A Dozen Affordable Gift Ideas for Marathon, Trail, and Obstacle Course Runners

Posted on November 7, 2021 by Jennifer FIsher

The holiday season is quickly approaching and you may be wondering what to get the endurance athlete on your list — especially the runners! We have complied a dozen affordable runner gift ideas that would be appropriate to give to marathon, trail and obstacle course fans — and sure to be well-received!

It’s the safest bet to let runners buy their own shoes and expensive gear (it’s like a complicated science you don’t want to dive into), but these thoughtful runner accessories, books and nutrition products are sure to please everyone!

Trailblazer Ponytail Hat from Trail Heads: Did you know up to 10% of body heat is lost through the head?! Keeping your noggin, neck and ears warm on winter runs, hiking, skiing or other adventuring is essential and the super innovative Trail Blazer Ponytail Hat makes it stylish and convenient. For me, a major perk was that this running hat is “ponytail compatible.” Yup, you can slip a high pony right through a discreet little slit on the back of the hat and let it fly free – so cute! Also, versatile drop-down ear warmers (which also lay on the back of the neck some) offer protection and can be folded back up as the day warms up. Made of super soft, comfy fleece with a brim to keep sun out of eyes. Machine washable! A very useful gift for marathoners this cold weather season.

Convertible Running Gloves from Trail Heads: The 2-in-1 versatility of these cold weather gloves is so useful — the gloves transform conveniently into waterproof mittens for extra protection. When you don’t want the mitten part, just tuck into the pocket on the cuff. Speaking of cuffs, this comfortable cuff is generously cut, offering enough length to stay tucked under a jacket and protect wrists from the elements. Phone addicts will be happy to know that the thumb and forefinger are made with touchscreen compatible fabric. Features a bit of fleece for a soft brown or nose wipe, this convertible glove can also be machine washed. Convertible Running Gloves available in Men’s and Women’s sizes. A great gift for trail runners this holiday season.

Hybrid Water Shoe from CrossKix.com – The ultimate hybrid shoe takes you from your favorite water recreation (boating, toobing, creek stomping, beach, waterparks) and also multi-functional for workouts, yoga and even running! Even if it’s a little too cold right now to be running around in these, they are perfect to wear to indoor swim practice, the sauna, and the gym in the interim. Also, CrossKix have become my go-to shoe for gardening and après obstacle course race because I can just rinse them off when muddy. Made from soft foam composite for comfort and convenience, great drainage, 100% water submergible, breathable, light, cushioned, unisex-sized, and also available for kids. This pair (the 2.0 in Yellowjacket color) styled with an adjustable instep strap, other colors and styles available.

Kilo Endurance Sunglasses from Tifosi. I love Tifosi sunglasses because they perform 110%, are stylish and affordable. The Kilo is my new go-to model and make a great gift for endurance athletes. This Grilamid TR-90 frame endurance sunglass is perfect for any running or cycling enthusiast and guaranteed to be your new favorite pair of shades. Lightweight and durable with hydrophilic rubber nosepieces, they’re the perfect choice for long rides or runs. The polycarbonate lenses are shatterproof and vented to prevent fogging while keeping you protected at all times. Kilo in Crystal Smoke comes with three lenses – Clarion Yellow / AC Red / Clear – so that you can go the distance! Other Kilo frame colors and sunglass styles available at Tifosi.com

Apex Protein Snacks: Stuff those stockings (and backpacks for hiking) with the deliciously nourishing meat sticks from Apex Protein Snacks. I’m all about getting enough protein through the day, and a meat snack that doesn’t need refrigeration is a convenient way to do that on the go! A great snack when road-tripping to a race, camping, backpacking, adventuring, or just on the go all day running errands. These low-carb, high-protein snacks come in a variety of formats — bars, bites, biltong, and sticks. And, flavors (MOST of which are 0 sugar) include Kansas City BBQ Flavor, Jalapeno and Cheese, Teriyaki, Jalapeno flavor, and original! Beef, venison, elk, boar and bison! SHOP HERE

Jaybird Vista: It’s incredible something this small can go this big. The Jaybird Vista wireless earbuds are my go-to for everything from gym workouts to trail running. They are rugged and “earth-proof” and offer premium sound that goes wherever I do. Everything fits into neat little case that gives a charging case between wearings. When fully charged, the charging case offers up to 10 hours of additional playback time before you have to recharge the case. So, if in a hurry, you can sick the buds in the case for 5 minutes and get an hour of playback time granted! Also, new this year are the Vista 2, that feature all this same great stuff plus Active Noise Cancellation for focus and SurroundSense for spatial awareness and safety. Shop JayBird HERE.

Feeding the Frasers: Family Favorite Recipes Made to Feed the Five-Time CrossFit Games Champion, Mat Fraser. This comprehensive cookbook for athletes features 240 pages filled with 100 terrific recipes of high quality delicious food that promote balance, togetherness, indulgence, and athletic recovery. Written Sammy Moniz, wife of 5-time CrossFit Champion Mat Fraser, to share how she feeds the greatest champion in the sport. But not just for CrossFitters . . .this cookbook as delicious, nourishing meals for anyone with an active lifestyle! I was lucky enough to get an advance copy and the recipes are amazing! Preorder on Amazon, it ships on Jan 25, 2022.

Orange Mud Transition Wrap Extreme – Waterproof Changing Towel and Seat Cover: This very handy product from Orange Mud protects your car seat from sweat, mud and the general funk after a trail run, obstacle course run or sweaty gym session. Upgraded and now waterproof, nothing will make it through to ruin your seats. Also, can be used as a transition area wrap for cleaning up and changing or lay down on the ground like a blanket to catch a quick nap after your race! Microfiber cover measures 30” x 60”, is machine washable, and is available in several fun colors. Sign up for Orange Mud emails and save 10%!

Muscle for Life: Get Lean, Strong & Healthy at Any Age by Michael Matthews. From the best-selling fitness author of Bigger Leaner Stronger and The Shredded Chef, this book reveals a science-based blueprint for eating and exercising that anyone can follow at any age and fitness level. Based on time-proven principles produced by decades of hands-on experience and thousands of hours of scientific research, Muscle for Life will give you a plan for transforming your body faster than you ever thought possible, including how to conquer the “mental game” how to optimize your body composition with strength training, and how to eat “flexibly” and break free of dieting. Available for pre-order on Amazon (ships 1/11/2022)

Save 10% at handful bra with code THEFITFORK10

Handful: Gear up in fashionable fitness wear Handful, one of my favorite companies. I’ve been a super-fan of their bras for 10 YEARS, they flatter (not flatten) and are available in styles for all shapes. You can read my entire post dedicated to Handful Bras and fitness wear HERE. Use code THEFITFORK10 to save 10%!

Feetures Socks: The best running socks EVER, hands down. Targeted compression, seamless, no-blisters and a variety of styles and colors for men and women. I personally love and wear, the Elite No-Show and Mini Crew and the knee-high Graduated Compression.

Energon Performance Gummies from Seattle Gummy Company – Easy to pack in a fuel belt or shorts pocket, these pre and post workout gummies are easy to consume on the go and are easily digestible and won’t upset your stomach like other chews and gels. The POWER UP formula offers controlled-release carbohydrates and caffeine and other active ingredients (like ginseng and vitamin B) to boost and prolong energy levels, and keep you going stronger longer. The RECOVER formula feature BCAA and other important nutrients to help to rapidly recharge muscles, facilitate energy storage, and reduce soreness for accelerated recovery. Use code THEFITFORK10 to save 10% (and is combinable with other offers).

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission for sales generated, however price to you remains the same. Thank you for helping to offset operating expenses for The Fit Fork.

Watermelon Facts & Snacks for Your Active Lifestyle

Posted on October 1, 2021 by Jennifer FIsher

This post is sponsored by Watermelon.org. However, all content, opinions, and enthusiasm for watermelon remain my own!

Runners, triathletes, hybrid athletes, gym rats, fitness enthusiasts, parents with kids in sports, and everyday active folks who are always on the go – I’m talking to YOU!

Watermelon is more than just the quintessential fruit of summer – it’s a highly functional food that can (and should) be enjoyed all year ‘round in an athletes training diet including those who are striving to optimize their health and wellness though consistent physical activity.

So, why watermelon? What are watermelon health benefits and why is watermelon for runners, athletes and everyone on a fitness journey such a good thing?

different ways to cut watermelon thefitfork.com

Fresh and Economical: Watermelon is a fresh, whole food that doesn’t come processed and wrapped up in consumer packaging. Ounce for ounce, watermelon is also the most economical fruit purchase in the produce department. You can even eat the entire watermelon – flesh, seeds, juice, AND rind! All of these perks a win for your body, budget, and the environment.

Full of Fluid: Watermelon has a water content of 92 percent! This means watermelon is a fast way to hydrate before a run or workout or top off your tank afterward. Compared to some of my other favorite snacks (which all have their own inherent benefits, BTW), watermelon is the winner of nearly holding its own weight in water. For example, a banana is 75 percent water, raisins are just 20 percent water, and most nuts only have a water content of 5 percent water.

Watermelon Facts & Snacks for Your Active Lifestyle - Watermelon is Refreshing Fuel

Functional Fuel: Watermelon is extremely functional when it comes to providing nutrients to support a balanced and active lifestyle. For example, two cups of watermelon (80 calories) offer 21 grams of carbohydrates to help you power through any day, whether running a marathon or just running errands around town. In some circles, carbs get a bad rap, and while I’m not a fan of most highly-processed and refined-sugar carbs, I do rely carbohydrates sourced primarily from fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Endurance athletes need properly-timed carbs to provide sustained energy for the long haul.

However, if you are not logging massive miles and need less carb energy (or perhaps are on a lower-carb diet for your lifestyle), watermelon REMAINS a fruit that can be enjoyed. Because it’s a big volume fruit (big serving size versus a denser fruit like, say, dates), the carbohydrates are “spread out.” So, many consider watermelon a low-carb fruit, especially when enjoyed mindfully. A small portion of watermelon can even be eaten and still kept compliant with a keto diet! For me, the little bit of natural sugars from watermelon help soothe my sweet tooth and curb cravings.

Watermelon Facts & Snacks for Your Active Lifestyle

Watermelon Electrolytes: Endurance athletes (and everyone, in fact), need electrolytes in their diet to help balance water in the body. Electrolytes are found in body fluids like blood, urine, and tissues and also keep pH level in check, move nutrients into cells, move waste out of cells, keep you from muscle cramping, help your nerves and brain, and ultimately ensure that all bodily systems are operating optimally.

Watermelon Facts & Snacks for Your Active Lifestyle - watermelon has protein in both the seeds AND flesh!

Watermelon Protein: Believe it or not, watermelon is a source of plant protein. YES! There is protein in watermelon, whoohoo! Protein supports an active lifestyle by promoting tissue repair, exercise recovery, injury prevention, immune function and the production of oxygen-carrying red blood cells.

One ounce of sprouted, shelled and dried watermelon seeds contains 10 grams of protein – that’s a nice amount for a post-workout snack! The flesh of watermelon also has a more modest amount, but still more that you’d guess! Two cups of watermelon provide 2 grams of protein and, for a boost, can be paired with other protein-choices like yogurt, cottage cheese, chia seeds, quinoa, seafood, and more.

Better Workout Recovery with Watermelon: Two cups of watermelon also provide between 286mg to 1266mg of L-citrulline, an amino that boosts nitric oxide production in the body. Nitric oxide helps arteries relax and work better, which improves blood flow throughout your body. For athletes, research is suggesting that the juice from watermelon can help to reduce recovery heart rate and muscle soreness in the 24-hour window after exercise.

Watermelon is Simple: Some of my favorite ways to enjoy watermelon in a manner that supports my nutrition goals as a runner and athlete are SO SIMPLE. Eat it plain with salt and lime juice, freeze chunks to use in smoothies, make watermelon seed trail mix, and drink the juice!

I’ve also created and used other watermelon race fuel and watermelon recovery recipes for runners:

Concentrated Electrolyte Ice Cubes for Runners

Warm spiced Watermelon Lemonade for Winter Workout Recovery

Watermelon, Beet and Chia Shot Blocks for Endurance Fuel

And, finally, you can actually WORKOUT WITH WATERMELON – did you see my recent Fit & Fresh Freestyle Watermelon Workout?

For EVERYTHING you ever needed to know about watermelon and MORE, visit Watermelon.org and @watermelonboard on Instagram!

Fit & Fresh Watermelon Workout + Juice as Exercise Sports Drink

Posted on September 1, 2021 by Jennifer FIsher

This post is sponsored byWatermelon.org, however all editorial opinions and content, unless otherwise noted, remain my own – as does the enthusiasm for watermelon.

Many of us are still avoiding the gym and working up a sweat in the family room, garage or backyard instead. But, what to do if things start to get boring or you don’t have the right equipment on hand?! Do what I do and just improvise to freshen up your home fitness routine – and add a WATERMELON to your workout!

Grab a watermelon or two, and sweeten up your home sweat sesh with this fun workout. Full body, cardio and strength with exercises that use a tote bag to allow a greater range of movement in this watermelon workout. Exercise can be both serious, and practical (what a great fitness hack)! -- and don't forget watermelon and watermelon juice is the perfect pre and post workout snack for runners and athletes.

This Freestyle Fresh & Fit Watermelon Workout will sweeten up your home workout and bring a smile to your face – it’s a silly and a serious sweat sesh at the same time. If you know me, you gotta realize by now that exercising with a watermelon is one of my FAVORITE home fitness hacks. I’ve done everything from watermelon pool workouts to home watermelon workouts you can do inside on a mat to high intensity interval workouts with watermelon for the backyard or park.

Use watermelon as impromptu "weights" in your workout! It's a great fitness hack!

Jumbo, standard and personal-sized watermelons offer different weight options. I’ve used watermelons as big as 30 pounds to exercise with – you DON’T want to drop them! Today, I’m keeping it more moderate (but still challenging) with a 15-pounder and a 5-pounder mini watermelon.

Also, I’m showing many watermelon exercises with an “in the bag” trick that allows the unwieldy, round-ish fruit to be used safely for even more movements. Adding a watermelon to a totebag with sturdy handles is a great way to turn it into a piece of equipment you can swing like a kettle bell, hang over your shoulders like a wieght vest, and more safely hold overhead or in other exercise positions without worry of dropping and smashing the watermelon . . . or your face!

The Freestyle Fit & Fresh Watermelon Workout, lets you choose your order of cardio exercise holding watermelon and strength exercise with watermelon. I’ve squeezed my demo of this garage or backyard watermelon workout on super speed above so you can get the idea.

Another great way to use the whole fruit is to DRINK THE WATERMELON JUICE. There are so many great reasons to drink this fit and fresh beverage. It’s 100% natural, just juice from a watermelon. No funny colorings, preservatives or added sugars. Of course, there are some natural fruit sugars in it, but that’s a good thing in my opinion because topping off glucose stores during and after intense, prolonged exercise is needed for optimal performance.

Also, Vitamin C and amino acid l-citrulline, both found in watermelon and watermelon juice, are beneficial for my active lifestyle. There are more watermelon benefits for runners and athletes. For example, some studies have shown that Vitamin C can help boost immunity during high training cycles and that l-citrulline may help to minimize post-workout fatigue and soreness by increasing reparative blood flow to the muscles.

Another sports hydration trick I like to do with watermelon juice is to mix it with an electrolyte drink mix for even more “oomph” on those days when I’m slogging through many miles in the Texas heat. To save money and have more control over the ingredients (I don’t want artificial colors or flavorings), using a recipe for homemade electrolyte powder (with sodium, potassium and magnesium) is the ideal mix in for watermelon juice. I also water down the watermelon juice too so the natural sweetness doesn’t overwhelm me when I’m out there working hard in the sun and my stomach is a little off.

There are several ways source watermelon juice. It’s can be expensive, but purchasing already prepared is an option. But buyer beware, make sure you are getting the actual juice and not some sort of sugar-added drink. If you want a lot of juice in a hurry, you can put cubed watermelon in your blender, blend up and pour through a strainer to pull the pulp off (Watermelon.org has a great demonstration of how to make watermelon juice this way).

BUT the method usually share when people ask “how to make easy watermelon juice” is to just pour it off the container of my big watermelon I buy every week in the summer. Once cut, juice slowly seeps out and I always pour it off every morning to drink later – even freezing portions. ALL OF THE WATERMELON JUICE you seen in that sports bottle above was poured off the cutting up of a single watermelon. But that makes total sense actually, as watermelons are nearly 93% water!

Drop me a comment if you try the watermelon workout or making watermelon juice!

Do More Blue: How Color Affects Mood for Workouts, Exercise

Posted on June 24, 2021 by Jennifer FIsher

Colors can subconsciously affect your feelings and moods and, in turn, have an impact on workouts and your choices in exercise. This includes both the colors seen in your environment (like what color the walls are painted) and the color of your fitness clothing you wear. In past posts, I’ve mentioned how other colors are tied to exercise – like RED and PINK. But, what about BLUE?

Without doubt, blue is a very popular color. In fact, it’s the most popular color in the world being favored by 35% of the world’s population. I’m guessing blue is so beloved because it’s one of the rarest colors found in nature. Blue is linked to the sky and water and can stimulate calming and peaceful feelings. These serene side effects of blue make it a great color for being mindful and focused.

*Blue is a calming and focused color for yoga!*

Because of these calming zen vibes, blue (especially a lighter hue) is a great color choice for yoga wear or lounging around after an intense sweat sesh for recovery!

*I now understand why the heaviest weight plates are blue!*

Blue is on the lower end of the electromagnetic visible light spectrum. The wavelength of blue is shorter other colors – for example, blue has a 25% shorter wavelength than red. There have been studies done that show gym weights painted blue seem lighter than the same poundage of weights painted red! Blue may make things seem lighter or easier to have less perceived effort. That is great for productivity. Wearing blue, especially bright and vivid hues, may help you have a productive and focused session at the gym – “Do More Blue”!

“Blue” personality athletes like rules, training schedules, and logging results.

According to color personality tests, people who are “Blues” look at exercise in a methodical and orderly way, tracking data details and progress as they move along their fitness journey. I would guess they are less “play it by ear” and more “follow a plan” type people. It’s my guess (and experience with them) that Blues like to participate in sports with defined rules!

Blue has other connotations as well. Sometimes people who are feeling down might say they are blue. But more often blue has positive connotations – “Blue Ribbon” meaning top-notch, first place, or winning to “True Blue” connoting reliability, trustworthiness and loyalty.

After all is said and done, what really matters is what is YOUR mood in blue. If blue makes you feel good then wear it and paint your home gym walls in it! If you are more “blah” about blue, then just sashay down the color spectrum until you fine a color and hue that speaks to YOU!

If you’re loving the idea of “Do More Blue,” check out this collections of Blue Ribbon Burpee Variations I put together:

Try these winning "blue ribbon" burpee ideas that kick up the traditional full-body exercise for even more challenge in your workout. — *Check out the video demo of unique burpee variations in this Pin Story!*

Also of interest. Did you know the blue lenses on sunglasses aren’t there JUST to look cool.

Blue tint on glasses is usually for the purpose of making objects crisper, improving color perception and creating a calming effect. For certain sport-specific glasses, the blue lenses help to reduce sun glare that comes of the snow, water or roads.

Disclaimer: brought to you as part of my relationship with adidas as an ambassador. However, all opinions, suggestions, comments and enthusiasm are my own.

5 Health & Wellness Brands to Upgrade Fitness Self-Care Routine

Posted on April 28, 2021 by Jennifer FIsher

This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx

Running, obstacle course racing plus all the gym, boot camp and other fitness stuff I do, can really take a toll on my body! But, even though I’m in my 50s, I’m not about to give any of it up soon. That’s why I place a premium on eating well to refuel my body, taking proper care of minor injuries that come, and general workout recovery and some self-pampering.

I’m always on the lookout for new-to-me products to help me stay at the top of my game as an athlete and enthusiast of adventurous living. Today, I’m sharing five wellness and fitness finds that are perfect additions to my self-care routine.

Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar Prebiotic Shots (Ginger Turmeric): Gut health is so important for athletes and apple cider vinegar is one well-known way to cleanse and rebalance the body. Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar (raw and unfiltered) is such a well-loved product and has been providing wellness benefits to consumers for more than a century. One of their convenient and very nutritionally functional products is Apple Cider Vinegar Prebiotic Shot which also features turmeric and ginger (and a bit of honey) to help reduce inflammation – which is something I personally manage as an older athlete. Check out the Bragg’s product line up at Bragg.com and save 20% on your order with code BRAGG20

Intensive Foot Repair and Multi-Purpose Nail Repair from Kerasal: If I’m not in running shoes, I’m in flip flops – and sometimes that can be embarrassing due to all my runner foot problems including calluses, dry, cracked heels and toe-nail fungus -ugh. Kerasal Intensive Foot Repair makes my heels (and rough big toe) much more presentable with visible results in just ONE day! It’s an exfoliating moisturizer and callus remover with Salicylic acid that hydrates and moisturizes dry while exfoliating away dead skin. I like to apply it and wear overnight with cotton socks, for best results!

I’ve also been using Kerasal Multi-Purpose Nail Repair to help lessen the “shock and horror” reactions people have when they see my feet and the nail fungus damage. Many of my toenails have been damaged from running, creating a hospitable environment for fungus, which in turn has also made my nails thick and discolored. The patented formula penetrates through the nail’s surface to help restore a healthy appearance – it can also be used on fingernails! It’s the #1 doctor recommended brand, and initial results can start to be seen in a week (although, expect to treat for 3 to 6 months for best results). Try it out and SAVE with this Kerasal coupon.

ll-In-One and Sensitive Skin Liquid Bandage from New Skin®: If you’ve ever run an obstacle course race or are considering it, TRUST ME, you want to have any minor cuts, scrapes, calluses, blisters, and dry cracked skin you have at the start line protected with the liquid bandages from this brand (because SERIOUSLY, who knows WHAT is in that mud)! Unlike traditional bandages that fall off easily when wet, dislodged from vigorous athletic activities, or just won’t work in an awkward and hard-to-cover areas (like between fingers, knees, or long scrapes). These bandages kill 99.9% of germs by providing a flexible seal that keeps out water, dirt, mud, and harmful bacteria. The Sensitive New Skin® Liquid Bandage are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, plus the application and removal is pain-free. These are available at Amazon and Walmart

Sugar Face Scrubs from Tree Hut make me feel pampered in my skin care routine – especially after a hard, sweaty workout or race through mud, dirt and rough terrain! Tree Hut uses 100% natural exfoliants to help me buff away all the grime, dead cells and impurities from my skin and pores, and brighten my complexion in the process. Plus, the glycerin-based formula also helps my skin rehydrate and feel fabulous. Tree Hut’s Sugar Face Scrub line is paraben and cruelty free, vegan. They do not contain formaldehyde donors and are made in the USA. The line contains four different scents/formulas (being the watermelon-lover I am, I chose the Watermelon & Cactus Water Sugar Face Scrub first)!

o Hydrating Watermelon & Cactus Water Sugar Scrub

o Brightening Pineapple & Papaya Face Scrub

o Purifying Blueberry & Turmeric Face Scrub

o Nourishing Banana & Oat Face Scrub

Chomps is not actually a new meat stick brand to me, but one I have loved in the past and was so happy to have again — I’m all about getting enough protein for workout recovery and their 1.15 oz sugar free meat sticks have 9 to 10g protein each! The products, including Original Beef, Jalapeno Beef, and Original Turkey, are made from the highest-quality, sustainably sourced proteins with no hidden, harmful ingredients. Protein sources are never given hormones or antibiotics and humanely raised. You don’t have to be worried about eating something you don’t want, as Chomps free of added sugar, soy, dairy, and artificial stuff like preservatives, colors, nitrates, binders. Beef is grass-fed and grass-finished and turkey is free-range. If you are Paleo, Keto, have gluten and dairy allergies, or just expect the best – then these meat snacks are for you! I like to keep them stashed in my bag when hitting the gym, a road trip, or just a day of errands so I don’t get hangry and end up eating something lesser to this high-quality brand. Save with code BABBLE20 on chomps.com