Set your goals for 2013

Running a marathon never crossed my mind, but thanks to @NikeWomen for putting me up to the challenge, I completed my very first half-marathon this past October in San Francisco. Lots of hard work, dedication, and discipline went into accomplishing this challenge and it was an unbelievable feeling to finally cross those mats at mile 13.1. HUGE THANK YOU to the amazing women of Nike and awesome ladies I've met along the way on Twitter.

I want to encourage everybody to try and set a fitness goal of doing something that pushes your limits a little bit this upcoming year.  No, you don't have to sign up to run a marathon, but if you've never ran a 5k, set a goal and work to it.  Running not your thing?  That's ok - try biking, power walking, yoga, boot camps or weight lifting. It's very important to stay somewhat active and get proper exercise.  So let's get started...set that goal!

Set a Goal - it all starts with a setting a goal and committing to it.  And make this goal realistic.  If you're new to working out, set a goal to run a 5k.  Just find something that you feel will challenge you in your own fitness levels and work to achieve this goal in 2013. 

Stay Focused -  There are going to be times when you just don't want to get out of bed and go workout.  Push through those times and get up & get rolling! 


Mix up your routine - As a rule of thumb, never use the same routine for more than 4 weeks.  Muscle confusion is the key and there are great programs out there that can help you with this.  (P90X, Crossfit, and my personal favourite Nike Training Club )

Don't get Discouraged -  It's not always easy, but keep your head up and push through! Don’t worry about what others are doing, focus on what you can do.

Celebrate accomplishments - Reward yourself for accomplishments ie) first 5K run or logging in 100 miles. A small reward like a favorite treat can help keep you motivated :)

I crossed the finish line & this was my treat to myself ;)

Gift ideas for the fitness fanatic

Skip the chocolates this year and give a loved one the gift of health with one of these stylish, high-tech or hard-core fitness finds.

Nike+FuelBand
Buy here

Nike+ FuelBand tracks your all-day activity and helps you do more. Using a sport-tested accelerometer it measures your movement in NikeFuel—a universal metric of activity. So the more you move, the more NikeFuel you earn. It measures each step taken and calorie burned. It also tells the time of day.
For more info

Nike+Kinect Training - XBOX 360 Kinect

Whatever your level, whatever your goal, with Nike+ Kinect Training you can now experience Personal training, at home. Using real time feedback and elite level coaching, Nike+ Kinect Training delivers a personalized program that evolves as you do.

For more info

Drinking water is one of the best ways to stay healthy, and stay hydrated and Brita has released its new filtered water bottle.

Like other Brita products the filtration system is effective in removing chlorine, and entirely eliminates bad odor or flavor from water.

Hardy and feather-light, the simple 2-gigabyte iPod Shuffle is a gym staple. The built-in clip means no fussing with an armband. Personalize it by having a message engraved when you order online or by uploading a favorite workout playlist.

Buy here

Dance Central 2 will get you grooving with its impressive routines and up-to-date songs. Dancing is a form of aerobic exercise, and you certainly will work up a sweat.

 Sport earphones that are custom fit for extreme athletes, runners, music lovers that won't fall out, are ultra-soft and comfortable

For more info

The Nike Slouchy Sphere Women's Training Hoodie provides warmth and versatile style for cold-weather workouts. It's also ideal for wearing to and from the gym.

Comes in 5 diff colours.

FYI- this is on my wishlist *nudge nudge wink wink*

size small

Buy here

The Nike Shield KO Full-Zip Men’s Training Hoodie features lightweight, water-resistant insulation for uninhibited speed and domination during outdoor training sessions

Buy here

Happy Holidays!