Halloween marks the beginning of the holiday season. Bring on the pies, candies, parties and—for the average person—a few pounds of extra weight! But it is possible for you and your family to enjoy this fun holiday without going completely unhealthy. Here’s how. … //READ MORE

We all know that working out is one of the best things we can do for ourselves to stay healthy and stress free. But let’s face it: Our lives are so busy that there are some days where squeezing in exercise seems next to impossible. This time of the year is especially tough, with the frenzy of holidays, social gatherings and, if you’ve got children, back-to-school events preventing us from getting enough workout time. There are some weeks where you fear you might not see your running shoes or yoga pants at all.

But here’s something to get you pumped up: There’s absolutely no reason to avoid working out, even when your calendar is jam-packed and your to-do list is a mile long. Actually those are the times when working out is probably most crucial to your wellbeing. Increasing your heart rate and releasing those amazing endorphins help to keep you focused and sane. The key is to get creative, and to learn how to sneak in some exercise no matter where you are and how busy you are. Make yourself and your workouts a priority, and there’s nothing you can’t accomplish. … //READ MORE

Are you in a workout slump? Are you tired of your regular fitness routine and looking for a new challenge? Whatever you do, don’t give up and stop exercising. It’s perfectly normal to hit a plateau or get bored with your regimen from time to time. But there’s always a way to get yourself motivated again.

To trick is to be adventurous. Nowadays, there are so many interesting workouts out there just begging to be explored. Many are classes whose other participants can help inspire you, and some are activities you can do on your own, if you prefer exercising solo. Here, we present a dozen great workouts to try. Some you may have heard about, while others may surprise you. Give at least one of them a spin this summer … //READ MORE

So you’ve been running for a while, and it’s been a great way to stay fit and emotionally sane. But now that you’ve burned through a couple pairs of athletic shoes, you’re thinking about getting competitive. You know other women who’ve completed races and you think all those photos of them wearing sponsor shirts and crossing the finish line with big smiles on their faces make it look fun. You’re starting to think about entering a race yourself.

Maybe you’re seeking a fresh way to stay motivated with your workout routine. Perhaps you want to meet other people who share your passion. Or maybe you’re just looking for an excuse to dress up in some cool racing gear. Whatever your reason for entering that first competition, the decision can be exhilarating. But where do you start? Here’s a great plan, in 7 easy steps. Ready, set, go! … //READ MORE

Is running your passion? Do you enjoy the exhilaration of racing competitively? Would you love to get discounts or free samples of products you love? If you said yes to all the above, consider becoming a brand ambassador.

Most female athletes don’t know they’re qualified to get sponsored in their next race. Once upon a time, a runner needed to have an elite status with a “pro card,” or at least qualify with fast times at exclusive races. But over the last decade, the media has completely changed the ways of traditional brand sponsorships. Everyday athletes, even those who aren’t particularly fast, are increasingly getting in on the act. They’re representing prestigious brands and, in turn, receiving valuable perks such as free race entries, product discounts and freebies, and sometimes even cash.

What’s required to be an ambassador? Can you really be a back-of-the-pack  run/walker or even a mud runner? The truth is you can! Here are several ways to put yourself in the running to represent the brand of your choice. … //READ MORE