The Buzz Behind CrossFit

By now, I’m sure you’ve heard of the craze sweeping the nation called CrossFit. CrossFit is an intense strength & conditioning program that works out the body by constantly switching the focus – you never work out the same muscle group back to back. Crossfit gyms have popped up all over the US; and have been touted by everyone from police academies to elite athletes to people just wanting to get in better shape.

CrossFit athlete and owner of Battleship CrossFit in Panama City, FL - Eberle Funches
in a custom black and white Enell Sport bra

Most CrossFit athletes enjoy the communal workouts that last 30-45 minutes. Coaches run workouts that include everything from dead lifts to burpees. The communal workouts have created an incredibly tight community, where athletes bond and push each other to better their fitness. Most gyms ask that newbies visit their local gym, get a fitness test and provide an intro course where those new to CrossFit can learn how to properly do the exercises without injury.

If you’re anything like me, your first thought is: what’s the price? Most gyms provide various packages, where athletes can pay per session or lump sum based on the number of workouts they attend. In addition, most gyms post their daily workouts for those athletes that cannot make it to the gym.

Tell us – have any of you tried CrossFit? 

What's tone got to do with it?

If you’re anything like me, when it comes time to shedding pounds your mind goes right to sweating them off by focusing on a cardio workout. Did you know that lifting weights can actually jump start your weight loss? No, you don’t have to become a bodybuilder or spend all your time with on the weight machines. But some light toning a few days a week can add lots of benefits:

• Weight loss: muscles burn more calories than fat, and continue to burn calories post-workout. Want to skip the cardio? Burn just as many calories doing some circuit training. 
• Bye-bye flab: in addition to losing weight, with muscle toning you can focus on problem areas and knock that flab out. Does excess flab under your arms have you covering up in the summer? Tone those triceps, and break out the strapless dresses! Same goes for thighs and love handles. 
• Less fatigue: strengthening your muscles will actually help you improve your endurance levels; you’ll be able hit that cardio longer and better in the long run. 
• Good posture: stronger core muscles make it easier to stand up straight by providing the strength and support your frame needs for good posture. 
• Prevent injury: when toned, muscles keep everything in place and keep your body moving the way it was designed to move. 

Tell us – what are you favorite toning exercises?

Enell in Shape Magazine - May 2013

We are so excited to have the ENELL Sport bra included in the May 2013 issue of Shape Magazine. We were picked as a top sports bra for D+ cups.

Pick up the issue on newsstands today!

Gear Up for Triathlons

So, you’ve decided to tackle your first triathlon – good for you!  But the sheer amount of gear to choose from can be completely overwhelming for a beginner.  Rest assured, you don’t need to run out and buy the newest, most high-tech and aero-dynamic gear your first time out.  Save your bucks – get what’s necessary for your first one.  Let your inner gear-head go wild once you have fallen in love with the sport.

Here is a list of absolute must-have gear for your first triathlon:

1. Swim suit – find a suit that you are comfortable in, but is still snug enough to help you get through the water without issue.  Many women choose to use their ENELL SPORT bras under their swimsuits for extra control. When choosing a swimsuit, sizing is much different than your normal summer swim suit, so it would behoove you to try on a few on before purchasing.  Also, make sure you purchase the suit and train in it to get comfortable – the last thing you want to do is wear a new suit that you’ve tried before on race day.  To cut down on the amount of gear, check out tri-suits – these are suits designed specifically for triathlons; think of it as a swim suit combined with bike pants and a race top.  While expensive, it is a way to get all of your apparel in one suit.
2. Goggles – be kind to your eyes, and purchase some goggles.  They will help you see during the swim, and protect your eyes from the elements (be it chlorine for indoor swims or particles in open water).  Again, purchase some and train in them – make sure they are comfortable.  There are lots of goggle choices out there, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs and comfort.
3. Swim Cap – some races will give you a cap that designates your age group (generally color coded).  But, that’s not guaranteed so make sure you have one in your gear bag.  Swim caps are great for not just keeping your hair out of your eyes – they protect your hair from elements like chlorine, and they make your more aero-dynamic (thus faster) in the water.
4. Towel – while this is not required, it may make you more comfortable.  Have a towel set up at your transition station (generally where you bike is set up and where your gear will stay during the race) so that you can soak up any excess water after the swim leg – no one likes biking/running in soaked shorts.
5. Shorts – after the swim, you will need to throw on some shorts for the bike/run legs.  If you want some extra padding for your bum, check out bike shorts.  But, if you’ve trained on a bike and don’t feel the need for bike shorts, just grab some regular running shorts.  I would suggest making sure you choose a moisture wicking fabric – this will help lessen a chance for chafing.
6. Race Top – you’ll want something fitted, as you don’t want it to become a sail during the biking leg.  Again, look for moisture wicking fabric – cotton can be your worst enemy during a race, as it can lead to chaffing.  Try different options during training – look at tank tops, as well as cap sleeves.  Choose whatever is most comfortable for you.
7. Bike – this is no-brainer.  You will definitely need a bike to do a triathlon.  Don’t let bike sticker shock scare you away from doing a triathlon.  First thing you should do before shopping for a bike is head to your local bike shop & get fitted.  Just like clothing, your bike’s fit is incredibly important – the wrong fit could cause injury.  There are lots of options for buying a bike: check out Craigslist, Ebay, your local bike shops or local triathlon clubs for used bikes.  Some bike shops may also be willing to sell bike they previously used as rentals.  Make sure you purchase your bike well in advance so that you can train and get used to it.
8. Bike Helmet – USAT (USA Triathlon – the governing body for the sport) rules state that you must have a helmet to participate.  No helmet will lead to disqualification from the race.  So, when you’re out buying your bike, purchase a helmet and start getting used to it being a part of your triathlon uniform.
9. Running Shoes – this should be a no-brainer, but I’ve known runners to travel to marathons only to realize they left their shoes at home.  Head to your local running store, and get fitted for a show – they will take into account your foot structure, the way you walk/run and your comfort when picking the right shoe for you.  They are slightly more expensive, but the right shoe can make all the difference in running.  Also, get a pair and train in them – make sure you are comfortable and have broken them in before your race.
10. Water Bottle – not all races will have water stations; and if they do, they will more likely have them during the run section.  Make sure you pack a water bottle, and leave it at your transition station – hydration is super important for an endurance race like this.  You can also opt to have a water bottle on your bike – just make sure you practice reaching for it before race day!

I know I’ve mentioned it several times, but I cannot say it enough: it is important to train with the gear that you are going to use race day.  This not only ensures your comfort, but it helps you get the feel for what to expect on race day.  Also, make sure you pack your gear the night before and double-check your list to ensure you haven’t missed anything.  This way, the morning of the triathlon all you have to do is grab your bag and head to the race.

Have you done triathlons before? What tips do you have for newbies?

Boston.

Our thoughts go out to those affected by the tragic events in Boston. Hoping you, your family, and friends are all safe. Run on.

Let's Take This Outside!

Does anyone other than me have cabin fever?  With the weather warming up, most of us are finding it harder and harder to want to go workout at the gym.  Why not take your fitness outside?  Not only will you enjoy the weather and get your daily dose of Vitamin D, but you may find some fun new things to add your fitness routine!

• Group Runs: with Spring bringing those great running temps, people are heading outside to get their runs in.  Join a group to help make your training runs go by even faster – check out your local running store for organized groups, or reach out to your friends, family and neighbors to start your own.
• Hiking: take to the woods, and go for a nice, long hike.  Enjoy your beautiful surroundings while building your leg and core muscles on uneven terrain.  To make it harder, try adding weight using a backpack – be sure your pack fits properly to avoid chaffing.
• Circuit training: jump rope, run in place, haul some logs, do incline push-ups and tackle some good old fashioned pull ups on equipment already at your local park.  You may want to do this in off-peak park hours, so as to not have to wait on equipment or worry about working around small children.
• Swimming: take to your neighborhood pool and swim some laps.  If your pool doesn’t have a designated swim lane or is an odd shape, get creative – swim the perimeter of the pool as many times as you can.
• Water skiing: if you’re lucky enough to have a boat or a friend with a boat, head to the local lake and get your ski on!  Work your core, legs and arms while being pulled from a boat – what could be more exhilarating?
• Surfing: hit the waves for some fun in the sun and great all-over body workout.  If you’ve never surfed before, we recommend getting a few lessons either from an experienced friend or a local surf instructor.  Hang ten, dude!
• Family bike rides: explore your neighborhood while bonding with family by heading out on a family bike ride.  But don’t forget your helmets!
• Outdoor games: remember how much fun recess used to be?  Head outside and play a game of tag with your kids, or challenge your friends to a game of Red Rover.  You’ll be squealing with delight in no time.
• Adult rec leagues: check to see if there are any adult recreational leagues in your town.  Sign up to play softball, kickball or even dodgeball.   Get your fitness on, meet new people and help take your team to the championship!  

What's your favorite outdoor activity?

Enell Review on FitBottomedGirls

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