Smitten Life

I run but I'm not a runner. I fight but I'm not a fighter. I lift weights, but I'm not a weight lifter. I practice yoga but I'm not a yogi. I am not defined by the way in which I move my body. I am defined by the fact that I chose to move my body, the fact that my fitness is a journey and not a destination. We often find ourselves pigeon holed into these identities and unable to move past them when an injury occurs or if we just stop enjoying them. 

For many I know that having a goal, an end point is a hugely motivating factor. There is nothing at all wrong with this. For myself, and others out there, having an end game is not the point. People are always asking me what I'm training for, my answers are often non specific and noncomittal, because really I'm training for my life. I want to be able to move better, faster, stronger and be able to do this pain free forever. Now I know I won't always be pain free, but I know I will always find a way to move.

That is my challenge to anyone thinking about getting "fit" or wanting to get in shape, or be more active. Try things. Try a whole bunch of different movements. Running? Sure. Olympic weightlifting? Why not. Kickboxing class? Do it. Barre classes? Get it. By trying all these different things you may find one (or many) ways of moving you really really like. And then being healthy and active won't feel like so much of a chore. Cross training is a really beautiful thing too, and so beneficial for your body. So if you are for example a runner, try lifting some weights, you'll be amazed how much better your runs feel. Try not to let yourself be pigeon holed by your so called fitness identity and just move. 

I am demonstrating a side glute stretch here, bring your knee bent and across your other leg. Rotate your body to that side, holding the knee for 30s

3. Exercise. This one helps relieve tension in the low back and hips. Drop your hips down low and bring your head up. Bring head down, and round the back. Go back and forth between these two motions for 10 reps.

Winter Running has been a struggle for me for a long time, I used to wimp out the moment the temperatures dropped below 5 degrees. This year I am determined not to let winter get the best of me, I have been running 5-7km 2-3x a week august until 2 weeks ago when the temperatures went to -30.

It's actually really wonderful to be able to get out and enjoy the outdoors when it's cold and your body warms up rather quickly. Now -30 is still a little on the cold side for me, but -15? Totally doable and actually enjoyable! 

What you'll need: 

Runners with grip: I got this saucony trail shoes last January and when it's icy or heavy snow they're great, a lot better grip than my usual. 

Warm socks: Wick away material that's a bit thicker to keep those toesies warm

Lined leggings: Lulu lemon has a couple lined with fleece that are great when it's chilly, when its a deep chill you might need another layer though

Wick away tops: light weight material that keeps the sweat from staying on your skin is important, it's not good to let sweat stick to your body and freeze. Smart wool is a great option

Hats/face warmer/scarf/mittens: Its important to keep your head warm, cover your mouth to breath when it's really cold and keep those hands warm. Mountain equipment co-op has a great selection for all this gear

It's a bit of gear, but now you're ready to run in any temperature and all conditions, nothing can stop you. Now put some tunes on and get moving