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CEP Compression Socks, Worth Every Penny!!!
CEP Compression Socks
You see compression socks much more now than you did a few years ago and I can honestly say from personal experience that they work. So what do they do?
“CEP compression sportsocks are the first truly functional compression sport socks with a patented pressure flow technology that provide a scientifically proven increase in blood circulation and a consequent increase in performance. In addition to blister prevention, CEP socks provide more oxygen, more energy, an improved metabolization of lactic acid, and faster recovery so you can return to training quicker than ever.”
CEP O2 Running compression socks features 18-25 mmHg compression. These socks have been scientifically proven to maximize muscle oxygenation which will increase energy, allowing you to run with less effort, decrease recovery time, and reduce fatigue to optimize performance.
Before, during, after:
• Before training use for muscle activation and muscle warmth
• During training use for increased oxygenation, decreased chance of muscle strain, and optimal performance
• After training use to speed up and shorten the recovery process
Some other benefits to these socks I find helpful include the Achilles heel support which provides added support and stability of the Achilles tendon and provides some protection to irritable areas around the Achilles. CEP socks also come with anatomically shaped inline seams. Yes, that means a right and a left model. No worries they have on them “R” and “L” so not to get confused. This allows the socks to adjust to the anatomy of the foot.
CellTex® Fiber Finishing – use of non chemical additives which means pure comfort, climate regulation, no chafing, and absolutely NO blisters.
iPS Integrated Power System – defined compression with scientifically patented pressure profile improves blood circulation.
Sizing – measure the circumference of the fullest part of the calf
Material – 85% polyamid, 15% elasthan
CEP Compression Socks are an important tool to my recovery box. I have used these for months for recovery, sometimes sleeping in them and other times just putting them on after hard days of training. I feel the benefits while running and training in them especially on those days when the legs are tired and sore or during intense workouts. I highly recommend this product to any serious athlete or any individual that deals with cramping or leg soreness.
You can find multiple colors and get fitted for the CEP socks and sleeves at any Sole Sports Running Store … Come in to get yours today.
Missing You Jeff
Another re-post. I get daily inspiration from Jeff and all the lessons he taught me. I miss you Jeff and know you are the reason I find the strength to keep fighting forward.
10/10/2010 – A Poem for Jeff — (written by me)
Bright yellow shoes
Greeting with smiles
Kitten to tiger tattoos
Legs that can take the miles
Rock on my friend
Ride into the wind
Your strength my guiding light
You are now watching from greater heights
Race for the stars
Don’t stop in the clouds
Lungs screaming, legs burning
It’s Jeffy here, the wind is now turning
The wind is your friend
I’m now on the mend
Toward your dreams I will send
From now every journey I will attend
Rock on dear friend
It’s Littmann,
and time to go for the win.
10/6/2010 – R.I.P. Jeffy
While out training this AM, I couldn’t help to see the movie in my mind of all the ways Jeff touched my life.
14 years ago I walked into his club in Grafton. I was just a horseback rider, burned out of competition and struggling to find myself. As I walked in the doors I saw Jeff. Huge smile, tight spandex skin suit, and neon yellow shoes. Yes, I had a moment of second thoughts, but I took the chance.
I told Jeff I was lost. Burned out of horses, struggling to maintain my health, and unsure of what direction I wanted to go. He smiled and said, “no worries”. I joined as a member, Jeff was my trainer, and before long I was on a spin bike taking one of his classes. Every time I worked with Jeff, I felt like someone special. He was patient, motivating, had a way of making me feel important.
Weeks later I started to work for Jeff. He taught me what being a personal trainer was all about; making people feel important. Jeff became my coach, I became his student. He guided my every step and I listened and absorbed his knowledge. Jeff’s smile was contagious even when I was working so hard and/or so frustrated I couldn’t speak. He would just smile and that smile gave me the strength and determination to get the job done.
Soon I was teaching the spin classes he once taught. Helping members better their health and motivating them in the same way Jeff motivated and inspired me. Jeff would frequently tell me, “stay with it, you are good at this”. I worked for Jeff for close to 6 years. Jeff introduced me to what I am today, a personal trainer but on top of that. I strive to be the person he was to me; a motivator, an inspiration, and someone with compassion beyond words.
As time progressed Jeff introduced me to endurance training (cycling). Jeff built my first bike and was possibly just as excited about it as I was. It was red and white. Jeff encouraged every mile that I covered, he would work with me weekly on strength, and answered every question I asked. Jeff’s AM phone calls at the club’s each morning made my day. Hearing his voice and encouragement for a successful day reminded me of his determination and dedication to his lifestyle. No person worked with more determination.
In 2000 when I was hit by a car cycling, Jeff was there to visit. I will never forget him telling me, standing next to the hospital bed, “you gotta get back on the bike”. Jeff never let adversity dictate his dreams. He taught me perseverance! A lesson I have used and helped others utilize because of what Jeff taught me.
Because of Jeff, I found what I was created to do; motivate, inspire, educate, and help others enhance their health and fitness. All that starting at a place called Wisconsin Health and Fitness Center during a time in life where I was a lost individual but found by a special person.
Jeff now rides his bike among the clouds with skin suit and bright yellow shoes, and the “Jeff smile” that was always there to greet and inspire me is seen just beyond the sun! Jeff is now in the hands of the Lord, forever safe riding his bike. Love you and miss you Jeff!
Life Doesn’t Happen, It Responds
I am re-posting this blog that I wrote in August of 2010. It was very meaningful and brought back a very important lesson tonight as I am editing journals from the past to be inserted into my book. It it sometimes your response that characterizes your take on life and it’s challenges.
8/27/2010 – Life Doesn’t Happen, It Responds
Life isn’t happening to you; life is responding to you. It is your call. Every area of your life and every part of your day is really up to you. You are the creator of your life. You are the writer of your life story. We can be given obstacles but it is how we view them that ultimately affects our success. You are the director of your life movie. You decide what your life will be, by what you give to life.
This all dawned on me today. as some of you know I have been faced with a few obstacles, a couple times a week (including today) I have to go get IV fluids and iron for a pancreas condition. Not a huge deal, not life threatening, but certainly not fun. The nurses love to chat with me and frequently they say “you poor kid, you have gone through so much.” Today that really hit a nerve. What I have gone through is nothing compared to so many others. Where I go to get these injections and treatment they are given in the oncology department. I witness those battling cancer, many too sick to walk without help. A lot of the time they strike up a conversation with me and we chat. Not about disease, not about medicine, but about what life has to offer. Some ask my story, why am I there, and what do I do. I just simply say, well, I help people. I help people to become healthier by incorporating fitness in there lives, I help people deal with setbacks and help people overcome obstacles. The nurses just smile, knowing that I have a long run the next day or a race. I rarely talk about that to these amazing people. Really what I have overcome is nothing compared to what these and others face. Some of these amazing people will battle to the end and then will head up heaven to a wonderful life without any pain. Others will battle and beat the demons affecting them and live on to inspire those around them.
But life is really how you feel and how you react to what you are dealt. Sure I am human, I despise needles and hate having iron and fluids pumped into me each week, I wish I could eat normal foods and meals without taking digestive enzymes, wish I had never broken my back BUT I really have been blessed with the ability to help inspire others and the strength from God to help me through some pretty tough times. So when the nurse said to me, “you poor kid”. I thought no I am pretty blessed.
You can take any situation in your life, and every possible outcome can occur. Any outcome can happen based on the feelings you have about the situation. So next time you are faced with a tough situation, think about the outcome you want to occur and most likely that will drive your actions to accomplishing your goal.
“It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.” – unknown
Make each day GREAT!
New Design, New Times
Well, after many hours scrutinizing over the blog and the design (I am not the most decisive individual) I have come up with what I think is a simple yet concise and clean look to the blog. There will be additions and more graphics which will make it more intuitive and fun, but the ground plans have been laid.
In addition I am nearing the end of developing training plans from 5K to marathon for different levels of athletes that will be available on the web site in the future, a small price to pay for a semi-customized and personalized training plan that comes with a functional and core strength plan and a pre/post run drills, to enhance your running mechanics and lower injury risk. All this has taken much more time than anticipated but I refuse to put out anything but my very best to offer athletes of all levels striving to accomplish their goals.
My ankle injury continues to get better daily. MANY thanks to Dave and the crew at Endurance Rehab., . I continue to get therapy several days a week and have downsized out of the boot to an ASO brace. I am able to use the elliptical (my most HATED piece of equipment “pure torture”), the bike, the pool, and have been in the AlterG anti-gravity treadmill a few times this week.
I have learned more so lately the preciousness of being able to run and just how hard it is when it is taken. That lesson in turn has taught me to re-evaluate my future plans and journeys with the sport of running. I need not to take risks and need to stay focused on my goals and dreams. That means it’s the roads and staying off the technical trails, it means cross-training a bit more to decrease impact, it means listening more and giving up some control and allowing others to educate and direct me. Success takes teamwork and I have the best team anyone can ask for!
It’s about having the Faith to trust the Higher Powers. Lately I have called upon Jeff, Grandpa Don, Grandma, and others who now guide, direct, and give me courage from above. I couldn’t feel more loved by so many even at times when I am feeling both frustrated and overwhelmed.
We are not given more than we can handle, we paddle out to the surf, and face adversity head on…. and then rise up and let the surf bring us back to the shore with grace and dignity.
I move forward in life, work, running, and sport knowing that I have both the strength and courage to face what lies ahead and the same strength and courage to leave the past behind.
Much love and hugs. Never give up on your dreams, for they will provide you with confidence and strength!
Cristin
Taking Little Things For Granted
Last Wednesday a miss step on the trails ended in a fractured ankle and grade 3 sprain to the ligaments. Finishing up on a run I was cooling down and stepped wrong on my right foot, resulting in the ankle rolling and going down with it completely inverted and the outside ankle bone making contact with the ground, leg buckled and I knew it was not good. To put it into context, it felt like a bomb went off in it.
I tried to remain optimistic thinking it was just mildly sprained and would get better as the day went on. Not so. Within 2 hours, it was swollen, throbbing, piercing and I could barely put weight on it. I showered and headed to work with ice wrapped around it but once I got to work, was sent straight to Endurance Rehab. for therapy and to get it evaluated. Dave at Endurance worked me in (so grateful). We got it in the compression therapy boot w/e-stim and then flushed out and taped up to immobilize it until morning. It was a long night with little sleep and intense pain.
The next AM, I headed back in for therapy, saw Dr. Stanley Graves (one of the best foot and ankle specialists) and was sent for an MRI. Results showed avulsion fracture and grade 3 sprain to the ligaments. I am now boot bound for the time being, getting therapy 3 days a week at Endurance Rehab, and doing all the little things I can to allow this to heal as quickly and effectively as possibly.
What I learned is that we can take things for granted so easily. We can feel invincible and sometimes maybe don’t make the most logical decisions. Where I know I am safe running on the roads, I know the trails are a challenge due to some ankle instability issues I’ve had as a result of the spinal injuries I sustained in the cycling accident. I have never turned an ankle on the roads and need to realize my limitations. Unfortunately sometimes it takes a scare and slap in the face to see the “picture of logic and reality”.
Moving forward when given Dr. approval, I will be staying on level terrain and concentrating on getting faster and running on the road scene.
In the meantime I will focus on what I can do, other things that make me happy and motivate me to be my best, and giving back to others. I am continuing to work on my book and some exciting new avenues with Ultimate Stamina Consulting. I am eternally grateful for my Sole Sports family and working for the greatest running store in the country, and continuing to work on my non-profit raising $ for the Barrow Foundation supporting neuro research and spinal cord injury treatment.
With PF Changs Marathon and Half coming up this weekend, I will be at the Expo on Fri and Sat. and excited to see many friends racing on Sunday. Lots of hard work will pay off for them and I hope all have a great day out there, enjoying every step of the journey.
I’m hoping to get in the pool and on the bike in the next couple weeks and in the AlterG anti-gravity treadmill soon.
I have an IVIG antibody infusion tomorrow (I get one every 3 weeks) and I do feel I am getting stronger and healthier each week, so very grateful. 
With courage, strength, faith, perseverance and determination… you can accomplish anything you put your mind to!!!!
Hugs,
Cristin
Happy 2013!!!! Ready for the greatest year ever!!!!
Hi guys, I can’t even put into words how excited I am for 2013 and beyond. While 2012 had some major challenges, it also is where I made some wonderful major decisions… Everything happens for a reason and that holds true.
The biggest change was a move from WI to AZ. A move I was terrified to make yet there was this special calling that I felt that told me to go. It could not have been more on target! I absolutely LOVE AZ and all it has to offer. I work for without doubt the greatest running store and with the greatest “family” in the world. We are much like family at Sole Sports, I couldn’t be happier and absolutely LOVE my job.
In addition there are the almost constant days of sun and beautiful trails to run on. The insane amount of amazing restaurants and places to go and hang out. The crazy amount of friends and support from my friends here. Mom and Dad only 15-20 minutes away and the special times we share together. The top of the class doctors and medical care I continue to receive, the opportunities ahead and the epic times I have experienced already here.
2012 was a year of discovery. I discovered more about myself than I at times was ready for. I discovered I had the courage to move outside my comfort zone, I discovered some health issues (that at times were frightening beyond comprehension), I discovered great friends at their strength and support, I discovered I had more courage than I thought, and I discovered that …. wait…wait… “I am not invincible after all”. I don’t have super powers and Mother Nature is not easily defeated.
It is now diagnosed by a number of Dr.’s that I have a condition called “Common Variable Immune Deficiency” known as CVID and an Adrenal Insufficiency condition where my adrenal system is not working to well… it will require 5-7 hour infusions of antibodies every 3 weeks for the next several years+ . It is treatable and the Dr.’s seem to have a plan. I can continue my passions but have been told, “I’m not on even playing grounds and need to take some precautions, some lifestyle changes including more sleep and meds”. But it can always be worse and I am so grateful it is not. I spent 23 days in the hospital this Oct. and I want no more than NEVER to be a patient there again. I was treated great but 23 days in a hospital bed really sucks!!!!
So just a month after I am here… hiking and trail running. Ever so grateful and ready for the most amazing year yet.
A Wonderful Christmas
Wow, what a wonderful Christmas I have had with family and friends. Yesterday (Christmas Eve) started with a nice long run as the sun was coming up, then off to my amazing job I love, and after that met my parents at the most wonderful church for a great service and message by our Pastors. Back to my parents for some wine and appetizers before a wonderful meal of tossed greens and salmon on garlic mash potatoes with sun dried tomatoes, asparagus, and olives on top and more red wine. So delicious and healthy.
We had some great laughs as we reminisced highs and lows of the year and of course I got teased about a lot. I seem to get that a lot and have learned to take it well. We talked of how fortunate we are to be together. To all be “for the most part” healthy but most important, we are together and together will get through the health issues I continue to fight.
We finished the night with some great java and homemade gluten free cookies and fudge while watching a Christmas movie.
Christmas Day:
I slept to almost 9 AM, a full 3.5-4 hours later than a typical day. It was AMAZING! Then went to the kitchen for coffee just as Dad asked me if I had looked by the door. He said, “looks like Santa left you a little something”. We exchanged smiles and it was true. My original stocking that I had as a baby was at the door and filled. Some things never change. 
As a kid it was candy and as I grow older coffee replaces the candy goodness. Plus some great monthly subscriptions to Success and Coastal Living. Maybe Santa is telling me to make time for coffee and reading (relaxing). I will try to take the clue!!!
Then more relaxing with some running magazines and much more coffee. On to a beautifully prepared Norwegian brunch of smoked salmon, capers, hard boiled eggs, and red onion with cream cheese and gluten free crackers. Lefse was replaced with gluten free waffles with berries and whipped cream. Dad even made me a bloody mary to top things off.
Then presents. Still one of my favorite parts but now not because of the stuff, because of the traditions, memories, and times laughing together. But way cool cause it looks like I was a good girl this year, lots of very thoughtful gifts were given to each of us. Yes, I still play the piano.
Then more time relaxing and watching The Christmas Story on TV while Mom made a handed down recipe of home made fudge in honor of Grandma. When she is done, I get to lick the pan using a spatula. Pretty cool deal as Dad has to stir but gets what I can’t finish.
Finished off the day by heading back home and heading out for a good 40 minute easy run as the sun set behind the mountains. I am a lucky girl.
…. tomorrow starts round 1 of IVIG antibody infusions. I will get a 5 hour infusion tomorrow in hopes it can help maintain some immune system function. Most likely this will be something I have to do for the rest of my life, but a small price to pay for the ability to stay out of the hospital and live my super fun and rewarding life. Fingers crossed tomorrow goes ok.
Much gratitude to all my friends and family, you have been with me in my heart and will continue to be. HUGS
Writing a Book
I can honestly say I had no idea how hard it would be to write a book, to make sense of thought, to tell of journeys, and teach others lessons learned in adversity. While this process is far from easy, it is amazing at the same time.
I have always had somewhat of an endless journal streaming through my mind, things I want to accomplish, ways I can help others, means to inspire, and goals I want to accomplish. Maybe that is the root cause of my daily headaches but most important to me is to be the best “me” I can be.
With me, you see what you get. I don’t try to be someone I am not, I only try to live up to the gifts I have been given. I am not talking about anything you can hold, wear, drive, or pickup. These are gifts used and carried. Used in relation to carried out in your everyday lives. Carried within your soul and used to help others.
I have found in writing, that the true you is discovered over and over. Those that were put in your life glow in a bright light and are remembered for their unselfish acts or care and support. Our Higher Power remains steadfast in giving the gifts we need at the time they are needed.
I have found just recently God has placed another couple of those individuals in my life. I’m grateful beyond words and know that it only is his sign that he has the ultimate plan and with trust, faith, courage, determination, and perseverance…greatness will be achieved in life, health, friendships, work, and running.
While I am going through a time of fear and uncertainty, a time where I feel anything but courageous, a time were I feel smothered and without any control. I know that if I can keep smiling and focused on the future…I can overcome any adversity I am faced to fight.
Setbacks are only setups for comebacks!
Great to be back
Just a quick little note saying how great it is to be back from spending most of Oct (22 days) in the hospital. Today was my first day back at Sole Sports and it’s great to be back at Endurance Rehab were Dave has been working with me daily and things are going great. This will be a tough comeback I know but each day I am feeling a tiny bit stronger. Today I was up to 4 minutes of slow jogging at a time and felt a little stronger doing my strength/core exercises. I am eternally grateful for Endurance Rehab.’s help and the love and support by them and Sole Sports. I feel so lucky to say I LOVE my job and look forward each day to helping others at Sole Sports.
I am super excited for this weekend to see all the amazing women race after getting the opportunity to run with them through group runs since July. These women are READY!!!!!
Also looking at getting some cool stuff started with the blog, web site, and non-profit and eventually the book. All super exciting stuff.
For now I am off to bed. I have physical therapy 5 days a week for the time being which combined with work has me beat by mid afternoon but I know each day will get easier and that is all that matters. Gotta stay positive and not get frustrated. I feel blessed for such amazing friends and great doctors. Hugs.
