Small Steps, Serious Chafing

Monday, March 4, 2013

Wish there was more then tea in my mug tonight but I am not falling off the wagon #whole30 #sickagain #strepsucks #longday #smallstepsseriouschafing

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Energy Bits-Product Review

I had been seeing EnergyBits on several blogs and also on Instagram. I was curious, I hate vitamins because I do not absorb them well and was currently looking for an alternative. Energybits claim to increase energy, endurance, mental vitality, they are high in protein, lower blood pressure, reduce fatigue (this was a big one since I am currently battling fatigue caused by an under active thyroid). I contacted Energybits (Check out their website for all the information on the benefits of algae: http://www.energybits.com/) and was able to not only purchase a single sample of Recoverybits and Energybits but they also sent me an extra sample for my husband (who I just added them into our smoothies and he happily ate the algae)

This whole trial really sucked because I have had Strep Throat not once but TWICE! I just wanted a decent day without antibiotics to give these a try and actually never got one.

Recoverybits-I took these as soon as I received them in an attempt to combat my nasty throat. I really cannot say if they made a difference. I felt like garbage because of the antibiotics and the strep and I am not sure how much algae I would have needed to feel better.

Energybits Try 1 - 5 days after the first diagnosis I took about 30 bits and headed to the gym for speedwork on the treadmill . I hadn't run in a week but was able to crank out 6 x 800's at a 7:53 pace. I was tired by the end but I attribute that to strep and lack of running. I am sure the Energybits helped. I did not mind taking them like a "pill" however I could taste them and they are a taste you may have to become accustomed to.

Energybits Try 2 - This past Saturday I thought I was clear, no antibiotics and felt ok. I took about 30 bits about a half hour before I met my group to attempt an 8-10 mile long run. I really can't say if the Energybits helped I did pull a few decent splits but I started having GI issues around mile 4-5.5 and called the run at 6 miles.

Guess what happened today...I was at the doctors again and this time being tested for strep and mononucleosis ....so yeah....it sucks at the moment as I start another round of different antibiotics.

Overall I would say there is a benefit to the algae however I cannot honestly say one way or another how they effected me because I felt like such garbage lately. I will say they had great customer service and were willing to help and answer questions and were very patient while I got around to this review. (My opinions are my own and was not influenced by the people at Energybits)

Would I buy them? Yes, if I had the extra money for them I would love to see what 30 days on them would do. The cost is $115 a bag (about 33 servings) and then an additional $12 for shipping. That unfortunately adds up and would also take away other food purchases such as our meats, fruits and veggies.

Look what I found on clearance #hotpink #locklaces I have been wanting to try them since I hate to tie my shoes (esp at 4:45 am) ....they look so awesome in my Purple #brooksrunning #pureflow #smallstepsseriouschafing

I have seen Lock Laces before and know several runners swear by them, but I never could understand. I never really had a problem with my shoes coming untied and with the few pairs I did I just rubbed the laces with a candle to stop them from slipping. However when I was "grocery" shopping at Meijer the other day I came across a pair of Lock Laces on clearance...WHAT! They were HOT pink and $4 I could not pass them up. Not because I "needed" them but the promise of never have to tie my shoes is very appealing especially because at 4:45 am I HATE tying them. Of course I put them on my Purple Brooks PureFlow right away. Basically all you do is lace them in like you normally would, add the lock and then the closure and you are done. I have yet to run in them but have used them on the cycle trainer and the elliptical and all I can say is "I will never tie my shoes again". Seriously, I can get my laces tight enough (the cord is almost like a little bungie cord) and I really do not have to tie my shoe. These Lock Laces are going to save me at least 3 minutes every morning, at 4:45 am that means something. Now I understand the Lock Laces rage...they are awesome! (And a bonus if you check out their website they have a TON of colors so you can match or coordinate with any pair of shoes)

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Do you want to try Lock Laces? Check out the special they are running (shared with permission from Lock Laces):

Spring Training Special Offer: Send your old shoelaces to: LOCK LACES™ Shoelaces Exchange, 2225 Sycamore Street; Harrisburg, PA 17111 with a Self Addressed Stamped Envelope and we'll send you a coupon for a free pair of LOCK LACES™ redeemable @ locklaces.com now thru March 31, 2013. (shipping and handling not included)