"Disclaimer: I received a variety pack of Built Bars to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews!"
 

The first thing that struck me right away was the low caloric count for many of the flavors (110 calories!!!), while still offering high protein (around 15G!).  Most high protein bars are double that amount of calories, which I really don’t like.  So this was impressive.

I received a box of mixed flavors which included 2 of each of the following flavors: Coconut, Banana Chocolate Chip, Mint Brownie , Black Cherry, Salted Caramel Chocolate, Double Chocolate Mousse, Orange, Vanilla and Raspberry – plus a full box of  Coconut Almond and a full box of Peanut Butter. Wow!

Built Bar really looked at the science behind nutrition in choosing their ingredients carefully, from the type of protein to fiber and sweeteners. Whey protein isolate was chosen for the bars because it is a complete protein, which means it has all the essential amino acids, it has high digestibility, and a mild taste. The isolate version we use does not contain casein or lactose, which are the components of milk that some people are allergic to. Very few individuals are sensitive to whey protein isolate. On the negative side, whey protein is more expensive than some other proteins and it is not vegan. Read more about the science behind their decisions here.

What I wasn’t prepared for was the reaction from my family.  Both my son and husband IMMEDIATELY tried them and decided these were awesome.  Now they are both taking them to school and work for snacks.

These bars arrived just days before Ragnar Del Sol, so I was able to share an assortment of them with my very hungry teammates, which were much appreciated!

So, as I said at the start, I’m more of a crunchy texture person than chewy.  The consistency of these bars is very nougat-like.  Very chewy. I found it helpful to put them in the refrigerator to make them a bit more firm. My favorites are peanut butter, chocolate almond. Peanut butter flavor has 20G protein! yes, please. 

I hear they have a new smores flavor out now, plus oatmeal cookie  and banana bread flavors – now I want to try those too!
 
Ready to try them for yourself? Use code BUILTNOW  for 20% off your order!. You can either order a mixed box, a box with all one flavor OR a build your own box where you can choose from several different flavors. Each box contains 18 bars.  Check out all their flavors, nutritional info, and order here!

"Disclaimer: I received a complimentary entry to the Scottsdale Giants Race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"

There’s nothing like Spring Training in Arizona.  If you’re a runner, and a baseball fan, why not combine the two?

Last year, I ran the 10k and really enjoyed it. The race goes through Old Town Scottsdale with the majority of the course along the greenbelt.  Sunshine, golf course views, and finishing on the field in the stadium. what more could you want?

There is both a 5k and 10k option.  I’m currently registered for the 10k, Join me and save $10 on either distance with code GIANTSAZBR!  There’s even a virtual option if you can’t make it to beautiful Scottsdale! Afterwards, hit up brunch In Old Town, then stay for the game vs. the Angels!.

This year's race takes place on February 29, 2020.  Leap Day!

Sign up today!

Where do you get your healthy food inspiration? Recently was introduced to Raley's, a fresh grocery store chain located in California.  They take the time to provide endless inspiration for their customers on overall health and wellness, no matter what health and dietary plan you follow. They are a proud sponsor of the Napa Valley Marathon in March.

Everyone knows that weight loss success is 90% due to nutrition and only 10% exercise.  We all know it,but we don’t necessarily practice it!  Nutrition is also obviously key when it comes to race preparation.  Even after being a distance runner for over 20 years, I still struggle with the discipline of eating smart for race day and recovery.

Raley’s knows a thing or two about helping runners with race and recovery nutrition. They are a sponsor of the Napa Valley Marathon and provide some of the food at the finish line.

Nutrition strategist, Yvette Waters MS, RDN, CISSN of Raley's Nob Hill Foods created a helpful guide for runners. She explains how to prep for your race with good nutrition during training, the week before you race, and after your event..

My next half marathon is just 6 weeks away. I am committed to doing a better job fueling in the weeks leading up to the race, especially the week before.  My next race is actually in Napa, where there is a Raley's.  So you’d better believe I’m going to stop there when I get in town and load up on pre-race fuel and recovery!

Read the full article here. It’s super helpful, even if you don’t have a Raley’s near you!

Check the store locator to find the closest Raleys to you!