Gu Recovery Brew Review

Gu Recovery Brew Review

Should I drink a recovery drink after a run?

There is a precious window of opportunity after a workout where your body processes nutrition at a faster rate than normal.  Post workout nutrition is important for restoring glycogen levels after a run.  For those looking for quick and convenient recovery nutrition, I am reviewing the GU Recoverade drink mix.

Recoverade has the magic carb to protein ratio of 4:1. This is seen to improve muscle recovery after a workout.  As a bonus, you also get electrolytes to help aid in rehydration, and gly to help combat muscle soreness.

When mixed with cold water, the strawberry watermelon flavor tastes pretty good. It has flavor, without being too sweet.  It is difficult to keep the drink mixed, as the powder starts to settle at the bottom of the glass.  I recommend using a Blender Bottle so you can continue to mix as you drink.  As far as performance enhancement goes, I honestly can't say that the drink provides any added benefits over a glass of chocolate milk or other post workout nutrition boasting the 4:1 ratio.  However, the convenience of taking the powder with you and filling up a water bottle beats having to make a pit stop on your way home from a hard workout.  For those who cannot tolerate food after a run, this would be an excellent choice.

Final verdict: Great for the convenience factor, has a pleasant taste and added electrolytes. Performance enhancing benefits are yet to be determined.

Nathan Water Bottle Holster Review

Review: Nathan water bottle holder

When running long distances, it is important to stay hydrated.  There are a number of products on the market which can help you do that.  These range from hydration packs, to handheld water bottles.  And there is always the tried and true water bottle stashing technique.  Today, we will be looking at the Nathan water bottle holder.

The Nathan holder comes equipped with a 20 oz. water bottle with a sport top.  The belt clips together and is fully adjustable.  There is a small compartment which can hold keys and some gels (probably not a cell phone).  The bottle is set at an angle and is held in by a cord.

The holder looks great.  I was pleased by the bright pink color and reflection strips.  When I put it on empty, the bottle stayed in place and did not bounce.  However, when the bottle is full it does bounce quite a bit.  This bouncing got pretty annoying.  If the bottle is filled past the half way point, it bounces.  I tried wearing it more on my hips, then higher up on my waist and it still bounced.  The bottle sits on your back and is hard to grab while running.  I found myself having to slow to a walk whenever i wanted a drink.  I also had a hard time getting the bottle top closed, which led to a trail of red Gatorade down my back.  The good news is that because the straps clip, they did not become loose during all this bouncing.  The part that sits against your back is also covered with a soft material and did not cause any excess sweat or chafing.

Final verdict: This belt would be great for a low impact activity like walking or hiking.  Unfortunately, there is just too much bounce to be a good running companion.  At 20 oz, it does hold quite a bit of liquid.

Thorlo Experia Socks Review

Thorlo Socks Review

Thorlo Experia Socks for Long Distance Running

When going the distance, you want to keep your feet as comfortable as possible.  We spend a lot of money on the right running shoes, but what about the socks? Today I am reviewing the Thorlo Experia running socks.

 These socks come in a variety of colors.  After a few washings, the neon yellow socks I bought are as good as new.  When looking at the socks, you notice the cushioned pads at the balls of the feet and the heel.  The rest of the sock is lightweight and made of a thin material.  The socks are breathable and extremely comfortable to wear.  I wore them to run a half marathon and had no problems at all.  The length is just right as to stop your shoes from rubbing against the skin on your ankle, but not too long as to be obtrusive.  The pads did add a little extra comfort.

Final verdict: worth the $15 price tag.

Running Buddy Review

Running Buddy Review

Smartphone Running Holder

I am always looking for convenient ways to carry my running "stuff".  I absolutely hate arm bands, and as a result, I don't usually carry my phone with me while running.  I recently bought the Samsung Galaxy 5 and wanted to take it out for a spin.  After a ton of research (because that's what I do), I decided to purchase the Running Buddy.

The Running Buddy is a waterproof pocket that you attach to your pants or shorts using a magnetic flap.  It is just large enough to fit a phone a few other essentials like keys and money.  I did have to take my phone out of it's protective case in order to get it to fit into the slim waterproof pocket.  I didn't mind doing this, because it ultimately meant less bulk.

I am pleased with the Running Buddy.  I wish I could say I forgot I was wearing it, but that isn't the case.  I was always aware it was on, but it wasn't annoying at all.  The Running Buddy works better with some of my bottoms than others.  It seems to work best with drawstring shorts, or bottoms that are pretty tight at the waist.  I have a pair of long stretchy shorts that I love to run in, but I think the elastic at the waist is just too loose and caused the Buddy to bounce around.  I also found that wearing the pocket at the small of my back has worked the best, though by wearing it in the front, you do have easy access to all of your belongings.