Happy New Year! As my first post of 2018, I thought I’d start with a resolution-themed tip about something that helped me a TON.
Last year, just a few months after having my second daughter, I made a resolution to get in shape again. Yes, I know, join the club, right? Well, I took it a step further and signed up for a full marathon (the Columbus Marathon) in October 2017!
Things were going great as I got ramped up. Started with walking and elliptical, eased my way into running a few minutes with some walking breaks, and then got to running several miles non-stop. But once I got into some serious mileage (15-20 miles a week), I started to have some really serious pain in my knees. I was worried that it was going to put my whole marathon on hold, so I immediately did research on what could help.
After digging through LOTS of potions and products online with mixed or dismal reviews, I found that people — especially runners — were raving about these itBandz. They looked easy to use and weren’t expensive (about $20), so I decided to try it out.
I couldn’t believe it. This little band, worn right under my patella (knee cap), took my pain from a solid 9 to a mere 2 or 3. It works by stabilizing the knee, and it’s made with a moisture-wicking, stay-in-place material so there’s no rubbing or chafing, even on the longest runs. I can honestly say it single-handedly helped me to continue my marathon training as planned!
Turns out, there’s a reason my knees were suddenly hurting, aside from more mileage. I found out this summer that I’m pregnant and hormones are loosening my ligaments in preparation for baby #3!
So, now, even after my marathon, I’ve continued to wear my itBandz because of these crazy hormones and loose tendons. Definitely helps to ease joint pain and keep me moving, which is a MUST keeping after two kiddos and preparing for one on the way! (Due April 1!)
Just thought I’d share my story because I know a lot of people are making resolutions this time of year to get back in the saddle and get active again. But that often comes with new aches and pains that can sideline us if we can’t find relief. If this is you, I definitely recommend trying out itBandz!
Visit https://www.itbandz.com to learn more!