Articles
Is a coach worth it - Part 1
One of the most common questions we get is…SHOULD I HIRE A COACH??? Well, do any of these sound like you? 1.Your training plan is a thrilling blend of guesswork, intuition, and the advice of that one cousin who ran a 5K once. 2. Your post-run recovery is a questionable blend of whatever protein powder was on sale and six-day-old banana bread. 3. You're a seasoned physiotherapist who confidently diagnoses that weird knee pain as either a minor sprain or... imminent doom 4. Your race goals shift from personal bests to simply not getting overtaken by that person in the overly enthusiastic dinosaur costume. 5. Your hydration strategy depends on whether the water fountain at the park is working 🤷🏻♀️ STOP. THE. MADNESS. You can get started for as little as $15. I know coaching is an investment, but it’s so worth it. And thanks to our friends over at Team RunRun, you can find a coach for as little as $35/month. They have over 200 amazing coaches to choose from. And because we knew you might need some incentive to give coaching a shot, we’ve twisted their arms to throw in an extra $20 off your first month with code fuelgoods20. This is not a paid advertisement and we get no commission. We simply want to give you as many tools and resources as we can to help you hit your goals. When I got my first coach, my only question was why the heck I didn’t do it sooner. Don’t sleep on getting a coach like I did. Take the plunge. I promise it will help you have more fun and reach those goals. Let's get after it, Laura PS - we dive deeper into the benefits of coaching in Part 2 HERE.
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Is a coach worth it - Part 2
In Part 1 we dove into what your plan might look life if you don't have a coach. In Part 2, we lean on the wisdom of Team RunRun coach, Brant Stachel to find out what your running will like if you do get a coach... By Team RunRun coach Brant Stachel Embarking on a running journey is an adventure filled with personal highs, challenging lows, and the pursuit of goals that may have once seemed out of reach. Whether you're lacing up for the first time or eyeing a new personal best, I hope to share some insight into why hiring a running coach can transform your experience and outcomes. 1. Tailored Guidance for Your Unique Path Imagine having a roadmap designed just for you, one that considers every twist and turn of your personal and physical landscape. A running coach offers just that—a training plan crafted to fit your life, your goals, and your current fitness level. This personalized approach ensures you're not running aimlessly, rather you're running towards something efficiently and effectively. 2. Technical Insights and Efficiency Running seems straightforward until you dive into the nuances of form, technique, fueling, strategy, injuries, and periodization. A coach breaks down these complexities and offers insights that can help you move more efficiently, reduce injury risk, and perhaps even find a new love for aspects of running you hadn't considered. Having a coach is like having a translator to help decipher the language of running, all while making the process more enjoyable, and bringing you closer to your goals. 3. A Source of Motivation and Accountability Let’s face it, running isn’t always fun, sometimes it sucks to get out the door. Sticking to a training schedule can be as challenging as the runs themselves, especially when motivation dips. Having a coach provides a layer of accountability that's hard to replicate on your own. Knowing someone is there, cheering for you, waiting to hear about your runs, and pushing you gently (or firmly) towards your goals can be the difference between hitting snooze and hitting the pavement. 4. Emotional Support Through Ups and Downs The journey of running is filled with emotional highs and lows. A coach is there through it all, offering a shoulder to lean on when things get tough and celebrating your victories, big and small. This emotional support is invaluable, especially when at times the mental hurdles seem bigger than the physical ones. 5. Overcoming Plateaus and Setting Achievable Goals Every runner faces plateaus or setbacks. A coach helps you navigate these moments, adjusting your training to keep you progressing. They're skilled at setting goals that stretch you but are within reach, striking a balance between ambition and realism that keeps you motivated and injury-free while building consistency along the way. 6. Beyond Running Shakespeare once wrote, "Bid me run, and I will strive for things impossible." This embodies what coaches help us achieve. They inspire us to reach beyond the confines of what we thought possible, challenging us to set goals that stretch our limits, and ignite our passion for running. Beyond the physical act of running, a coach plays a pivotal role in weaving the fabric of community and confidence around us. They introduce us to fellow runners, clubs, and groups, and in doing so help us find our tribe within the broader community of the running world. This sense of belonging in addition to the above-stated reasons to hire a coach can transform your running practice from a solitary pursuit into a shared experience, enriched by camaraderie, support, and excellence. About Brant Brant Stachel is a coach with Team RunRun. He is a professional Ironman athlete, has 13 years of professional coaching experience as both a triathlon and run coach, and is a former Canadian national team coach known for guiding athletes to achieve PR's at every distance. He combines his coaching acumen with his credentials as a Registered Massage Therapist and Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), providing a unique fusion of physical and mental expertise for athletes aiming to realize their full potential. Work with Brant! Like his style? You can save 25% off your first month with Brant with code FG25brant here. Remember, you get $20 off the first month of any Team RunRun coach with code fuelgoods20 over at teamrunrun.com
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The Story of How Fuel Goods Came to Be
I bet only a few of you know that all this started when I quit my job in corporate finance to pursue a professional cycling career and The Runner/RiderBox was my side hustle that paid the bills. Fast forward 10 years and this episode of The Chief Endurance Officer dives deeper into The RunnerBox, RiderBox, and Fuel Goods story and the very essence of what drives us forward: the endurance mindset. In this episode you get my take on things like: How to keep going after devastating setbacks A behind-the-scenes look at how we've embedded the endurance mindset into our team’s culture Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and how setting a vision can drive your path forward How technology will shape the future of sports nutrition This episode is not just a reflection of my journey or the ethos of our company. It’s a testament to the power of endurance, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that resides in all of us. Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or anyone with a goal in sight, there’s a wealth of insights waiting for you in this episode. Tune in Now: Spotify Apple Podcast Google Podcast Amazon Music YouTube As always, I am immensely grateful for each of you in this community that pushes me to be better every day. Here's to pushing boundaries together, Laura
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Fuel Goods Breaks Down the Latest RiderBox
This edition of The RiderBox is stacked. Let's jump right in and see how each item will transform your riding. Remember...it's not just about what's inside the box—it's about unlocking the next level of your cycling journey by knowing how to use them. The TL;DR version: This box includes: Groundbreaking products for recovery Fun ride fuel to keep you on your toes (or pedals) Super clean snacks to keep your nutrition goals on track For those of you looking for a a deeper dive, here's the rundown on why we chose each one and how to get the most out of them: ⚡Oars and Alps Epsom Salt Bar Soap For when you need an Epsom soak, but you only have time for a quickie... Soothing Sanctuary: This isn't just soap; it's a muscle magician. Epsom salt and arnica blend to soothe your aches, while coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, and shea butter lavish your skin with love. Spa Day, Every Day: The soap smells divine and if you close your eyes you might forget you're in your own shower Vegan and Cruelty-Free – Oars +Alps care about ethics without skimping on results. 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: Lather up with this bar after you've smashed a ride and the legs are achy but there's no time for an Epsom salt bath. It's the perfect compromise to restore on the fly. ⚡The GFB Bar The GFB will be your new BFF for its... Clean Ingredients: We love that we can pronounce everything in the short list of ingredients that make this bar No flavor compromise: That being said, it packs a big peanut butter punch that we love Protein-packed snack: Each 2oz bar is a compact powerhouse, delivering 12g of protein and a healthful high-five 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: As a hearty snack to keep hunger at bay on days that you've slayed a hard ride and want to make good choices to capitalize on all those gains. ⚡4D Hydration 5 Stick Combo Pack Say hello to the cyclist's fantasy blend. 4D was concocted by an endurance athlete to include dream ingredients that act as the ultimate utility player for your body. Here’s what this dream drink is coming with: Instant Energy - With 150mg of caffeine you'll have to check to make sure you're not on an e-bike Laser Focus - Maca, B12, ginseng, and yohimbe will have your brain firing on all cylinders. Endurance for Days - Beet powder gives you legs of steel to go the distance. Joint Joy and Muscle Magic - Glucosamine, bromelain, glutamine, arginine, and beta-alanine heal you up while BCAAs recover you down. Glowing Skin - Aloe and vitamins have your skin looking oh-so-good. 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: While this product is great for recovery, we love it for a pre-workout boost. Blend one stick in 32oz of ice cold H2O, shake it real good, and sip it 30 minutes before you workout. We usually drink half before for energy and save the other half for post-workout to give our muscles the BCAA love. ⚡Aahana's Rice and Lentil Bowl It’s not often we include a ready-to-eat meal, but we fell so hard for this one we couldn’t help but share it with you. You may be thinking, what’s the big deal with some rice and grains, but let me tell you, this bowl is about to rock your world in the most positive way possible! Flavor explosion: The perfectly cooked rice, lentils and veggies all come together in a symphony of scrumptiousness that'll have your taste buds doing backflips. Sprouted, Freeze-Dried and Rich in Nutrients The grains and legumes in this baby have been sprouted, which means all those tasty nutrients are supercharged and ready to fuel your adventures. On top of that, it's been freeze-dried, so every morsel is packed with the same delicious flavors and benefits no matter when or where you eat it. Protein Powerhouse: With a massive 15 grams of plant-based protein per serving, this bowl will have you feeling energized and strong enough to take on any challenge that comes your way. 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: All you have to do is add boiling water to the fill line, let it sit for seven minutes, and presto - you've got a gourmet meal without even trying. No fuss, no muss, just nourishment on the fly. ⚡Ascent Chocolate Whey Protein We’re a sucker for any company that calls themselves the official sponsor of hard work. Truly, Ascent is the real MVP when it comes to fueling your grind. They use ingredients you can pronounce and use science to get the job done... High-Quality: Ascent uses cream of the crop, premium milk for a superior amino acid profile and is made with native whey, the least processed whey protein available today. Chocolate So Good It Should Be Illegal: Real cocoa makes this taste just like chocolate milk - but with benefits Top-Notch Muscle Recovery: Recovery requires more than protein. This mix contains 25g of whey protein per serving PLUS 5.5g BCAAs and 2.6g naturally occurring leucine which helps trigger protein synthesis. Clean Eatin’: It’s free from added sugar or artificial ingredients- just the good stuff to support your mission of fueling good. 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: The traditional route: We mix half a sachet after rides or a full sachet after strength training, straight into a shaker with water and consume within 45 minutes of our workout to rebuild muscles and recover for the next day. Something more adventurous: We add the powder into our baking (reduce the amount of flour by the same amount of protein you add) to make dynamo muffins, pancakes, etc. Here is a yummy recipe for chocolate gingerbread protein muffins straight from Ascent if you’re feeling inspired. ⚡XACT Energy Strawberry Fruit Bar NOSTALGIA ALERT! These gummy fruit bars are like biting into those delectable candy fruit slices from your childhood, but with an endurance athlete twist. Here’s why we love them: Natural Ingredients: These bars are made with fruit pulp, natural flavors, and glucose to give you natural energy like a bolt of lightning, but tastier and without the frazzled hair. Easy Consumption: It’s made specifically to be easy to eat and easy to digest. It’s so smooth, some say it slides down easier than a compliment on a good hair day. Perfect for those moments when chewing feels like too much work and something hard on the stomach is out of the question Compact Convenience: Fits in your jersey better than your phone—and way more nutritious. 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: Pop one every 30-45 minutes during intense rides lasting longer than an hour…or when you're pretending to listen in meetings. It's the secret sauce to keep your energy levels more consistent than your ex's mood swings. ⚡Eco Lips Hemp Plant Pod Windburn anyone? Soothing Relief: Hemp seed oil and natural ingredients provide essential moisture and relief to chapped lips, perfect for recovery after long rides. Eco-Conscious Cycling: The first plastic-free tube is made entirely of plants. For real. All-weather Formula: Offers protection against harsh winter conditions like dreaded cold air windburn 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: Apply liberally before, during, and after rides, especially when facing the elements so you can keep your focus on the road, not on discomfort. ⚡Extreme Sport Beans® with Caffeine These hard-hitting beans are strategic magic candy for athletes. We're digging: The ingredient mix: They really thought these beans through - packed with carbs, electrolytes, vitamins, and caffeine, they're like tiny, tasty power-ups that are scientifically proven to improve fluid balance, protect cells, and sustain energy The flavor assortment: Assorted flavors mean every bean is a new adventure in taste and energy. Bye, bye flavor boredom 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: Pop two beans every 10 minutes during the crunch time of your workout or race. It’s like a secret weapon against fatigue. ! IMPORTANT ! Make sure you continue taking until the end to ensure you don't hit that wall FOR EXTRA FUN: During hard intervals, don’t look and guess which flavor you’re eating as a way to keep your mind off the burn ⚡Rule Breaker Junior - Strawberry Shortcake Those of you that have been with us for a while know that we're mildly very obsessed with Rule Breaker. It's a go-to snack for us because... Guilty Pleasure, No Guilt: This innovative bar utilizes chickpeas as the main ingredient for a protein and fiber rich snack Sinfully Delicious: Truly, how does something made from beans taste so dang good? Bonus: the portion size is perfect since we could eat these forever. Allergy-Friendly: Free from the top 11 allergens, making it a worry-free delight for everyone. 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: As a better for you option when cravings hit and you want to stay on track and need something scrumptious. Also ideal for packing in kids' lunch boxes for a safe, tasty snack. ⚡Lesser Evil Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn Air popped popcorn may just be the king of athlete snacks but when you can't air pop, this is your next best bet... Simple Ingredients: Just three components—organic popcorn, extra-virgin coconut oil, and Himalayan pink salt—for clean snacking. Cyclist's Dream Snack: High fiber, complex carbs, and ridiculously low calories to volume ratio = WIN, WIN, WIN! 💡PRO TIPS - How to use it: Reach for this popcorn when you need a light yet fulfilling snack. It's perfect for those moments when dinner is on the horizon but your stomach can't quite wait. ! IMPORTANT ! NOT BEFORE A RIDE: see high fiber ☝🏼💩 That's a lot... We know. You can get each of these items individually for about $54. Or you could subscribe and get this box for $32. We're not mathematicians but.... And if you already subscribe (yessssss!!!) don't forget that you can restock on the Fuel Goods marketplace and save 15% off everything. You can find your super secret discount code when you scan the QR code on the What's in the Box card found in your box. Let us know what you think We want to hear from you! Drop a comment or email us at feedback@theriderbox.com to: Share other ways you're using the product Ask any questions you have on the nutrition side Give any other feedback As always, it is our joy to hep you fuel your best. Here's to making every mile count!
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Fuel Your Run: Fuel Goods Unveils the Latest RunnerBox
Dive into this edition of The RunnerBox and find out why each product is a game-changer for your runs. It's not just about what's inside the box—it's about unlocking the next level of your running journey by knowing how to use them. Let's chase that runner's high, one awesome product at a time!
Learn moreRun Farther, Ride Faster: How Our New Partnership with Fuel Goods Powers Your Potential
2023 in a Nutshell 2023 was a phenomenal year for our Runner and RiderBox family. It was a year where our passion for running and cycling transcended boundaries, touched lives, and pushed us to new heights. We: Shipped thousands of boxes across the nation Empowered Parkinson’s Foundation Champions Launched on Amazon And unveiled our new website. But something was still missing… Listening and Evolving Your feedback is the guiding force that pushes us to be better You’ve repeatedly asked for two things: 1) A more convenient way to replenish your favorite products 2) A more personalized box experience. Your voice has been instrumental in shaping our next big leap… Introducing Our Partnership with Fuel Goods In a groundbreaking move, we’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Fuel Goods, a name synonymous with excellence in sports nutrition. This collaboration is not just a partnership; It's a fusion of visions to elevate your nutrition game. Fuel Goods is on a mission to help you remove the friction between wanting to fuel better and actually doing it. By joining forces, we provide you full the ecosystem to find great products and make sure you always have them available to fuel your best. Here’s What’s in Store for You: - Customized Boxes: Tailor-made nutrition is no longer a wish but a reality. You can customize a subscription box to fit your dietary preferences and fueling needs. - Expert Guidance: Sports nutrition is complex. Fuel Goods is here to help you reach your goals by creating you a custom box based on your lifestyle. Fuel Goods will also take the lead on our social media accounts so they share their extensive nutrition expertise with our followers. - More Variety Get the products you loved in your boxes, PLUS more fully vetted sports nutrition products so you can always fuel good - Exclusive Discounts: As a membership perk, all Runner and RiderBox subscribers will receive 15% off the entire Fuel Goods website Beyond Convenience: A Leap Towards Sustainable Growth This partnership spans beyond just offering more nutrition. Fuel Goods will also become the fulfillment partner who ships all our boxes. This is a strategic move to enhance operational efficiency and keep our commitment to affordability without compromising on quality. With a larger warehouse network, we're set to streamline our logistics, ensuring that your favorite boxes arrive at your doorstep seamlessly. What Changes for You? Fear not, for the heart of RunnerBoxes and RiderBoxes remains unchanged. Same quality product. Same good vibes. The essence of what we do will continue as always. Embracing Change with Open Arms This partnership is a testament to our relentless commitment to providing you with the best possible products and unmatchable value. We can't wait for you to check out Fuel Goods and transform your pantry into a way to reach your goals. Here's to continuing to push boundaries together, Laura and Courteney
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Fueling Your Fitness Journey: Join Us Instagram!
We're thrilled to announce the launch of our Instagram page for Fuel Goods, your one-stop destination for top-notch sports and health goods. As we embark on this exciting journey, we invite you to connect with us on social media to stay updated on the latest trends, exclusive offers, and a community dedicated to enhancing your fitness lifestyle.Fuel Goods: Igniting Your Passion for Sports and Health At Fuel Goods, we're passionate about empowering individuals to live a healthier and more active life. Our carefully curated selection of sports and health goods caters to enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes. Whether you're into running, yoga, weightlifting, or any other fitness activity, we have the gear and equipment to fuel your passion.Join the Conversation on Instagram Our Instagram page is your go-to hub for engaging content, product highlights, and a community of like-minded individuals. Here's what you can expect when you follow us:1. Product Spotlights:Discover the latest additions to our inventory and learn how these products can elevate your fitness routine.2. Expert Tips and Advice:Stay informed with tips and advice from fitness experts, helping you optimize your workouts and achieve your health goals.3. Exclusive Offers:Be the first to know about special promotions, discounts, and limited-time offers available only to our Facebook community.4. Customer Success Stories:Get inspired by real-life success stories shared by members of the Fuel Goods community, showcasing the positive impact of our products on their fitness journeys.Join us on Instagram: Fuel Goods Instagram PageLet's Connect and Fuel the Passion Together!The launch of our pages mark a significant step in building a vibrant community centered around sports and health enthusiasts. We invite you to join us on this journey, share your experiences, and connect with fellow fitness enthusiasts.Follow Fuel Goods today, and let's ignite the flame of passion for a healthier, more active you.
Learn more6 Must Have Father's Day Gifts for Cyclists
Father’s Day is June 18th and let’s be real – there has got to be something better to get Dad than the popular, yet lethal combination of alcohol and power tools. Seriously, who decided that was a good idea? If you sometimes worry that your dad spends more time with his bike than with you, here are our favorite ideas to help him celebrate his day. 1 The RiderBox Starting at $29 We’re shamelessy putting The RiderBox first, because honestly, what beats a box of riding awesome that is going to keep Dad happy for months. If you want a gift that is going to win Father’s Day for a cycling dad, you just found it. 2 Ballsy Ballwash $20 With all that time spent on a bike seat, help Dad help himself with this invigorating, activated charcoal body wash that features essential oils and plant extracts that will moisturize, clean and leave him smelling fantastic. And, according to Ballsy, will “keep the funk off his junk”. 3 Nigel Handlebar Bag Starting at $120 Okay so, hear me out... your dad needs a bag for Father's Day. But not just any bag, the Nigel Handlebar Bag! It's waterproof, perfect for snacks (and other bike gear, I guess). Plus, it's made right here in our hometown of Asheville, North Carolina. What more could you ask for? 4 Shokz OpenRUN $129.95 We LOVE these headphones. They stay as put as a couch potato in the middle of a Netflix binge and their open-ear design will allow Dad to safely jam while staying fully in tune with the noises of cars and his other surroundings. 5 A New Watrbodl Starting at $13 Yes you read that corretly - Watrbodl. This hilarious brand offers great options like this Super Big Ride bottle that will keep Dad smiling (and hydrated). 6 5x Premium Muc-Off Brush Set $36.99 This kit includes every type of brush Muc-Off make, so Dad can get excited about getting into every nook and cranny on his bike for a smooth, fast ride, while you relax in the sun with a glass of champagne (us ladies need to celebrate too).
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5 Must Have Father’s Day Gifts For Runners
Father’s Day is June 16th and let’s be real – there has got to be something better to get Dad than the popular, yet lethal combination of alcohol and power tools. Seriously, who decided that was a good idea? If your dad is the running kind, here are our favorite ideas to help him celebrate his day. We’re shamelessly putting The RunnerBox first, because honestly, what could be better than a box of running awesome that is going to keep Dad thinking of you all year long. This subscription box ships every other month and if you want a gift that is going to win Father’s Day for a running dad, you just hit the jackpot. Help Dad help himself with this invigorating Oars + Alps soap made with Epsom salt, arnica. It doesn't just clean - it rescues, it pampers, and it leaves him smelling so good, he'll have the whole family lining up for a sniff! Say goodbye to boring showers and hello to a sud-sational experience that'll have Dad feeling like a million bucks. We can't get enough of this horchata flavored protein. Think of it like a manly chai latte that is like a high five for his muscles. We're not doing it justice, but we know dad's going to love it. Loaded with top notch fuel and accessories, this box is will be dad's perfect companion to stay in shape and beat back that dad bod. From protein pretzels and muscle rubs to power-packed cookies and more, this box has your runner dad's name written all over it. You can't go wrong here. Get dad a fuel card that allows him to fill up with the best sports nutrition around so he's always ready for whatever adventure life brings him next. And there you have it, folks! Five absolute game-changers that will make any running dad's Father's Day unforgettable. Whether he's just starting his running journey or he's a seasoned marathoner, these gifts are guaranteed to put a spring in his step and a smile on his face. Remember, it's not just about the miles he runs but the memories he makes along the way. So, go ahead and treat your running hero to something special this Father's Day. Because let's face it, he's earned it. Happy gifting, and may your Father's Day be filled with joy, laughter, and plenty of endorphins!
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