It’s an exciting week. The Olympics are on and I simply can’t get enough. And because I know you’re probably as obsessed as I am or are busy trying to plan an Olympic Marathon watching party, I’ll get straight to the point. Thanks to the lovely people at Brooks I’m giving away another pair of running shoes!
I seriously can’t say enough about how much I’m loving my Brooks running shoes. They’ve taken me through my highest mileage month in years and I’ve yet to have a blister or a complaint about the way my feet feel in their shoes. They make my feet happy.
My most recent pair of Brooks are from the Pure Project line. If you’ve been following a long for awhile, you know that two years ago I attempted to go the minimal/mid-foot strike route and found it wasn’t what worked for me. Since that time, I’ve worn minimal shoes for everything except running.
Brook’s Pure Project shoes offer something for everyone. They are light-weight, minimalist style shoes for everyone from the barefoot runner to the runner who wears stability shoes. There are four different shoes within the Pure Project line: Pure Connect, Pure Flow, Pure Cadence, and Pure Grit.
Here’s how you know which shoe from the Pure Project is right for you:
PureConnect: least amount of shoe between you and the ground, really connect with the ground and activate your muscles.
PureFlow: neutral lightweight option that gives you more cushion than the PureConnect for the person who wants the natural experience but doesn’t want to sacrifice all their cushioning
PureCadence: only PureProject shoe that offers your body mild support, for the runner who wants lightweight and natural motion without sacrificing all the stability they are used to
PureGrit: trail option, connecting you to the trail and activates muscles, highlighting the natural experience
Preferring a cushioned ride for my runs, I tried out a pair of the Pure Flows. The flexible sole, light weight design and cushioning make me feel like a lighter, faster runner.
The heel on these shoes is another feature that sets them apart. According to Brook’s design team it’s called an “Ideal Heel which is an inverted design (which is more rounded and has less material than a traditional running shoe) that promotes a more natural foot strike by landing in a more forward position on the foot”.
These shoes do have a shorter life than a traditional running shoe. They last around 200-300 miles compared with a traditional running shoe that lasts around 400-500 miles. They can be worn for any distance from short speed sessions to the marathon.
All around these are an awesome shoe for someone who is looking for a lighter weight shoe that will go the distance and make you look good while doing it.
Enter to win you’re own pair of shoes from the Pure Project line! You have two chances to enter.
#1) Mandatory entry: Tell me what topic you’d like to see covered in an upcoming video (another core workout, more stretches, etc.).
#2) Tweet: “Enhance your #runhappy experience by entering to win a new pair of shoes from @brooksrunning and @FitChickNYC http://ow.ly/cCcRG”
Giveaway ends Friday, August 3rd 12:00 midnight EST.
{Disclosure: FCITC is a Brooks Blog ambassador for which compensation is provided. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.}
*** This giveaway is now closed.
The winner of the giveaway is Anna Marie
i would love to see some core or maybe GLUTE stretches. I seem to really suffer with glute and hip flxor issues. Show me the STRETCH!!!!
i tweeted!!! https://twitter.com/crantina/status/230125752035729408
Would love to see some dynamic stretching for a warm-up activity!
Would love to see more stretching exercises for runners training for Fall marathons. Something quick that I can incorporate daily.
I’d love to see a video on running form! The best way to hold your arms, head, stuff like that!
I’d love to see a video with tips for beginner runners!
Any marathon strength tips or strength workouts.
I’d love to see a video on toning!
Would love to see stretches and strengthening exercises for IT band tightness.
Tweeted about the giveaway.
I would love something about ankle strengthening!! I’ve had some weak ankle issues that have cropped up a few times and would love some tips on how to prevent and heal ankle pain. Thanks!!
More dynamic stretching videos, please! I learned a lot from the ones you’ve posted so far, so keep them coming!
Would love to see some stretching and core exercises.
Id love to see something about arms!
video on how to prevent shin splints or what do do when you have them!
I’d love to see a foam rolling tutorial.
Exercises to strengthen ankles! I have weak ankles and always worry about rolling them.
I know you’ve done posts about foam rolling, but I’d love to see a video showing proper techniques and how best to use them!
I’d love to see some lower back strengthening exercises!
I’d like to see how to foam roll properly? Or maybe I’m actually doing it right, but I’m a baby and can’t take the pain =p
I just purchased a foam roller so I would love to see some more stretches to be done on that. Also would love to learn how to stretch my shins before running!
And I just tweeted! Thanks!
I would love to see a video that focuses on strength exercises that could help improve your running.
I’d love a video on core and arm exercises that you can do without equipment!
I tweeted!
https://twitter.com/pace_of_laurel/status/230137899067265024
I would love to see glute and IT band stretches & exercises
I would like to see some quick desk stretches for those of us that run early before work and then get stuck designing behind a computer all day, you get up sometimes and your calves or some other area are really tight.
I’d love to see a video on core exercises as well as stretching to prevent stress fractures!
More stretches–especially for the more common injuries–how to prevent them from happening!
Tweeted!! https://mobile.twitter.com/oowidescrnoo/status/230150790608744449
Dynamic stretching, please!
I tweeted! https://twitter.com/WhineLess/status/230177104447275008
I would like to see balance exercises!!
I’d love to see some simple leg strengthening exercises for runners!
I’d like to see a video on strengthening the knees.
I tweeted! @kristy_joy
Since I just had a baby I am looking for some good core workouts so I’d like to see more videos of those
I tweeted @runwithtongs
I would like to see a video with stretches for hip flexibility. I often feel a lot of tightness in them after runs and it’s not an area I know how to stretch!
Key yoga moves for distance runners
I would love to see more general strength training videos!
I would love to see some yoga specific to running. Love the Brooks Pure Project
Thanks for offering the giveaway! I agree w/ the comment about glute stretches and would also love to see some more glute strengthening exercises.
First off, that pic should be a billboard – looking fierce.
Second, I owe many a mile to my Brooks shoes:)
As for a video, I would love more thoughts on working triceps, without have to do dips.
And all your topics are amazing!
A post on what you’ve learned about good running form would be fab 🙂
i would love to see more core videos… i need all the help i can get!
I would love to see more videos of hip stretches and injury prevention tips you learned from your time in PT. Thanks!
I’d like to see a video that focuses on calf stretches and how to avoid cramping in your calves.
Maybe some cool kettlebell exercises. I have one in my house, and haven’t used it once, i’m one of those people, 🙂
I’d love to see some arm workouts!
Improving hamstring strength as well as stretches.
I would love to see a demo on how to use my foam roller.
Thanks!
I just bought my first pair of PureFlow’s a few weeks ago and I’m obsessed! I also have the purple ones like you.. the brighter, the better!
I would love to see a video on stretches you recommend for different distances – i.e. what to focus on for a speed workout vs. a long run.
I would love to see more about stretching. I can do the run and then I get home and get distracted. I need to be motivated to stretch.
I’d like to see a video on strength training specifically for runners. Thanks!
I love my PureCadence! (And actually, I get more mileage on them than I do traditional shoes … I usually need to switch ~200, and have taken two pairs of the Cadence to almost 250).
I’ve had nagging hamstring/glute tightness lately, and chronically tight hips, so those are areas I’d like some stretching/strengthening tips!
I’d love to see a video on breathing while running (for beginners!) ps—I can’t wait to get one of the shoes. I’ve been swooning.
I tweeted: https://twitter.com/RunningReader/status/230310131655667712
I’d like to see a video on how to foam roll the IT band.
I’d love to see a video about running form. Sometimes I feel pain in my lower back and I’m interested to know what I’m doing wrong!
I would love to see a good arm workout.
I would love to see core exercises and arm exercises! Who wouldn’t want to tone their triceps a bit more?!
Would love to see a core workout and some good hip stretches!
I would love to see a video on core exercises, including why one needs to develop a strong core, and how the benefits of a strong core will aid you. Thanks!
Knee tendon strengthening.
I’d love to see some injury prevention strength-exercises, muscles to build that will minimize the incidence of injury.
Thanks!
Tweeted give away.
Dynamic warm ups (and why they are more beneficial than static stretches before activity)
I would love to see more videos about what you do before and after a run in terms of warm up and cool down.
Thanks!
I tweeted your giveaway!
I would love to see strength exercises for runners!
I would love to see some hamstring stretches! Or, exercises to build foot/ankle muscles!
I also tweeted the giveaway!
I’d love to hear more about lower back exercises! Darn love handles, can’t live with them and apparently it’s a pain to try to live without them. 🙂
Great giveaway also!! I love Brooks but I do find that they’re a little heavy so this would be great to try out.
Sent out a tweet! https://twitter.com/ForkyouNoForkU/status/230326159336935424
I’d love to see tips for quick and effective stretching. I don’t stretch nearly enough because I’m usually crunched for time after a morning run.
I would love to see more stretching! I like to run and do other workouts, but I tend to skip over the stretching part. I’m trying to increase my flexibility (been trying some spin/yoga classes…love them!) so being able to see some examples of beneficial stretches would be great! P.S. Those shoes look awesome! 🙂
I would love to see a video on running form as well.
I tweeted! https://twitter.com/lifeinbrief
Definitely would love to see some strength moves we can do at home.
I’d love to see an all-around routine, including stretching and strengthening, for the IT Band.
I’d love to see some more hip flexor work and calf stretching/self massage option for sore calves. I’m tweeting you!
I would love to see a good runner’s stretch/yoga routine! I also tweeted!
I would love to see hip stretches/yoga for after long runs!
i would love the pure flow sneaker – sounds perfect.
as far as workout video content, core work would be great!
I always do the same set of stretches after each run — but I never know if they are the “right” ones. Or how long I should be holding them. Or if I should do different stretches based on different workouts (hills vs intervals vs distance). Or if the stretches should include upper body. I would love and cherish a video on stretches we should do after every workout! Thanks Jess.
I would love to see a video how to strength the thigh to be more defined. I guess more weight lifting for the tight. Running did not do the trick for it.
I would love to see more core strengthening exercises for the butt/hips.
I tweeted!
I’d like to see more reviews of classes and/or products!
LOVE BROOKS!!!
I just tweeted this out. 🙂
AND I’d love to see a video on stretching. I can’t get enough good stretching ideas these days!!
I love brooks and would, at some point, really like to try their Pure line. I love good core workouts!
And I have a tweet scheduled for 4pm CST (I’m at work so not supposed to tweet LOL – @hriacobacci)
I’ll love to see more ab work!
I tweeted! 🙂 https://twitter.com/MomsGottaRun/status/230382555835273216
Lower body stretches! Want that gymnast flexibility!!
I think some hip flexor stretches would be awesome and maybe beginner’s how to for kettle bells.
I tweeted about this also! (@hollliipop) 🙂
Would love to see a video on how to really stretch my IT band and my calves so I can heal my Achilles. Thanks!
Could you post information about fueling post runs? I always feel like I’m going to “mess up”‘ my run if I eat the wrong thing.
Maybe a video on stretches before/after running to prevent injury (like shin splints)!
Would love to see some hip stretches!
Definitely more core
I just found your blog; it looks fantastic! I have lots of reading to catch up on.
You probably have this covered, but I’d love some workout ideas for upper body that I can do at home without equipment. Something like push-ups are too advanced for my scrawny arms!
I would love some advice on how to bounce back, mentally, after a crappy run.
PS: I tweeted!
strength exercises to improve my half time.
More core work!
Stretching to prevent injuries… I know I need to, but…
More information on stretching the IT band and stretches/strength building for ankles!
I would love to see a video on hamstring stretches. My hamstrings get really tight, especially after running or biking, because I have really long legs. I can never fully extend my legs during yoga and pilates exercises because of it. I try to stretch them everyday but I’m not doing something right!
Stretches/exercises for strengthening abductors/adductors. I seem to get all bound up after running my double HMs (What can I say, I’m a glutton for punishment…).Looking into ART chiro for possible help with this issue too.
I would love to see a video on lower back strengthening and stretching!
I’m very new to yoga–I would love to see a video for beginner’s yoga for runners!
Calf work would be good to cover…I have a heckuva time working my calves outside of running!
I tweeted! https://twitter.com/BrianMusick/status/230399273626374144
Just discovered your site through a Brooks tweet; bookmarking it now! I would love to see hip flexor stretches as that is my current tight area.
IT BAND IT BAND IT BAND!!! Ouch – does it get sore after Tempo runs! Would love to see a video on how to stretch it out and alleviate the tenderness. Also, a video on lateral movement to outweigh all the forward motion that comes with being a runner, especially LD runners! GREAT POST…I am a HUGE fan of Brooks running shoes, they 100% changed my running and I will never wear another shoe again! Currently in the Brooks Ghosts and couldn’t be happier with them!
xo
Merri
I also vote for itb stretches and foam roller excercises
I would like to see a video on prepping for a cold weather half.
I’d love a video on good stretches for tight hips for runners!
I also tweeted: https://twitter.com/therealmarta/status/230414878274371584
I need some good arms/shoulders toning exercises, would love to see that in a video!
I would love to see a series of yoga-inspired stretches for post-run.
I tweeted!
I’d like an article detailing cross training exercises. Or how to really perfect running form.
I would love to see a flutes and core video!!!!
I also tweeted!!!!
I would like to see a video on exercises that will aid in preventing knee injuries/pain.
Love to see a dynamic mobility/stretch routine for running!
I would ike to see a stretching/yoga video. A foam rolling instructional video would also be great.
I also tweeted!
I would love if you could feature a video/post about dynamic stretching, specifically for the arms and legs to warm up the muscles before and after a run.
Here is my tweet: https://twitter.com/LaurentinaPhoto
Thanks! 🙂 <3 Brooks and running!
I’d love to see some more core workouts and maybe one for knee injury prevention (LB strengthening) 🙂
I tweeted! @runlikeagrl
Stretching, need more stretching
I would like to see something on ankle strength. As I have recently begun more trail running I think that this might be important!
Tweeted! 🙂 @kmMovingForward
I would enjoy a tutorial on foam rolling. I know it’s so good for runners but I’m really not sure how to do it 🙂
Stretching is always good. I never do it enough.
core work or good running posture exercises
I tweeted. @runinboise
I always love a good core workout.
I would love to see more core and an workouts! Can never get enough! I’ve also been training for a half marathon so maybe another idea is breathing techniques and some tips for people in training?
I’d love to see more workout moves- especially bodyweight exercises or other things that can be done at home!
I love your core workouts! I’m always up for another!! 🙂
And I adore Brooks. Love love them.
I’d love to learn about how to prevent lower back pain when running, it’s becoming a significant problem for me and it sucks!
Oh, and I tweeted!
https://twitter.com/rhianne10/status/230488966707675137
I’d like to see a video on foam rolling/massage
Yoga stretching that can help improve running form and/or reduce running injuries, please!
I’d love to see a video with top 5 things all new runners should know.
Hi! I’d like to see a video with tips to continue running with hot temperatures
I would love to see a video on using your foam roller.
I’m only used to training for a marathon during the winter months, a column on how to train effectively during the summer heat would be awesome. Are there any other options beside getting up at 4 a.m. for a run??
Hip stretches! My hip has been super tight lately and it never has been before. I also tweeted!
I’d love to see tips for beginner runners!
https://twitter.com/ohsmiledarling/status/230720411170648064
I would love to see more core strengthening for runners and foam rolling technique.
Thanks for the chance to win!
Man these shoes are so cool looking! I would like to see more core strengthening exercises!
Would love to see a video about strengthening and stretching the IT Band and how to deal with mild issues before they take you out of running for awhile. Also I will be tweeting. I love Brooks and need a new pair before the SF Giant Marathon that I’m training for and will be running on Sept. 16th. It will be my first. Woohoo!!!
Ah! I love Brooks shoes! The topic I would most like to see covered is strengthening exercises for the muscles of the shin and ankle to prevent splints and stress fractures! 🙂
I’d like to see some back strengthening exercises!
I would love to see some hip stretches!
I will like to see more info on nutrition for before, during a run
I would love to see a video on glute exercises – training for a marathon and have been told I need to strengthen my glutes!
I’d love to see a video about running form with a focus on maintaining the right alignment. I think this would be beneficial for both beginner runners or seasoned runners in need of a refresher! I’m also going to tweet it!
I love your site and I love Brooks!
It would be awesome to see a post on your thoughts on how to balance training and staying focused on fitness while in the throws of day-to-day life. Like- what tips or tricks do you use to stay motivated after a long day? What do you “tell” yourself if you just fit in a run or workout? I’m always interested in the mental training that athletes use. Thanks!
I’d like to know how to keep my pesky IT bands feeling alright, even after a TON of mileage and speed.
I would love to see some more an exercises that focus on the lower abs!!
I would love strength training for Runner’s Knee and the ITB! Also hip stretches!!
I’d love to see a few dynamic warmup variations!
i’d love to see more videos regarding dynamic stretching + stretching for injury prevention in general. enjoying the series with michael from finish line!
Would definitely want to see more core workouts!
Injured girl (me) would like a video of creative exercises that I can do with my foot in a cast! 🙂
I’d love to see foam roll stretching. Those hard to work muscles from running are difficult! #runhappy – Tweeted at CarolinaJoyM
I would love to see hip health exercise. My hips start to bug me on long runs!
I’d love to see some hip stretches — I injured mine while dancing a few years back and it bothers me whenever I run.
More core! I always like new exercises to try. Keeps things interesting 🙂
Lower abs please. and thank you!
I love brooks shoes and I’ve been wanting to try out their new line! I’d love to see a video on ankle/foot strengthening exercises. Thanks!
I would love to see a video on how to shape sexy calves!
Would love to see more video on stretching to prevent injury (shin splints, lower back pain, etc.). thanks!!
I would love to see a post about shin splints and how to prevent them (different stretches to help strengthen, etc.).
I would like to see a video on running form and how you know you are getting it.
I hurt myself recently so I would love to see some injury prevention strength-exercises and some post-injury recovery stretches
tweeted https://twitter.com/mermont84/status/231523173168996352
I’d like to see a video on pre run stretching or drills for increasing speed/run power.
I’d love to see a video related to injury prevention. Knowing what muscles to strength to help prevent certain injuries would be great!
I would love to see something on best nyc routes, or trails.