Product Review: Science in Sport Hydro Tabs!

Disclaimer: I received an Science in Sport Hydro Tablets to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

Hi Everyone!

Hope you are all doing well!

I am excited to announce that I have received Science in Sport Hydro Tablets to test! 

Hydration is always important. It's easy to forget that during the winter, I am always sure to track my daily intake. But now that it's summer, we are experiencing heat waves and sevre humidity, logging more miles than ever before, it's even more important to stay on top of hydration!

Key feature that helps you meet your sodium requirement: 

"During moderate to intense exercise, we can produce up to 2 litres of sweat per hour depending on the environmental conditions. Sweat contains vital electrolytes, including sodium. Sodium is the most important electrolyte as it helps to stimulate thirst, improve taste and promote absorption and retention."

Flavors I will be trying: Cola (which contains caffeine!), Lemon, and Pineapple Mango! Additional flavors available, here.

Cola: A refreshing cola taste without the syrup or carbonation. I do recommend drinking this one cold! (I usually drink water or electrolyte drinks at room temperature)

Video of a tablet dissolving. The orig run time was just over two minutes. 

Lemon: 

This is mighty fine on it's own, but as I was going to have an Iced Tea, I had the brilliant idea Arnold Palmering it up, nice touch!

Lemon on it's own is very refreshing. Light lemonade taste. Not an over powering/ or over puckering sour, and not overly sweet of sugar like another popular electrolyte brand. subtle diet drink aftertaste.  

Was sure to pack my SIS Hydro tablets for my hiking trip! 

Pineapple Mango:

Light Pineapple and Mango flavor. Again, not overly sweet or sugary. Refreshing. subtle diet drink aftertaste.   

Nutritional Info: (below example of Pineapple Mango)

Usage: 

With hydration being as important as it is right now, especially through these heat waves and humidity, I am staying on point! Prerun/midrun/post run. I hydrate first thing in the morning before stepping out the door for my 6am run. During my "long" runs, I am sure to hydrate at least once an hour, immediately post run, and then throughout the day to be ready to do all again tomorrow. I balance/alternate water and electrolytes when replenishing and these SYS HYDRO tablets have been doing the job for sure! And they aren't over sugary/sweet as some other electrolyte drinks. I preferred them served cold, for my long runs I was sure to have ice and/or a cooler. Definitely recommend!

Convenience: They are easy to travel with when on the go. Pack of  20 fits in a small pocket. Just toss one tablet in a drink bottle and go! 

Cost Savings vs another lead competitor: (video by Ken Stands on Things)

See what other #BIBRAVEPRO's are saying: 

AngieRuns

BluegrassBAMR

Elbow Glitter

Ken Stands on Things

Run,Eat, Ralph

RunNerd Girl

She Runs by the Seashore

The Brine

The Swag Mama

You Asked for the Bill..

Discount: 

Check them out and be sure to use code BIBRAVE20 for 20% off! (discount good on Hydro Tablets only)

Site and Socials:

Site: https://www.scienceinsport.com/us/

Discount is good on the tablets only, link to tablets: https://www.scienceinsport.com/us/shop-sis/go-range/go-hydro-tablets

Facebook: @scienceinsport.usa

Twitter: @ScienceinSport

Instagram: @scienceinsport.usa

Product Review: Extreme Fit Compression Socks!

Disclaimer: I received an Extreme Fit Compression Socks to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

Hi Everyone!

Hope you are all doing well!

I am excited to announce that I am testing Extreme Fit compression socks! 

Benefits include some of the below (varies by sock style). I'm currently running more miles than ever, can definitely appreciate the benefits! Assist with blood flow recovery, help prevent cramps, etc!

Benefits & Features: 

• Circulation support to fight Reduced Injury, Swelling, and Fatigue.
• Improve venous blood flow. Stimulates blood flow
• Prevent varicose veins
• Stimulates oxygen delivery to muscles.
• Prevents lactic acid production and cramping.
• Keeps your feet dry and minimizes blisters.
• Provides for a full range of motion and joint flexibility.
• Prevents recurrence of thrombosis of lymphedema after surgery.
• Anti-bacterial properties to promote foot health.
• Protect your legs from small scratches.

Low Cut: The first pair that I tried were the low cut Ultra V-Stripe compression socks. I typically wear a moisture wicking low cut sock, with the occasional compression sleeve. Starting my trial with a low cut sock for my weekly long run. I felt the snugginess around my fat feet at first, but barely notice them shortly thereafter. The socks may be thinner than my usual socks, felt more space in my shoes, had to tighten them up (already needed to, but they were even more loose now. lol). It's been humid here (to say the least), my feet were able to breath, some dampness to be expected, but were not that bad. My feet felt good throughout my run, and no blisters! 

Compression Sleeve: I did enjoy the compression sleeve, felt good on my shins and my calves. I am currently experiencing shin splints, they provided relief, as well as preventing cramps. One thing worth noting, they are longer than the typical calf sleeve. They went below my ankles to my low ankle socks.

Knee Length: 

Several styles to choose from!

Themed socks! They also have themed options to choose from. I went with a pair of coffee and a pair of pizza! I live on coffee, and pizza is one my fav carb load meals the night before my long run! Pic below, my feet and legs felt good throughout my morning run! 

Reflective!: Safety feature! They have at least three pairs to choose from that are Run + Reflective!

I typically run in the dark throughout winter. Additional reflective gear is always great! You'll already be wearing socks, right? An added function without additional gear to carry!

Recovery: Since compression socks are also great for recovery, I have been wearing a fresh pair post run. Occasionally during work, and usually towards the end of the day when I'm really in recovery mode. They feel good to lounge around in, and when taking them off for the night, my legs feel refreshed! Other recovery recommendations, they are great for blood flow when traveling! 

Quote from the Travel Channel:

"While the risk of developing blood clots on a flight is low, it goes up as travel time increases. Enter compression socks. Yes, really. ... These stockings help increase circulation and reduce the risk of swelling or worse deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and clotting on a long flight."

Additional disclaimer: I am in no way qualified to provide medical advice. lol.. But I can confirm I did not experience any cramps or blisters during any of my runs while wearing Extreme Fit compression socks. I may be experiencing overall fatigue due to my increased miles and summer conditions, but my legs definitely feel the benefits of Extreme Fit Compression socks, especially for recovery!  

See what my fellow #BibRavePro's are saying!

The Late Runner

Oatmeal Runner

This Old Runner

Discount: 

Be sure to check them out and use code BRP20 for 20% off $50+ purchase!

Sites and Socials:

Site: extremefitusa.com

Facebook: @extremefitusa

Instagram: @extremefitusa

Twitter: @extremefitusa

Race Review: Rock On! Rock 'N' Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon!

Disclaimer: I received free entry to Humana Rock 'n' Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

Hi Everyone! 

Hope you are all doing well! 

Here to review the Rock 'n' Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon! 
Q: have you participated in this race or any other Rock N Roll Marathon Series race(s)? Did it rock?!

Race: Rock 'n' Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon 
Location: Philadelphia, Pa
Race date: September 15th, 2019 

Background: This was my first half marathon (2016), and I will always have some sentiment towards this race. I don't do many summer races, this usually kicks off my fall schedule. Although, technically not fall yet, and may not feel like it. (as was the case) Always look forward to this event as summer winds down. 

Expo: September 13-14.
Location: Pennsylvania Convention Center.
If you've never been, the building is several blocks long, best to note which end you are going to before parking. Believe me, I have learned the hard way. Parking for the expo: limited metered street parking, may require circling once or twice, but doable. Pay lots nearby as well. I circled once and found street parking.

I did the expo on Friday after work. Although it was very tempting to go Saturday. Saturday, there was a Q&A session with Des Linden and Jordan Hasey! There was even an option to do a shakeout run with the elites on Saturday morning!

Packet Pickup: very efficient. Bib lookup stations if you don't have your number handy. Bib and shirt pickup, 5 minutes, tops. 

After bib pickup, you are funneled through the Brooks Running section. Shoes, clothes, you can even do a running analysis on treadmills to review form and be fitted properly

Additional Rock N Roll Marathon Series merchandise (wine/beer glasses, magnets, etc) available for purchase before heading to the rest of the expo. As well as fueling needs. Ex: Gatorade Endurance and Science in Sport. 

Vendors: several check out at the expo, here's just a few:
Humana
Garmin
Aftershokz
5 Hour Tea (made by 5 hr energy, but sugar free)
6AM RUN
So Delicsious
Altra Running

Before exiting, you can check out all the other Rock N Roll Marathon Series location's medals and sign up!

Attended the expo with: fellow BibRavePro Chris, long time friend T'Sean (his first half, so proud of him!), and bumped in #RWRunStreak buddy Jill!

Race day:

Parking: public transportation is encouraged. But I do know a large pay lot nearby that has never been full for me! Hit me up if you are interested. 

No traffic issues this morning, at the race nice and early. Took it easy by the fountain in front of the museum. Also saw Jordan Hasey by the elite tents.

Portable restrooms: more than ample amount pre-race. No lines early and manageable lines just before race time. 

Course/Scenery: Race starts in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. A little over 3 miles in the city, including around City Hall (yo, Billy P!). Towards the Constitution Center. Around and back to the museum. Great views of the river. Down Kelly Drive along the Schuykill River (boathouse row side), cross the river, then back down the river on Dr Martin Luther King Jr Dr back to the museum.

Interactive Map link

 Elevation: 

image from runrocknroll.com

Crowd Support: excellent crowd support throughout the city portion of the race. Does get a bit sparse once you pass boathouse row along the Sckuykill River. Picks up again as you get closer to the museum on the way back. 

Music: This is the Rock N Roll Marathon series! At least 6 rock bands along the course and a full stage at the after party. The Philadelphia Eagles drum line was along the course as well. Headliner at the post race party, Element K. 

Hydration Stations: Plenty of water and Gatorade fluid stations along the course. At least one Sports in Science gel station.  

Weather: The one factor you can't control. The day started humid! As the humidity dropped, the temp and sun rose! I was drenched by mile 2 and definitely felt the sun as it warmed up. There was one or two breezes along the river, but that was very brief. 

My race: This may have been my first half marathon in 2016, but no PR's at this race since then. Have definitely learned that I PR better when it's cold out. I can go into this race knowing I most likely won't PR, knowing I will have fun, and still put in some good work. 

That being said... I did a full marathon the week before. (VIA Marathon). Goal for this week was to rest, get a couple recovery runs in, and hope to have a respectable outing. Without doing anything stupid. And have fun!

Ice baths, Epsom baths, Cryotherapy. Come race day, still didn't have "fresh" legs, but felt decent. Drenched early from the humidity. Comfortable pace of 8:30 through about 8 miles. Feeling it 8-10. Heavy legs, + humidity to heat. Mental countdown 10-12. A bit of a struggle to maintain that last 1.1, but hearing the crowds roar as you get closer to the museum and starting to see them cheer you on as you round the corner helped me fight through! Wasn't planning on doing a PR, didn't, but still had a max time in mind. Missed it by 22 seconds. I have no problem with that considering all the variables. 

Post Race: 

Food: water and Gatorade immediately. There was a pallet of ice nearby for the drinks, may have sat on it for a few. 
banana, soft pretzel, fruit cup, chips, crackers. chocolate milk.  

Post race party: beer garden with music stage (featuring Element K) and beer (Micholob Ultra)! 

Swag:

Medal: City Skyline above a record. Sponsor Humana, Rock N Roll logo Philadelphia distance and date. 

Beer: Micholob Ultra. 

Shirt: Sponsor Humana, Rock 'n Roll. Runners with music notes. The date is on one of the runner's bibs. Distance written in graffiti, Philadelphia.

Photos: available for purchase from finisherpix. tons of professional photographers prerace/along the course, and finisher area. I was tagged in about 20 pics. Remember how I said I struggled towards the end? They got that. many worse than the ones below. 

Tracking: app and sms alerts available. Multiple mats along the course to provide updates to your friends and family tracking your progress. I noted the tracking as a race I recently did had no tracking. 

Post-Post Race: lunch and beverages in nearby City Tap. Although someone complains about me making them walk another .5 there and back after the race. (Pic not included.) $18 burger (with bacon add-on, but that $3 bacon add on is totally worth it! Great time celebrating at the post race party and the unofficial post-post race. ;)

Summary: I really enjoy this race and would recommend it. A great course, crowd support, music, and excitement. The only flaw is the weather can be hit or miss as it's near the end of summer. 

Sites and Social:
Site: https://www.runrocknroll.com/en/events/philadelphia
Facebook: RunRockNRoll
Twitter: @RunRocknRoll
IG: @rocknroll

If you do any races, please remember to review them on BibRave.com! Your opinions help other runners decide what races to run! #BibChat Follow me on BibRave Joe G

Rockin Update: Rock N Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon

Disclaimer: I received free entry to Humana Rock 'n' Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

Image from fb @rocknroll

Hi Everyone!

I made the below announcement a few months ago, and promised I would be back with updates when they were announced! 

I'm excited to announce that I will be running the Humana Rock 'n' Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon on 09.15.2019!  

This event will always be near and dear to me. In 2016, this was my very first half marathon! Amazing how time flies, and how one challenge and achievement leads to the next! 

Course: Race starts in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. A little over 3 miles in the city, including around City Hall. Back to the museum. Down Kelly Drive along the Schuykill River (boathouse row side), cross the river, then back down the river on Dr Martin Luther King Jr Dr back to the museum.

Interactive Map link

 Elevation: 

image from runrocknroll.com

There are 5k and 7.6k options as well! 

image from runrocknroll.com

Music: This is the Rock N Roll Marathon series, there will be plenty of bands rocking throughout the course! Will update once the headliner is announced! Update below!

Founding Fathers: If you participated in the Rock N Roll Washington D.C. Half Marathon on 03/09, you may be eligible for the Founding Fathers Challenge medal!

image from IG @rocknroll

Swag: 

Technical Tee Shirt & Finisher's Medal: (Pics will be provided once announced.) Updates below! 

Beer! Last year Michelob Ultra was provided at the finish line festival/post race concert!

Not guaranteeing (just yet) that you will see any famous runners at this event, but I did see Des Linden win it last year! 

I'm looking forward to Rocking Philly this fall at the Humana Rock n Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon on 09/15. Hope to see you there! Be sure to use the discount code below!

Site: https://www.runrocknroll.com/en/events/philadelphia
Code: "19RNRBRP16" to save $16 off the half marathon or
"19RNRBRP6" to save $6 off the 5k/7.6k

Socials: 
Facebook: RunRockNRoll
Twitter: @RunRocknRoll
IG: @rocknroll

Are you Ready to Rock, Rock?! Humana Rock n Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon!

Disclaimer: I received free entry to Humana Rock 'n' Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

Image from fb @rocknroll

Hi Everyone!

I'm excited to announce that I will be running the Humana Rock 'n' Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon on 09.15.2019!

This event will always be near and dear to me. In 2016, this was my very first half marathon! Amazing how time flies, and how one challenge and achievement leads to the next! 

Course: Race starts in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. A little over 3 miles in the city, including around City Hall. Back to the museum. Down Kelly Drive along the Schuykill River (boathouse row side), cross the river, then back down the river on Dr Martin Luther King Jr Dr back to the museum.

Interactive Map link

 Elevation: 

image from runrocknroll.com

There are 5k and 7.6k options as well! 

image from runrocknroll.com

Music: This is the Rock N Roll Marathon series, there will be plenty of bands rocking throughout the course! Will update once the headliner is announced!

Founding Fathers: If you participated in the Rock N Roll Washington D.C. Half Marathon on 03/09, you may be eligible for the Founding Fathers Challenge medal!

image from IG @rocknroll

Swag: 

Technical Tee Shirt & Finisher's Medal: (Pics will be provided once announced.)

Beer! Last year Michelob Ultra was provided at the finish line festival/post race concert!

Not guaranteeing (just yet) that you will see any famous runners at this event, but I did see Des Linden win it last year! 

I'm looking forward to Rocking Philly this fall at the Humana Rock n Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon on 09/15. Hope to see you there! Be sure to use the discount code below!

Site: https://www.runrocknroll.com/en/events/philadelphia
Code: "19RNRBRP16" to save $16 off the half marathon or
"19RNRBRP6" to save $6 off the 5k/7.6k

Socials: 
Facebook: RunRockNRoll
Twitter: @RunRocknRoll
IG: @rocknroll

Runner's World 5k/10k race results are in! Claimed on Athlinks!

Hi Everyone! 

On October 19th, I ran the 5k and 10k at the Runner's World Half festival, had a blast! Race review here!

Since race day, the results have been released and available to Athlinks! I made sure to log into my Athlinks account and claim my results! Check out my full Athlinks review, here. 

Athlinks is a great tool, has all of your race results in one central location! Great for tracking progress. You can also fill out your schedule ahead of time and see where your friends are running! Checking out my schedule, looks like I have one more fall race. hmmm... And I'll be sure to claim those race results as well!

Athlinks site and social:
Sign up here!: https://www.athlinks.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/athlinks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athlinks/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Athlinks/

If you do any races, please remember to review them on BibRave.com! Your opinions help other runners decide what races to run! #BibChat Follow me on BibRave: Joe G