Get Ready,Get Dressed, Go!

The Inner Wear — What to Wear for Under Wear Finding the right bra has just become easier. Hind has just released the Motion Sensor Bra. The bra was named the “hottest selling bra” in 2004 by Activa, a woman’s fitness gear catalog from Road Runner Sports. This bra has just the right amount of support, comfort, and style. It is the first and only bra to have a built-in cup that is breathable, stretchable, molded. It has the ability to support and fit a large cup-sized woman. It is extremely comfortable and attractive enough to wear under your walking shirt or stands alone for working out in the gym.

The Outer Wear — 180s’™ ExoLite Ear Warmers These wrap-behind-the-head™ ear warmers were designed for aerobic training in the cold and wind. These ear warmers are ultra lightweight with an exoskeletal frame, ideal for walking in the cold. They offer a wind-blocking, moisture-wicking fabric with an anti-bacterial finish. For enhanced safety in low light conditions, 3M™ Scotchlite™ reflective print is applied to the ear pieces. The result is a refined product for all athletes — a sleek, ultra lightweight, collapsible ear warmer.

180s’™ Convertible Running Glove The compromise that a walker must make on a cold day is to either overdress or underdress for the conditions. These gloves have lightweight, breathable Coolmax® Extreme mesh that wicks away moisture keeping hands dry. The design allows the walker to add and remove an additional layer of protection without the risk of dropping it. They are extremely lightweight and highly breathable to prevent overheating. The glove’s wrist cuff accommodates the use of stop watches and heart rate monitors. There is reflective piping sewn into the back of the glove to provide visibility during late-night and early-morning walks.

A Winter Apparel Guide

By Paula Harkin

During the hustle and bustle of the winter holiday season, we need more than ever to get outside and get moving! Nothing cures holiday stress better than a good walk or run after a holiday meal or a company party. This “Apparel Guide” is all about how to stay warm and comfortable during the cold winter months so that you can keep on moving. After all, swimsuit season is not too far away!

The first rule: always layer. Layering is key to cold weather exercise. Start with a lightweight long-sleeve base layer. Make sure it is made with a technical fabric, preferably polyester. Polyester has wicking powers that move perspiration away from the skin so that it can evaporate. We all know that cotton, although comfortable, should not be included in any of your layering as it holds onto sweat making you cold and your shirt heavy. Look for the Brooks Vapor Dry Hoodie, great for layering and has hand muffs and a hood built right in.

Next, pants. Medium-weight tights are a great way to cover your legs and keep the wind and rain off of your skin. Check out the Sugoi Zap tights for a comfortable fit with plenty of reflectivity. Sugoi mid-zero tights are also available with a fleece lining for colder weather, perfect for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or hiking. Nike has a fantastic well-fitting tight as does Brooks. The Sporthill Voyage Pant is a favorite if you like pockets and a loose-fitting pant. Lightweight wind pants are also a favorite among walkers. Layering tights underneath a wind pant is a great technique.

Covering the core is next. You might try a vest, or a lightweight water-resistant jacket. Keeping your core warm and dry is key to a successful outing. If you plan on walking or running in the rain look for the waterproof, breathable jackets by Nike, New Balance and Brooks, all priced reasonably. Take a look at the Asics packable jacket while you are out shopping at your favorite specialty store. Packable jackets turn themselves into a pack that buckles around your waist designed for easy carrying. These jackets are designed for those who tend to heat up quickly, yet don’t want to tie a jacket around their waist.

Remember that reflectivity, breathability, and fit are important. Look for comfort when choosing your winter apparel pieces and enjoy the newest cool colors and cuts to make you feel bright and cheery!

Last, don’t forget about hats, gloves, and warm socks. You have many to choose from but keep fit and comfort in mind. Covering your head is essential as 50% of your body heat can be lost through your head.

Tip: Feeling a little cold during your first mile is okay. Most folks quickly learn that when you start out on your fitness journey a bit on the cold side, you end up feeling just right after about one mile!

Paula Harkin is the founder of RunwithPaula Events, Inc. She and her husband Dave are the owners of Portland Running & Walking Company. Check out Paula’s events at www.runwithpaula.com.