What would make you happy right now? A massage? A raise? How about some push-ups? Well, exercise can lift moods and calm minds. So, when you break a sweat, you’ll be fighting the blues too.

<h6 style="color: #36495b;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
 EVIDENCE
</h6>Sweating can be a bit messy but generally leaves you happier. Don’t believe us? Well we have the stats to prove so. A 2012 study in the Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology from researchers of Penn State University tracked the daily activities of 190 college students who were asked to track their physical activity (15 minutes or more) over an eight-day period. The people who were more physically active had greater feelings of enthusiasm and excitement then when compared with less active individuals. <h6 style="color: #36495b;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
 1. MEDITATION IS A MUST
</h6>A lot of fitness content these days is focused on being active and working out, in the gym or in your home, however staying still is also key. Meditating and finding a quiet place to focus on your thoughts and breathing is imperative to destressing and sleeping better, both key for your overall happiness. <h6 style="color: #36495b;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
 2. EXERCISE REGULARLY
</h6>Consistency is key. Key to making significant progress and reaching your goals on time. When maintaining a positive body image, after you put the work in and see your results improve, you're bound to have an extra spring in your step.<img src="https://brand.assets.adidas.com/capi/enTR/Images/training-fw18-interest-hub-03-embedded-img-desktop_333-358370.jpg" title="training-fw18-interest_hub-03-embedded_img-desktop" alt="training-fw18-interest_hub-03-embedded_img-desktop" style="width: 700px; height: 393px;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" /> <h6 style="color: #36495b;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
 3. VARY YOUR WORKOUTS
</h6>Variation is key to staying motivated, focused and ensuring you are not bored with your regime. Trying something new and conquering a gruelling workout can result in more endomorphins being released, happiness because you were able to overcome and battle through a tough session. <h6 style="color: #36495b;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
 4. WORK OUT WITH A FRIEND
</h6>Having a support system or a workout buddy can also help improve your mood. With a friend or more to go with, this can help motivate you to work out when you’re not totally motivated, they also can help you improve your form and gives a real sense of teamwork. Sometimes working out late and the journey home can feel a little lonely, having a trusted pal around is bound to keep your spirits up. <h6 style="color: #36495b;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
 5. SET REALISTIC GOALS
</h6>Having a look at the latest health & fitness magazines aren’t true reflections of life and are not worth comparing to. The same goes for fitness models on Instagram, it’s not a race you’re competing with other people, it’s your own path for YOUR body. Set targets that you can achieve, which will make you happier when you reach them, rather than being unrealistic and feeling down if and when you cannot reach your goal in time. Believe in yourself but remember success takes time, what you see on the cover of a fitness magazine may not be your truth, yet with hard work you can get there. <h6 style="color: #36495b;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
 6. CHANGE YOUR ENVIRONMENT
</h6>Your motivation towards your workout is bound to dip if you are doing the same routines in the same environment over and over again. Exercising outdoors is a fun way of keeping your workouts interesting, explore and immerse yourself in different situations unless you want the same results. <h6 style="color: #36495b;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
 7. SWIMMING
</h6>Water is relaxing, soothing and can even help us help fall asleep. So, it’s no surprise getting in the pool and doing some laps is a great way to make you happier. It keeps your heart rate up, takes some of the impact stress of your body and helps maintain a healthy heart and lungs. Swimming also tones muscles and building strength, a nice reminder you have don’t exclusively use weights and dumbbells to increase your mass. <h6 style="color: #36495b;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
 8. YOGA
</h6>Yoga keeps the mind and body engaged and also puts you in a positive state of mind, a study in 2017 proved to this be true after tracking the levels of depression in a group of full of yogi participants who had MDD (Major Depressive Order).
 
A study conducted by researchers from the Boston University School of Medicine found that increased yoga activity amongst individuals lowered the rate of depression in patients. A team of medical experts tested 30 subjects ranging from 18-64 years old who had MDD and participated in yoga sessions and coherent breathing exercises over a 12-week period. The results of this experiment showed that regardless of frequency (HDG – High Dose Group – three times a week and LDG – Low Dose Group - two times a week), depressive symptoms declined significantly. <h6 style="color: #36495b;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
 9. BIKING
</h6>A study by YMCA in 2017 which questioned 1,000 adults in the UK showed that active individuals who cycled had an average increase of 13% in their wellbeing. A plethora of factors amounted to this rating of wellbeing, such as feeling cheerful and being optimistic about the future. So, hop on the bike and hit the open road to encourage health and happiness. <h6 style="color: #36495b;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
 10. GET TRAINED
</h6>We have all thought about it, signing up for a gym and then weighing up the pros and cons of the personal trainer package. ‘Is it too expensive’? ‘Will the trainer be a nightmare’?’ Can I even be bothered to go?’ Those thoughts are normal but working out with a trained expert can help achieve extraordinary results. You get to know more about your body in-depth, can reduce the loss of injury by using correct form and you can get to your goal significantly quicker. These are all positives that will have you feeling great, when you make progress with your program. <h6 style="color: #36495b;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
 CONCLUSION
</h6>All in all, it’s important to know you have a plethora of options to increase your morale when working out. You don’t have to feel pressured to try all of them, you can select just a few but the ones that appeal the most to you. It’s your body, so naturally it should be your choice. With the steps above, you can make your next workout, your best workout.

SHOP TRAINING GEAR_/training

SHOP TRAINING GEAR

What would make you happy right now? A massage? A raise? How about some push-ups? Well, exercise can lift moods and calm minds. So, when you break a sweat, you’ll be fighting the blues too.

training-fw18-interest-hub-03-hero-img-desktop_146-358378

training-fw18-interest-hub-03-hero-img

training-fw18-interest-hub-03-hero-img-mobile_146-358379

10 WORKOUT TIPS THAT WILL MAKE YOU HAPPIER

We have a challenge for you, next time you feel like your glass is half empty, forget therapy, doctors or pills, exercise is proven to help combat depression. Not convinced? We’ve only just started, read on for more.

As one of the creators for our VRCT campaign, Mette chose AUTHOR for her jacket badge. While shooting in Berlin, we grabbed 15 mins with her to find out what it means to her.If you don’t know Mette, where have you been? The lead dancer for N.E.R.D, the girl who had her head shaved by Ri-Ri in ­that video, she’s going stellar, with a stage that’s ever expanding. And no wonder – she’s strong, with moves like liquid and a vibe that tells you she’ll get what she wants.I chose the word AUTHOR because, for me, it gives me more agency to live a life that I choose. When I think about a story, the author is in complete control.
 <img src="https://brand.assets.adidas.com/capi/enTR/Images/vrct-sp-mette-02-img-o_333-390946.jpg" title="VRCT-SP_METTE-02-IMG-O" alt="VRCT-SP_METTE-02-IMG-O" style="width: 1300px; height: 862px;" />

 <img src="https://brand.assets.adidas.com/capi/enTR/Images/vrct-sp-mette-03-img-o_333-390947.jpg" title="VRCT-SP_METTE-03-IMG-O" alt="VRCT-SP_METTE-03-IMG-O" style="width: 1300px; height: 1670px;" class="image-left" />Ok, so why AUTHOR? Mette told us: “I chose the word AUTHOR because, for me, it gives me more agency to live a life that I choose. When I think about a story, the author is in complete control – over the characters, the themes, the climactic points, the lessons in it all. And so, for me, I’m the author of the narrative of my life and I think that’s very important to represent.If you’re reading this and want to change your own story, Mette says start now. “Every single choice is connected to something greater. Every single encounter with another person, with a conflict, is an opportunity to create a better story.” And she’s always thinking as fast as she moves: “If something comes up that I didn’t have the availability to complete or conquer, I’m designing ways around that so that I can be successful, and I can win.But don’t be fake. Your story’s not like anyone else’s and Mette says you gotta tell it like it is. “If you’re trying to decide what to stand for, think about what tugs at your heartstrings. What are the moments in your life that have made you gasp for air?
What are the moments in your life that have brought you a considerable physical reaction?”
Dance is like a peaceful weapon.
 <img src="https://brand.assets.adidas.com/capi/enTR/Images/vrct-sp-mette-04-img-o_333-390948.jpg" title="VRCT-SP_METTE-04-IMG-O" alt="VRCT-SP_METTE-04-IMG-O" style="width: 1300px; height: 862px;" />
Mette attended the University of Minnesota’s College of Liberal Arts, where she was part of a dance company that had a strong impact on her. “Relentless in the pursuit of artistic excellence” and “invested in socio-political themes” is how she describes it. And that’s where dance took on more meaning for her: “When aesthetic roots itself and becomes… more than that. It’s almost like a peaceful weapon,” she said.
 <img src="https://brand.assets.adidas.com/capi/enTR/Images/vrct-sp-mette-05-img-o_333-390949.jpg" title="VRCT-SP_METTE-05-IMG-O" alt="VRCT-SP_METTE-05-IMG-O" style="width: 1300px; height: 862px;" />
Whatever you’re representing, you’ve got to live and breathe it. Mette does – and what’s more, she’s passionate about sharing it. It’s the way she talks, the way she makes sure you know exactly what she means. We wanted to know: if you’re writing your own narrative, what’s the one thing you shouldn’t forget? Mette says: “You have to be able to take on challenges, fight for what you believe in.” And whatever you’re using to push your story forward, she adds: “Most importantly, fight for others. Because you’ll never be in a story alone.”
 <img src="https://brand.assets.adidas.com/capi/enTR/Images/vrct-sp-mette-06-img-o_333-390950.jpg" title="VRCT-SP_METTE-06-IMG-O" alt="VRCT-SP_METTE-06-IMG-O" style="width: 1300px; height: 862px;" />
We designed the VRCT jacket as a canvas for self-expression, inspired by athletic tradition. Wear it your way, with a custom patch that shows what you stand for. What do you represent?

SHOP VRCT PRODUCTS_/athletics-vrct

SHOP VRCT PRODUCTS

EXPLORE VRCT_/werepresent

EXPLORE VRCT

As one of the creators for our VRCT campaign, Mette chose AUTHOR for her jacket badge. While shooting in Berlin, we grabbed 15 mins with her to find out what it means to her. If you don’t know Mette, where have you been? The lead dancer for N.E.R.D, the girl who had her head shaved by Ri-Ri in that video, she’s going stellar, with a stage that’s ever expanding. And no wonder – she’s strong, with moves like liquid and a vibe that tells you she’ll get what she wants. I chose the word AUTHOR because, for me, it gives me more agency to live a life that I choose. When I think about a story, the author is in complete control. Ok, so why AUTHOR? Mette told us: “I chose the word AUTHOR because, for me, it gives me more agency to live a life that I choose. When I think about a story, the author is in complete control – over the characters, the themes, the climactic points, the lessons in it all. And so, for me, I’m the author of the narrative of my life and I think that’s very important to represent. If you’re reading this and want to change your own story, Mette says start now. “Every single choice is connected to something greater. Every single encounter with another person, with a conflict, is an opportunity to create a better story.” And she’s always thinking as fast as she moves: “If something comes up that I didn’t have the availability to complete or conquer, I’m designing ways around that so that I can be successful, and I can win. But don’t be fake. Your story’s not like anyone else’s and Mette says you gotta tell it like it is. “If you’re trying to decide what to stand for, think about what tugs at your heartstrings. What are the moments in your life that have made you gasp for air? What are the moments in your life that have brought you a considerable physical reaction?” Dance is like a peaceful weapon. Mette attended the University of Minnesota’s College of Liberal Arts, where she was part of a dance company that had a strong impact on her. “Relentless in the pursuit of artistic excellence” and “invested in socio-political themes” is how she describes it. And that’s where dance took on more meaning for her: “When aesthetic roots itself and becomes… more than that. It’s almost like a peaceful weapon,” she said. Whatever you’re representing, you’ve got to live and breathe it. Mette does – and what’s more, she’s passionate about sharing it. It’s the way she talks, the way she makes sure you know exactly what she means. We wanted to know: if you’re writing your own narrative, what’s the one thing you shouldn’t forget? Mette says: “You have to be able to take on challenges, fight for what you believe in.” And whatever you’re using to push your story forward, she adds: “Most importantly, fight for others. Because you’ll never be in a story alone.” We designed the VRCT jacket as a canvas for self-expression, inspired by athletic tradition. Wear it your way, with a custom patch that shows what you stand for. What do you represent?

vrct-sp-mette-01-header-d-t_146-390944

vrct-sp-mette-01-header

vrct-sp-mette-01-header-m_146-390945

METTE: BE YOUR OWN PROTAGONIST

Write your own story, says dance superstar Mette Towley.

Denise is one of six creators in our VRCT campaign, and she chose the word I’MPERFECT for her jacket patch. We met her at a beautiful old velodrome in Augsburg to find out why. First, a bit of background: Denise lost her lower right leg in a childhood accident. A decade of surgical treatment followed. Then she found cycling. Simply, at first – just a go on a spin bike. Then a real bike, in the mountains, which thrillingly revealed natural skill and potential. And now, representing Germany in Paralympic-level road, time trial and track cycling

 <img src="https://brand.assets.adidas.com/capi/enTR/Images/vrct-sp-denise-02-img-o_333-393352.jpg" title="VRCT-SP_DENISE-02-IMG-O" alt="VRCT-SP_DENISE-02-IMG-O" style="width: 1300px; height: 862px;" />
Growing up as a disabled kid, you feel anything but perfect.
 <img src="https://brand.assets.adidas.com/capi/enTR/Images/vrct-sp-denise-03-img-o_333-393353.jpg" title="VRCT-SP_DENISE-03-IMG-O" alt="VRCT-SP_DENISE-03-IMG-O" style="width: 1300px; height: 1670px;" class="image-left" />With the honey-colored boards as a backdrop, Denise shares her story – from self-conscious girl to three-time World Champion. “I’MPERFECT exactly represents what I’ve been through on my journey. Being disabled and growing up as a disabled kid, you are always – or you feel – anything but perfect. And you don’t fit in and you don’t feel confident and you try to hide everything.”Sport helped, a lot. She adds: “It was a long journey until I started to embrace myself the way I am… sport helped me on this journey because it made me self-confident. Everyone has imperfections. But starting to love them is the key to being powerful in your life. And then you also have your life in your hands, actually.”
Every gradual transformation has a few ‘freeze-frame’ moments. Denise says self-acceptance took time but one defining moment changed everything. On a mountain bike race through the Alps, she decided to stop wearing long trousers to hide her prosthetic leg. “This was really a game-changer. This was freeing myself from the restrictions I made for myself. Because no one else was asking me to wear long trousers.” She adds: “This is so important to realize: most of the time, the restriction, the shaming, comes from yourself.”
Everyone has imperfections. But starting to love them is the key to being powerful in your life. And then you also have your life in your hands, actually. <img src="https://brand.assets.adidas.com/capi/enTR/Images/vrct-sp-denise-04-img-o_333-393355.jpg" title="VRCT-SP_DENISE-04-IMG-O" alt="VRCT-SP_DENISE-04-IMG-O" style="width: 1300px; height: 862px;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" />Denise knows that one of the first things you notice about her is her prosthetic leg. She has several, and today she’s wearing the one she uses for racing. It’s sleek, black and powerful-looking, made with state-of-the-art 3D-printed technology for comfort and aerodynamics on the bike. But even with her everyday prosthetic, she gets stares, overhears whispers. However, you can change the dynamic, she says. “You just scan someone and there’s something different and they look at you, but if you look back at them and smile, it’s fine when you’re confident with yourself. But if you’re not confident with yourself, then it becomes a negative interaction.”This is so important to realise: most of the time, the restriction, the shaming, comes from yourself.And she wants to explain something that you might not realize about a prosthetic – that, rather than an obvious sign of a disability, it’s more like a “protective shield”. “As soon as I take off the prosthetic, I’m vulnerable, you know? I’m naked. I can’t walk anymore. I can’t run away. And also I show weakness.” She adds: “It’s a very, very intimate moment. And you see it in the reaction of other people. They realize, at once, right away, that it’s a very, very special moment. And it means that there is a connection to the person, that I trust the environment [around me] to do this.”As soon as I take off the prosthetic, I’m vulnerable, you know? I’m naked. I can’t walk anymore. I can’t run away.<img src="https://brand.assets.adidas.com/capi/enTR/Images/vrct-sp-denise-06-img-o_333-393358.jpg" title="VRCT-SP_DENISE-06-IMG-O" alt="VRCT-SP_DENISE-06-IMG-O" style="width: 1300px; height: 862px;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" />The next big challenge is the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, where Denise is aiming to spin London and Rio’s silvers into gold. Training is intense and there’s an obvious tension here – how can an athlete, always striving for perfection, also embrace the opposite? Denise says: “It’s a very interesting perspective because as an athlete, you try for perfection the whole time. To be the best version of yourself. But on the way, you have so many failures. That’s the moment when you can actually become a better version of yourself.”As an athlete, you try for perfection the whole time. To be the best version of yourself. But on the way, you have so many failures.
 <img src="https://brand.assets.adidas.com/capi/enTR/Images/vrct-sp-denise-07-img-o_333-393359.jpg" title="VRCT-SP_DENISE-07-IMG-O" alt="VRCT-SP_DENISE-07-IMG-O" style="width: 1300px; height: 862px;" />
Feeling inspired by Denise’s perfectly imperfect confidence? If you want a game-changer, you’ve got to stop waiting – whatever you’re waiting for – and start playing. Denise recommends cycling (of course) but she adds, it doesn’t really matter what sport you choose, as long as it lets you stop, breathe and do something for yourself. “You feel your body, you respect your body, you take time for your body.”We designed the VRCT jacket as a canvas for self-expression, inspired by athletic tradition. Wear it your way, with a custom patch that shows what you stand for. What do you represent?

Denise is one of six creators in our VRCT campaign, and she chose the word I’MPERFECT for her jacket patch. We met her at a beautiful old velodrome in Augsburg to find out why. First, a bit of background: Denise lost her lower right leg in a childhood accident. A decade of surgical treatment followed. Then she found cycling. Simply, at first – just a go on a spin bike. Then a real bike, in the mountains, which thrillingly revealed natural skill and potential. And now, representing Germany in Paralympic-level road, time trial and track cycling Growing up as a disabled kid, you feel anything but perfect. With the honey-colored boards as a backdrop, Denise shares her story – from self-conscious girl to three-time World Champion. “I’MPERFECT exactly represents what I’ve been through on my journey. Being disabled and growing up as a disabled kid, you are always – or you feel – anything but perfect. And you don’t fit in and you don’t feel confident and you try to hide everything.” Sport helped, a lot. She adds: “It was a long journey until I started to embrace myself the way I am… sport helped me on this journey because it made me self-confident. Everyone has imperfections. But starting to love them is the key to being powerful in your life. And then you also have your life in your hands, actually.” Every gradual transformation has a few ‘freeze-frame’ moments. Denise says self-acceptance took time but one defining moment changed everything. On a mountain bike race through the Alps, she decided to stop wearing long trousers to hide her prosthetic leg. “This was really a game-changer. This was freeing myself from the restrictions I made for myself. Because no one else was asking me to wear long trousers.” She adds: “This is so important to realize: most of the time, the restriction, the shaming, comes from yourself.” Everyone has imperfections. But starting to love them is the key to being powerful in your life. And then you also have your life in your hands, actually. Denise knows that one of the first things you notice about her is her prosthetic leg. She has several, and today she’s wearing the one she uses for racing. It’s sleek, black and powerful-looking, made with state-of-the-art 3D-printed technology for comfort and aerodynamics on the bike. But even with her everyday prosthetic, she gets stares, overhears whispers. However, you can change the dynamic, she says. “You just scan someone and there’s something different and they look at you, but if you look back at them and smile, it’s fine when you’re confident with yourself. But if you’re not confident with yourself, then it becomes a negative interaction.” This is so important to realise: most of the time, the restriction, the shaming, comes from yourself. And she wants to explain something that you might not realize about a prosthetic – that, rather than an obvious sign of a disability, it’s more like a “protective shield”. “As soon as I take off the prosthetic, I’m vulnerable, you know? I’m naked. I can’t walk anymore. I can’t run away. And also I show weakness.” She adds: “It’s a very, very intimate moment. And you see it in the reaction of other people. They realize, at once, right away, that it’s a very, very special moment. And it means that there is a connection to the person, that I trust the environment [around me] to do this.” As soon as I take off the prosthetic, I’m vulnerable, you know? I’m naked. I can’t walk anymore. I can’t run away. The next big challenge is the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, where Denise is aiming to spin London and Rio’s silvers into gold. Training is intense and there’s an obvious tension here – how can an athlete, always striving for perfection, also embrace the opposite? Denise says: “It’s a very interesting perspective because as an athlete, you try for perfection the whole time. To be the best version of yourself. But on the way, you have so many failures. That’s the moment when you can actually become a better version of yourself.” As an athlete, you try for perfection the whole time. To be the best version of yourself. But on the way, you have so many failures. Feeling inspired by Denise’s perfectly imperfect confidence? If you want a game-changer, you’ve got to stop waiting – whatever you’re waiting for – and start playing. Denise recommends cycling (of course) but she adds, it doesn’t really matter what sport you choose, as long as it lets you stop, breathe and do something for yourself. “You feel your body, you respect your body, you take time for your body.” We designed the VRCT jacket as a canvas for self-expression, inspired by athletic tradition. Wear it your way, with a custom patch that shows what you stand for. What do you represent?

vrct-sp-denise-01-header-d-t_146-393350

vrct-sp-denise-01-header

vrct-sp-denise-01-header-m_146-393351

DENISE SCHINDLER: ACCEPTANCE STARTS FROM WITHIN 

Imperfect? So what. Paralympic cyclist Denise Schindler says that if you make peace with yourself, you can do whatever you dare to do. 

MEET NATASHA
 
 
Natasha is a former track-and-field athlete. Now, as a fitness model, she brings an authentic and powerful image to her work, all over the world. We asked her about running and how she gets over that last training hurdle before the starting line.
 WHAT TIPS CAN YOU GIVE FOR THOSE TIMES YOU MAY NOT FEEL LIKE WORKING OUT?
 
 
The never-ending saga! Haha, something a friend said to me a few years back that really struck and stuck with me was, “Working out is like brushing your teeth; you’d never leave the house without doing it.” We have to have that same mentality about our fitness. It needs to become such an important part of our lifestyle that it’s not something we have to squeeze in – rather, we just would never not do it.Figure out what time of day you’re physically at your most energetic, efficient and motivated. For me, that’s the morning. I have a motto for myself when it comes to working out: “GET IT IN BEFORE 10,” because I KNOW if I don’t work out first thing in the morning, before my day, and lists and work and tasks and unexpected dramas and hunger and cravings and LIFE get in the way… it won’t happen. <img src="https://brand.assets.adidas.com/capi/enTR/Images/training-fw19-bras-and-tights-story-page-image-portrait-sep_333-394091.jpg" title="training-fw19-bras-and-tights-story-page-image-portrait-sep" alt="training-fw19-bras-and-tights-story-page-image-portrait-sep" style="width: 1300px; height: 1800px;" class="image-left" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" />I remind myself that I’ve never regretted making the decision to work out. The hardest part isn’t the workout itself; it’s getting out the door. Set yourself up to eliminate excuses by ALWAYS having a set of workout clothes with you; and instead of thinking about the effort your workout is going to take, think about the effect of it. That feeling of accomplishment and pride that you feel – focus on that feeling.
 
Check in. I call this doing mood work. Even though I have a general routine I cycle through with my workouts, I always check in first to find out what I need mentally and emotionally. Am I happy? Sad? Anxious? Energetic? Different workouts exercise different parts of our brain and emotions. So asking the question “What do I need today?” and then deciding which workout (e.g., running, yoga, weights, boxing, spinning, etc.) will best serve you emotionally is HUGE!! There’s nothing worse than leaving a workout feeling like you didn’t get what you really NEEDED out of it. And in my experience it’s because we did the workout on the schedule we were “supposed” to do, but not the one our body and mind really “needed” to do.
 
So stay flexible and present. When you do a workout that is in alignment with what your body and your mind are needing that day, you will feel you won’t feel the pressure to do the workout – you’ll WANT to do it, because it’s more like therapy and release than it is a chore.<img src="https://brand.assets.adidas.com/capi/enTR/Images/training-fw19-bras-and-tights-story-page-image-landscape-1-sep_333-394089.jpg" title="training-fw19-bras-and-tights-story-page-image-landscape-1-sep" alt="training-fw19-bras-and-tights-story-page-image-landscape-1-sep" style="width: 1300px; height: 860px;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" /> I love running because it frees up your mind to think without distractions, and it’s a way to connect with the world more authentically. To actually breathe it, see it, feel it under your feet. 
 DO YOU HAVE ANY SPECIAL DRILLS OR METHODS YOU USE?
 
 
I generally subscribe to a mix of distance and sprint work, to maintain a healthy balance of my slow- and fast-twitch muscle. On days when sprints are more my focus, I warm up with a couple drills to wake up those explosive muscles. A quick and easy warmup to do before ANY run, but especially a faster-paced workout, is a combination of high-knees, butt-kicks and lunges. I’ll do three quick back-to-back sets, going down and back for about 30-40 meters. This activates your glutes, core, hips, hamstrings, quads and calves, ALL of which you need to be firing to avoid injury and respond quickly for faster-paced runs. And always, always do a quick stretch before and after. You’ll not only perform better; you’ll recover better as well. <img src="https://brand.assets.adidas.com/capi/enTR/Images/training-fw19-bras-and-tights-story-page-image-landscape-2-sep_333-394090.jpg" title="training-fw19-bras-and-tights-story-page-image-landscape-2-sep" alt="training-fw19-bras-and-tights-story-page-image-landscape-2-sep" style="width: 1300px; height: 860px;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" /> I think the key to maintaining excitement with any routine is to stay curious. What if I take a left instead of a right? Where does this street go? I wonder if I can go faster this time? What if I sprint a block, then jog a block? 
 HOW DO YOU SHAKE UP YOUR WORKOUTS WHEN YOU’RE IN THE SAME SPACE, TO KEEP THEM FRESH EVERY TIME?
 
 
I think the key to maintaining excitement with any routine is to stay curious. What if I take a left instead of a right? Where does this street go? I wonder if I can go faster this time? What if I sprint a block, then jog a block? Maybe today I’ll focus on engaging my core more, or being more conscious of my form...One of the biggest ways I like to challenge myself is to run without headphones. I did it once unintentionally because I was traveling and forgot them. I initially had anxiety about it, like “What’s gonna distract me from the pain?! Hahaha,” but what I discovered was actually quite euphoric. Instead of tuning out, I tuned in… I focused on my breath. Kind of like the way you practice breathing to movement in yoga. I just listened to it, became one with it, followed its rhythm. I began to hear the birds chirping, the breeze blowing. It was like my senses became heightened. I became distracted by the world around me instead of a playlist. It certainly wasn’t as easy as numbing out with headphones, but it was so much more rewarding. 
 HOW DID THE STRONGER FOR IT BRA WORK FOR YOU?
What I like about the bra is that it supports without constricting, and that the fabric has a silky but durable feel. I love that the straps are adjustable, and the criss-cross design ensures that they won’t slide while running, which is my biggest pet-peeve.
 <a href="https://www.adidas.com.tr/en/women-bras-clothing">SHOP STRONGER FOR IT BRA</a> 
 AND DID YOU LIKE THE HOW WE DO TIGHTS?
The tights are like butter. Compressive enough to support my body in all the right places, yet forgiving enough not to make me feel constricted.
 <a href="https://www.adidas.com.tr/en/women-running-tights">SHOP HOW WE DO TIGHTS</a>

SHOP BRAS_/women-sports_bras

SHOP NOW

SHOP TIGHTS_/women-tights

SHOP TIGHTS

MEET NATASHA Natasha is a former track-and-field athlete. Now, as a fitness model, she brings an authentic and powerful image to her work, all over the world. We asked her about running and how she gets over that last training hurdle before the starting line. WHAT TIPS CAN YOU GIVE FOR THOSE TIMES YOU MAY NOT FEEL LIKE WORKING OUT? The never-ending saga! Haha, something a friend said to me a few years back that really struck and stuck with me was, “Working out is like brushing your teeth; you’d never leave the house without doing it.” We have to have that same mentality about our fitness. It needs to become such an important part of our lifestyle that it’s not something we have to squeeze in – rather, we just would never not do it. Figure out what time of day you’re physically at your most energetic, efficient and motivated. For me, that’s the morning. I have a motto for myself when it comes to working out: “GET IT IN BEFORE 10,” because I KNOW if I don’t work out first thing in the morning, before my day, and lists and work and tasks and unexpected dramas and hunger and cravings and LIFE get in the way… it won’t happen. I remind myself that I’ve never regretted making the decision to work out. The hardest part isn’t the workout itself; it’s getting out the door. Set yourself up to eliminate excuses by ALWAYS having a set of workout clothes with you; and instead of thinking about the effort your workout is going to take, think about the effect of it. That feeling of accomplishment and pride that you feel – focus on that feeling. Check in. I call this doing mood work. Even though I have a general routine I cycle through with my workouts, I always check in first to find out what I need mentally and emotionally. Am I happy? Sad? Anxious? Energetic? Different workouts exercise different parts of our brain and emotions. So asking the question “What do I need today?” and then deciding which workout (e.g., running, yoga, weights, boxing, spinning, etc.) will best serve you emotionally is HUGE!! There’s nothing worse than leaving a workout feeling like you didn’t get what you really NEEDED out of it. And in my experience it’s because we did the workout on the schedule we were “supposed” to do, but not the one our body and mind really “needed” to do. So stay flexible and present. When you do a workout that is in alignment with what your body and your mind are needing that day, you will feel you won’t feel the pressure to do the workout – you’ll WANT to do it, because it’s more like therapy and release than it is a chore. I love running because it frees up your mind to think without distractions, and it’s a way to connect with the world more authentically. To actually breathe it, see it, feel it under your feet. DO YOU HAVE ANY SPECIAL DRILLS OR METHODS YOU USE? I generally subscribe to a mix of distance and sprint work, to maintain a healthy balance of my slow- and fast-twitch muscle. On days when sprints are more my focus, I warm up with a couple drills to wake up those explosive muscles. A quick and easy warmup to do before ANY run, but especially a faster-paced workout, is a combination of high-knees, butt-kicks and lunges. I’ll do three quick back-to-back sets, going down and back for about 30-40 meters. This activates your glutes, core, hips, hamstrings, quads and calves, ALL of which you need to be firing to avoid injury and respond quickly for faster-paced runs. And always, always do a quick stretch before and after. You’ll not only perform better; you’ll recover better as well. I think the key to maintaining excitement with any routine is to stay curious. What if I take a left instead of a right? Where does this street go? I wonder if I can go faster this time? What if I sprint a block, then jog a block? HOW DO YOU SHAKE UP YOUR WORKOUTS WHEN YOU’RE IN THE SAME SPACE, TO KEEP THEM FRESH EVERY TIME? I think the key to maintaining excitement with any routine is to stay curious. What if I take a left instead of a right? Where does this street go? I wonder if I can go faster this time? What if I sprint a block, then jog a block? Maybe today I’ll focus on engaging my core more, or being more conscious of my form... One of the biggest ways I like to challenge myself is to run without headphones. I did it once unintentionally because I was traveling and forgot them. I initially had anxiety about it, like “What’s gonna distract me from the pain?! Hahaha,” but what I discovered was actually quite euphoric. Instead of tuning out, I tuned in… I focused on my breath. Kind of like the way you practice breathing to movement in yoga. I just listened to it, became one with it, followed its rhythm. I began to hear the birds chirping, the breeze blowing. It was like my senses became heightened. I became distracted by the world around me instead of a playlist. It certainly wasn’t as easy as numbing out with headphones, but it was so much more rewarding. HOW DID THE STRONGER FOR IT BRA WORK FOR YOU? What I like about the bra is that it supports without constricting, and that the fabric has a silky but durable feel. I love that the straps are adjustable, and the criss-cross design ensures that they won’t slide while running, which is my biggest pet-peeve. SHOP STRONGER FOR IT BRA AND DID YOU LIKE THE HOW WE DO TIGHTS? The tights are like butter. Compressive enough to support my body in all the right places, yet forgiving enough not to make me feel constricted. SHOP HOW WE DO TIGHTS

training-fw19-bras-and-tights-story-page-header-image-sep-d_146-394087

training-fw19-bras-and-tights-story-page-header-image-sep-m_146-394088

training-fw19-bras-and-tights-story-page-header-image-sep

DIG DEEPER. PUSH FURTHER. GO THE DISTANCE. IT’S THE RACE TO THE STARTING LINE.

Race season approaches. We’ve been putting in the work. It’s a crucial time to keep our running routine on pace. Natasha reveals how she stays motivated through that final push.


adidas Training Stories