the windy city. And don’t forget to visit her blog (Travel.Run.Repeat) for more!

The 2017 Chicago Marathon is rapidly approaching. It’s time to start planning your trip if you haven’t already! Reservations for hotels have hopefully been made, but if not don’t panic! I have some suggestions for you. You should also start thinking about pre-race dinner reservations since the city of Chicago will be crowded with runners from all over the world with the same intention of eating the perfect meal. Don’t be stuck wandering around Chicago trying to find a place that has last minute availabilities for your carb-rich dinner! I wouldn’t want you to accidentally stroll into UNO’s Pizzeria & Grill, a chain restaurant, thinking you’re getting authentic deep dish pizza. Be informed and know what’s best in town!

The Chicago Marathon was my second marathon and first Abbott World Marathon Majors. I had the time of my life running this race. My husband is from the Chicago area, and my in-laws live there as well. I’ve combined my personal suggestions with that of my family and friends to bring you a very detailed and thorough list of places to eat, sleep and play in Chicago! Oh, and of course if you’re just visiting Chicago for business or vacation and need suggestions on places to run, I’ve got you covered!

EAT

LOU MALNATI’S FOR DEEP DISH PIZZA

In order to really experience Chicago, you’ll need to try deep dish pizza. My favorite is Lou Malnati’s. My father-in-saw says “Get the butter crust!” I don’t remember trying the butter crust, but I’ll have to go back just to try it. You probably won’t need more than one or two slices. It is very filling!

LA SCAROLA

Runners love their pre-race pasta meal, so if you’re planning ahead consider La Scarola and make a reservation. You will forget you’re in America when you eat here. This place has some of the best Italian food in the world.

MERCADITO

Craving tacos? Or want to try something different? Check out Mercadio’s. Here’s the best way to describe this place:

“Cocktails and upscale Mexican eats keep this popular hangout bustling with a hip, young crowd.”

DUCK DUCK GOAT

For creative Chinese fare from a celebrity chef Stephanie Izard, who won Bravo’s Top

Chef, check out Duck Duck Goat. Other restaurants from Chef Izard is Girl & the Goat and Little Goat Diner. All of these are highly recommended! Check out the Little Goat Diner for breakfast.

AU CHEVAL

Craving a burger after your race? For “the best burger in the city” try Au Cheval.

PUBLICAN

“An homage to oysters, pork and beer, The Publican’s eclectic menu is inspired by simple farmhouse fare in a space evocative of a European beer hall. Chef-Partner Paul Kahan, Executive Chef Cosmo Goss and Chef de Cuisine Jacob Saben have developed a network of purveyors to supply the restaurant with hand-selected and sustainably-raised fish, seafood and pork.” This place was highly recommended by several of my friends.

SLEEP

SHERATON CHICAGO

I love the location of this hotel. It’s located right on the water (pictured to the right). You can access the Lake Shore Trail easily from this spot and you’ll have a great view of the city. There are plenty of restaurants you can walk to or ones within the hotel. They serve Starbucks as well (always a plus for me). You can even walk to a Whole Foods Market. And Michigan Ave is also easy to walk to. Click here for their website.

The following luxury hotels come highly recommended:

PUBLIC HOTEL CHICAGO

Public Hotels website. This hotel reminds me of something I would see in Tokyo, Japan. It’s clean, refined, sophisticated and totally unique. I love how there are separate sections of each room for “work, sleep & relaxation”. Check it out.

PALOMAR

Another gorgeous luxury hotel located in the heart of River North. Check out the Kimpton Hotel Palomar.

LANGHAM

This came highly recommended and I was told it was one of the nicest hotels in the world. Judging by the pictures, this 5 star luxury hotel has it all!

“Majestic views of the cityscape, the Chicago River, and Lake Michigan. Legendary hotel hospitality established in 1865. All housed in a skyscraper designed by renowned architect Mies van der Rohe.”

THOMPSONS

Another gorgeous luxury boutique hotel with a fantastic view and location. Click here for more details.

The following hotels are more reasonably priced and still in a fantastic location:

THE AISLE – STAYPINAPPLE

I love the look and feel of this hotel, and it’s location is also perfect. The price is reasonable for what you’re getting and it’s location. Click here.

LAQUINTA DOWNTOWN

I am a fan of LaQuinta Inn & Suites. This location is great and the rates are fantastic considering you’re staying in the heart of Chicago. Check this one out.

PLAY

CHICAGO ARCHITECTURE TOUR BY BOAT

One of my favorite things to do before the Chicago Marathon is to take a tour of Chicago by boat! This is a great way to see the city, but not do a lot of walking. Check out Shoreline Sightseeing, specifically their Chicago Architecture Tour.

NAVY PIER

Another cool thing to do before or after the marathon is to visit Navy Pier and take a ride on the Ferris Wheel.

WRIGLEY FIELD – CHICAGO CUBS GAME

Check out the famous Wrigley Field and watch the World Champion Chicago Cubs play baseball. There’s no better way to embrace the essence of Chicago than to watch a baseball game in the heart of the city in this iconic stadium. Try a Chicago hot dog too!

MAGGIE DALEY PARK

Check out Maggie Daley Park downtown, if you truly want to “play”. Activities here range from mini golf to rock wall climbing, tennis to skating and more! Just a word of caution: Don’t participate in any extreme sports BEFORE your marathon. Save these activities for a day or two after. Or perhaps suggest your family or friends entertain themselves here while you rest or run. Tip: Check out Cindy’s Rooftop Bar in the Chicago Athletic Association.

navy pier chicago.jpg

ETC.

GARRETT POPCORN

One of my favorite things about Chicago is Garrett popcorn. Try the Chicago mix. Take home a tin full of popcorn for your family or co-workers!

ARGO TEA

I am a big iced tea fan. Argo has some of the best iced tea I’ve ever tasted. They have a variety of drinks and cafe food, but I usually go just for the tea. My favorite is the green tea ginger twist! Cafes are located all over Chicago, including one on Michigan Ave.

RUN

If you’re visiting Chicago for the marathon, chances are you won’t want to do a lot of walking. But if you’re there for work and need a place to run, check out these suggestions:

5 Places to Run in Chicago:
http://running.competitor.com/2015/06/features/5-places-to-run-in-chicago_130136

LAKEFRONT TRAIL

The obvious place to run is Lakefront Trail. “An impressive 18-mile-long stretch, Chicago’s Lakefront Trail is a paved path that extends from Ardmore Street (5800 N. Sheridan Road) on the North Side to 71st Street (7100 S. South Shore Drive) on the South Side.” When I was here for business I did my 14 mile long run along this trail. It was perfect!

CONCLUSION

I hope you enjoy your stay in Chicago! I am very excited to be there for the 2017 Chicago Marathon. Follow me on social media (@travel.run.repeat) for updates on my training and reminders about this race and other Abbott World Marathon Majors. See you in Chicago!

-Jill M.

TRAIN WHILE YOU TRAVEL

July 11, 2017 admin Comments 0 Comment

Headsweats Ambassador Jeff Stein proves it’s possible to maintain your training no matter where life takes you.

When I learned I had been accepted to a three-month fellowship program in the West Bank, I wondered what those three months would mean for my training. As an elite marathoner averaging 110+-mile weeks, I was worried that the unfamiliar routes, hot climate, and unavailability of energy and hydration products (not to mention prevalence of Israeli military checkpoints) would interfere with my training. At the same time, I was anxious that the time I would spend running would cause me to “miss out” on some of the experiences of living abroad. Looking back, the training I did in the West Bank was some of the highest quality running I have ever done. And, instead of detracting from the experience of living abroad, running actually enhanced my ability to sight-see, meet local residents, immerse myself in the culture, and generally enjoy my time living abroad. When done right, training and travelling can be mutually complementary. To maximize both the efficacy of your raining and enjoyment of your travelling, keep these three thoughts in mind:

Bring the right gear. Whether cold or hot, you’ll want headwear. My Headsweats race hat shielded me from the oppressive sun in the Jordanian desert as well as it did from the chilling rain in Iceland and, before that, the ferocious flies in Nicaragua. You’ll also want some sort of race belt to carry a water bottle (I use a zippered FlipBelt), a passport photocopy, and some money. You don’t ever want to be stranded in a foreign country without those. Finally, wear a watch, ideally with GPS. When running through new areas, measuring distances can be challenging. A GPS-enabled watch will liberate you to wander and explore beyond a rigid, pre-mapped route, without undermining your ability to tabulate your mileage. Once you’re properly equipped, you can travel farther, faster, and more independently than walking or touring around by conventional means.
Find a friend. Nearly every community in the world has at least some runners, even if running is not a mainstay in the local culture. Approach people and ask around about running groups and where (or where not) to run. You will be surprised how often you will uncover links to the local running scene. And, even if you don’t, those questions are conversation-starters. You may even end up making a local friend. If talking to strangers is not your style, you can try free online networks like Strava and MapMyRun, which have helpful information about routes that others have tried all over the globe. And, of course, there’s always Google.
Use local fuel. One of my favorite perks of running is that it allows me to follow my stomach, wherever it may lead. Incidentally, my favorite part of travelling is trying local cuisines. Take advantage of training while travelling to fuel yourself with what the actual residents eat. It’s fine to bring some of your preferred energy/hydration foods “just in case” (I brought a few packs of Nuun tablets and Honey Stinger waffles), but virtually all societies have their own foods that will meet your in-training caloric and nutritional needs. In the West Bank, I lived off of fresh pita, hummus, eggs (with the most vibrant yokes I’ve ever seen), cheese, and locally farmed vegetables. During workouts, I downed dates. Afterwards, I rehydrated with copious quantities of watermelon. Local foods are not only cheaper—they are an excellent way to consume local culture.

While training in the West Bank I accomplished some of the highest quality workouts of my career. I left the region healthier, more relaxed, and in better shape than I was when I arrived. Meanwhile, running opened up doors that would have been otherwise closed to me. I literally ran into a Palestinian athlete who became my training partner and ultimately invited me into his home for a Ramadan break-fast. My long runs through Ramallah familiarized me with the town and its environs to the point that I can now give directions like a local. During a mystical 10-mile run through the Lost City of Petra in Jordan, I saw more ancient ruins in a single day than would have been possible by simply walking through. And, perhaps most importantly, keeping up my training enabled me to devour as much delicious local food as my heart (and stomach) desired.

As I learned in the West Bank, you don’t need to sacrifice your training to travel. Do both. Life is too short to shortchange either one.

7 Ways to Beat the Summer Heat

June 29, 2017 admin Comments 0 Comment

Headsweats Ambassador Jill Monroe is training for the Chicago Marathon this summer. Temperatures are rising – and so is her daily mileage! Check out her 7 tips for beating the heat below!

START EARLY

Ideally you should start running earlier than normal in order to beat the heat. It’s never easy to wake up earlier on the weekends than you do on weekdays, but trust me you won’t regret this decision. Typically I will start running at 6:30 a.m. in the summer, or earlier if I’m really ambitious. If you start running at 9 a.m. you most likely will be running when temperatures are higher and the sun will be shining directly on you. The best way to avoid this is to get up earlier and start running. If that doesn’t work for you, consider doing some of your miles on the treadmill. If you’re doing a 10 mile run and the warmer temperatures are unbearable, consider splitting your run so that 5 miles are outside and 5 are on the treadmill. Or do all of your miles on the treadmill. Also choose a path or trail that is shaded if possible.

DRINK UP

Hydrate properly several days before your long run or race. The morning of and during your run, continue to drink up. Consider using an electrolyte supplement before or during your activity. You may want to also consider drinking an electrolyte beverage (like a sports drink) in addition to water. My personal favorite electrolyte supplement is Hammer Nutrition® Endurolytes®. In addition, I will sip on a Hammer Nutrition® Heed®, which is a sports drink. Hydrate properly even afteryou have finished your outdoor activity. Here is more information on how much you should drink when it’s hot out. Watermelon is usually what I will crave when I have finished a long run. Sweet, chilled watermelon is so refreshing. Studies have shown that watermelon helps relieve post exercise muscle soreness. It also will hydrate you and provide key electrolytes. More information on the benefits of watermelon here.

ICE ICE BABY!

If you have a handheld water bottle or even a hydration vest, consider adding ice cubes to your water or electrolyte drink. This will keep your water cold so it’s more refreshing and will help lower your body temperature. When I know temperatures will be high, I will fill my handheld bottle with water halfway and freeze it overnight. The following morning before my run, I pour more water into my bottle with the large ice block. Slowly the ice block will melt. The cold water bottle feels great and keeps my water cold for a longer period of time.

KEEP A COOL HEAD

I usually wear a hat when I run. My favorite brand is Headsweats®. I love all their products, but the trucker hat is my favorite kind of hat for running. Wearing a hat while running or doing any outdoor activity in the summer is beneficial in many ways. First the hat will absorb excess moisture from your head, and will keep sweat from dripping into your eyes. If you’re like me, my eyes burn when sweat drips into them. Hats prevent this from happening. They also cover your face and block the sun from your eyes. In addition, they will keep you from squinting and furrowing up your face which will prevent you from creating extra tension in your body and allow you to run in a more relaxed state. Consider also wearing sunglasses along with your hat. Another reason hats come in handy is if it starts to rain! You don’t have to worry about the rain getting on your face. For 25% off your Headsweats® order, use the code TRAVELRUNREPEAT at checkout

DRESS APPROPRIATELY

Wear light weight clothes made of moisture wicking fabric. Don’t wear all black for obvious reason. Consider light weight socks that will wick away moisture, but aren’t too heavy or thick. CEP makes ultralight no-show sock which are a personal favorite of mine. I also use the Headsweats® Ultraband or a headband type product around my neck. This product is helpful to wipe away extra sweat and can also help if you need to tie your hair back or keep the sweat from dripping into your eyes.

SLOW DOWN

Realize that in the summer months your pace will slow down. Generally you may be around 30 seconds to 1 min per mile slower with your pace in the summer months. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you notice yourself slowing down. The heat and humidity make it more difficult to train. Consider taking short walk breaks while you train to lower your heart rate. If you feel dizzy, sit down and call for help. Don’t try to keep running if you feel lightheaded, dizzy or weak. Here is an excerpt taken from an article in Runner’s World regarding the effects of heat and humidity on the body (full article):

Heat and/or humidity increase the physical stress on the body and therefore, increase the intensity or effort of the run, which results in higher heart rates. For example, let’s say your 9:40 min/mile in good weather elicits a heart rate of 120 beats per minute (bpm). Hot, humid weather can easily add 20 beats or more to a runner’s average heart rate. This means that the same run pace will now elicit a much higher heart rate. Your 9:40/min mile may now elicit a heart rate of 140 bpm or more. The higher heart rate makes that 9:40/mile run pace uncomfortable; hence, we are forced to slow down. The “slow down factor” varies from runner to runner, but in general, slowing down 30 to 90 seconds per mile is common in hot/humid weather.

If you’re interested in calculating how much heat is impacting your race and workout times, click here. This calculator will help you plan and account for exceedingly hot temperatures during workouts or on race day. It can be used to adjust your goal pace according to the weather outlook.

Here is another excellent article on how to train in the heat and what to expect with regards to your pace.

COOL IT

Here is another cool concept: cooling towels. Consider carrying one of these if you have a long race or event that takes place in warmer months. These cooling towels claim: “proprietary technology cools to 30 degrees below average body temperature when wet”. To activate: soak the towel with water, wring it out and snap it in the air to activate the cooling properties. Place it around your neck to feel instantly cooler. For the best cooling towel products, click here.

Good luck with your training and stay cool this summer! Follow me on social media as I train for the Chicago Marathon!

-Jill M.

Stay Cool Under Pressure

June 22, 2017 admin Comments 0 Comment

Headsweats Ambassador Andrew Cohen-Wray shares his tips for staying cool under pressure. You can find this and other insights on his blog, Athlete in Mind.

As the saying goes, “keep a cool head, whilst all around others are losing theirs.” It’s a useful thing to be able to do, especially when competing or racing.

#Keepacoolhead

The idea for this blog came about when I was getting ready to race last Saturday, it was an extremely hot day which we werent prepared for as the heat was suddenly upon us after a cool day before. Us Brits always moan about the weather, it’s either too hot, too cold, too wet, too windy, but it’s the one thing as athletes we cant control. Whilst waiting near the start line going through my drills so I was ready to race, all I could hear from the other athletes were excuses. Most were complaining how hot it was and they had already told themsleves they were going to have a bad race. This is where #keepacoolhead came in useful. I had prepared the best I could have, I was hydrated, I had stayed out of the sun as long as possible exerting the minimal amount of effort pre-race, all I had to do was push my body hard for 7minutes.

Internal voice

How we talk to ourselves internally has a massive impact on how we race and perform, if the language is negative this will only drive a negative performance. It’s this negative language that is often then spoken to others and this was very apparent waiting on the start line ready to race. I could have got involved in these conversations but I opted to focus on what I had to do, rather than worry about others.

The only thing I could control that day was my own performance, I had put my body in the best possible place by being hydrated etc. Worrying about things out of my control is a big no no, worrying about my competitors, the weather etc is a pure waste of energy, energy I would need to get me round a 2000m steeplechase race in 32degrees at 15:40 in the afternoon.

Running Reaper

As a Mental Performance Coach I have created a ‘Mind management’ tool called the ‘Running Reaper’ (www.runningreaper.co.uk) It is all around how that internal voice hijacks our training and performance, I teach athletes how to bring all that internal noise under control so they can focus on performing at their best with no distractions. Everbody has a voice inside their head and that is perfectly normal, the key thing is how to work with it, especially when the training and racing gets tough. If you fight the reaper it will win everytime, work with it and you will be amazed how much harder you can push yourself.

Mike McQueeney on the New National Parks Truckers

April 17, 2017 admin Comments 0 Comment

Headsweats President Mike McQueeney shares the story behind the latest collection of Performance Trucker Designs featuring national parks. 20% of sales from this collection go to support the National Park Foundation.

Vote for the next design you’d like to see included and you’ll be entered for a chance to win a $100 Headsweats gift card!

What led to the decision to donate a portion of sales from this collection to support public lands?

As a Colorado based company, supporting public lands is a natural fit and we are excited to give back to such a great cause. Having the beautiful Rocky Mountains in our backyard is the best motivation for bringing awareness to the importance of public lands, and Headsweats is proud to give a portion of sales from our trucker collection.

What drew Headsweats to the National Park Foundation?

Headsweats, as a company, supports outdoor activities. Thus, when the opportunity presented itself, Headsweats was all in. With the expansion of our Performance Trucker line to include some National Parks, it just made good sense. Headsweats will expand upon the collection with up to four more National Park offerings to continue support of this initiative. Headsweats will be donating 20% of the total sales back to the National Parks Foundation throughout 2017. Public lands need to be cherished, supported and experienced. Headsweats is honored to support this initiative and feels an obligation to do so. It is in our DNA!

What’s your favorite National Park and why?

Yosemite National Park is my personal favorite. Although there are many to choose from such as Lake Tahoe, Grand Canyon, Mt Rushmore and Yellowstone. When I was in Junior College the cross country team would spend a weekend training up in Yosemite camping on the valley floor. We would conduct training runs as a team. I remember the big run was from the valley floor to the top of El Capitan (9 miles and 3000 feet of elevation). It was epic. The photo above was taken with a camera sitting on a picnic table after the run to El Capitan. This random, however captivating photo of Half Dome in the background was an accident, as it is one of the signature attractions at Yosemite.

Tell us about your first visit to a National Park.

I grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and spent a lot of time in the Santa Cruz mountains, as my family had a cabin in the woods where there are an abundance of Redwood Trees. These beautiful trees are only resident in Northern California and are a must see experience. As a child I remember driving north of Eureka to Redwood National Park. I thought the Redwoods at the cabin were big and tall, the trees in Redwood National Park were enormous and are the largest and tallest I have ever seen, many over 4 feet in diameter or more. The Redwood Trees have a life like air to them as they reach towards the sky and sway beautifully in the wind. Visiting Redwood National Park was an experience that is etched forever in my memory.

Everyone knows Bigfoot needs space to roam. Which National Park do you think he currently calls home?

The mythic creature is very mobile. From Northern California to The Pacific Northwest, many call this the home of Bigfoot with sightngs in Olympic National Park, Mt Hood, Sequoia National Park and Six Rivers National Park in Northern California. He has been sightings at Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio, Yellowstone in Wyoming, Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee and as far south as the Kisatchie National Forest in Louisiana. What this tells me is that he enjoys National Parks as much as we do. He’s elusive, mysterious and loves the great outdoors!

Anti-inflammatory Turmeric Oats

March 24, 2017 admin Comments 0 Comment

This healthy, delicious recipe comes from Headsweats Ambassador Jessica Rhinehart. For more good eats and training tips, visit her blog Sugar Runs.

Jessica Rinehart Oats are a great way to start your day. They’re a good source of simple carbs – I tend to go carb heavy at breakfast and lunch because I do my runs after work and before dinner. These oats are my favorite though, and I usually eat these after my long runs on the weekend or the day after a tough speed workout because of the anti-inflammatory powers of the turmeric.

For optimal absorption, turmeric needs to be combined with fat or piperine (a compound found in black pepper). This recipe calls for a sprinkle of black pepper because I usually use almond milk in my oatmeal, which has no fat in it. If you use a milk that has fat (coconut milk, for example), you can cut the pepper, but I think it’s great with it.

Turmeric has a distinct taste that’s more savory. To counter that, the recipe calls for cinnamon (aids in muscle recovery and regulates blood pressure) and all spice. You can use whatever milk you like in this recipe. The fat in coconut milk will help aid turmeric absorption. I prefer using Califia Farms Coconut Almond Milk, and the nutrition info reflects that.

Ingredients:

2/3 cup Califia Farms coconut almond milk (or any milk of choice)
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/4 tsp all spice
1/8 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/3 cup shredded zucchini
1/3 cup quick oats
1 scoop collagen peptides (optional, but adds protein and aids in muscle recovery and bone health)

Directions:

Combine milk, turmeric, all spice, pepper, and cinnamon in a small sauce pan over med-high heat. I don’t measure the spices generally, but I’ve included measurements above if needed.
Once milk is bubbling, add oats and collagen peptides and whisk well. Add in zucchini and mix well.
Lower heat to medium and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until liquid starts to absorb.
Pour oats in bowl once desired consistency is reached.

I love topping mine with a scoop of peanut butter and a ripe banana to add the perfect touch of sweetness.

Ambassador Spotlight: Smitha Arons

March 10, 2017 admin Comments 0 Comment

Our lovely ambassador Smitha Arons is taking over! ….on Instagram, that is. Take a moment to learn more about her and be sure to follow along via @Headsweats for the weekend of adventure she has planned. We’ve heard mention of a Saturday sunrise you won’t want to miss!

What is your favorite Headsweats product/products?

I fell in love with Headsweats products starting from the purchase of my very first white visor. Now I have over 20 visors and 5 hats. They make the perfect compliment to any stylish run outfit and most importantly, keeps the sun and sweat out of my eyes!

What is your sport/discipline of choice?

Running!

What is your favorite race distance?

The Half Marathon. Long enough to be a challenge but short enough to properly train!

Favorite race you’ve ever done?

Revel Canyon City. It has all the benefits of a trail race with the scenery but the organization and consistency of a road race.

Current favorite song to on your running playlist?

Justin Timberlake – Can’t Stop the Feeling

What’s your favorite motivational quote or saying?

“Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t–you’re right.” ― Henry Ford

What/Who inspires you most?

My 7 year old daughter. She was diagnosed with epilepsy when she was 18 months old and is the bravest person I know!

What are your biggest athletic accomplishments?

I went from being someone who couldn’t run for 1 minute at a time in 2013 to having run over 20 half marathons and 3 marathons. I am really proud of that!

What are your athletic goals for 2017?

To PR the marathon distance at revel Mount Charleston in April.

Ambassador Spotlight: Stephanie Franklin

March 2, 2017 admin Comments 0 Comment

Headsweats Ambassador Stephanie Franklin (@running_the_425) has had a good week. She ran the Phoenix Marathon last weekend – the first 26.2 miles she’s raced since an injury threatened to take her out of the game two years ago – and Wednesday she learned she’s been included in the March issue of Women’s Running!

We connected with Stephanie to learn more about the two years of difficulty and hard work that led to these joyful moments:

Tell us about your experience with injury.

So, it’s been a really difficult two years, as far as my running story goes. It all started after I ran the full at Revel Rockies in Denver. I had a great race and never felt injured until I recovered for a few weeks and began running again. The story is the same again and again. It would start as tight calves, which eventually would lead to knots, which would lead to very, sharp pain in my shins and inner ankles. I tried, literally, everything: rest, deep tissue massage, supplements, foam rolling, dry needling, yoga, KT-tape, changes in shoes, acupuncture, stemming and ice, calf sleeves… you name it, I guarantee you I have tried it. I’ve spent two years in physical therapy, sometimes going four days a week, and countless hours strength training and working on my running form. Honestly, I’m still not 100 % recovered. But my pain is now on a much smaller scale.

Of all the products and therapies you tried, what finally helped your condition to improve?

I really owe everything to my physical therapists. They believed in me and knew how important it was that I get back to running at the level I was before. It was important to me, so it was important to them. It took a team of PT’s backing me up, keeping me accountable, and encouraging me along the way, but I can finally say I’m slowly getting back to my old running self. I feel so, so blessed to have crossed the finish line in Phoenix. I cried… a lot, but happy tears this time!

Any words of advice to other runners that may be dealing with chronic pain?

I think the mental aspect of chronic injury is hardest to overcome, but I’m getting better at overcoming that negativity. I’ve been doing a lot of work on my inner dialogue and I’m learning the impact positive thinking can have on the body. I’m proud of myself for not throwing in the towel. One thing I can take away from it all is that I will never, ever take for granted what a gift it is to be able to put on my trainers and run.

Keep up the hard work, Stephanie! Next up: Boston BQ!!

Headsweats Ambassador Jen Boudreau – NYC Marathon Recap

November 28, 2016 admin Comments 0 Comment

Headsweats Ambassador Jen Boudreau is no stranger to the marathon, with 7 completed races under her belt. However, Jen’s 8th race at the New York City Marathon turned about to be a completely new and unforgettable marathon experience. Running as a member of the Boston Children’s Hospital “Miles for Miracles” charity team, Jen left her Garmin at home and focused instead on enjoying her race experience. Read her race recap below and learn out why her 8th marathon turned out to be the experience of a lifetime!

One of the longest days of my life has definitely become one of my favorite experiences. Two weeks later, I’m still thrilled to have completed the New York City Marathon. My 8th marathon.

From the day I interviewed to be part of the Miles for Miracles Team, my NYCM experience was always going to be a fun marathon. I never intended it to be a PR race. And I believe I completely lived up to my expectations. This marathon was by far, my most favorite marathon.

Marathon morning started out at 3am with a surprise time-of-the-month call (a week early), which sent me almost into freakout mode. A quick google map search revealed there was a 24-hr CVS 0.2 miles from the apartment. Very freaked out, I grabbed my pepper spray and credit card and sprinted there and back. After that, there was no going back to sleep, so I got myself ready, ate my oatmeal with pb and maple syrup and stretched.

Just after 5, I received a notification that my Uber driver was enroute, so I headed downstairs and waited. Moments later, he arrived and whisked me off to Central Park.

I found the Boston Children’s Hospital busses in no time. The bus ride took a little over an hour, but it was definitely the way to go. I didn’t have to navigate through NYC or freeze outside for hours. Instead I was in a toasty bus that had a bathroom. Not a bad way

to arrive. When we were crossing the Verrazano Bridge, pre-race nerves were starting to hit. I was really going to be running a marathon number 8 in just a few hours.

As we got off the busses, the Boston Children’s Hospital coaches gave us the warning the the security line was long and crazy, but to stick together as much as possible. I was only able to stick with one other runner on the team. Thank goodness I had her with me. After we passed through security, it took us a few minutes, but we found Charity Village. Seriously. This is the way to go. A private village area, with a heated tent, port-a-potties just for Charity Village and our own coffee/tea/bagels. Not that I had any, but it was a very nice touch! Our coaches had us do a group stretch/warm-up then we took a group picture and sent us on our way to the corral.

Seeing the crazy amount of people in front of me, was super exciting. Seeing that the last marathon I ran had maybe 300 runners, this was quite a different experience!

After the cannon went off, there was a little walking and then that walk became a jog. I didn’t have my Garmin with me. I also did not bring my iPod with me. I made a promise to myself I was leaving it in Maine. And I did. It was rather freeing to not know my pace. I did try to keep track of it for a bit with the first few miles. But eventually I stopped caring and stopped paying attention to the race clocks. I knew the day was going to be a long one and I wanted to enjoy every single step. So I did!

Running across the Verrazano Bridge was a crazy experience. Seeing all of the NYP helicopters cruising around was pretty cool sight. The first part of the marathon, there are three different routes, and seeing the other groups for a bit and then seeing them pull away was a really odd experience as well, but I understand for sure. That huge amount of runners going through a narrow part of the city would pose some problems.

I will note that not once did I feel super crowded. I felt as though I had plenty of space to run my own race and take in all of NYC I possibly could.

When you entered each borough, there would be a marathon sign welcoming you to that borough. But you didn’t really need those signs because the crowd definitely told you where you were! From the signs, to the cheers, to the live bands, it was a crazy amazing experience! I knew I was in Brooklyn for sure when I heard No Sleep Til Brooklyn blasting.

The live bands. I seriously lost count of them. There were so many of them, playing so many different types of music. Sometimes when they weren’t playing music, they were cheering on the runners by name. Making the runners, well, at least me, feel like a rockstar.

Running in a singlet for Boston Children’s Hospital definitely had it’s perks. While it was a fun singlet that had a place to personalize it …. so I did! I heard countless cheers for “Go Jen!” and sometimes “Go Boston!”, “Boston Strong!” or “We love Boston Children’s Hospital!” This happened throughout the entire race.

I loved experiencing all of the different cultures of NYC – from the way people dressed, to the music they played. All of it was overwhelmingly amazing.

I knew Ward and the kids were going to be at mile 17 and I was hoping they would be wearing the orange patient partner shirts that were sent to us, as Tucker was my patient partner for this marathon. After I crossed over the Queensboro Bridge, which was the only quiet part of the entire race, I was at mile 16, so my search for my family was on. I must of looked like a crazy person with a swivel head, scanning the crowd for my family. After the sponge station, I spotted them and made a beeline over to them and hugged each of them. It was then, Ward said we’ll see you at mile 24. Which was a change in plans, but made me SO happy! So off I went, for another 7 miles. 7 SLOW miles.

Shortly after my family sighting, I saw the Boston Children’s Hospital crew! So cool to be part of a team. They really know how to make team members feel special during the race! The next 7ish miles were rather slow for me, but still amazing. I was soaking it all in. High-fiving as many kids and adults as I could. Chatting with runners as the miles passed by. Walking whenever I felt like I wanted to.

Then, just like Ward said, at mile 24, I spotted my family in Central Park! Of course I ran over to them and gave them more hugs and kisses! Ward shouted to me “see you at the finish!” and I was off. Running through Central Park was a like a dream come true. Everything I had hoped it would be. The winding road, the pigeons, the crowds. All of it. So freaking cool. Then it happened, I saw the finish line and my NYCM marathon experience was about to come to an end. But then it happened. Out of ALL of the people running with me, the announcers called my name as I crossed the finish line! That is one finish line announcement I will remember forever!

After I finished, received my mylar blanket, then my medal, then my food bag, I walked for what seems like forever until I entered the poncho area. And then another mile until the family meeting area. Of course, B was at the FAR end of the family meeting area…. so I had another long walk until I finally found my family! By then, the hunger was setting in. But first we stopped and I put on some warm clothes and then Tucker confiscated my poncho.

We found a great little bagel place and I finally enjoyed my first NYC pastrami sandwich while the kids had more bagels. Then we caught a cab back to the car. Then around 12:30 AM we were finally home!

I decided to stay home and sleep the next day, seeing that my marathon day started at 3AM and ended about 1:30 AM (because the house was freezing, so I had to make a fire before I went to bed!).

But I’ll tell you what, I felt great the next day! Perhaps running a marathon for fun is what I should have been doing all along!

There you have it! The NYCM recap. My 8th marathon. My most favorite marathon to date. And now, I think I’m going to take a break from marathons. I originally said no more marathons. But Ward reminded me that I’m an addict. So, I’ll just say, I’m taking a break.

Read more about Jen’s running adventures on her blog, www.runningwiththegirls.com!

How Far Can We Go?

September 10, 2015 admin Comments 0 Comment

The ultramarathon – a distance attempted by few and questioned by many. But for Headsweats employee and ultrarunner T.R. Maloney, the ultramarathon represents a journey into an entirely different realm of physical and mental capacity that makes every step worth it. Follow T.R.’s ultrarunning journey as he prepares for his next ultrarunning venture – a 24-hour ultramarathon!

I guess it’s the unknown of what is going to happen that keeps me wanting to do it again. I love all distances of running, but when you pin on a number knowing it’s going to be on your chest for 100 miles or more you’ve opened a door to another level – both physically and mentally. Leadville, 2012 at 2:00am. I’m losing it. I keep seeing cars in the dense forest and monsters hiding behind trees. My pacer is beginning to worry I’m delirious and seeing things. We’ve been chugging along for hours and I’ve fallen asleep once already while running. Luckily, he grabbed me before I headed off the side of the mountain.

Soon we hit the next aid station and I’m eating mashed potatoes out of my friend’s hands like a bird and panicking about my time. My pacer looks at my wife and tells her “He’s so gone it’s scary.” I push through the delirium for another couple hours and finally the cold black sky starts to break into a burning orange on the horizon. Hope is alive and I keep marching to the finish line to collect my Leadville 100 belt buckle.

That’s the attraction for me. How deep can I goand come back? I’ve run 50’s and 100’s while losing toenails, skin, and my mind, but my legs kept moving forward. In my darkest hours my legs just wanted to keep going. It’s magical and terrifying at the same time.

This time I want you to take the journey with me on a virtual level. On October 17^th I am going to start running at 8 a.m. and I won’t stop until 8 a.m. the next morning. It’ll be 24 hours of foot pounding, mind bending insanity. I’m going to toe the line in my Headsweats Performance Trucker and see what I have in my body and mind that day. It could be glorious…it could be a train wreck. That’s the fun part. We won’t know until it happens. It’s a 24-hour party and you are all invited.

Headsweats is going to cover the event from the days leading up to the race and through the duration of the event. There will be tweets, videos and photos of all the action. Your input and comments will be read to me at the aid station stops so make them good and I’ll reply back! With your help I think we can have some fun and show the running world how it’s done the Headsweats way!

So fire up your computer or grab your smartphone and join me on October 17^th as I take on the St. Pat’s 24 Hour Race in South Bend, Indiana. You can follow the action at #Headsweats24 – I’m counting on your help!

TR Maloney
Ultra Runner