Welcome to the RDM Blog
Thanks for taking a break from your run and being here!
I enjoy writing about my own personal running journey, bragging about my clients, sharing tips, writing race reports and sharing product reviews for active families. I have worked with close to 300 different brands and events to review and share their products and services.
Earlier blog posts, race reports and product reviews are available on my old blog (2009-2018)
Caterpy No Tie Shoelaces Review & Discount Code
Are you frustrated with your athletic shoes coming untied mid run or workout? Sometimes it doesn't matter how many times you double-knot your favorite pair of running shoes. I have found that the laces on some of my favorite running shoes keep getting shorter and shorter with each purchase. I swear that they are putting shorter laces is them now. I find that I often don't even have room to double-knot my shoes on recent pairs. Every time I purchase a new pair of running shoes, I take the entire shoe lace out, re-lace them and adjust um-teen-million times until I find my desired support at each part of my foot and appropriately cinche at my ankle. My feet and toes still tend to
11 ways to save money on your running & fitness routine
Gym memberships can get pricy – especially if you aren’t using it. Am I right?! And race entry fees can really add up -- if that's what motivates you to put in more miles. Here are some of my favorite ways to save money on your running and fitness routine. With a little forward-thinking and some planning you can really stretch your fitness budget. And, perhaps you'll rejuvenate your workouts and find more joy in them, too. Set a realistic budget and stick to it. It can be so easy to pick up yet another pair of cute leggings when you're at your favorite store. Or register for another race when you see a sponsored post about the next cool event. But, by having
Bob & Brad Heat + Ice Massage Gun Review
Bob and Brad are two well-recognized physical therapists who got their fame from their YouTube channel over a decade ago. Their recorded training tutorials on chronic pain, back relief and more have helped them gain more than 5 million loyal followers and dedicated fans who follow their advice and their brand. Bob and Brad have released an extensive line of pain relief tools and massagers to help make your lifestyle a little more comfortable. They also sell resistance bands, grip strengtheners and heating pads. All of these items are great for those looking to reduce soreness or treat and prevent injury. Their online store is filled with great items for the recreational exerciser, the endurance athlete or the active ager who may be experience
Easy Ways to Strengthen Your Relationship
With the chaotic evenings of rushing kids around, throwing meals in the crockpot and collapsing in bed with exhaustion, it can often be difficult to connect with your spouse about how their day was or to have a quiet, uninterrupted conversation. There is often noise all around us and internal clutter exists from our ever-growing to do list. As convenient as calendars and texting are .... sometimes we have to make a solid effort to physically connect with our spouse. In our home, we have found that if we aren't solid, that the household isn't solid. If we aren't communicating well, that distance turns into disconnect. Here are some easy ways that we are currently connecting more intimately throughout the month: We protect our
Brick Fest Live – Madison, WI Review
We had the opportunity to attend Brick Fest Live in Madison last weekend. There were lots of Legos, lots of hands-on activities .... and lots of people! This two day event took place January 27-28 -- peak time for Midwesterns to be looking for indoor activities to entertain their littles. It was perfect timing to get out of the house and try something new. We arrived around 10:30 am on Saturday. We spent a little over 90 minutes touring the exhibits. If you are a LEGO enthusiast, then you could easily pack a whole day away at this event.We were shocked by how many people were in attendance. During the last thirty minutes of our visit, there were even more, making it somewhat difficult
5 ways to fight holiday weight gain this season
There are treats around every corner during this time of year and some of your favorites are only around for a limited time. It can very easy for those yummy tastes and bites to add up. If you are really enjoying your grandma's cut-out cookies or like reaching for that glass of egg nog throughout the season, here are some of my top tips for keeping your weight in check during this holiday season. Create parameters for yourself. Before the holiday season begins, take out your phone or your favorite notepad and write down some parameters for yourself. (no ice cream for thirty eays, only eat cookies at holiday parties, only buy one gallon of egg nog, prep your meals every Sunday, weigh yourself
5 ways to increase your movement this holiday season
Is your to do list a mile long this holiday season? Did you over-commit to extra parties, volunteering or events this season? It's okay. If you're struggling to find some time for yourself this holiday season - focus on committing to just thirty minutes to yourself each and every day. Remember, that half hour doesn't have to look the same every day. Because your bulleted list and your daily activities are going to look every day, too. Use these five suggestions to increase your movement this holiday season. Double your workouts. Aim for a longer gym session than you normally make time for. Or spread out your workouts throughout the day. Try a cardio workout followed by a full body strength session. You'll be
8 ways to stay on track this holiday season
Are you anxious about the upcoming holiday season? Have a ton of gifts to buy, worried about family dynamics, traditions to fulfill and worried about all of the holiday treats that you’re going to enjoy? First, take a moment to breathe and remember that it’s okay to say “no” to obligations, not to do every holiday tradition that you’ve always done. You can also surround yourself this holiday season with people that enhance your whole experience, versus those that zap your energy. It’s also okay to say “no” to treats that you don’t actually enjoy -- and to say “yes” to time for yourself. Here are some of the ways that I am planning to stay on track this holiday season – and make
KURU Loft Slipper for Plantar Fasciitis Review
If you struggle with foot or heel pain - like I do - then you know it's a constantly struggle to feel comfortable when moving both outdoors and indoors. Transitioning to cooler temperatures at home has meant that I know have my flannel pajamas on and my cozy moccassin slippers in the evenings and on the weekends. When I'm not in my workout gear, this is my "at home uniform". However, since my plantar fasciitis has really been flaring up this season - it's been difficult to wear my regular slippers in the house. They are all cozy - but offer absolutely no support or comfort. I was landing flat footed and it was getting difficult to get up and walk to the bathroom
BioLift Focus Nootropic Dietary Supplement Review
Are you addicted to soda? Do you drink a whole pot of coffee at your desk during your workday to stay focused? How about purchasing an energy drink every time you stop by a convenience store to stay alert during your drive? You may want to consider nootropic dietary supplements. The BioLift Focus drink is a naturally sweetened drink with fruit extracts. I was sent the sparkly peach mango flavor, which honestly would have been my least favorite flavor out of the three offered online. But it was actually, surprisingly great-tasting and gave me an afternoon pick-me up. My teenage son liked the taste a lot, too. BioLift also offers mixed berry and mandarin orange flavors. Their three flavor variety pack would be a
10 Power Songs to Get You Through a Tough Workout
Are you looking for some motivation? Are you looking to freshen-up your playlist a bit? The following power songs are a perfect blend of rhythm, motivation and lyrics to help motivate you through that next tough workout. I’ve used these songs plenty of times to push myself through “the wall” or help myself finish the workout that I am scheduled to do. Load these ten songs on your playlist and let these tunes push you through your hardest moments – and help you reach your full potential. The Champion (The Score) Going for Greatness (Future Royalty) Ready or Not (WAR*HALL) Fighter (Royal Deluxe) Indestructible (Sam Tinnesz) Remember the Name (Fort Minor) More Power (7kingZ) I’m Doing It (WAR*HALL) Fighter (The Score) We Got
7 Runs + Coffee Adventures in the Madison Area
It’s the perfect season for running and a pumpkin spice latte. So let’s do both! Lets head out for your next training run somewhere new and finish with a warm cup of your favorite coffee. After stretching, of course! Enjoy some quality “me time” or connect with your running friends. Here is my updated list of my favorite hot spots for hitting the trails around the Madison, Wisconsin area and seven quaint, local spots for a warm cup of coffee afterwards. Running Diva Mom Studio + Beans N Cream - Sun Prairie Park in the heart of downtown Sun Prairie at Running Diva Mom Studio. My boutique fitness studio is located in Cannery Square. Travel on foot across Main Street and up Market St,
9 ways to get yourself out the door when you don’t want to run
Are you full of excuses right now? Do you have a long run scheduled, but would rather be doing something else? Do you feel like your list at home is a mile long? Are you on the struggle buss? It's okay, we've all been there. Here is my tried-and-true list of ways to get yourself out that door when you don't want to run. Think of the run as a mental activity, versus a physical one. Think of how clear your mind will be after you exert some energy on the pavement and how better you can approach everything - and everyone - at home once you return. Use your run as a therapy session with yourself. Talk through things in your head. Leave
Get to know your Personal Trainer
So, I have onboarded several new clients and met a lot of new faces in classes this summer and fall. I thoroughly enjoy my job, my role in your health and wellness routine and bringing joy to your workouts. If you've ever wondered what parts of my day brings me the most joy or what my workouts might look like during the week -- here's a little insight. Make a list like this for yourself -- and add more of this to your days ahead. Did you always run: Nope. Hated it. What year did you start running: 2005 Favorite distance: Half marathon, but the marathon pushes me and my training. Favorite race: Rails to Trails Marathon in Sparta, WI Favorite memory: Crossing the
8 Ways to Workout on Vacation
We enjoy traveling and exploring a lot as a family. And this doesn’t mean that I am taking a break from my workouts. I really love continuing to move before my family gets up for our busy day or incorporating movement into our activities as a group. It just takes a little planning. Whether you are traveling to a colder destination or are relaxing on a beach, here are eight of my tips for workout out on vacation. If you’re staying at a hotel, take advantage of your free hotel gym, pool and sauna. After you’re checked in and settled, take a few moments to check out the space and see what kind of equipment is offered, the condition of the equipment and see
5 Places to Run with Fall Color in Sun Prairie
Fall is my favorite season to run, hike and bike. There is just something special about the coolness on your sweaty skin, the slight breeze in the air and the change of colors all around you. Sun Prairie has a lot of great locations to take your next workout this fall. From quiet roads, to neighborhood bike paths to dirt trails - there is a variety of terrain surrounded by fall color throughout the city. These are my top five places to run with fall color in Sun Prairie. Be on the lookout for my next pop-up class, a Fall Color Stroll, Strength and Stretch Session at Sheehan Park. Patrick Marsh Patrick Marsh is located on the northeast side of Sun Prairie and includes
KURU Flux Running Shoe Review
Have you heard of KURU Footwear? Nope. I hadn’t either when they reached out. When I visited their website, their motto was “heel better”. That’s it. Ironically, my chronic hip and ankle injuries have also been causing a lot of heel pain in my left foot recently. So I took them up on the opportunity to pick out a pair of running shoes to test out. KURU also offers a variety of everyday fitness, walking, hiking shoes and boots for your outdoor adventures as well as sandals and slippers for your indoor lounging. I selected the KURU Flux in Orange Sherbert and Calypso Blue. This running shoe is also a great walking shoe and works well for all fitness activities that move your body
10 reasons to select Running Diva Mom as your personal trainer
Much of your success is about the environment that you choose. A major factor associated with your environment is choosing a time of day that works best for YOU. We will work together to select a time of day when you move your best. This will make you most successful with getting to our weekly workouts together. Most clients commit to a weekly time slot with me; though I do meet with some clients bi-weekly or twice a week. I specialize in working with busy women just like you. I try to make your movement sessions efficient. We will work together on your personal goals, as well as my goals for you as a client. My goal is to make you challenged with each
Turning a new page.
A client challenged me to read a book with her. A little bit of a nudge to rest more and slow life down a bit. I picked the booked, something that I found in the staff picks section of my local library. I like books that I can relate to. A character going through something similar to myself. Something I am yearning to be. I tried my hardest for a few weeks to get through the pages of this book. However, after rising at 3:30 each morning for work and moving all day, I find that my body is ready for “complete rest” by 8:30. And I was only about to complete a few pages each evening – or a chapter at best. I
Seven things to do before running your first 5K
Running your first race is a fun experience. This is something you will never forget. I still remember mine. You’ve just accomplished something amazing – perhaps something you never thought you could do! But, you did it. You should be so proud of yourself! Whether immediately after the race, or weeks following your event – many new runners often think “What do I do now?”. Whether you are looking to run longer distances or wanting to stay injury-free, here are seven great tips on what you can do after completing your first 5K. Don’t forget to stretch immediately after you race. Grab some water and hydrate while completing a short cool-down walk, followed by 5-10 minutes of stretching. Many new (and experienced) runners get
15 ways to drink more water
Many of you may have set a New Year’s resolution to drink more water or give up soda. I gave up soda in November and am nearly eight months of being soda-free. Being a Diet Mountain Dew addict, I admit that it was difficult at first. I especially struggled when eating out, but it’s totally been worth it. Water keeps you hydrated, makes you feel less bloated and you consume fewer calories. Water also makes your skin clearer and more hydrated, which is especially important this time of year. Choosing water when dining out is also a money saver. I have been playing a lot of tricks with myself to consume more water. Here are fifteen ways to drink more water throughout your day;
How to Be More Efficient when Tracking your Food
I know that tracking your food can take up a lot of your time. That’s why people tend to avoid doing it. But with great planning and consistent routines, you can become more efficient with tracking, too. It will even become a habit. Here are some of my top strategies that I share with my weight loss accountability groups to make sure that I track my meals and fitness every day and how to be more efficient with tracking your food. Do it at the beginning of your day. If you track your anticipated calories and your anticipated workouts, you are going to be less likely to omit your workout session and add in extra treats later in the day. If you have to,
Five Hills to Run in Sun Prairie
For most clients' custom training programs, I try to incorporate one hard run day during the week - this typically alternates between speed work and hill work. I offer a variety of custom pace charts and treadmill interval workouts for speedwork. For those that don't prefer the treadmill for incline work, they opt to head outdoors for hill work. Hills can be quite challenging. I get it. I suggest starting with a warm-up of 5-10 mins at an easy (conversation) pace, complete some hill repeats or rolling hills for about 20-30 mins and the finish with 5-10 minutes of an easier run on flat terrain, followed by 5-10 mins of full body stretching. Here are five outdoor locations for practicing your hill work in
A Runner’s Guide to Treating & Preventing Blisters
Whether you are new runner, and your feet are experiencing more movement and more friction or you are a seasoned, long-distance runner working your way through heated pavement and wet trails - chances are you have experienced a nagging blister somewhere along your training runs. There are many factors that can cause these painful foot blisters. And sometimes they sneak up without you even noticing. With some mindful planning and awareness, you can not only help treat your blisters - you can also prevent them from stopping your run. Excessive heat, through moisture and humidity and running longer distances are also common causes. Many marathoners don't experience blisters during long training runs, but when they push themselves further than their feet are used to,
Tips for meal planning and preparation
So, I have been meal planning for quite a few years now. And our family absolutely loves the structure that it gives to our busy weeks. I plan our evenings around our busy, active lifestyle and my parenting schedule with my two older children. Our meal plan isn’t overly complicated and isn’t always 100% healthy. But it gives us variety to our weeks and has helped us save thousands of dollars. We typically only eat out when the meal plan calls for it. Meal planning takes the guess work out of what to have when you get home and everyone is hungry, prevents you from visiting the drive-thru and prevents you from using excuses like, “I forgot to thaw out meat.” or “Oh shoot,
