Wellness

Conventional wisdom is that men get heart attacks and women don’t. This is neither conventional nor wise, as it is not true. But it is such a compelling bit of “knowledge” that even doctors who would go first to coronary problems with a certain set of symptoms in men will sometimes start somewhere else with their female patients.

The truth is that coronary heart disease in women is just as prevalent as with men – in fact, since 1984 more women than men have died of heart disease. And while breast cancer – a scourge, no doubt – is the biggest health fear among women, many times more women suffer from and die each year from heart disease.

The good news is that physical activity – as in exercise – has been shown to be beneficial for women in predicting or lowering the risk of obstructive coronary heart disease. A study published in 2004 in the influential medial journal JAMA (the Journal of the American Medical Association; 2004; 292[10], 1179-87) showed a significant association between low physical activity and the existence of of potential coronary problems.

The study examined 908 female patients who had chest pains, suggested narrowing of the arteries, or both. They were measured for weight – normal, overweight or obese – and each patient’s BMI, body mass index, was measured. While the group tended to be overweight (76%), the researchers could find no difference based on weight category in the presence or severity of heart disease. They did, however, detect a difference: women who were active, even moderately so, had a lower risk of adverse cardiovascular events.

This is not to suggest that being overweight, or indeed obese, is okay as long as a woman stays active. The same markers that lead to heart attack in men – obesity, high LDL cholesterol, and smoking the leading ones – are true for women. In fact, after years of pointing out gender differences as it relates to heart disease, more recent studies suggest more similarities between men and women.

There are some differences, of course. Heart disease is more prevalent in young men than in young women, and many in the health community believe that the presence of estrogen helps in the reduction of LDL (bad cholesterol) and an increase in HDL (good cholesterol). But by age 65 and post-menopause women catch up and the risks are essentially the same. There is even research that suggests that hormone replacement therapy, recommended by many for menopausal and post-menopause women, provides no cardiac protection for this age group. While beneficial for other reasons, many believe, studies by the National Institutes of Health suggest that post-menopausal women should not take estrogen or other hormones as a heart therapy.

Here at Ladies Only Sports we’re not doctors and we recommend that women consult with their own physicians about their heart health. On the other hand we are exercise and activity enthusiasts and take heart in studies that suggest that a regular routine of exercise, even in moderation, is good for the heart. And besides, it’s good for so many other things, like overall fitness, performance, endurance, and simply well-being, and there’s no harm in that. We do caution, however, that before engaging in strenuous physical activity that every woman should consult her doctor.

So, of course, during that activity every woman wants to dress the part in workout apparel that works hard and flatters the figure. You’ll find all of that and more at Ladies Only Sports. Call 1-877-567-5239 for complete details.

Pilates, an exercise regime pioneered during World War I by a German physical fitness enthusiast, has in the last 30 years become one of the leading exercise programs in the United States, especially among women. Pilates himself called the technique “Controlology” for the idea was to be in control at all times of the body’s muscles, and the regime that now bears his name is said to build flexibility, long and lean muscles, and strength and endurance in the legs, abdominals, arms, hips and back. Pilates also has an emphasis on spinal and pelvic alignment, and proper breathing for stress relief and good oxygen flow to the muscles.

If you take a look at these core goals of a Pilates' program, it is not difficult to imagine that it is particularly well suited to the rigors and expectations of pregnancy – within reason.

Being pregnant is one of the most rewarding occurrences in a woman’s life, but it is of course not without is potential problems. During pregnancy, the body releases a hormone called relaxin which is there to increase the laxity of muscles, joints and ligaments – the idea is to boost the mobility of the tissues so an expectant mother can accommodate a growing fetus and prepare for the stress of delivery. Done properly, Pilates is an excellent enhancement of this natural process.

While pregnant, a woman’s abdominal muscles will stretch about 50% over their original length, so a strengthening of the abdominal muscles will help in supporting the growing uterus while decreasing lumbar compression and reducing pelvic pressure. Throughout the gestation period, a woman’s body posture will change, and there will be additional stress points on the lower back, pelvis, hips and feet, as well as in muscles in the cervical spine. Doctors point out that maintaining good posture during pregnancy will alleviate pain and ultimately lead to an easier delivery. All of this can and will be improved with a proper Pilates workout schedule.

There are, however, some things to consider. First, any pregnant woman should consult with her physician or midwife before exercising to make sure any program is not only right for pregnancy generally, but for the individual in question. These health professionals will be able to advise on what exercise is recommended or not recommended during pregnancy, and discuss the levels of exercise at various stages of the pregnancy. Best to consult with a medical expert on an on-going basis throughout all of the pre-natal care.

Second, and very important, is the question of what constitutes Pilates and who is a proper Pilates instructor. Several years ago there was an intellectual property lawsuit concerning Pilates, and a federal judge ruled that the term is generic and free for unrestricted use. In other words, anyone can call themselves a Pilates instructor, trained or not trained, so it’s important to know the background and some track record on an instructor.

Also, not everything Pilates is good for the pregnant woman. There are certain routines and workout times in a typical Pilates class, course or program that just won’t do for the pregnant woman. Even a trained Pilates instructor may not have taken training on Pilates and pregnancy, so the best thing to do is to consult with the instructor and discover as much as you can about the modifications they address for Pilates during pregnancy. And, of course, a discussion of the recommended Pilates regime with a health professional is always a wise step.

For most women, and in most circumstances, Pilates during pregnancy will be highly beneficial. Also, Pilates has been shown to be an excellent exercise regime following the birth of the baby to aid in returning the mother’s body back to its pre-pregnancy state of fitness, if not better. Indeed, many expectant mothers have discovered Pilates during pregnancy and begun a long-term program that benefits them for many years to come.

And, of course, Ladies Only Sports is an excellent place to find all of the workout clothes to get you through your first trimester of pregnancy and for some our clothing will even have enough stretch to get over that second trimester bump.  It is extremely important to support your breast tissue during your pregnancy as well; at Ladies Only Sports we have a wide variety of sports bras to suit your needs and expanding bust line.  And once you get that okay from your doctor at the 6-week check-up after birth to get back to normal we’ve got a the yoga pants, workout tops, sports bras you’ll need when you maintain fitness as a new mother.

For complete information call 1-877-567-5239. Discover how to Bloom!  -- as in reaching a prime condition of health, vigor and beauty -- at Ladies Only Sports.

Here’s some Winter Exercising Tips for New Moms to make sure both the blessed event and the season don’t deter a workout routine.

PARKER, CO – Many brand-new moms think that an exercise regime is too much to handle with a new-born, especially over the winter months when the weather plays havoc with a routine. Of course, many new moms also think that an exercise regime is absolutely essential in returning one’s body to pre-pregnancy shape, but find winter a difficult exercise season.

Winter is actually one of the best exercise seasons around since the bulk of the crowds are taking it easy indoors. And, of course, cooler weather makes it all the more easy to work up a good sweat without feeling overheated or getting too tired or spent. Winter, if nothing else, is invigorating.

So, okay, you’ve got a new baby, and it’s winter and cold and the snow is flying, but really, it’s a great time to get back on the exercise routine.

Certainly, one of the best ways to stay exercising over the winter months, even with a new baby, is to join or maintain a membership in a health or sports club. You know the routine – ellipticals, rowers, stationary bikes, treadmills, weights, Pilates and spinning classes; it’s all there, it’s all great. About the only new wrinkle in the routine is the need for childcare, and many of these clubs have childcare centers in-house for free or a nominal fee. Some new moms – particularly first-time moms – feel reticent to leave a newborn with childcare like this, but ask the older mom or the third-time mom and you’ll liable to get the “what’s the issue? Do it!” shrug.

Since it is winter and you’re a new mom, even if you’re at the gym exercising don’t forget to do proper warm-ups, cool-downs, keep hydrated (winter often requires more hydration), and make sure to use plenty of lip balm.

Now outside exercising is where it gets a little tricky. Ladies Only Sports, with our objectives written clearly in our name, is dedicated to keeping the juices flowing.

Here’s some Winter Exercising Tips for New Moms:

When dressed properly – layers, warm clothes, wicking clothes – even if outside temperatures are 20 degrees F everything should be fine. Just watch out for colder temps than that, and make sure to factor in the wind chill. If the actual temp or the wind-chill temp in down below 10, exercise indoors. If you’re taking the baby along, that’s fine, but dress the child warm and in layers too, and remember that while you are working out the baby is simply along for the stroll and might get colder.

If your outdoor exercise regime involves a tough workout – a hard run, vigorous skiing, etc., experts advise to dress for weather 20 degrees warmer than actual temperature – e.g., if its 30 degrees F, dress for 50 degrees F. Wear breathable, moisture-wicking layers to keep your body dry as possible. Also, wear materials on the outer layer resistant to wind and water, and keep you head and hands covered and warm.

Hydrate. Drink plenty of water – you’ll need even more in the winter to stay hydrated properly.

Sunscreen up. It’s always a good thing on any day to wear a face cream with 15 SPF, but if it’s snowy and sunny you might want to up that because you’ll be getting UV rays directly and reflected. Children under six month are not supposed to use sunscreen, so keep them covered if they are along; older kids can use the sunscreen and might need more SPF than mom. In addition, both mom and child should wear sunglasses to protect eyes from all that winter glare, and lip balm is recommended.

Safety. If it’s dark outside, remember to wear reflective gear, like reflective tape or a safety vest – or have a headlamp or a flashlight. Baby’s stroller should have lights and/or reflectivity too.

Safety again. Obviously, one of the great hazards of winter is snow and ice, and they can be very slippery – even in spots that don’t look slippery. You do, of course, want to avoid slipping, so avoid the icy spots, but you might also invest in ice stabilizers or treks for you running shoes for added protection. These usually strap on, so in a few days when the ice melts off the roadway, you’re good to go.

Warm up thoroughly. Cold temps can cause muscles to tighten up, so warming up properly is even more important in winter. The National Strength and Conditioning Association recommends stretching after warming up, not before.

Protect Your Skin. Skin in winter – for mom and baby – tends to be drier and more prone to cracking, and exercise can exacerbate this. So in addition to extra sunscreen, avoid overly hot showers, and use plenty of moisturizing.

LadiesOnlySports.com, in its 11th year of operation, is a family-owned business and features functional and flattering athletic apparel for women, such as sports bras, tops, bottoms, plus sizes, socks, headbands, power gloves, and dancewear. In addition the website features products like sport-themed jewelry, heart rate monitors and pedometers, packs, kangoo jumps, water bottles, ear buds, and safety gear like pepper spray anti-chafe cream. The website ships orders Monday through Friday with a variety of shipping options through the U.S. Postal Service and FedEx, including international shipping through USPS.

For complete information on LadiesOnlySports.com call toll free 877-567-523.

Resolved: This year I am going to exercise more, get fit, lose weight, get back into my favorite skinny jeans, be the most amazing person at my high school reunion, prove my mother wrong, really irritate my sister, wow my husband, inundate my seamstress with alterations or buy a new wardrobe, and otherwise become a new me.

A lot of women go through pretty much this same type of New Year’s Resolution at this time of year, and they plan for it by putting cute workout clothes on their Christmas List or by shopping for their own exercise attire as the calendar for the old year runs out and the new possibilities of 2012 seem doable.

There’s nothing wrong with that, of course. In fact, here at Ladies Only Sports we’re really in to helping women become the “new me” or simply staying on track with a healthy lifestyle. We are all for fitness, and we do of course sell the sports bras, tops, bottoms, and gear that not only are meant for athletic pursuits, but fairly cry out and demand that fitness happen.

But we’re realists too: we understand how hard it is to keep a resolution and stay on track for more than a short period of time on that goal of getting more fit. We’re here to help.

We looked up some background information on New Year’s Resolutions and were very astonished at some of the numbers. Seems that only about 44% of Americans even bother anymore making a New Year’s Resolution, and only some 8% of the resolvers actually stick to the resolution throughout the year. And this doesn’t count the people who resolve each year never to make New Year’s Resolutions (then again, maybe it does).

There are the obvious things on the list of what the resolutions concern – quitting smoking, quitting drinking, spending more time with family, etc. – but study after study show that ranking very high on the list of the most resolved is a) weight loss, or b) exercise more. Indeed, 38% of resolvers address weight loss in their forward-looking plans.

Also these studies show that the younger you are, the better chance you have of achieving resolution results, and that less than 15% of people over 50 years of age meet their resolute objectives. On the plus side, depending on where you fall on being a resolver or not, all the studies show that people who make and/or achieve resolutions are absolutely no more happy than those who don’t bother or are unsuccessful.

And on the front of resolving to exercise more or to lose weight or both, you probably already know that January is the busiest month of the year for people to join gyms and health clubs. Interestingly enough, there’s about a 20% to 30% dropout rate after three months of gym membership, studies say, and that ultimately some 67% of the members don’t use the facilities – ever. And just so you know, women make up slightly more than half – 52% -- of gym/health club memberships.

Here at Ladies Only Sports we want more women to resolve to be fitter, and we want as many of them as possible to achieve their goals. So here are a few ideas to help:

Set realistic goals. Rather than say “I will lose 50 pounds” or whatever, resolve instead to shed a couple of pounds each week or each measurable period – a much more realistic target. In other words, take baby steps that are achievable rather than staring high expectations in the face.

Find an exercise routine that works. One of the biggest reasons that people start and then quickly stop exercise programs is that they set their sights too high. If you don’t think you make it to the club every morning or even every other morning for an hour, don’t resolve to do so. The object of exercise, especially if you’re a relative newbie, is not to kill yourself, but rather repetition: going for a daily 40-minute brisk walk, or doing a half-hour to a workout tape in front of the TV will bring results.

Get a friend -- or two. There is always strength in numbers. If you set your sights on walking or running at the park, or going to the club for a spinning class or elliptical workout, having a workout buddy helps. You can share the driving, talk, push each other, and subtly guilt the other one into not blowing off a day or two.

Read up. There are plenty of resources available for both weight loss and exercise regimes – which often go hand-in-hand but are not necessarily linked – that help in setting goals and measuring success. Many fitness instructors believe that those who are more informed are more apt to participate and stay involved.

Think about diet. Obviously, if weight loss is a goal you’re thinking about a diet, but thinking about diet is different. Many people who begin exercise programs report that their diets change naturally, that they crave healthier foods like vegetables, don’t crave so many sweets and snacks, and that their caloric intake at meals goes down – their appetite is suppressed – without hunger pangs. Dieting and a healthy diet are quite different animals.

The problem with most New Year’s Resolutions is that they go too far, that they drastically alter a lifestyle and are therefore unsustainable. On the other hand, many women find that once they start small – to walk every other day or to spin three times a week – that it doesn’t really disrupt their lives, and then, over time, they just naturally increase their efforts. It is difficult to incorporate a huge change in one’s life all at once, but gradually the result is the same with very little cataclysmic alterations.

So there you have it. Resolve to change. Slowly.

And have a Happy New Year!

LadiesOnlySports.com, in its 11th year of operation, is a family-owned business and features functional and flattering athletic apparel for women, such as sports bras, tops, bottoms, plus sizes, socks, headbands, power gloves, and dancewear. In addition the website features products like Kangoo Jumps rebounding boots, sport-themed jewelry, heart rate monitors and pedometers, packs, water bottles, ear buds, and safety gear like pepper spray anti-chafe cream. The website ships orders Monday through Friday with a variety of shipping options through the U.S. Postal Service and FedEx, including international shipping through USPS.

For complete information on LadiesOnlySports.com call toll-free at 877-567-5239 or local in the Denver metro area at 303-805-4448.

This summer, enjoy your lazy summer days, but don't forget to take care of yourself.

Exercise three times a week. Summer is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.  Go for a hike or take the hound out for a walk.  See your kids out enjoying the beautiful weather, join them! Try to get in atleast thirty minutes to an hour of exercise three times a week.

Eat healthier snacks. Summer means an awesome variety of fruits and vegtables, nosh on them instead of something salty. If you need something with a little crunch try the yummy crackers made from nuts now, dip them in a little hummus, yum!  And who is not thankful that frozen yogurt is back and all the rage!  And this is not the frozen yogurt of the 80's, this is new and improved and delish! And, even better, it's much lower in calories than ice cream, and in my opinion even tastier.

Drink more water. The amount of water you should drink each day depends on your weight, activity level, and the climate where you live. But since most of us don’t drink the water we should drink, it’s safe to say that drinking more water daily will improve your health. Once you are hydrated you will notice that your skin looks better, you have more energy, and that you can manage your weight easier, too.  I keep it in the fridge already chilled with a bit of fruit in it (a little trick I stole from a shi-shi spa I was at) to a bit of flavor.

Cut back on caffeine. Caffeine will interfere with your sleep patterns and energy levels. Too much caffeine can also contribute to high blood pressure and other serious health problems. The Mayo Clinic says you shouldn’t drink more than 200-300 mg of caffeine a day—that’s two-four cups of coffee a day.

Walk more. It’s basic, but walking can improve your cardio-respiratory fitness and physical functioning. According to MedicineNet.com, walking has shown to not only have a positive effect on your fitness, but on your brain as well. Walking is a great way to wind down or think things over. At the very minimum, try to walk briskly for either 10 minutes each day or 30 minutes three days a week.

Your core muscles include your abdomen, pelvis, lower back, and hips. Anybody that knows me personally knows that, frankly, my posture sucks!  It very well could be genetic (thanks Dad), but it is most likely my utter lack of core strength.  Let's face it childbirth does wonders to those abdominals, and I am living proof.  So my mission is to sit up tall, stand up straight, and stengthen that core, baby! There are a number of ways to strengthen your core. Pilates, yoga, strength training, even a round of sit-ups and push-ups every morning will help you reach your goal. Everybody can benefit from a stronger core.  Here's some of the benefits:

Better Posture

When all of your core muscles have the strength to work optimally and have practice working in conjunction together most all physical activity will be easier, including holding yourself upright. Those with a strong core tend to sit and stand taller.  Another added benefit would be people won't mistaken you for pregnant when you absolutely are not!

Prevent Injury

When you’re core muscles are weak, you are open to muscle, nerve, and joint injury. Strengthen your core to prevent injury and to reduce common lower back aches and pains.  Let's just cross our fingers that I do not sustain an injury in this quest for posture perfection.

Sit Comfortably

A strong core may mean your abs, pelvis, hips, and lower back are in shape, but there is a ripple effect on the rest of your body. Your spine will be better supported by your strong core, which means your upper back and neck will have less tension and pain. Similarly, your sitting bones are more likely to be aligned properly with a strong core, which means sitting in a car, in a movie theater seat, on a bleacher, or at home on your couch will be more comfortable.  Essentially, you've gotta stop slouching!

Toned Midsection

While doing sit ups every day won’t guarantee a six pack in six months, it can help get you there. Core muscle training in combination with regular cardio activity and a diet low in sugar (I'm sooo sorry, but that is the truth) will help you tone down that midsection.

Better Balance

A strong core leads to good balance and stability, two traits all athletes need to swing, throw, shoot, kick, run, swim, or bike well.

An Easier Pregnancy

Nothing makes pregnancy easy, but if you have a strong core before pregnancy and continue to exercise your core during pregnancy (with your doctor’s guidance), expecting moms can hope to ease pain and difficulty during labor and delivery (the epidural worked quite well for me too). A strong core will help to prevent over separation of the abdominal muscles (diastasis) during pregnancy as well, this I would have liked to have known before mine were all shot to hell.

Exercise in Front of the TV

This is weak, I know, but if I can trick myself into doing my core exercises while my favorite program is on, then I'm going for it.  I've found particular success in watching NBC's Biggest Loser while working out.  Most core exercises don’t require equipment, just a little elbow room, shove the coffee table out of the way and get going. For me, it's a bit of a win-win in my super busy life.

If you've got some tips you'd like to share, add a comment below, we'd love to hear about your favorite core exercise tips...

Just like your body changes shape over the course of nine months, it can take nine months or longer to get back to your pre-pregnancy shape. Remember, getting fit after having a baby is not only a matter of losing weight, but also a matter of toning muscles.

A proper exercise routine will allow you to do both. The first step? Make time for exercise.

One quick note before we get into the post-baby exercise routine. Even though you may be eager to start getting fit immediately, wait until your doctor says it’s okay. Usually your doctor will give the green light at your six-week check-up.

Remember to wear a good bra, breast are bigger (and heavier) than usual right now, especially if nursing, and you want to have good support so that you do not damage your breast tissue.  We have a great assortment of sports bras that will give you the support that you need.

Aerobic exercises

Aerobic exercise increases your heart rate and helps you to shed the pounds. While swimming, cycling, and dancing are great aerobic exercises, these can be difficult to work in around taking care of a new baby. Look for a gym that offers onsite childcare.

If that doesn’t work for you, then try jogging. A 30-minute walk/run can be an activity that both you and baby enjoy with a jogging stroller.

If the weather is too cold or it’s raining, you can still get out of the house for a brisk walk. Most local malls offer walking hours before the stores open, and many gyms have indoor walking/jogging tracks.

Everyone (whether you’ve recently had a baby or not) should exercise for 30 minutes on most days. So grab a friend to come along with you. Not every day should be high-impact aerobics, but you should get your heart rate up and your blood pumping.

Toning exercises

Since pregnancy weight tends to land on your stomach and hips, you may want to start with simple exercises that specifically work these areas.

Crunches – Lie on the floor on your back, with knees bent, and look forward. Curl only your shoulders and head up off the floor, pulling in abdominal muscles, and exhaling out as you come up. Then lower yourself back down to floor, breathing in. Repeat five times, increasing the number as you get stronger.

Crunches with twist – Lie on the floor on your back, with knees bent, exhaling as you come up, lift head and shoulders up, stretch your right hand across to your left knee, and then switch to your left side. Repeat five times on each side, increasing the number as you get stronger.

Leg lifts – Stand up straight with a chair in front of you. Bend your knees slightly and extend one leg out behind you. Lift and lower your leg keeping your stomach tucked in. Then switch to other side. Repeat five times with each leg, increasing the number as you get stronger.

While longer workouts may help you see results quicker, it’s better to start slowly and increase the time you exercise gradually. Consistently making time for exercise will get you results and back to your pre-pregnancy shape!

A marathon is about 52,400 foot strokes, which is about 26.2 miles. If that number doesn’t scare you, then it’s time to get serious about marathon training. Here’s what you need to know.

Build up the mileage you run

It is advisable to put in at least 20 miles per week for several months before you officially start marathon training. Your body needs time to adapt to the demands you’ll put on it. During this time, you should run at least 10 miles a week on pavement, as that is what you’ll most likely be running on during a marathon.

Getting started

1. Even if you've already been running, let your doctor know your plans.

2. Finding the right running shoes is one of the most important first steps in marathon training. Buying running shoes that suit your running style, foot type, and experience will help you run comfortably and stay injury-free.

3. Finding the right sports bra will prevent back and shoulder pain as well as chafing and other skin irritations.

4. Make sure you practice running in different types of weather and terrain. Be ready for anything!

Basic marathon training

As mentioned, you should be running 15-20 miles per week at this point. Basic marathon training schedules advise that you alternate rest days with days of moderate-paced running, slow distance runs, and cross-training activities.

Make sure that you allow time for warming up and cooling down. Both warm up and cool down should include stretching.

Nutrition and hydration

When you begin a run, you should feel neither starved nor stuffed. It is best to eat a light snack or meal about 1.5-2 hours before you start running. Choose something high in carbohydrates to keep you sustained.

Add your personality

Personality on the course is all the rage these days... Once you've done all the training and hard work your ready to have some fun on the big day.  Get outfitted in style at Ladies Only Sports.  We've got all you'll need to look like a smokin' hot babe out there on the course... the best sports bras around, Sweaty Bands to keep your hair out of the way, running socks, shorts, bright colored tops, we've even got the Yurbud headphones that will not come out while your running.  You go girl!

Komen Denver Race for the Cure

Started in 1982, Susan G. Komen for the Cure® is a grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists. The organization’s vision is of a world without breast cancer, and their mission is to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all, and energize science to find the cures. This mission is carried out through many events and fundraisers, the single largest being the annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure 5k’s and fitness walks.

Races occur all across the country year-round, though most are scheduled during the nice-weather months of May through October. To find the race nearest you, use the search tool on Susan G. Komen for the Cure’s® website. The races raise funds and awareness for the breast cancer movement. These events also serve the purpose of celebrating breast cancer survivorship and honoring those who have lost their battle with the disease.

The first race in 1983 was held in Dallas, TX, with approximately 800 participants. There are now more than 140 races worldwide annually, and an estimated 1.6 million people are actively involved with the events. St. Louis, Missouri, is home to the largest Komen Race for the Cure to date, attracting over 71,000 participants. 2011 will see the first race held in Israel, as the organization continues to expand its global reach.

The races are designed to include people of all ages, fitness, and ability levels, and all Komen Race for the Cure courses in the U.S. are certified by USA Track & Field.

75% of the net income from each race stays in the host community, in order to fund and support local programs that offer breast health education, breast cancer screening, and treatment. The other 25% goes to national breast cancer research. Having invested nearly $1.5 billion since its inception, the Susan G. Komen for the Cure is well known as one of the best non-profit organizations in the country, and is the single largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to fighting breast cancer in the world.

Check out our "Power of Pink" products both the Enell and Handful bras are available in pink!