Are You a Runner?

Hello again! Today I’m going to continue the focus on running by expounding on the different classifications of running. I would say that most if not all runners don’t fit just one category, but at different times can be one or the other. Read more and see if you agree or disagree. As always I love feedback!  

The definition of running can vary depending on who you ask. Some people see it as a sport, others transportation, or for those like me, only something they'd do if they were being chased by elephants or wanted to lose weight for a wedding!

Another question that may be asked when the topic of running arises is, “Do you run or do you jog?”  Well, what's the difference? Most people would say that jogging is just a slow form of running. Others believe your motivation is the key to defining yourself as a runner. I think that if you enjoy running enough to run, you're a runner regardless of how fast you are or if you just started running. Would I classify myself as a runner? No. I don’t do it near often enough, nor do I actually enjoy the process of running.  If anything, I would be a disgruntle runner who is very slow, but can go for a long time :)

I have also learned that running can be classified by types of running. These below are the forms I found for most runners and more information can be found about running and its classifications at Active.com, Runner’s World, etc. 

Casual Running

The majority of runners run casually for the physical as well as the social and mental benefits of running. You don't need any fancy equipment, it's inexpensive, and you can do it almost anywhere.

Treadmill Running

A great alternative to running outside, treadmill running is usually easier than outdoor running and can be gentler on your joints. Most treadmills allow runners to change their pace, incline, and resistance so they can simulate outdoor running and vary their workouts to prevent boredom. Moreover, given access to a treadmill, this can be done regardless of the weather conditions. I fall into this category for many reasons, none of which have to do with weather, but that’s a topic for another day!

Race Running

Some runners enjoy the thrill and competition of participating in races. Most people enter races not to win, but to set a personal goal and achieve it. While I have participated in many 5K races, I haven’t actually trained for the events. I have debated many times to train for a race only if I could run around Disneyland dressed as a princess! May be that can be my goal for the summer?  

Trail Running

For those who love to enjoy the great outdoors, trail running is an option. Trail running usually takes place on hiking trails of varying terrain, so runners may find themselves sidestepping roots, scrambling up rocks, running through streams, or traversing up steep hills.  If you like that, great for you! I’ll get my scenery from the TV monitor in front of my treadmill; watching Game of Thrones will working out is motivation enough for me :)

Thanks for reading! In the next update, I will cover the benefits of running and much more. Have a great day :)

Need some new running gear? Check out these items!

A Time to Celebrate My Active Self

Hello again! It’s been a long while since I last updated my blog and discussed my goal to start running. Well, I am pleased to say that I have been running and working out more often and am also happy to report that I've lost 12 pounds as a result!!

To mark my achievement and to get some new workout clothes, my friend joined me in participating in another Old Navy Sample Share. In case you haven’t read any of my previous blog entries about sample shares, I will tell you a bit about what we do.  I’m a member of Crowdtap, “a collaborative marketing platform which allows marketers from a variety of brands ranging from Old Navy to McCormick’s GrillMates, to unlock real value by partnering with their most engaged consumers.”  The consumers benefit too by testing and rating new products. Members can also pass the love along by contributing to their favorite charity!

One of my favorite participating brands is Old Navy. I have had the privilege to take part in many sample shares, three of which have been specifically for active wear.  For the sample share, I and my guest were given coupons for the products to be sampled, an active top and bottom. This was a really great deal! I was pleasantly surprised when my receipt stated that I had saved over $70.00 and not once did I have to open my wallet!  Below are some pictures of our spoils :)

Later this week, I hope to write again, this time focusing a bit more on running and to share what I've learned during my research on the topic. As always, thanks so much for reading and I would love to hear about what’s going on in the lives of the readers (almost 1000's views!!!!!!!!!). 

  

Have a great Memorial Day Weekend!