SiS Immune Tablets – Product Review

Disclaimer: I received Science in Sport Immune 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!

I am always looking for products to help with my recovery and nutrition. Enter Science in Sport (SiS) Immune Tablets. I am a huge SiS fan (their gels got me through marathon training!), so when I was given the opportunity to try these tablets I was all in.

Research shows that intense workouts can stress your immune system – our immune system is potentially suppressed for up to 72 hours after a workout. This can lead to higher occurrences of a variety of illnesses, including upper respiratory issues. All the more reason to give your body proper time to recover and to refuel following a run or workout.

5 Benefits of SiS Immune Tablets

  • Contains 200mg of Vitamin C and 2.5mg of Iron – both help your body to maintain the normal function of your immune system during and after intense workouts
  • Also contains key electrolytes so SiS Immune supports your immune system while also aiding your hydration — a double win
  • Just 9 calories/serving, vegan-friendly, and Dairy/Gluten/Wheat/Nut Free
  • Refreshing, light orange taste
  • Quick and easy to use – just 1 tablet a day and you’re good to go

Of course, this product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, but they do bring some goodness to the table…and every little bit helps, right? 

In short, the Immune Tablets are another win from SiS!

Sharing 5 things I love about @ScienceinSport Immune Tablets #bibravepro #sisbr #bibchat #immunitysupport Click To Tweet

Want to try out these tablets for yourself? Visit the Science in Sport website and use code SiS-BibRave-21 to save 15% off your order. Don’t delay – this discount code expires at the end of May! Added bonus: this discount works with all other promotions too!

Welcome to Fit Five Friday!
Join My First 5K and MoreRunning With AttitudeRun Laugh Eat PieRuns with Pugs, and Zenaida every Friday for Fit Five Friday! Please be sure to show your hosts some love and visit some of the other bloggers in the link-up. Who’s ready for some fun?

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BUFF® DryFlx+ Collection Product Review

Disclaimer: I received a BUFF® DryFlx+ neckwarmer and headband 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!

While temps around here yoyo’d for a bit, there’s no doubt now that winter running season is in full effect. Having the right gear can make all of the difference when dealing with the elements, which is why I jumped at the chance to try out the BUFF® DryFlx+ neckwarmer and headband. I’ve been a long-time fan of BUFF® products so I was really interested in seeing what this new collection was all about.

Well, if you’ve been following me on Instagram then you already know that both items have become staples on my runs. I am especially in love with the neckwarmer! It is warm and cozy, yet does a great job of wicking away sweat and offered great breathability – especially important when using it as a face mask. I also appreciate the seamless design which helps to avoid any potential rubbing or chaffing.

The headband is also designed as a one-knitted piece using the same material as the neckwarmer. While I tend to be more of a hat girl for winter runs, I can say that I liked that this headband stayed put, wicked away sweat, and kept my ears warm. Can’t really ask for more than that, can you?!

Overall, the DryFlx+ Collection is another win for BUFF® in my book and why they continue to be one of my favorite brands.

Sharing my review of @buff_usa DryFlx+ Collection! #BUFFRunBR #bibravepro #bibchat #tuesdaytopics #runnersroundup #winterunning Click To Tweet

If you’re interested in BUFF® products, be sure to go to https://buffusa.com/bibrave and sign up for the BUFF® newsletter to receive 15% off your purchase.

You can check out other BibRavePro reviews here:

Run, Eat, Ralph

RunCanvas

Running on the Other Side of 40

Fun Size Athlete

Running on Pixie Dust

Fit x Brit

The Late Runner

The Valley Isle Runner

Ken Stands on Things

Are you a fan of neckwarmers? Headbands or hats?

I’m linking this with Kim and Zenaida for the Tuesday Topics Link-Up.

I’m also linking with Debbie, Deborah, Lisa, Jenn, and Laura for the Runners’ Roundup.

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Knockaround Sport Sunglasses Review

Disclaimer: I received Knockaround Sport Sunglasses 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! All opinions, as always, are my own.

Knockaround Sport Sunglasses Review

I have been looking forward to trying out a pair of Knockarounds since I read Janelle’s review earlier this summer. I love sunglasses, but I don’t always love how much you have to pay for a quality pair so I was very curious to see what Knockaround had to offer.

Well after wearing them on runs, walks, and just out and about running errands, let me just say that there is just so much to love about these shades!

Great protection – Knockarounds feature polarized mirror lenses with UV 400 protection which filters the light coming through the lens so you get a crisp and clear image all while protecting your eyes. And, as an added bonus, the lenses are also impact-resistant.

No slipping – We all know how ridiculously humid it’s been this summer, and yet my Knockarounds never slipped. The Sport Collection has these subtle, but highly effective rubber grips on the nose – perfect for those sweat-fest runs!

Lightweight – Knockarounds are made with a super lightweight polycarbonate material which means you can just put them on and forget about them.

So many colorways and styles – Knockaround offers fifteen different frame styles in a wide range of colors, plus special Limited Editions. While I love the “Fast Lanes” I received in Clear Grey frames and Green Moonshine lenses, I’m already eyeing the many other color combos and styles available. You can even custom design a pair to make them uniquely your own.

Affordable – Prices for Knockarounds with polarized lens start as low as $20, and just $15 for the regular lens.

Sharing my review of @knockaround sport sunglasses #knockaroundbr #bibchat #bibravepro #tuesdaytopics #runnersroundup Click To Tweet

Functional, stylish, and affordable – it’s really not hard to see why Knockarounds are so popular!

If you haven’t tried them yet for yourself, then let me sweeten the deal by offering code BibRaveKnocks5 for a 20% savings on your entire order (one use per customer).

Do you wear sunglasses when you run?

 

I’m linking this with Kim and Zenaida for the Tuesday Topics Link-Up.

I’m also linking with  Debbie,  Deborah Lisa, Jenn, and Laura for the Runners’ Roundup.

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BUFF Pack Run Cap Review

Disclaimer: I received a free Buff Pack Run Cap to review as a BibRavePro. As always, all opinions are my own. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

OK so let me cut right to the chase – the BUFF Pack Run Cap is a winner and perfect for the swampy weather that is this summer! Let me share some of the highlights…

Light as a feather
The first thing I noticed when my Pack Run Cap arrived was how unbelievably lightweight it is. Seriously, it weighs just 1 ounce. You put it on and forget about it.

Great fit and feel
Thanks to the 4-way stretch fabric and adjustable elastic cord at the back, this Cap is a comfortable fit. It’s designed with  Fastwick fabric side panels and a low profile sweatband, which helps to wick away sweat and improves breathability. I love the silky feel of this Cap.

Easy to pack
As the name implies, the Pack Run Cap easily folds down to about palm-size making it ideal for travel, whenever we return to planning race-cations.

This Cap has carried me through some swampfest runs and held up well to the challenge!

Find out what I love about @buff_usa Pack Run Cap! #buffrunbr #bibchat #bibravepro #tuesdaytopics #runnersroundup Click To Tweet

If you’re interested in trying the Buff Pack Run Cap for yourself, sign up for the BUFF newsletter here to save 15% off your purchase!

Have you tried Buff products before?

I’m linking this with Kim and Zenaida for the Tuesday Topics Link-Up.

I’m also linking with DebbieRachelDeborahLisaSandra, and Jenn for the Runners’ Roundup.

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NOW Sports BCAA Blast and Effer-Energy Review

Disclaimer: I received NOW Sports BCAA Blast Powder (Natural Raspberry) and NOW Sports Effer-Energy tablets (Tropical Punch) 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!

I use a number of NOW Foods supplements, so when the opportunity to try NOW® Sports BCAA Blast and NOW® Sports Effer-Energy tablets came up I was super excited to try them out!

Sharing my experience with @Nowfoods BCAA Blast & Effer-Energy products #nowsportsbr #bibravepro #nowgetfit #bibchat Click To Tweet

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are the essential amino acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine, which support building muscle and post-workout recovery. BCAAs can be taken before, during or after a run or workout. I have actually used NOW’s Branched Chain Amino Acid capsules and found them to be helpful so I was curious to see how the BCAA Blast would compare.

I used the BCAA Blast before both my runs and Orangetheory workouts and definitely felt I got an extra energy boost – especially on those late afternoon OTF classes. Each scoop of powder delivers 5 grams of BCAAs and 100 mg of natural caffeine. I really appreciated that I felt energized without feeling jittery, an experience I’ve had with other brands. It was also super easy on my stomach, which is so important, especially when using it before a run or workout! I definitely plan to continue to use the BCAA Blast for a pre-workout supplement.

The Effer-Energy tablets are an electrolyte supplement designed to support energy and recovery. I tried the tablets post-workout but, to be honest I struggled with the taste. I played with increasing the amount of water beyond the 16 oz that is recommended, and it did seem to help, but overall this just wasn’t a good fit for me – perhaps a different flavor would have worked better.

Both the BCAA Blast and Effer-Energy are soy-free, vegan/vegetarian, nut-free, dairy-free and egg-free – a win for those with various food allergies.

Interested in trying these or other products in the NOW Sports nutrition line?

Use code NOWSPORTS20 for 20% off your purchase of NOW® Sports products at nowsportsproducts.com.

Offer valid 2/1/20 through 11:59 PM Central Standard Time 4/30/20. Offer valid only on products found at https://www.nowfoods.com/sports-nutrition/sports-nutrition-all-products. Prices are as shown. Some exclusions apply. Must use coupon code NOWSPORTS20 in the Promotion Code field at checkout while supplies last at nowfoods.com. This offer does not apply to applicable taxes or shipping & handling. Offer cannot be used on previous purchases. NOW Health Group, Inc. has the right to end any promotion at any time.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

And be sure to check out the reviews of my fellow BibRave Pros:

Kim
Shannon
Lacey
Stephanie
Sarah

Do you use any pre- or post-workout supplements?

I’m linking with DebbieRachelDeborahLisa,
Smitha and Jenn for the Runners’ Roundup.

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Body Helix Thigh Compression Sleeve Review

I wanted to put the Body Helix Thigh Compression Sleeve through its paces before sharing my review, but if you’ve been following me on Instagram or Twitter then you already know this sleeve has been a win for me!

Body Helix Thigh Compression Sleeve Review

I received a Thigh Compression Sleeve from Body Helix as a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews. As always, all of the opinions expressed here are my own.

A few weeks back I started experiencing a lot of discomfort in my upper quad. It seemed that I had strained it – not enough to stop working out, but it was definitely slowing me down. In typical runner fashion, I pulled out all the resources possible to keep my legs moving.  So when I was offered an opportunity to test out the Body Helix Thigh Compression Sleeve, I was all in.

According to the Body Helix website, the thigh sleeve is made of “medical-grade compression in the range of 20- 30 millimeters of mercury (or mmHg in the scientific community). The higher the number, the more pressure we feel. Research shows a drastic decrease in pain sensation when compression is applied to injuries.”

During my runs and workouts, I can say that my quad felt more supported and, as a result, I felt that my range of motion was better – I wasn’t altering my gait. Definitely a win! I also tried the sleeve as part of my recovery following runs and Orangetheory workouts and was happy to feel significant pain relief.

The sleeve fits like a glove, snug but not tight. And, once on, it stayed in place without any slipping. My one challenge was fitting it under my thermal running tights which are …well tight. While I could get my tights over the sleeve I felt a little bit like a sausage. However, I had no problem wearing it under my running skirts, shorts, and capris.

And, one more bonus – the sleeve can be machine washed and dried so it was always ready to go for the next workout.

So while my quad continues to heal this compression sleeve will most certainly be a key part of my arsenal.

Sharing my review of @body_helix thigh compression sleeve! #BodyHelixBR #BibRavePro #BibChat #movethroughit Click To Tweet

Want to try it for yourself? Body Helix makes a wide range of compression gear to support everything from wrist and elbows to knees, calves, and ankles. Use code BH15BR for 15% off all products on their website now through 4/1.

And be sure to check out the reviews of my fellow BibRave Pros on the Body Helix products they tested:

Corey

Logan

Kim

Lissa

Emily

I’m linking this with Kim and Zenaida for the Tuesday Topics Link-Up

I’m also linking with DebbieRachelDeborahLisa, Smitha and Jenn for the Runners’ Roundup.

 

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March StrideBox Reveal

If you follow me on Instagram, then you’ve seen some of the fun things I’ve received from the great folks at StrideBox over the past couple of months. Well, this month I thought I share an up close look at the recent box I received. (You can also read my first review here).

Each month the box of treats comes all wrapped in tissue paper — this month, of course, it’s green in honor of St. Patty’s Day. And the first thing you see is The Stride Guide – a quick guide to all of the goodness inside. And this box did not disappoint! 

So let’s break it down….

On the nutrition front there is:

Nuun Vitamins – these tablets can be used at any time for a daily hydration boost.

Ultima Replenisher – electrolytes and mineral support with no sugar and zero calories.

CarbBoom Gel — caffeinated and made with real fruit purees, and no artificial flavors or sweeteners.

Peanut Butter & Co — a nut butter that combines dark chocolate and peanut butter…need I say more?

Jimmy Bar — peanut butter ice cream?! It’s a miracle I haven’t ripped into this one already!

In addition to the nutrition, StrideBox always offers both personal care items and running gear.

2Toms Blister Shield — a must-have for any runner, as the create an almost frictionless surface and repel moisture to help avoid blisters.

Wrist Wallet — a simple zippered sleeve that slips comfortably over your wrist. It’s perfectly sized to hold a key, money, or possible chews on your run.

I also love that the box included a card with a recipe (Fruity Endurance Gel Blocks) on one side and a workout (Firing Up the Glutes) on the other. 

Pretty awesome mix for just $15/month, right? 

(Disclosure: I was sent this box by StrideBox. All opinions, as always, are my own.)

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5 Things I love about StrideBox & a Giveaway

Rachel, Lacey and Meranda are inviting everyone to share holiday gift ideas for this week’s Friday Five. Since I have already shared my Holiday Gift Guide, I thought I would take this chance to share about a new favorite  –  StrideBox!

(Disclosure: This post and giveaway is sponsored by StrideBox. All opinions, as always, are my own.)

  1.  A great mix! – StrideBox offers a great combination of food/fuel options, running gear, and body care. This month’s box included a Bonk Breaker energy bar, GU chews, two packs of Run Gum, VFuel performance drink, Hammer gel and Essentials reflective safety shoe laces.
  2.  The Stride Guide. – In each box you get the Stride Guide, which is a nice cheat sheet on what’s inside the box with a suggestion on when to use each product (each item is coded for “before” “during” “after” or “always”).
  3. No long-term commitments.  – I really like that StrideBox offers an easy monthly subscription you can stop at any time.
  4. Affordable!  – StrideBox offers so much goodness for just $15/month.
  5. Makes a great gift!  – With each box offering such a great mix for both newbie and seasoned runner alike, and at a price that won’t break the bank, StrideBox is a perfect way to give your favorite runner lots of running treats from both well-known and new brands  – and delivered right to their door! What’s not to love?!
Check out my @StrideBox review & Giveaway! #stridebox #runnersgifts Click To Tweet

Want to try one for yourself? The great folks at StrideBox have offered to give 2 RWA readers a free box to try! The giveaway will run from now until 11:59 p.m. on 12/21. Winners will be announced on Thursday, December 22nd. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Hemp Hearts Review & Giveaway

This post is sponsored by Manitoba Harvest through my affiliation with Sweat Pink. As always, the opinions expressed here are completely my own.

I was recently offered the opportunity to try Hemp Hearts. Since I’m always looking for an easy way to add a little extra protein into my diet, so I was eager to give them a try.

IMG_1478Hemp Hearts are raw, shelled hemp seeds. These little seeds pack 10g of protein and 10g of health omegas into a 30g serving. In fact, they deliver more protein and omegas and less carbs than the same serving size of either chia or flax seeds. They have a light, nutty taste, and, as I quickly learned, you can use them on just about anything.

hemp in hand

I tried them sprinkled in yogurt and on salads. I also substituted them in my smoothies in place of my usual flax seed. I especially liked them sprinkled on top of a bowl of oatmeal along with a little Macintosh apple.

Hemp oatmeal

 

 

Manitoba Harvest also offers a wide range of recipes on their website – you can check them out HERE. I’m planning to try the pumpkin hemp pancakes this weekend!

Want to try them for yourself?

The nice folks at Manitoba Harvest are offering a bag to one lucky RWA reader. This giveaway is open to US and Canada residents. If you win this giveaway, and have already won another prize from Manitoba Harvest through another blog, please disclose that you have already won so another winner can be chosen.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Medicine Mama’s Apothecary Review

Have you ever stopped to consider what’s in your skincare products? Last week, for work, I attended a webinar that discussed the potential risks from the chemicals used in many personal care products currently on the market. It was eye-opening to say the least! This webinar was a great reminder that while a lot of us spend time thinking about the quality of food we put into our bodies, reading labels and buying organic, do we put the same thought into personal products we use every day?

A few weeks back, I was contacted by Medicine Mama’s Apothecary about trying out some products from their organic skincare line. I had never heard of this company, but after poking around their website for a bit and learning about their story, I was eager to see what these products were all about.

I received three products to try:

MMA CollageStraight out of the box I loved the Sweet Bee Magic Wand lip and facial balm. It was not waxy, and kept my lips moist without  a greasy feel. I also used it to treat an irritating patch of dry skin that had developed on my ring finger and was keeping me from wearing my wedding ring – took care of it in short order. I loved that it has so many potential uses. I think this Wand will be my go-to especially when the dry winter air takes hold.

Bars of soap typically leave my skin dry and taut and craving moisturizer, so I approached the Zinc Facial Bar with some trepidation. With the first use, it was clear I had nothing to worry about. The Bar just left my skin nice and clean – no dryness or irritation. According to their website, research shows that zinc aids skin imbalances by helping cells to regenerate. I will say, that overall I’m not a big fan of bars of soap because I don’t keep soap dishes in my bathroom. I’m more apt to use a liquid cleanser that can easily be dispensed, but this is just a personal preference and has nothing to do with the quality of the product. I’m hoping the folks at Medicine Mama will figure out a way to translate the goodness of this bar into a liquid form.

Ultra Facial Scrub is an amazing mix of honey, sugar, beeswax and olive oil — all organic. Seriously, this smells so delicious and left both my face and neck feeling luxuriously hydrated and smooth. And, while labeled a facial scrub, I found it did wonders for both my elbows and the heals of my feet. So much to love about this scrub!

All of Medicine Mama’s Apothecary products are made in small batches with only certified organic ingredients and no chemicals. Without a doubt, I would recommend giving these products a closer look!

Do you pay close attention to the ingredients in your skincare?

I was sent the skin care products by Medicine Mama’s Apothecary in exchange for a review. As always, all opinions expressed here are completely my own.

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