Taking My Running Goals to Garden of the Gods

This post is sponsored by Backcountry

Something that has been super cool about partnering with different brands over the years is that they get me out of my comfort zone and trying new things. I’m very much a creature of habit and routine and I also think that I always know what I want and need. But truth is, like all of us out there, I am constantly changing and evolving. And that’s something that has been so cool about partnering with Backcountry. With this partnership, Backcountry has challenged me to get outdoors, explore more of Colorado, and really get back to appreciating the nature that is around every corner of my daily world.

And since this new year has sparked a new challenge of running more for the next 5 months, I’m even more challenged to get outside and get moving, especially since I don’t really love running. For me, I want to spend most of my fitness time in the gym with weights and exercise bands. But there is something that is so soothing and calming about being outdoors. Especially the great outdoors that are just a quick drive away and are absolutely breathtaking. And for me, that spot is the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. Colorado Springs is just about an hour drive for me and I frequently forget how incredibly beautiful it is there, especially in the expansive public park filled with red rock formations and paved paths throughout that are perfect for an afternoon run.

Since it’s February in Colorado and the absolute last thing I want to do is get outside, I gotta wrap up in the warmest running apparel I can find. If my hands and ears are cold at any point, I’ll definitely give up, which isn’t an option. And that’s where Backcountry comes in handy. I’ve talked about it in past posts, but in case you missed it, Backcountry has EVERYTHING you would need for any kind of outdoor adventure. Whether you need to wrap up to stay warm or you need as little clothing as possible for your beach vacation, Backcountry has your back to keep you comfortable and feeling your best, no matter your next adventure.

To keep myself on track with my running goals, I pulled out my Nike Epic React Shoes then found THE BEST Backcountry Sundial Tights for my Saturday morning run in 30 degree weather. These tights are fleece lined but still have a four-way stretch to move with you, no matter which direction you turn. Plus they are quick-drying to help you stay dry and comfortable, no matter how far you go. And one of my favorite parts is that the tights come with pockets on each side so you can keep your keys and phone safe while you run and explore.

But if you like to hold on to your phone while you run so you can easily change the song you’re listening to at any moment, then these North Face Etip Gloves will be your perfect partner. The gloves come in five different colors and have a full conductive palm that allows you to quickly manage anything on your phone while you’re running. Plus it offers a great amount of grip so your phone won’t budge. I know that I get bored pretty quickly with every song I listen to so these gloves came in handy throughout my entire run.

After I found these gloves and tights, I was able to layer the entire look with a comfortable Craft Celo Thermal Jersey and a super warm Patagonia Bivy Vest. But since I don’t want to feel boring while out for a run, I brought in a pop of color with a feminine headband. That headband sold out but here is a similar beanie with the same pattern! It’s safe to say that my Saturday run was comfortable and warm the entire time, which meant I stuck with it and explored even more than I had planned. 

If you’re trying to get outside this season or you have some vacations planned in the next couple months, Backcountry is here to help in any way possible. If you’re feeling a little lost with what you need for your trip, Backcountry Gearheads are prepped and ready to use their expertise and experience to help you put together the perfect look and gear for your upcoming trip. You can easily chat, call or email a Backcountry Gearhead to make sure you find exactly what you need and are fully prepared for the adventure you want to take on. Whether it’s a hiking daypack, a surfboard, or even a sleeping bag, they will help you find anything you need! All you have to do is click the Gearheads tab to easily connect with one in minutes.

February has become very much a hibernation month for many, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Even though I pretty much hate February, I also know that it is getting me one month closer to spring and to warmer weather, so I’m trying to enjoy it as much as I can in the meantime. And because of that, I’m exploring new places and staying active in the meantime. And when I explored Garden of the Gods for the first time, my run didn’t even feel like exercise. It felt like a whole new world I had never explored and it’s only been an hour away from me the whole time.

My goal this year is to keep you motivated and excited with your health goals. I want you to continually challenge yourself, try new things, and surprise yourself with how amazing you can feel as the year goes on. And Backcountry will make sure you can try something new, month after month, and they will keep you comfortable and excited throughout. I know they have for me. And if you haven’t tried out Backcountry yet, they are offering 15% off your Backcountry purchase when you use code PALEO15! Plus they offer free 2-day shipping on all orders over $50 across the country! LOVE that part about Backcountry. They also partn with The Nature Conservancy  to support its mission of protecting the lands and waters, just like the ones I experienced at Garden of the Gods.Backcountry wants to keep this world as beautiful possible and they want you to experience all of it while you can. So get out there this month, next month, and every month after that! You may be surprised how much you enjoy yourself, no matter what the weather is like that day!

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This post is brought to you by Backcountry. I may be compensated for this post, but all opinions are my own. This compensation helps with expenses to keep this blog up and running! Thank you for all your support!