[38] Technical Support

When I started running, I was a 36F (or 36DDD). To be completely honest, finding a sports bra which avoided "Uni-boob Syndrome", "Sandbag Drag", and laying multiple sports bras for support was one of the most frustrating things I have ever experienced. Full-Figured Ladies, if you want to take up running or any other medium to high impact workout/sport, go get fitted for a bra. Yes, the brassiere boutiques will run two to three times the price of those lovely bargain buys at sporting goods shops or mall retailers, but I guarantee that you will find something that lifts, separates, and supports your girls. It makes you look lighter, feel more confident, and gives you fewer excuses to get active (also, very, very important)!

A serious bra for serious gals!

My first bra fitting was two years ago, prior to moving to New York. I went to The Bra Boutique in Coral Springs, Florida, and had my first holistic bra fitting. Without hesitation, I took home my first Freya Active Sports Bra (soft cup, no underwire), and year later, I ran my first half-marathon in it! Being the vanilla, boring gal I am, I opted for the safe, "nude" option, but now I see they have red, I may need to bring it back into my fitness arsenal.

Next up, I am in love with the Ta-Ta Tamer (T3) by lululemon athletica. The variety of colors, convertible straps, and in-store availablity for DD-sizes makes me quite happy. I discovered lululemon after seeing an advert in one of my magazines, and turned out there was a boutique (Greenwich, CT) and a showroom (Rye, NY) in my area, so I checked them out. The concept of mixing yoga and running is something I have toyed with for a while, so it was nice to see a brand which encompasses both without sacrificing function for fashion. After the waves of awe and intimidation washed over and away upon entering, I realized I found a safe haven, even as a full-figured athlete.

"The Definition of Support" by lululemon athletica

Like Freya, lululemon comes with a higher end price tag, but the quality of products are worth it. After running the Princess Half in February, the T3 became my running bra of choice. My only concern is that I am developing "Pokemon Symdrome" and have this need to collect the bra in multiple colors! I have three (black, white, and gray stripe), but looking at their catalogue and previous season items, I have a hankering for some color, too. Hopefully with my continued training, I can lose the remaining weight I need (and decrease my bust a bit more), so for now, I must hold off. Maybe once the summer is over and I've completed my next two halves, I can treat my girls to something flashy.

[33] Retail Therapy

Note: I started writing this post in tandem with "Trail Blazin'", and it's best nestled in beween my brunch at the Ritz-Carlton and my run in the rain.  

After my peaceful brunch was interrupted, I decided to get some fresh air and do a little window shopping. The selection of running and athletic apparel shops in White Plains is very limited (and I wasn't in the mood ot deal with the bozos at Sports Authority or test out the newly opened Dick's Sporting Goods), so after a drop by at WRR, I drove out to my beloved Greenwich.

Westchester Road Runner (White Plains, NY)
I love the folks who work here because they are all warm, happy people. I remember their extensive sports bra collection, but alas, I couldn't find any of the Moving Comfort bras that fit right. I love the adjustable straps, but the lack of breast separation (pardon the TMI for my male readers) was rather annoying. Also, the bounce reduction on even their high impact bras weren't satifactory for me. Though I love taking my time to look around, I knew I had to book it to Greenwich so as to complete my quest.

lululemon athletica Greenwich (151 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich, CT 06830)
I love l.a.g., but I always wind up spending money because I find things on sale. Initially, my goal was to acquire the run:speed skirt in Tango Red ($54), but my hopes were crushed as they only had sizes six and two in stock (and its already sold out online). When I inquired the day before about the availability, they said they had it in stock, so I was rather disappointed to see it gone (as they do not hold merch or take phone purchases). Though I don't mind making the 20 minute drive to Greenwich, I was a little frustrated. After a little browsing, I managed to decide on the following: Chai Time Pullover (Gray; $88), Skinny Satin Pirouette Headband (Tango Red; $12), and another wonderful Ta-Ta Tamer (T3; Heather Stripes; $58).

I really love their lightweight jackets for spring, but the price is a little steep. I am also in the market for tanktops which have more than a spaghetti strap or plunging neckline (neither are practical for sports as far as I am concerned). I am still on my quest for a regular white T3, but it looks I am going to have to battle hooligans and snipers on eBay if I want one as its not an en vogue color currently.

Threads & Treads (17 East Putnam Ave, Greenwich, CT 06830)
I have been looking for T&T for months now, and I realized last week that it's a stone's throw from Greenwich Running Company on East Putnam. It was my first time in the shop and I certainly wasn't disappointed. The staff were really nice and knowledgeable about their product lines. The shop space is a little cozy, but that doesn't detract from their diverse selection of merchandise. I really wanted a pair of Under Armour 7" Bermuda shorts in sandstorm or black, but sadly they were out of stock. I will try to find a sports shop which has them in stock so I can buy the correct size. These would be ideal for summer program as they are a technical short disguised as "business casual" (or golf) shorts.

After chatting with the sales lady, I wound up picking up two Seamless Sugarlips Tanktops ($14; Kelly Green & Neon Lime): I was rather concerned about the "one size fits most" sizing, but it was nice and snug (and retains its shape after). I've heard about Sugarlips before, but never ventured to try on their products. Though they also make camisoles, I think I will be stocking up on the scoop neck tank tops, as there are over 30 colors to choose from! While I was checking out, I snagged some Honey Stinger Energy Chews on an impulse. Without realizing it, I picked up the "cherry blossom" (cherry) flavored pack. It was nice and seasonal. Though I intended on saving it for my race on Saturday, it wound up being a late night snack (in lieu of hitting up the vending machine for junk). I liked it very much, will definitely purchase more.

I liked that they had a selection of bicycle gear and surfing/beach wear in addition to their running and tennis wear. It was a refreshing change.

Greenwich Running Company (2 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich, CT 06830)
After my disappointing first visit to GRC, I figured I would give them another shot. Situated at the top of the hill on Greenwich Ave, they have a gorgeous view down the hill to the train station. Their selection on fuel and gear, as well as their own gait analysis system reminded my why I originally stepped through their doors the first time. Luckily, the two gents working the counter today were far nicer, and we had a nice chat. I asked for feedback on the fueling selection, as I couldn't buy everything (this time at least).

I wound up picking up a Crunchy Peanut Butter CLIF Bar ($2), CLIF Shot Gel (Mocha + Caffeine), and nuun U Tangerine Ginger Natural Hydration Tablets (16 Count; $9.00). I have loved CLIF bars since I discovered them at Trader Joes. I was using CLIF Shot Bloks for my half-marathons, but wound up snagging a free gel (in mocha) around mile eight or nine of the Princess Half, and it was pretty good. The only new product trial will be the hydration tablets, but I was reassured that I would not be disappointed. I also gravitated to the sock wall as my colorful Asics socks are wearing thin and I have a lack of technical socks currently. I bought a pair of Balega X-Athlete Hidden Comfort Socks (White; $10.00; Unisex Small) when I was in D.C. for the Cherry Blossom 5K, and I loved them. This resulted in a second pair being bought on the spot.

Lucy Activewear: The Avenue (72 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich, CT 06830)
I've passed Lucy nearly every time I've visited Greenwich, but I never went inside as I had never heard of the brand. What I like about this particular brand is that they also include trek wear, a la The North Face (with a diet price tag). I really liked their light weight materials for their hiking wear (which would make working without roasting in the summer time ideal). I will need to restock my summer, "cool biz" wardrobe for the office, so I am thinking their "Walk About" Bermuda Shorts ($48; which remind me so lovingly of LOST) may soon become a staple. Also, their shorter length ($48; for playtime) shorts are also cute. The Spa Skort is also cute, but I would need to see it before I commit to a return to culottes. With the slim, A-line shape, they may not be as suspect as they sound.

It was a close call, but I put a a copy of Dr. Mao's Secrets of Longevity 8-Week Diary ($14.95) and pair of Gal Pal's Retro Ice Bags ($16/each) back on the shelf. I wanted to check the online price versus their retail markup. Call me savvy or a cheapskate. I don't care. Turns out the section at Lucy was two dollars cheaper! If you buy direct from GP, it's $16 a piece (+S&H). Granted, the selection at GP was different than that of Lucy, so it is possible that Lucy has the older models. I like the idea of having a couple proper ice bags/hot water bottles in my running gear, epecially for destination races (plastic bags and hotel beds do not mix).

Overall, I had a rather productive shopping excursion. Granted, I bought everything but the one thing I set out for, but sometimes its the items that you don't look for that wind up being the better investments. I just hope I can get my hands on a Tango Red run:speed skirt (size 10) by 5/8 for my Japan Run for Hope in Central Park 4 Miler. It would look bad ass with the t-shirt my students designed.

[16] Lululemon & Yoga for Runners

Prior to February Race Weekend 2011, I went to Lululemon Athletica in Greenwich, CT. After being grossly disappointed in the racer back sports bra I was sold over winter vacation, I needed to find something more suitable for a runner and break it in before hopping the plane to Florida. I discovered Lululemon courtesy of an ad in my beloved Runner's World Magazine. Though their prices are a little higher than my tried and true Nike, their yoga inspired clothing also has running counterparts! I've worn my Victoria's Secret yoga pants into the ground, and I felt it necessary to widen my sphere of fashion! Support, in particular, is something I cannot afford to skimp on.

Entering a boutique, especially one in Greenwich, is overwhelming for me. You can always tell who the regulars and veterans are, and who are slinking in for the first time-- like me. What I love about the LA staff (both in Greenwich and Rye) is that everyone is so sweet and knowledgeable about their product lines. As a fuller figured athlete, it's a little embarrassing for me to ask for something to wrangle 'the girls' so as to avoid further tissue damage. Thankfully, one of the girls noticed my lack of ease, and took care of me without much fuss at all. I am now a enthusiastic supporter of the "Ta Ta Tamer"! I figured I would go with the standard black, but I have a hankering for some of their brightly colored counterparts! I like how the shoulder straps can be either straight or criss-crossed for a little extra control.

When I came back today, I thanked the girl who sold the bra to me, and she remembered my name! She also congratulated me on my race! I found a pair of their Run: Aspire Crops on Final Sale, so as they are perfect for Spring Training, I picked them up. Surprisingly, at 5'4", these 'crops' come down to my ankles! I could have had them tailored, but it's still a bit chilly outside for me! I got them in black with some ash and grape paneling, so they will match the new Princess 1/2 garb in my closet!

The Greenwich Store also offers yoga classes on Sunday mornings at 10AM. If I can roll out of bear early enough on the weekends I am off, I may need to trot over and learn how to properly do some of these moves. Sadly, the Rye Showroom is closing in a few weeks while corporate decides where in Westchester to put their boutique shop. The ladies there will be transferred to Greenwich, so I'll be able to get their advice as well! I bought a stainless steel Sigg 'I <3 Running' water bottle today and they gave me an awesome Super Hero bag!!

In the mean time, I will also be hitting the mat thanks to Women's Health Magazine! They prove monthly yoga workouts in their magazine and online, but what caught my eye was their article on Yoga for Runners. Once I get the basics down, I'll be attempting to tackle Tara Stile's Skinny Jeans Yoga Workout. I'll need to be much more flexible if I intend on doing that six week series without snapping a leg off at the knee!  Cross-training is no longer limited to biking and swimming for developing a strong core. Runner's World also runs a series of Yoga for Runners both in print and online which further emphasizes the crucial nature of yoga for injury prevention, stress release, and core training.

Time to hit the mat and then hit the road!