How often do you stretch?

Disclaimer: The following post is sponsored by BOSU via my partnership with Fit Approach. All opinions are, of course, my very own.

Is stretching a huge part of your fitness routine? Or do you forget to stretch almost every time you exercise? If you fall into the latter group, you're not alone. When I give orientations at the gym, I finish up by stressing the importance of stretching. Most people respond with "oh, I never stretch," or they explain how they're not very good about stretching. But guess what—stretching is so easy and it doesn't take much time.

Heck, it doesn't eve take much effort. But the effects of stretching go a long way.

Here we are in Week 3 of the #BOSUStrong challenge with Sweat Pink. (It's not too late to join the fun.) Last week, we focused on balance. The week before...cardio. So it only seems natural to take this entire week to focus on stretching. (And maybe some toning, too.)

Why should you stretch?

Think about an old, crusty rubber band that's been hidden in the bottom of your junk drawer for years. As soon as you attempt to secure some papers with it...SNAP. Right? It breaks because it hasn't been stretched in years and, consequently, has gotten used to its immovable state of being.

See where I'm going with this?

If you don't stretch, your muscles won't necessarily snap. But they certainly won't move as easily. And you do put yourself at risk for strains, tears and pulls. I'll spare you the scientific language. Trust me, you need to stretch. You need to lengthen your muscles. You need to pull them apart after you tighten them during your workouts. Gain strength when you lift weights—gain mobility when you stretch.

Don't be the old, crusty rubber band.

Here are some posts that I've written in the past that talk about stretching:

• Stretching is essential.
• 5 Prenatal Stretches
• Running Stretches

And here are some of my favorite ways to stretch:

1) I love to stretch my legs by doing a forward fold for hamstrings with a figure 4 hip/glute stretch, too. Because when you combine more than one stretch, it saves time...right? Also, it makes me feel super bendy...

2) My favorite total body stretch is a downward facing dog. Pretty obvious that this yoga pose rocks, and there are so many ways to modify and/or increase the intensity.

3) I swear that when I do sun salutations, it feels like all of my strength and flexibility collide in one mind-opening move.

4) I try to stretch out of my comfort zone by working on my splits. I used to flop down into them so easily. In fact, the girls on my cheerleading squad used to put me at the top of the pyramid in splits. But these days, this is all I can muster up. So close, still so far to go:

Now, go and get your stretch on. Remember, active stretching (moving to get your muscles warm and limber) is the best pre-workout approach. Save the static stretching (holding still in a certain position) for after your workout. And don't bounce when you do!

If you want to follow the #BOSUStrong challenge on Instagram, here are this week's prompts:

Monday, September 28: Show us how you side lunge to work those inner and outer thighs.  BONUS: #jumpjoymonday, every single week!

Tuesday, September 29: What's your favorite total-body toning move? #tempotuesday BONUS: It's #triceptuesday again, so drop down and give us 20.

Wednesday, September 30: Grab a partner and show everyone how you tone it up together! BONUS: It's #workitwednesday, so show us how you're getting in a good stretch after your workout.

Thursday, October 1: It's #totalbodythursday, so show off your favorite total body stretch. BONUS: #tbt to a time when you really stretched outside of your comfort zone.

Friday, October 2: #FreeFriday! Show off your favorite stretch. BONUS: Celebrate #forearmfriday!

Don't forget to tag #BOSUStrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @BOSU_Fitness @FitApproach.

PS: Love the scenery in my photos above? I always try to pick a sweet spot, but today I thought "aw, hell" because this is my life. Fireplace. Toys. Furniture. Gotta keep it real!

Question: What is your favorite stretch? Are you good about stretching? Why or why not?

5 Floral Print Athletic Shoes #fitnfashionable

A few weeks ago, I bought a pair of PUMA Carson Runner athletic shoes. Gym shoes with flowers on them? Sort of a no-brainer, right? I mean, they go with everything, are super bright and fun...and are totally different than any of the shoes I've seen at the gym. (Plus, I was able to fit into the teen version which saved me a few bucks). And now, I'm totally obsessed with floral print athletic shoes. As if my obsession with gym shoes could get any bigger, right? So I thought it would be fun to round up five sneakers with an awesome floral print, just in case you want to hop on this fun #fitnfashionable trend.

No, this is not a sponsored post. And it doesn't contain affiliate links. This is just me doing some window shopping. And drooling over everything I see.

Of course, here's your first option:

1) Puma Carson Runner Athletic Shoe
Shown above. Also talked about HERE.

Here's what else I found:

2) Adidas Tubular Running Shoes 

It's been awhile since I've had a pair of adidas shoes, but I dig these for their subtle print and smooth details.

3) Skechers Flex Appeal

I mean, do you see the flamingos? If that doesn't take you to the tropics, then I don't know what will.

4) Nike Roshe One Print

I dig the blue, don't you? When I think about the shoes I have, navy isn't one of the colors that comes to mind. I feel like gym shoes are either super bright and funky, or black. Right?

5) Adidas Originals ZX Flux

These look so girly and delicate...which makes them awesome and perfect for busting out burpees and biceps curls. Because "girly" doesn't mean "weak," let's just get that straight.

Question: Which pair do you like best? Are you a fan of patterns on your athletic shoes?

Barre and BOSU Workout

Disclaimer: The following post is sponsored by BOSU via my partnership with Fit Approach. All opinions are, of course, my own.

I've taught a number of different classes over the years, but one of my favorites is proving to be my Barre Fit class. I took ballet classes when I was little, and have dabbled in some form of dance (cheerleading, electives in college, dance parties, you know...) my whole life. Basically, I like to dance even if I'm dancing alone while I clean my floors. So my Barre Fit class is fun. It challenges every aspect of the body in a gentle, yet intense sort of way. And since balance is a huge element of it—and the theme for this week's BOSU challenge with Sweat Pink— I thought I'd share with you a Barre and BOSU workout.

Oh, and it's also #wildworkoutwednesday.

Nope, you don't need a BOSU to complete the workout, but having one will increase the intensity. And it'll challenge your core just a bit more. The standard reminder: Before you try anything new, make sure it's right for you. Use your best judgement and/or consult your physician. You know. Safety first. What's right for me might not be right for you.

Let's get to it.
Here's the workout:

Please make sure you warm up first. The whole thing should take you an hour, give or take depending on your knowledge and comfort with the exercises.

Speaking of the exercises, let's go through a few of them.

Round 1

Warrior 2 lunges are a fun way to incorporate yoga (and some graceful movement) into your workout. Step out into your lunge...

...then step back to your starting position.

Walking Pushup (Alternating Pushups)
Squat to Balance (Squat to Knee Lift)

And finally, single-arm planks with a row.

Round 2

Rotating Leg Lifts are super fun. First, lift your leg toward the front, then rotate it toward the side...

...then bring your toe back down toward your knee before you extend the leg toward the front again and repeat. Adding the BOSU definitely increases the balance element. Height is not as important as overall control and keeping your leg straight. When your repetitions are done, lift that bar up for single-arm bicep curls in first position:

I'm using an ActivMotion Bar. If you don't have a bar, you can stick with a hand weight...you just might need to move your BOSU close to a chair or wall to help with balance on the rotating leg lifts.

When you're done, move on to your leg circles. Start with one foot up in the air:

With your core engaged at all times, draw mini circles in the air. Switch sides after you complete your repetitions. Then complete your single-leg hip presses and triceps dips on the BOSU.

Round 3

Single-leg dead lifts will take you right into single-leg squat pulses. Rack the bar, then sink into your squat. Focus on one leg at a time, using the other one for balance, like so:

Next up, shoulder abductions with calf presses, which you can see in the graphic above.

Questions?
Let me know.

Some other barre posts you might be interested in:
1) 60-Minute #Barre Workout
2) 5 Ways to Stay Healthy Over the Holidays
3) Single-Leg Glute and Quad Burner

Question: Have you taken a barre class? What do you like/dislike about them?

5 Habits That Increase Productivity #dishthefit

Tuesday is slowly becoming...well, it is...one of my most favorite days to write. It's #dishthefit day, which means fitness bloggers everywhere are uniting to write about common topics. Today, we're talking about daily habits that increase productivity. Let's be honest: Who doesn't struggle with productivity on a daily basis? I know I do.

I also know that there are things I can and should be doing on a regular basis (translation: daily) to make sure that my productivity is on par with my goals.

Let's discuss.

1) Pick one calendar you love and keep it organized.
There are a number of different calendars (otherwise known as agendas) out there. Find one that speaks to you and make it your best friend. Whether it's a hanging calendar, a desktop version like mine or even an electronic program on your phone—use it like it's your job. I write everything in mine, so then everything (family, blog, work, fun) is in one place, all viewable at the same time so nothing gets lost in the shuffle. I keep mine with me at all times, and whenever something needs to go on the calendar, I put it on the calendar. I check it when I get to work, I check it before I go to bed. I'm always ready for whatever needs to happen.

Curious about my calendar? It's the Kate Spade New York Large Agenda and it's the best agenda I've had to-date. Totally simple, completely stylish. 

2) Keep track of your workouts.
This is a great tip for everyone, but an especially helpful one for fitness professionals. Not far away from my calendar is my trusty notebook. Inside that notebook is everything else I need to write down, including my workouts...the personal and the professional workouts. I love writing up new workouts, but sometimes something has to give in my daily routine. This is when I'm often grateful that I've kept track of my workouts because I can reuse the workouts that are tried-and-true. No time to plan a Barre Fit class? I go back to some of the classes I've done months ago that will still be relevant to what we're currently doing.

3) Keep your bags packed.
I don't carry a purse, but I do sling a diaper bag and a gym bag across my body almost daily. There are also days that I have to pack a lunch for myself and the kiddos. So every night I peek inside the diaper and gym bags to make sure they're still stocked. Maybe I need to add more diapers, or maybe the granola bar in my gym bag needs to be replaced. Or maybe I know that they're still ready to go and I can turn my attention to something else. And having them ready to go when I wake up makes it that much easier for me to get out the door on time.

4) Make meals that make extra servings.
With two kids and a schedule, I don't always have time to cook dinner. So when I make my grocery list every Sunday night, I make sure that whatever meals I plan to serve will offer up leftovers for dinner on at least one other night of the week. Not having to cook on a handful of nights each week removes an extensive amount of stress, as that 4:00PM hour seems to be the witching hour at my house. If the kids are sleeping, I can continue working on other things (like the blog, or maybe the laundry).

5) Remind yourself that it really doesn't matter when it really, truly doesn't matter.
This is the hardest habit for me to enforce because I'm a do-all, be-all, organize/clean-all type of person. But I'm getting into the habit of letting things roll. Because, really...do I seriously need to re-fold all the jammies in my daughter's drawer RIGHT NOW. No. There are other, more productive things I could be doing with my time. Like making dinner (ha!) or playing with my kids. Or maybe writing if they're both sleeping.

Ultimately, we all have our own ways to keep ourselves productive. There are thousands of productivity tips out there. Best case scenario: We all just have to do what we can, when we can, however we can.

Because that's life, right?

Question: What is your best productivity tip?

How do you find balance?

Disclaimer: The following post is sponsored by BOSU via my partnership with Fit Approach. All opinions are, of course, my very own.

If there's one thing we all need, it's a little balance. According to Merriam-Webster, balance is "the state of having your weight spread equally so that you do not fall." Or, "the ability to move or to remain in a position without losing control. And finally, balance is "a state in which different things have an equal or proper amount of importance."

The million dollar question: How do you find balance?

The answer will hopefully be revealed as we progress through Week 2 of the #BOSUStrong challenge with BOSU and Sweat Pink. (Last week, we focused on cardio.)We're going to stand on one leg, lunge and BOSU squat our way through the week. Remember this, though: Balance isn't just about the ability to stand on one leg. It's also about having the freedom to do what you love AND make healthy choices.

About sticking to your workouts AND finding time for fun.
About eating sweets and balancing them out with salads, too.
About working out at home when you can't make it to the gym.

Balance, man.
It's hard, right?

Here are 6 ways that I find balance:

1) I make time for myself by asking for it.
2) My favorite "me" time is running time.
3) My rule when it comes to a balanced diet is that moderation is key, and obsession is evil.
4) I make fitness a priority by also making it my profession.
5) When I get stressed or overwhelmed, my go-to is my family.
6) I do what I can to help my family stay balanced.

And here are 6 exercises that can help you improve physical balance and core strength:

1) Hip-Opener to Runner's Lunge (as seen in THIS video)
2) Warrior 3 (on or off the BOSU)

3) Walking Lunges
4) Squat to Knee Lift on BOSU

5) Seated Single-Arm Shoulder Press on Exercise Ball with Opposite Leg Lift

6) Plank on Flipped BOSU

If you've been participating in the #BOSUStrong challenge, great! Keep it up! If not, it's never too late for you to join the fun. The more you participate, the greater your chances of winning a prize (like a new BOSU). And, no...you don't have to have a BOSU to participate.

Here are this week's prompts. You an also find them HERE.
Use the following tags: #BOSUStrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach

Monday, 9/21: Let's see you stand on one leg. BONUS: It's #jumpjoymonday. Show us your best jump shot.

Tuesday, 9/22: #dropitlikeasquat BONUS: It's #treetuesday, so show off your best tree pose.

Wednesday, 9/23: Time to lunge it out! BONUS: How do you celebrate #workitwednesday?

Thursday, 9/24: Show off your favorite total-body balance move. #totalbodythursday BONUS: #tbt to that one time you really challenged your balance...

Friday, 9/25: #FreeFriday BONUS: It's also #forearmfriday, so plank it out!

Just one very important tip before I go: Please remember that, while the BOSU can be used dome-side down, you should never stand on the flat side. Hands only for safety reasons. I know, you can do it. But don't. Please?

Thanks.

Momentum Instagram Photo Challenge, Week 3 Recap #momentumphotochallenge

So let's just make this clear: I survived the Warrior Dash and had a total blast! I took a lot of pictures on a waterproof camera, so when I get those developed (you know, the old-school way), I'll be sure to share. Until then, it's time to wrap up another week of the Momentum Photo Challenge! We are blasting through September, and if you're following #momentumphotochallenge on Instagram, you're getting some serious motivation to maintain your own fitness momentum through this crazy month.

Not playing along with us? Totally fine, start now!

Momentum Photo Challenge, Week 1 Recap
Momentum Photo Challenge, Week 2 Recap

And here's this week's recap:

Monday, September 14: Community

"Sometimes you have to create your own community. When I moved here and found that there were no child friendly gyms or activities for moms and kids, I knew I had to start a class! Our size has doubled since the first class 6 weeks ago and the friendships we have all made are so invaluable! " — @homefieldfitness

Tuesday, September 15: Gym Bag

"This pack has covered so many miles; soaked in sweat, rain, snow and burned in the sun. It is my aid station, comfort zone, super hero cape and I am not going to lie, I feel naked without it even on short runs." — @alisonfarage

Wednesday, September 16: Plank

"It took me a year to do a #plank without using my knees." — @ten_eighty_four

Note: I just want to step in for a minute and say that I specifically chose this image because its the perfect example that persistence pays off. Remember that when you're faced with a challenge you think you'll never overcome.

Thursday, September 17: Throwback

"Me and my original running partner. Plus the baby sis in the coolest old school jogger ever! I love sharing my dad's love of running!" — @homefieldfitness

Friday, September 18: Meal

"This is my last 'mini-meal' of the day. @chobani coffee yogurt, banana and hazelnut spread." — @idratherbesweating

Saturday, September 19: Fit Friends

"Here are some friends and they are fit." — @skortaholics

Sunday, September 20: Read

"This is what I'm currently on, and Amy Poehler is awesome." — @paradisem36

Head on over to my Instagram account to see who we picked to win this week's prize. They'll be getting their choice of a Momentum Wrap or Foot Notes (affiliate link). Come join the fun, there are still chances to win. Here's what we've got on tap for this week:

Monday, September 21: Water: Because we all need to drink more water, right?

Tuesday, September 22: Sweat: Or sparkle, whatever you want to call it.

Wednesday, September 23: Muscle: Go ahead, flex. Or just show us how you're using your muscle.

Thursday, September 24: Inspiration: Got a favorite quote? What inspires you?

Friday, September 25: Snack: Because who doesn't love a great snack?

Saturday, September 26: Fit Family: Show us what yours looks like.

Sunday, September 27: Love: Because it's the best, really. And we all need it.

Now, go...get snappin'!

What do you wear at a mud run? #fitnfashionable

I signed up for a mud run. Literally, I agreed to run in disgusting mud. And overcome a series of obstacles along the way. I have never done a mud run before. I don't like mud or getting dirty. So this is the face I make whenever I think about what I signed up for:

#OMGWHAT

Here's the story: Rockin' Refuel sponsors the Warrior Dash and they're hosting an event up here in Michigan. I'm close to the location, so they reached out to see if I'd like to put together a complimentary team. Why did I accept this opportunity if I hate mud and getting dirty?

Because life is best lived when you get outside of your comfort zone every so often.

So I'm doing a Warrior Dash. 5K with 13 obstacles. Everyone tells me this is a great mud run for first-timers, and I'm praying they're right.  Because seriously, first-timer right here. Rumor has it you can skip obstacles without penalty. These are two that I'm particularly nervous about:

1) "Under the Wire" Because crawling under barbed wire doesn't seem like fun. At all. In any way. I don't want to get cut, and I don't want mud in the cuts.

2) "Great Warrior Wall" Because I don't even know if I can climb a 14ft. wall that's covered in mud...and then, seriously, how am I gonna get down the other side?!

Yeah, I signed up for that.

I'm doing it with my sister-in-law and her husband, plus three people from work. To my husband, if you're reading this: I'm calling you out for not signing up with us. Yeah, CALLING. YOU. OUT.

So, now...will someone please tell me what I need to wear and bring with me? We need to discuss this. I mean, it is #fitnfashionable Friday. So...HELP! I've been doing my research. I found ten tips to a successful mud run and tips on packing for a mud run. I also pinned a few things to reference. All of which leads me to the following, so if you've got mud run experience, please tell me if I'm missing something:

Let's start with the shoes:

I wore these Saucony running shoes at The Color Run this past weekend. They're old and semi-full of color, so I'm fine with getting rid of them at the end. Nice thing is, they're still comfortable. As will be this outfit (including an old black sports bra, not shown):

These pants are tight on me, and I honestly don't like them, so if they get ruined...well, so be it. I realize that a cotton shirt might not be the best option, but thanks to Rockin' Refuel, I will be running free of charge, so I'm very willing to represent.

The Internet seems to be divided on whether or not gloves are needed.
I'm bringing these just in case:

Rope burns suck, and these gloves are old so if I end up ditching them it won't matter. I'm also packing a bag to check, complete with a towel and change of clothes. And some flip-flops since I won't be wearing the muddy nasty shoes home.

It might seem like I'm dreading tomorrow, and I am in the best way possible. I think it will end up being a ton of fun. I'm debating whether or not to bring a disposable water camera to take pictures along the way (also a point of disagreement on the Internet...some say not to carry anything, while others are grateful to have had a camera with them).

We'll see. (Can you even find disposable cameras these days?!)

Question: Have you done a mud run before? Specifically, a Warrior Dash? What tips do you have for me?

Full-Body #BOSUStrong Workout

Disclaimer: The following post is sponsored by BOSU via my partnership with Fit Approach. All opinions are, of course, my very own.

So we're three days into the #BOSUStrong challenge with Sweat Pink. Are you playing along? No, you don't need a BOSU to participate. It's more about joining together as one big #fitfamily. But the more you play, the more you gain chances to actually win a BOSU! And today, since it's #wildworkoutwednesday, I'm giving you a way to participate: A full-body #BOSUStrong Workout!

It's a workout that uses the BOSU, but you can totally do the workout without one. The only other piece of equipment you need is a set of hand weights that will challenge your biceps and triceps muscles. Maybe a mat, too.

Please remember that, while I am an ACE-certified personal trainer, I am not YOUR personal trainer. Proceed as you see fit, according to your fitness level. If there is anything you're not sure of, I'd be happy answer your questions or offer modifications as best I can. As always, consult with your physician first if you are just starting out or trying something new.

That said, here's your workout:

Let me walk you through the exercises.

Round 1:

Easy enough. Don't feel like you have to go all the way down to the BOSU, and alternate which leg you step out with every time you lunge.

Switch between your right and left leg. Touch right, touch left...that's one repetition.

You'll follow up these exercises with Bent Rows (for your back) and walking pushups (otherwise known as "alternating pushups").

Round 2:

I happen to love BOSU burpees with an overhead press. You can, of course, eliminate the press if it bothers your shoulders. This plank variation is also nice:

It's, for lack of better words, a slow mountain  climber. Alternate bringing your left and right legs up to your elbows. Right elbow, left elbow...that's one repetition

Up next, hammer curls and triceps presses. Stand on the BOSU to increase your core challenge.

Round 3: 

One leg at a time!  Yeah, glutes. Remember to put your heel on the top of the BOSU rather than the bottom of your foot. Stay down when you're done, you've got side planks next:

While you're in that side plank position, lift your top leg up and down (x15), then lift your bottom leg up and down (x15). Outer thigh first, then inner thigh...then switch to your other side. Hips and obliques!

Questions? Have at it! Post some pictures on Instagram and tag #BOSUStrong, @BOSU_fitness and @FitApproach. Don't forget to follow me, too! I'll be sharing a lot of BOSU exercises over the course of the challenge! (Oh, and the Momentum Photo Challenge is still happening...play along!)

Question: What kind of equipment do you have in your home gym? Is there one piece you wish you had that you don't own yet? Me, I'd love a treadmill. Oh, I'd love to have a treadmill!

Are you #BOSUStrong?

Disclaimer: The following post is sponsored by BOSU via my partnership with Fit Approach. All opinions are, of course, my very own. 

Friends! I'm so excited. Today marks the start of a 4-week challenge with BOSU and Sweat Pink. I'm going to show you that I'm #BOSUStrong, and I want to see that you are, too. What does it mean to be #BOSUStrong? It's simple: I make fitness part of my everyday life. This you know, right? I like to squat, mountain climb, plank, push-up, lunge, burpee and down-dog my way to a stronger, fitter, super-healthy body. And I like to encourage others (you, my friends, my family, my clients) to do the same.

So join me on this challenge. Join the entire #FitFamily.
Let's show everyone how we're #BOSUStrong.

No, you don't need to have a BOSU. Sweating with a BOSU is only a small part of the story. Think about leading others. Think about inspiring them to live a fit life simply by setting an example. By not letting time or any other challenges stand in your way.

Right now, I want you to stop and declare five things that make you #BOSUStrong.
I'll go first:

1) My strong: Core. Because it's the center of everything I do in and out of the gym.
2) My ability to: Keep up. Because life is crazy and I completely enjoy the ride.
3) My love for: Children. Because every generation deserves a shot at good health and support.
4) My healthy: Profession. Because my job requires me to share fitness with others.
5) And my: Family. Because they provide strength, even when they don't know it.

Now it's your turn. Write your five things down as a friendly reminder, then come play with us on Instagram! This week, we'll be focusing on cardio.

Use the following tags: #BOSUStrong #FitFamily #SweatPink @Bosu_Fitness @FitApproach

Here are the prompts:
(You can also find them HERE.)

Monday, 9/14: It's #mountainclimbmonday! Show us your favorite way to climb that mountain, whether it be with hiking poles, in plank position, or...? BONUS: Show us your best jump shot, too. #jumpjoymonday

Tuesday, 9/15: Happy #tempotuesday. How are you getting your heart rate up today? BONUS: Show us your favorite triceps workout. #triceptuesday

Wednesday, 9/16: Drop down and give us some #burpees! Even better if you can make them #BOSUburpees. BONUS: Show us your #workitwednesday pics.

Thursday, 9/17: It's #totalbodythursday. Show us your favorite total body cardio move! BONUS: Give us a #tbt of the most extreme cardio workout you've ever done!

Friday, 9/18: #FreeFriday. Show us your favorite way to get your cardio on. BONUS: Put those forearms to work. Show us your best cardio move for #forearmfriday, like forearm plank mountain climbers, dolphin pushups, or forearm plank toe taps.

Like I said, you don't have to have a BOSU to participate. If you participate, you might even win one (among other fun prizes)! Also, please be safe on your BOSU if you participate. Contrary to popular belief, you really should not stand on the flat side of the BOSU.

Stay tuned throughout the next four weeks for more from me on the BOSU. And follow #BOSUStrong on Instagram and Twitter to see what the fitness community is doing, too.

Oh, and don't forget about the Momentum Photo Challenge.
Today's prompt: Community. Click HERE for all the details.

My Daughter's First #happiest5k

My daughter ran her first 5K this weekend. Hannah is only three, but she gets so excited about running. We have a short track at the gym, and she loves running around it. And when I come home with a race medal, she puts in on and parades around the house. So when I found out The Color Run was coming through town again, I signed us up and roped in her Grammy, plus two of her best friends and their moms, too.

I mean, perfect first-time 5K, right? She absolutely loved it.

The girls wore pigtails and tutus and smiled the whole time. They didn't have any issues with the color powder, even when it got thrown into their faces. But I think their favorite part was all the glitter (and the pre/post-race dancing).

This year, The Color Run is on a Shine tour so it's all systems go for sparkle AND color.

And medals, too:

Now, I have a strict no-kid-pics policy when it comes to Daily Dose. It's not something I do, but I'm going to make an exception just this once because this whole experience warms my heart and this picture is everything to me:

When I was pregnant, heck...before I was even pregnant...I used to see moms running with their little kids and I would always hope that one day I'd get the chance to run with mine. And this weekend, I did. I'm glad that she loves running. I know she's only three and I realize her feelings about running might change, which I will totally be OK with. I want her to chase her own interests, but I love running with my mom and wouldn't totally hate it if Hannah felt the same way about running with me.

Until she expresses a distaste for it, if and when she ever does, I'll keep making it fun. And when it comes to kids, there's no better way to make running fun than The Color Run.

This is the third time I've run The Color Run. Here are my other recaps:
• The Color Run in South Bend was the #happiest5k ever.
• #racerecap: The Color Run in South Bend. #thehappiest5k

Also, Hollie is recapping this week's Momentum Photo Challenge on her blog. (You can read last week's recap HERE.) Head on over there to see her favorites. And then visit her on Instagram to see who our prize winner is this week.

Not playing along? You totally should be! There's still time to get in on the prize action. It's so fun following each other as we do our best to keep our fitness momentum going at this crazy time of year. Here are the prompts (numbers reflect the day of the month) and HERE are the details. Share this on Instagram for an extra entry! (Follow me, too. I'm @adailydoseoffit!)

Question: If you have kids, do they like to run with you? If not, how do you share fitness with them?