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Posts tagged Gear
Gear Review: Nathan VITAband
Aug 9th
MyFitList would like to welcome Eli Cohen as our contributing gear expert! He will be joining us periodically to review gear and share insight on the latest fitness products you can’t live without. And Eli certainly knows his stuff! He has years of experience with REI as the Austin Market Sales & Product Expert and tests it all out in the field as an endurance athlete and the Racing Team Director for Big Pistachio. Take it away, Eli!
I first learned about the Nathan VITAband at The Running Event Expo here in Austin last December while visiting with the folks at the Nathan Sports booth. Now, this might seem like a bold statement, but I think it’s one of the coolest products EVER! Yes, that is capital E-V-E-R.
Since activating the product, I’ve never taken it off and find that its contactless payment is extremely convenient. The concept is simple.
It’s a durable, waterproof band combining a medical ID chip with a pre-paid Visa debit chip. The medical ID chip contains only minimal information – your name and the name and phone number of your emergency contact. However, inscribed on the band itself is a VITAnumber identifier linking to an Emergency Response Profile (ERP) that you create upon activating a subscription. A 1- year subscription is $14.95 while the 2-year subscription is discounted at $19.95. In the event of an emergency, since first responders are trained to look for identifying information, they can use the VITAnumber to access your ERP that you populate with insurance information, medical history, allergies, emergency contacts, etc.
Now, I was skeptical at first about the debit chip because I thought it linked to my bank account. I later learned that it actually links to a separate and secure pre-paid Visa account. It seemed that having to continually remember to add funds would be a hassle, but one of the options you can setup is to automatically add funds if you fall below a designated threshold. The beauty of it is that I no longer carry cash or a credit card with me while I’m training since I can use the debit chip wherever the Visa payWave is accepted. In addition to most gas stations and quick shops, Whole Foods recently upgraded their point-of-sale terminals with contactless payment which made me one happy athlete!
Follow Vitaband on Twitter
Purchase your own Nathan VITAband ID Band at REI Online and in stores, as well as at running stores all over Austin.
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Eli Cohen is the Austin Market Sales & Product Expert for REI and Racing Team Director of Big Pistachio.
Follow Eli on Twitter @AE_Cohen
Follow Eli’s Blog: aecohen.tumblr.com
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MyFitList brings together the latest information on hundreds of local fitness businesses in Austin. We’re your resource for inspiration and information for getting and staying fit. Search hundreds of Austin fitness groups and services like running, triathlon, bootcamps, yoga studios, gyms and more all in one place! Check us out at www.myfitlist.com
Handana Giveaway!
Jun 12th
It’s officially hot out there, Austin! Do you feel like you’re sweating buckets during your outdoor workouts yet?!
We recently learned about a new product that helps you workout through the sweat. It’s called HANDANA and it’s a high performance athletic band designed to be worn on your hand to wipe away blood, sweat, tears (and snot). Handana just slips on like a glove with your thumb in the center hole. Made of supplex Lycra, which is nylon made to feel like cotton, Handana wicks away the moisture and drys quicker than cotton. It’s easily washable – after your workout just throw it in the washing machine on cold with like colors, line dry, and it’s ready to go for your next workout. It comes in a variety of colors and sizes to fit any athlete.
It’s great for running, cycling, yoga, CrossFit, spinning, bootcamp, tennis, hiking, yard work and virtually any other activity that makes you sweat. It was developed in Austin by a local entrepreneur, athlete, mom and wife, so you know it’ perfect for our super-humid and hot conditions.
Tell us HOW YOU PLAN TO SWEAT THIS SUMMER and you could win your very own Handana! Leave a comment here or on Facebook to enter. Contest winners will be announced Thursday, June 14 at 3pm CST.
Handana is also available for sale ONLINE and in-stores at Bettysport and C’est Chic.
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MyFitList brings together the latest information on hundreds of local fitness businesses in Austin. We’re your resource for inspiration and information for getting and staying fit. Search hundreds of Austin fitness groups and services like running, triathlon, bootcamps, yoga studios, gyms and more all in one place! Check us out at www.myfitlist.com
Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting Triathlon
Mar 6th
Check out this month’s Austin Woman Magazine for the monthly fitness article from MyFitList! Continuing our focus on Triathlon, we share our list of 9 Things I Wish I Knew Before Jumping into the Sport of Triathlon. Pick up your copy of Austin Woman Magazine on stands now, or read the March 2012 Digital Edition online!
Training and racing in triathlons is an amazing way to stay fit, particularly in Austin. Not only do you get to enjoy the outdoors as you swim, bike and run, but you also become a part of the vibrant triathlon community of athletes, coaches and supporters. Triathlon is one of the most popular endurance sports in Austin, and participating in this sport is an awesome experience that we encourage everyone to try at least once. Before you jump in to triathlon, we brought together coaches and experienced triathletes to share the insight they wish they had before they got started in the sport. See you at the finish line!
- Find Your Training Fit
Spend time figuring out what training setting works best for you. Do you need guidance, accountability or skill development? Do you prefer individual attention versus camaraderie with fellow athletes? Would you feel more comfortable training in a women-only group? Shop around before you join a group and take advantage of trial periods to make sure you enjoy working with the coaches and other athletes. - Beware of the Urge to Splurge
Triathlon can be a gear- and equipment-heavy sport. It can add up quickly if you’re not careful. But that’s not to say you can’t do triathlons if you’re on a budget. Be smart and spend wisely when necessary. Then, as you get more involved and experienced in the sport, upgrade your beginner gear. - Know What You’re Getting in to
Watch a race before you compete in your first race. It’s not only helpful to get a gr asp of logistics of the race—bike setup, open-water swim course, running course, transitions—it is also extremely motivating and will get you excited about your own race. Volunteering is a great way to get involved in the community, watch a race up close and personal, and meet fellow athletes. - It’s Not Just a Sport, It’s a Lifestyle
Triathlon requires a lot of training and discipline, and you’ll find that it influences many aspects of your life. You’ll go to sleep earlier on a Friday night and wake up earlier on a Saturday morning than you ever would have thought. You’ll start to eat better, read and blog about triathlon and talk to your friends about working out. - Not All Races Are Created Equal
For your first race, try a sprint distance or break up the Olympic distance in to a relay with two other friends. It is also a good idea to seek out a local race for your first. Traveling for a race brings with it a lot of other things to consider that you might not want to add to your first-race jitters. Ask around at local tri shops like Jack and Adam’s Bicycles. These experts will be able to recommend great local beginner-friendly races. - Be Your Own Barometer of Success
It’s easy to get caught up in the competitiveness of the sport. It is important to set your goals and decide what you want to achieve. Challenge yourself, and use races and your teammates as motivation to reach your goals, but remember what is important to you. - Self-Care is Critical
Triathlon and endurance-sport training put your body under physical stress, so it’s important to take really good care of yourself. This means massages, eating a balanced and nutrient-rich diet, stretching, foam rolling, yoga, cross training and listening to your body. Triathlon can be a very fun and fulfilling lifestyle, as long as you take care of your body. - It’s Highly Addictive
You think completing an Ironman sounds insane, impossible or you just don’t have time? Just wait until you complete your first season. You’ll be hooked for life! - Triathlon Can Change Your Life
You’ll meet some of your best friends (and friends you’ll see the most), improve your health and push yourself to new levels physically and mentally.
Now that you know what you’re getting in to, here are a few tips from a few of Austin’s top triathlon coaches to get you going!
Carrie Barrett of FOMO Training:
Have fun. The missing ingredient to so many people who are caught up in gadgets and wizardry. My personal mantra is, “If you can’t laugh at yourself, someone else will.” Have fun during the training. It truly is a gift. (More about FOMO Training)
Have fun. The missing ingredient to so many people who are caught up in gadgets and wizardry. My personal mantra is, “If you can’t laugh at yourself, someone else will.” Have fun during the training. It truly is a gift. (More about FOMO Training)
Shawn Bostad of Pure Austin Coaching (PAC):
Always train with a purpose. Have a goal with every session and make that goal measurable. (More about Pure Austin Coaching)
Tzatzil LeMair of Tough Cookie Fitness:
Mix it up and keep it fun. Variety is the spice of life also applies to fitness. Cross-training is not only good for you body but also your mind. Adding yoga, pilates or bootcamp classes can help keep you fit and avoid overuse injuries. (More about Tough Cookie Fitness)
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Chrissie Jarrell and Natalie Yerkovich, the gals who created myfitlist.com, do the grunt work for you. Well, the organizational grunt work, anyway. They work hard to connect people with the fitness groups, information and resources they need so they can grunt, sweat and tone to achieve their personal goals.
Read the fun and inspirational fitness articles by the creators of MyFitList, every month in Austin Woman Magazine. This article can be found in the March 2012 issue on stands and online now!
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MyFitList brings together the latest information on hundreds of local fitness businesses in Austin. We’re your resource for inspiration and information for getting and staying fit. Search hundreds of Austin fitness groups and services like running, triathlon, bootcamps, yoga studios, gyms and more all in one place! Check us out at www.myfitlist.com
Triathlon Gear for Beginners
Feb 9th
All of you experienced triathletes may laugh at this understatement… the sport of triathlon can get expensive. Training for a tri can add up quickly, but you can get to the start line without breaking the bank. We consulted the triathlon gear + service specialists at Jack & Adam’s Bicycles for their expert advice about the best gear for beginners. They know their stuff! Get to know them here.
First, a few things to consider.
1. Be honest about your level of commitment. Is triathlon something you see yourself doing for many years to come? Or is a triathlon race just something you’re crossing of your bucket list? Your level of commitment to the sport might be a good indicator as to how much you should invest in equipment and gear.
2. Work with what you have. No need to buy a new bike just because you’re riding it in a triathlon. For your first race, you can adapt your mountain bike to be more road-friendly by having the nubby tires replaced with slicks. Or ask a friend to borrow their road or tri bike and helmet.
3. Buy what you need now, reward yourself with upgrades later. Want a fancy tri bike or aero helmet? Set milestones and reward yourself with new gear when you reach those goals. In your first few seasons, you’ll quickly learn which brands and types of gear you like and dislike. Feel things out until you are really know what YOU need to perform well, be comfortable, and have a successful season. There are endless ways to spend money on gear, but just keep in mind… As awesome as it would be to race your first sprint distance triathlon in the TYR Hurricane Freak of Nature Wetsuit, it’s just not necessary.
4. Spend where it counts. Spending money on making sure your bike fits properly, bike maintenance and repairs, the correct running shoes for you — these purchases make a HUGE difference in your tri life. Costly upgrades (any thing with the word “aero” or “carbon fiber” as a descriptor) won’t help you much until you reach higher levels of racing and personal performance. The pros at Jack and Adam’s or your local tri shop are happy to give you honest advice to help you figure it all out.
The Necessities
- Swim suit
- Swim cap
- Goggles
- Wetsuit (optional, depends on water temperature)
- Bike
- Helmet
- Tri top
- Tri (cycling) shorts
- Cycling shoes (optional, but HIGHLY recommended for longer distances)
- Clipless Pedals (again optional, but HIGHLY recommended for longer distances)
- Race belt
- Running shoes (Easy Laces optional)
- Flat repair kit
- Water bottle(s)
Buying the gear is the easy part.
The pros at Jack and Adam’s make it especially easy. Walk into Jack and Adam’s Bicycles on Barton Springs Road, and walk out with literally everything you need to do your first triathlon. The complete Rookie Package starts at $1,080 (upgrades available) and includes free bike fit, 100 mile check up, and 2 free tune-ups. Plus, their knowledgeable staff can give you all sorts of advice and recommendations – they even offer 4 free workouts every week!
Now that you’re geared up, it’s time to start training! Be sure to visit MyFitList and stay tuned throughout Triathlon Month for information about different training groups, training tips, and gear favorites from triathlon experts in Austin.
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Perk alert! MyFitCard holders get 10% off select purchases at Jack & Adam’s Bicycles! Must present MyFitCard at time of purchase. Excludes bikes, wheels and sale items & cannot be combined with other offers. MyFitCard gives you deals and discounts, like this, at fitness businesses all over town. Get your MyFitCard today!
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MyFitList brings together the latest information on hundreds of local fitness businesses in Austin. We’re your resource for inspiration and information for getting and staying fit. Search hundreds of Austin fitness groups and services like running, triathlon, bootcamps, yoga studios, gyms and more all in one place! Check us out at www.myfitlist.com
February is Triathlon Month!
Feb 2nd
Our mission at MyFitList is to connect the fit minded people of Austin with resources and information that help them get the most out of the amazing fitness community in Austin. Each month, we’ll be featuring a new activity and February is TRIATHLON MONTH! Throughout the month, we’ll be featuring training and racing tips from Austin pros, highlighting training groups, gear reviews, events, sharing special promotions and more. Whether you’ve never tried a triathlon or you’re an experienced age-grouper, we’re excited to feature info to help you have the best season ever!
First things first. What is a triathlon?!
Swim > Bike > Run
There are 4 main distances in the sport of triathlon:
SPRINT: (also comes in the ‘super-sprint’ variety, with even shorter distances). Most sprints are:
Swim: 750 meters
Bike: 20 km (12.4 mi)
Run: 5 km (3.1 mi)
OLYMPIC:
Swim: 1.5 km (0.93 mi)
Bike: 40 km (24.8 mi)
Run: 10 km (6.2 mi)
HALF IRONMAN-distance:
Swim: 1.93 km (1.2 mi)
Bike: 90 km (56 mi)
Run: 21.09 km (13.1 mi)
IRONMAN-distance:
Swim: 3.86 Km (2.4 mi)
Bike: 180 km (112 mi)
Run: 42.2 km (26.2 mi)
Get ready:
There are many options when it comes to preparing for a triathlon race, including: private coaching, group training, training camps, online training plans and free workouts in the community. Get familiar with training resources in Austin here: http://www.myfitlist.com/find/activity/triathlon
A few things to consider when finding your training “fit”:
- Do you prefer working out with a group or alone?
- Does your schedule allow for set workout times and locations or do you need flexibility?
- Do you need the instruction, support, and motivation that a coach would provide?
- Are there specific skills you need to develop to feel confident racing triathlon?
- What are your racing goals?
Among the many options for triathlon training in Austin, each program offers something unique that will help you have a great season and positive triathlon experience! The key is finding your “fit”.
See how you can train and save with MyFitCard. Perks and promotions from some of Austin’s top triathlon resources like: Austin T3, Big Pistachio / Camp Multisport, FOMO Training, iRuniTri Multisport, Jack and Adam’s Bicycles, T3 Multisports, Tempo Multisport.
Stay tuned throughout the month for an in-depth look at topics like:
- Selecting a great race in the 2012 season.
- Training camps for intensive skill building.
- Nutrition for endurance athletes.
- Best gear for beginner to advanced.
- Is personal coaching right for me?
- How group training can help me reach my tri goals.
- And more!
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MyFitList brings together the latest information on hundreds of local fitness businesses in Austin. We’re your resource for inspiration and information for getting and staying fit. Search hundreds of Austin fitness groups and services like running, triathlon, bootcamps, yoga studios, gyms and more all in one place! Check us out at www.myfitlist.com
Safety Tips for Working Out in the Dark
Sep 22nd
It may still be warm outside, but the days are getting shorter and that means your early morning or evening workout may now be in the dark. See and be seen with these tips and gear recommendations for safely working out during the dawn, dusk or at night!
Tips to Remember:
- It can be just as difficult for others to see you during dusk and dawn as when it’s completely dark. Keep these tips in mind in the hours before and after sunrise and sunset as well as at night.
- Just after sunrise and right before sunset, the sun is at a lower angle which can be blinding for drivers. If a driver is facing into the sun, they may not be able to see you at all. Be especially cautious around cars during these times of day.
- Make yourself more visible by wearing reflective gear or a light source on your body
- Wear bright colors like orange, yellow, or white. Avoid wearing black or grey.
- Reduce tripping hazards by bringing a small flashlight or wearing a headlamp to help you see where you’re going
- Run or ride on a path that is well-lit (think: tennis courts, lighted tracks, well-lit streets)
- Workout with a buddy or organized group
- Choose routes with less traffic, dedicated sidewalks and bike lanes
- Make sure your bike has a front and back light so you can see the road and more importantly, cars can see you
- Always bring identification with you (we recommend Road ID!) and your cell phone just in case
Gear Recommendations:
- Firefly Supernova lights - blinking lights clip on your body to help you be seen. The Firefly Supernova lights by Road ID are light, bright, and durable $13
- Nathan Reflective Running Sleeves – great for a chilly morning. Reflective strips down each arm catch the light with every stride $17
- Petzl Headlamp – light your path and be seen. Bright light, easy to use, comfortable $40
- Firefly Belt – add this bright and reflective belt to your existing fitness wardrobe $13
- Firefly High Viz StickPack - highly reflective stickers can be attached to any apparel or gear like your bike, helmet, hat, shirt, backback, etc. $5
- Til IM Tank by Asics – bright color and reflective detail helps you been seen during runs and rides $45
- Cateye Bike Light Set – includes a front white light and a rear red light, so you can see where you’re going and be seen by motorists. Essential for anyone who rides in the dark! $25
How do you stay safe on dark runs and rides? Share your tips and favorite gear here!
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MyFitList brings together the latest information on hundreds of local fitness businesses in Austin. We’re your resource for inspiration and information for getting and staying fit. Search hundreds of Austin fitness groups and services like running, triathlon, bootcamps, yoga studios, gyms and more all in one place! Check us out at www.myfitlist.com
Healthy Hydration with Nuun
Jul 13th
Don’t let summer and these 100+ temps get you down, athletes and weekend warriors. We know, it’s really hot. And you want to keep exercising, whether you’re swimming, cycling, running, or bootcamping outside OR even working out indoors – remember to stay hydrated with water PLUS an electrolyte enhanced drink.
Image courtesy nuun
You’re probably all familiar with at least a few electrolyte drinks (think Gatorade, Powerade). Now think of a healthier hydration product that isn’t loaded with sugar and won’t “undo” your hard work. Nuun is a great product to replenish electrolytes and minerals that you sweat out during your workout (or walking around town, let’s be honest). The best part: nuun has no sugar and each tablet contains less than 8 calories. Nuun comes in tablet form which means you can easily stash a few in your workout bag, jersey pocket or SPIbelt when you’re on the go!
Nuun recently released new flavors that are really light and refreshing – strawberry lemonade, grape, fruit punch, and tropical.
MyFitList has a stash of new flavors and classic flavors to giveaway! Enter by 1) Join the MyFitList mailing list or 2) Comment on our Facebook page to tell us what fitness activities you like to do that make you sweat!
You can also buy nuun at stores around Austin like: Mellow Johnny’s, Pure Austin, Mel’s Meals, Hill Country Running Company, Bettysport, Jack and Adams, REI and more!
For more information like nutrition and ingredients, be sure to check out nuun online here: www.nuun.com
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MyFitList brings together the latest information on hundreds of local fitness businesses in Austin. We’re your resource for inspiration and information for getting and staying fit. Search hundreds of Austin fitness groups and services like running, triathlon, bootcamps, yoga studios, gyms and more all in one place and narrow them down based on location, time of day, and day of the week! Check us out at www.myfitlist.com
Finding the Best Gear for You
Dec 29th
Feeling good while you are working out has a lot to do with how well your gear “functions” and how good you feel while using it. Each sport has its own unique needs as far as gear and equipment. I sat down with Andrea Fisher, co-owner of Hill Country Running Company, to chat about what makes some workout gear better than others and how to shop for gear that will work best for you.
Andrea says when shopping for training equipment, clothing, and shoes it is all about quality. She suggests spending a few extra dollars on a quality brand because you end up “getting more life out of the product, and ultimately better bang for your buck”. She notes that this is especially true when buying higher dollar items like wetsuits, wheels, performance clothing, and specialty running/racing shoes.
If you are in need of running apparel, look for brands such as Sugoi, Brooks, Asics, and CW-X. Andrea carries all of these brands in their stores because she says, “top-of-the-line apparel brands give you the confidence in knowing your shorts or top are going to perform as well as last!”. Need some more specific advice? Andrea’s personal favorites in the running category are the Sugoi Piston Compression Capris (also great for recovery!) and the Brooks HVAC line of running apparel for it’s amazing wicking features.
The importance of quality holds doubly true when shopping for shoes. Andrea recommends steering away from buying your shoes from big box stores, because although it might be the same brand name found in a specialty store, it is important to know that those brand names make cheaper and lower quality shoes specifically to sell at the big box stores at discount prices. Andrea says that the best way to know that you are getting a quality shoe is by shopping at your local running specialty store. She notes that buying a running shoe of higher quality will get you “a better fit and response to your running gait, and ultimately a longer lasting shoe”.
HCRC New North Location on Parmer!
Andrea’s Top Gear Picks:
Not only does Andrea own and operate a local running store and a multisport training company, she is an accomplished, world-class triathlete who has had more than her fair share of experience in training and racing. Here are some of her top gear picks for feeling great while doing what she loves:
Shoes: LUV Brooks for road shoes. La Sportiva and Pearl Izumi for trail shoes.
Clothing: On my bottom Sugoi Piston 200 Capris. Bra – Moving Comfort and Zensah. Top – Brooks HVAC and Asics Favorite Tees.
Bike: I’m old school in that my true heart still beats for my old Le Monde Zurich road bike. Not in production anymore, but still makes me shiver with love everytime I step on to it. Tri bike – Felt and have a thing for an Orbea now.
Wetsuit: Blueseventy
Nutrition: Once a Clif girl, always a Clif girl! I heart everything that Clif puts out, so I can’t even narrow it down to one specific item here!
To find some of the products listed above, be sure to visit Andrea and her highly trained staff at Hill Country Running Company!
Oh, and on top of giving out lots of great advice on training and racing gear, HCRC offers FREE run training groups. See their events calendar for more details on their Weekly Thursday Morning Store Run and the “Learn to run – Love to run” free running programs.