Nike Women Blog

NTC Now! w/ Spencer O'Brien

NIKEWomen — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:44:28 GMT

A two-time medalist at the X Games and Winter Dew Tour champion, pro snowboarder Spencer O’Brien is one of the world’s most respected female slopestyle competitors. An active member of her community, the philanthropic athlete spends her spare time coaching snowboard camps, speaking to high school students about environmental issues, and raising money for charity. We were thrilled to have the chance to sit down with the snowboard star for an exclusive chat, when we asked her about everything from her warm up routine to her favorite place to shop. Here’s what she had to say:

You say on your blog bio that you only competed because your sister did. Did you two ever compete against each other? Was there any sibling rivalry going on?
Meghann and I rarely competed against one another so there was never much rivalry and when we were both pros she was more into filming. I love to ride with her-- she was my biggest inspiration growing up!

What's your setup like these days?
I ride Nike Vapens with a Burton Deja Vu 152 and Lexa bindings.

What's your favorite mountain to ride?
Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia on a good powder day and Breckenridge in Colorado on a sunny day.

How do you get your body slope-ready after you've been on vacation for a while?
I hit the gym. It's hard if I've been slacking off to get back into the routine, but it's so important for what I do so I force myself. In the off-season I also like to bike and go hiking as much as possible.

How do you warm up--mentally and physically--the day of a big event?
I do a warm up off snow before practice that consists of some dynamic stretching, squats, jumps and lunges to get my muscles warmed up. Mentally, I just try to stay as focused as possible on what I need to accomplish that day. I do a lot of visualizing.

How did you prepare yourself for this year's X Games?
I put in a lot of gym time and a lot of practice on snow. I had a run in my mind that I wanted to achieve at X this year if the course allowed it and I came really close. Next year I'll get it for sure!

What would you say to young girls who are just getting into snowboarding? How can they move forward and sharpen their skills?
Take it step by step and challenge yourself every day. Even if it's just a new grab or a 5ft bigger jump, keeping your progression going is what keeps snowboarding fun and exciting. The most important thing is to have fun though! If you aren't having fun then what's the point? You'll get better faster if you're enjoying yourself.

What do you prefer: the pipe or jumps?
Jumps! I'm not much of a pipe person unless it's really soft and slushy.

In your opinion, what's been your greatest career moment?
Winning this season’s Breckenridge Dew Tour. The girls were riding really strong and I did a run I was really proud of, so to come out on top was amazing.

Do you have any tips on recovering after an injury, a letdown, a loss, or just a bad day?
After a loss I just try to focus on the next event. You can't be on every day and it's important to find pros even when you lose or the day doesn't go your way.

How do you unwind?
Baking and cooking, reading, working out and bad teenage television...Vampire Diaries is one of my favorite shows!

Tell us about your hometown of Vancouver. What's a typical night out for you there?
A dinner date with my boyfriend at either Le Faux Bourgeois or Roma can never go wrong. A walk along English Bay with some frozen yogurt in hand is always nice to finish it off as well.

What is your favorite place to shop?
Vancouver-- I know all the good spots! My next favorite is Paris and I really, really want to go to New York!!

Do you have a favorite person that you like to compete against? Who really inspires your competitive side?
Janna Meyen Weatherby is one of my biggest influences. She had such an amazing career and was at the forefront of women's riding all the way up until her retirement at the end of last season. I miss having her at events a lot. After her, it's Jamie Anderson and Enni Rukajarvi. Jamie is so talented and has been pushing me for years to be better and I love that about her. Enni is a bit newer on the scene, but she has great style and some really tech tricks.

Are there any contests in 2012 that you're really looking forward to?
I'm really looking forward to the TTR World Championships in Oslo, Norway next month. It's the first one ever and is shaping up to be a pretty big event so I'm excited to be apart of it. That and also the European X Games…I'm hoping for a bit of redemption after US X Games!

NTC Now! With Kaya Turski

NIKEWomen — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:45:12 GMT

Considered to be one of the best slopestyle freeskiers in the world, Kaya Turski is positioning herself as the “one to watch” at this year’s X Games. The Montreal, Canada native has collected more medals than we can count over the years at ski competitions across the globe. Today, Kaya will hit the Aspen slopes for the X Games Women’s Ski Slopestyle Final, and Friday, 1/25 she’ll be joining us for this week’s NTC Now! session on Facebook. Before she lends her expertise to the Nike Women community, we had some questions of our own for her. Here’s what Kaya had to say during our exclusive chat:

I understand you started out as a professional rollerblader. What prompted you to trade in your skates for skis? I used to ski when I was little and then I snowboarded for a few years, so I grew up on snow. I started rollerblading when I was 9 or 10 and was serious about that for several years. I was sponsored by a local ski and rollerblade shop, and when I was 17 they were hosting a ski event that I decided to check out. That’s when I fell in love with skiing!

What would you say are the key components that have helped you to achieve such a high level of success in your sport?
I think determination is a huge thing. I've definitely been knocked down hard a few times, but I was always determined to get back up and continue where I left off. I don't like to take no for an answer, not when I believe in myself. Belief is a huge thing-- you have to be convinced that you can do whatever you want and the world is yours. I'm also dedicated to what I do. I train hard, eat well, sleep well... I try to take care of myself so I can do what I do.

Another really important component to my success is the team I have around me: my family and friends, trainer, physical therapist, coach, sponsors. All of these people have contributed to me being where I am today.

What kinds of cross-training do you do to help prepare for ski season? What are your favorite workouts?
In the off-season I am in the gym every day. I have my trainer back in Montreal and we do a lot of balance, agility, quickness and power workouts. A lot of stuff involving an aerobic ball, cables, free weights, etc.

I also like to get back to rollerblading as I have a blast doing that as well as I think it's great for cross-training. It definitely helped me build the base I have for skiing. Lastly, I get to the trampolines when I can so I can work on my air awareness.

What goals have you set for yourself for the X Games this year?
I worked really hard all summer and fall to get as strong as possible, and this early season I've been working on solidifying some tricks on snow I want to bring to competition. I'm going to bring my A game to X this year and of course I want to do the best I can. Stay tuned!

You suffered a torn ACL in 2010, but bounced back and dominated the X Games once again last year. What kinds of training/activities were you able to do stay in shape while you healed?
Like I mentioned before, I do a lot of free weight, balance, agility work in the gym. As soon I hurt my knee, because I'd done it before, I knew exactly what I needed to do. I went back to Montreal and basically trained my butt off and saw my physical therapist on a regular basis. We did work in the gym to regain my proprio reception and just get my new knee to fire up again. The key was to take it day by day and stay positive about coming back and that took care of the mental side of things. I also enjoyed the time off with friends and family which helped time fly, and before I knew it I was back on my skis and ready to go!

What’s your proudest achievement?
My proudest achievement is winning Winter X 14 in 2010. I'd always wanted to win at the X-Games. I had two years off due to a pancreatic injury and then a torn ACL in 2007 and 2008, which was a really difficult time for me. I always knew I had it in me to bounce back and so I did. That was one of the best days of my life.

How would you describe your personal style?
Creative, mellow. I enjoy my time with close friends and family. I like to lay low rather than go out and party, but of course there's occasions for that too!

What’s your favorite piece of Nike apparel?
My Nike Allure Down Vest, Nike Dri-Fit Caliente Training Tights, and all of my Nike 6.0 kicks.

Where would we be likely to find you when you aren’t hitting the slopes?
At the gym or hanging out with some friends.

Our mantra for 2012 is to #makeeverymovecount. In 140 characters or less, how will you make it count this year?
"B in touch w home, friends & family r most important. more time 4 me. make every day count. ski hard, train hard. scare myself!"

What are you looking forward to in regard to your NTC Now! guest spot?
I'm looking forward to connecting with the world!

Have a question for Kaya? Be sure to tune in to our live chat with the pro skier at 4:00PM PST on Friday, 1/27 on our Facebook page. See you there!

Nike+ Virtual Half Marathon

NIKEWomen — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 01:10:33 GMT

The Nike+ Women’s Virtual Half Marathon was a huge success! Over 2,400 women from around the world finished the race, raising over $20,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma society on January 15.

We provided two of our Nike Women community members, Kathleen Brucato and Karen Poole, with Nike+ kits for the race and asked in exchange that they share their experiences with us. Here’s what they had to say about the big day:

Nike Women: How was your marathon experience? In what ways did it meet your expectations? What was a surprise?

Kathleen Brucato: The run was awesome! I was caught by surprise when Buffalo experienced its first snowstorm of the winter the Friday before the race. We've had an unseasonably mild winter up to this point. I ended up going for a quick 3-mile run on Saturday, just to remember how to run in the snow. It was quite chilly on Sunday morning, at a mere 6 degrees! I bundled up in my brand new gear, thanks to Nike Women! For the first 4 miles, I was running on ice and snowy streets, and I adjusted my pace to account for this. Even though I ran by myself, there were many other runners on the road that morning. I certainly did not feel alone! My husband is my #1 fan and it was nice to have him waiting for me at the finish line. He was so proud.

Karen Poole: This even was so much fun. My buddy ended up having to back out, so I ran solo. It was 36 degrees and windy that day so I wore my Nike Legend Pants, Nike Element Shield Max Running Jacket, and new pair of Nike Frees! I stayed so warm I didn't even feel the wind as I ran through local neighborhoods and around the lake. I expected to be running 9-minute miles, however, about half way in I felt pain in my knee from a previous injury. I finished about 30 minutes slower than planned, but that’s the way it goes sometimes. I plan to complete some physical therapy between now and next year and I will definitely be recruiting co-workers and friends in other states to participate with me to add another element to the race.

Nike Women: How did you prepare the night before?

Kathleen: The night before I prepared by mapping out my route. I was worried about whether or not the roads would be clear of the snow by this point. I took some time to stretch and to eat proper carbohydrates. Music is very important to me for long runs, so I uploaded a new playlist that would keep me going in my Nike+ app on my iPhone.

Karen: I ate a healthy meal, drank a lot of water, and stretched and relaxed my muscles in preparation for the big race! I went to sleep early and to make sure I would get a full eight hours. When I woke up I ate a light breakfast of cereal with milk and peanut butter on toast. Then it was off to racing!

Nike Women: Describe the feeling of finishing.

Kathleen: Finishing the race felt amazing. That’s the longest distance I’ve ever run during the winter. It was very motivating for me to know that I would be setting a new record for myself. The fact that it was for such a great cause also makes me so happy that I participated.

Karen: I felt like I accomplished a goal that I had been working towards for a while. It was a feeling of success and achievement and it left me hungry for more! I recommend that everyone participate in a race at some point, you just can't get that feeling of accomplishment from anywhere else. I can’t wait to participate again next year!

Congrats to Kathleen, Karen, and all the other women who participated in the big race. Did you run? Tell us about your Virtual Half Marathon experience in the comments below!

FOUND: Japan

NIKEWomen — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:45:22 GMT

Japan is widely known for keeping a finger on the pulse of fashion and fitness. Famous designers frequently look to Tokyo’s Harajuku District for style inspiration, as the area is known for its unique, fashion-forward apparel. Activities like hiking Mount Fuji and practicing yoga balanced with a lean, vitamin-rich diet help Japan rank as one of the healthiest countries in the world, which is why we weren’t surprised to find women rocking Nike active wear everywhere we went. Here are some of our favorite looks we found during our visit:

Chizuru Kurata
Chizuru was heading to her weekly yoga class when we spotted her brightly colored outfit. Her purple Nike Lived-In Training Hoodie and yoga mat popped, and her lemon yellow Nike Free TR Fit 2 Training Shoes completed the bold look. With all the eye-caching colors, Chizuru was wise to balance the outfit with her sleek, black Nike Dri-FIT Caliente Training Tights, one of our favorite pairs for working out.

Maya Fukuda
We had to chase after Maya once we caught a glimpse of her amazing preppy-chic outfit. Her Nike Replica Soccer Scarf and plaid duffel complimented her pleated skirt and navy blue blazer perfectly. We also loved the additional detail of the slouched socks, which gave the otherwise sophisticated look a touch of rebellion.

Yuka Mizuhara
Since a morning jog is part of Yuka’s daily routine, she always gives the same amount of thought to her running outfits as she does with anything else she wears. Yuka’s Nike Seamless Long Bra and cherry red Nike Cyclone Vapor Running Jacket reflected her love of color, and the ultimate flexibility of the Nike Swift Power Running Capris helped her to stay on track.

Yumi Ihara
On a busy city street, Yuki’s infectious energy made her stand out from the crowd. We immediately took notice of her original style, as well as the huge smile on her face. Yumi loves to mix and match patterns, and the contrast of her printed shorts and two-tone plaid jacket was the epitome of cool.
To create a similar look, try pairing the Nike Knit Sweater Windrunner Hoodie with the Nike Printed Tempo Track Running Shorts.

Which look do you love the most? Let us know in the comments section below!

NTC Superuser Spotlight: Danielle Wagner

NIKEWomen — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 16:45:47 GMT

A former first team All-American goalkeeper on the soccer field and academic all-star in the classroom, 24-year-old Danielle Wagner is the ultimate double threat. Since graduating at the top of her class in 2009, the Chicago native has kept busy by exercising her brain at her marketing job, and clocking in major minutes on her Nike Training Club (NTC) app. Danielle previously worked as a fitness specialist and trainer, and is dedicated to promoting healthy life practices in her community. So naturally we jumped at the opportunity to chat with this go-getter and discover her secrets for staying proactive. Here’s what she had to say:

How long have you been using NTC? How many workout minutes total have you logged to date?
I’ve been using NTC since April 2011 and have logged 4,730 minutes to date.

What's your current workout schedule with the app?
I’m an early bird, so I workout before work at 4:30am Monday-Friday. Saturdays I go to the gym around 10 a.m. and I take Sundays off. Mondays and Thursdays I do a 30-minute NTC workout along with 30 minutes of cardio training. Tuesdays and Fridays I do a 45-minute NTC and 20 minutes of cardio. Wednesdays and Saturdays are “ab” days, so I do a 15-minute NTC ab workout and 60 minutes of cardio.

What are your favorite NTC workouts?
I love Li-Na’s Toning Workout and Jeanette Jenkin's Ab Blast, Kickin’ It, The Cinch, and Endurance Master workouts, but I like to change it up and incorporate other NTC workouts into the mix.

What’s your power song?
“Heart of a Champion.”

What motivates you to work out with NTC?
I was a two-time All-American soccer player in college, so I needed to find something to keep me in shape like soccer did. NTC is like a coach that keeps me active and allows me to perform athletic workouts just like I used to for soccer. I’ve always been a fitness enthusiast, but NTC makes it so easy to change up workouts and stay in shape.

Tell us about a defining moment you had as a result of the NTC app.
After college, I trained for a half marathon because I thought it would motivate me to stay healthy and compete, but I got really bored with the monotonous training. I completed my first half marathon in 1:54:45, but thought I could do better. That’s when I started NTC training, and I absolutely loved it. After a while, I decided that I wanted to run another half marathon and signed up for one, but it was only a week away! The only training I did for it was my regular NTC routine, and those 13.1 miles felt great! I finished in 1:48:35 and I attribute my endurance and strength to NTC. Running a sub 1:50 half marathon was a great accomplishment, and it made me realize that I was benefitting aerobically, physically, and mentally from NTC training.

What’s your training motto?
Live Strong. Train Strong. Run Strong. Be Strong.

Who is your favorite Nike athlete?
Mia Hamm. She did so much for women’s soccer and for me as a young girl growing up. A lot of women wouldn’t be where they are today if it weren’t for Mia Hamm and the rest of the US Women’s National Team that led the way in the 90s. The growing popularity of women’s soccer started with their dedication to themselves, each other, the country, and the sport. Mia Hamm was a great role model when she was in her prime as an athlete, and she still is today.

What’s your favorite piece of Nike training apparel?
I love my Nike Lunar Glide 3 Running Shoes… I have three pairs!

What’s your favorite pre-workout snack?
A Golden Delicious apple.

What's the best advice you've ever received, and what advice would you give others as a result of your NTC experience?
The best advice I’ve received is to make every minute count.

The advice I would give is to stop saying you’ll do it later, because later turns into tomorrow and tomorrow turns into never. Just do it now and you’ll feel great later.

In one word, how would describe your overall NTC experience?
Invigorating.

Closer Look: A Modern Classic

NIKEWomen — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 18:45:38 GMT

Effortlessly chic, the Nike Epic Crew Training Sweatshirt takes a classic sportswear design and gives it a modern twist. Perfect for layering, the relaxed fit sweatshirt features a cropped cut and open neckline so it can be styled in a variety of ways. Pair it with sleek leggings and bold-colored tank or sports bra to offset its neutral tone and create a look that will pop.

This cozy wardrobe staple also lives up to our commitment to lead a greener lifestyle this year, as its organic cotton material is as soft on the environment as it is on your skin.

To stay chic without sacrificing your comfort, shop the Nike Epic Crew Training Sweatshirt here.

For a chance to win, check out today’s giveaway on Twitter.

Top 5 Nike Spring '12 Products

NIKEWomen — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:45:50 GMT

This is the year to #makeeverymovecount, which means making yourself over from the inside out. The Nike Spring ’12 Collection is full of fresh, top-of-the-line training apparel that will help you make good on your fitness goals -- without sacrificing your style. Street-inspired sneakers and hoodies, slouchy sweaters, and slim capris are some of the biggest trends you’ll be seeing this spring, with warm colors and neutrals setting the tone for the season. Here are our top-five picks from the Nike Spring '12 Look Book:

Nike Epic Crew Women's Training Sweatshirt: Cool and casual, this super-soft sweatshirt will be your favorite go-to layer this spring.

Nike Free TR Twist Women's Training Shoe: Lightweight and flexible for a more natural feel, this versatile sneaker will support you through sprints, squats, and the rest of your training drills.

Nike Seamless Women's Long Bra: This soft, seamless bra contours to your shape and offers light support.

Nike Go To Seamless Women's Capris: A flattering fit and breathable fabric make these capris the ultimate gym staple this season.

Nike Dri-Fit Break-Beat Women's Training Hoodie: Relax post-workout in this streetwear hoodie that features an oversized hood and a trendy, cropped fit.

What products are you looking to revamp your workout wardrobe with this season? Tell us in the comments below!

The X-Tra Edge

NIKEWomen — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 16:45:07 GMT

Different sports have varying levels of impact, which is something Nike’s designers took into consideration when they set forth to create the Victory line of sports bras. No detail left unnoticed, they created a collection that would cover women’s full range of needs. Ideal for high-impact sports like soccer, tennis, and basketball, the Nike Victory Adjust X-Back Sports Bra offers maximum support and features an adjustable chest band and straps so you can personalize the fit. Its lightweight design and mesh panels provide optimal breathability, making the sports bra a top contender in comfort as well as support, so you can forget what you’re wearing and focus on the game.

To get superior support for your sport, shop the Victory Adjust X-Back Sports Bra here.

For a chance to win, check out today’s giveaway on twitter.com/nikewomen.

READY FOR THE NIKE+ VIRTUAL HALF MARATHON?

NIKEWomen — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:45:10 GMT

The Nike+ Virtual Half Marathon is fast approaching. We are thrilled that so many women have signed up to run on January 14 and 15! We were only too happy to help motivate participants Kathleen Brucato from New York and Karen Poole in California with Nike+ marathon kits and to find out a little bit about why they are taking on the Virtual Half.

Karen Poole:
Why are you running?
I want to run this marathon first because of how much fun I had this year running my first-ever marathon at the Nike Women's Marathon in San Francisco on October 16. I know this will be a great experience. Second, I love that this race benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Running with so many women for such a great cause makes me feel amazing and pushes me to run harder. Third, I am really excited to be able to plot my own course for this race and am planning on running along beautiful country roads and hopefully finishing around nearby Lake Folsom. And fourth, the finisher's bracelet looks amazing and I am going to enjoy wearing it around to represent my achievement and experience.

Who’s running with you?
I started out planning to run alone, but just recently, a girl from work signed up, and I plan to run with her. Danielle is so inspiring because she has a relative with Leukemia, so now we are running for someone we care for. That makes the race even more meaningful. I’m working on convincing my husband to run with me. Hopefully with this chance to be on the Nike blog I will be able to fully convince him!

Kathleen Brucato:
Why are you running?
I have been following Nike Women on Facebook for advice and inspiration for my upcoming marathon training. I made a personal goal to run a full marathon before I turn 30. I only have two years left! This past year I ran my first half marathon and starting this January 7th, I joined a running group to prepare for the Pittsburgh Marathon on May 6th. The ads, personal profiles and tips have been so helpful!

Who’s running with you?
Running Solo!

What’s keeping you? There’s still time to register for the Nike+ Virtual Half Marathon.

5 WORKOUTS THAT WORK HARD

NIKEWomen — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 23:39:41 GMT

The first week of 2012 is already winding down and we were just wondering how all those new year's resolutions are coming along???

Our thoughts, exactly. Resolutions are fragile glass butterflies. They're papery thin wisps of dreams that flit like shadows across our best intentions. They are hope-colored sunglasses.

That's because resolutions are not action--they are only thoughts about action. What if, instead, you asked yourself one simple question: Are you making every move count?

Just in case you need a loving yet firm nudge, here are 5 NTC workouts that will keep you moving and motivated. Your assignment is to do all 5 by midnight on Sunday. Go, you.

1. GET LEAN/INTERMEDIATE/FIRE DRILL
2. GET FOCUSED/BUTT BUSTER
3. GET FOCUSED/CORE CRUNCH
4. GET TONED/BEGINNER/SHAPE AND SCULPT
5. GET STRONG/ADVANCED/POWER UP

The Most Found Looks of 2011

NIKEWomen — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 16:45:24 GMT

This year, Nike FOUND traveled the world to see how real women are rocking Nike style. From Chicago to Shanghai, let’s take a look back at some of our favorite looks:

Chicago:
Jamilah's edgy look in the windy city created some serious style envy. Her take on urban streetwear-- from her skinny jeans to her multicolored sneaks-- was effortlessly cool.

Get the look:
Nike 6.0 Dunk High Shoe
Nike Windrunner Jacket
Nike Team Training Small Duffel Bag

LA:
We spotted Alex in downtown L.A., but her hipster chic style seems straight out of Silver Lake. We love how she transformed an athletic shirt into a fierce fashion staple by tucking it into trendy, high-waisted denim shorts. Her tinted shades and layered bracelets complete her fun, retro look.

Get the look:
Nike Home Run Fan (MLB Dodgers) T-Shirt

Miami:
We found this cute girl-next-door carving the boardwalk with her longboard. Her cool, classic Converses and her popping purple training tights combine for a look that was both functional and fashionable.

Get the look:
Nike Tight Track and Field Capris
Nike Vintage Exploded T-Shirt
Nike Windrunner Jacket

UK:
We had high hopes when we traveled to this global style capital, and the fab fashion we found in London did not disappoint! We spotted Sophie’s covetable vintage mesh Nike top from a mile away. Her tiered necklaces and two-tone bra elevated her outfit, but her best accessory by far was her easy-going attitude.

Get the look:
Nike Money Mesh Women's Basketball Top

Nike World Headquarters
One of the hottest trends in 2011 was rocker chic, and few mastered the daring look as well as Kristen. Her long black blazer and platform shoes referenced 70s glam rock, while her red shorts and matching lips made the look pop. When we found Kristen she was walking to work, but we think she looked ready for the runway!

Get the look:
Nike Dig Volleyball Shorts

Berlin:
Luisa’s look flawlessly reflects Berlin’s clean yet easy style. The contrast of her soft Nike tank and her sharp, striped blazer was perfectly on point, and her badass, bedazzled brass knuckles necklace has been on our wishlist ever since we met her. This is a look you could rock with confidence any day of the week.

Get the look:
Nike Motion Racer Tank Top

NYC:
Do we even need to explain this one? This NYC native took a tough tomboy look and transformed it into a style that’s sophisticated and chic. Her black leather Nike Blazers and cherry red sunglasses are bound to turn heads—she certainly got our attention!

Get the look:
Nike Blazer High iD Shoe
Nike 6.0 Luxe Layer Tank Top

Shanghai:
Shanghai may be new on the style scene, but it certainly isn’t shy. Some of the most progressive and bold looks we discovered this year were on this Chinese city’s streets, including this creative and colorful outfit. We never knew metallics and neons were a match made in fashion heaven, but now we can’t wait to try it ourselves!

Get the look:
Nike Pro Hyperwarm Allover Print Training Tights
Nike Ultra Light Filled Golf Jacket
Nike Free TR Fit Winter Training Shoes
Nike Sprint Metallic Jacket

What was your favorite look from Nike FOUND in 2011? Let us know in the comments below! To check out more fresh FOUND fashion, visit our tumblr page: Nikefound.tumblr.com

NTC SPOTLIGHT: FLOR BECKMANN

NIKEWomen — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 16:45:46 GMT

Think you do it all? Before you say yes, you had better meet Flor Beckmann. We first ran into the 24-year-old Texan on a recent Nike FOUND expedition to Austin, where she scorched our retinas with a one-two punch of style and fitness. This super-strong, super-inspirational lady is a certified personal trainer, a physical therapy assistant at a sports clinic, a group cycling instructor, and most recently, a Nike Training Club (NTC) instructor. Naturally, we wanted to know a bit more about her. Here’s what she said:

Tell us a little bit about yourself. What’s your background in fitness? What is your current position? How did you get started with NTC?
I have a Bachelors of Science degree in Kinesiology from the University of Texas. Since I currently have multiple jobs, I would say my current position is to motivate people to better themselves physically. I got started with NTC through the University of Texas. They had asked Marie Purvis, the professional trainer for Nike Training Club, to come introduce the world of NTC to the fitness and wellness staff at UT. I fell in love with the workout from day one because it was so challenging.

What are your predominant areas of expertise?
I would have to say with my physical therapy background, my area of expertise is proper form. Safety and injury prevention are really important to me so I always make sure to go over proper form.

How often do you teach NTC classes?
Twice a week.

What are your favorite NTC drills/exercises?
Ski jumps, push-ups and planks.

Describe a defining moment you’ve had with NTC.
I have had many, but the best one is when I see girls who could barely do a push-up complete the one minute push-up drill.

What’s your favorite Nike training product?
The Nike Legend Tight Fit Capris.

Are there any fashion trends you notice in your NTC classes?
Yup. Really big t-shirts and tights.

What do you like to eat after an NTC workout session?
Trail-mix.

What do you like to do in your free time, even though it’s hard to imagine you have free time?
I love to spend time with friends and loved ones.

What's your favorite song to work out to?
One Night In Bangkok (Club mix).

In one word, how would you describe your overall NTC experience?
Hardcore.

Hear that? We do. Which NTC workout are you going to add to your routine?

30 wishes. 6 Gifts Remain.

NIKEWomen — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:45:01 GMT

We’ve entered the final week of the “Get Gifted” ultimate holiday gift giveaway! On Sunday 12/25 we’ll announce the grand prize winner of all 30 gifts on our Facebook page, but before the big reveal we still have six great gifts to give out! This week we will be unwrapping presents from champion distance runner Shalane Flanagan, our favorite pro dancer Sofia Boutella, tennis star Maria Sharapova, and more! Starting the week off right is beach volleyball megastar Misty May-Treanor, who is giving out today’s gift: an autographed iPod Touch that’s filed with all her favorite music and apps! Time is running out, so don’t delay, head over to facebook.com/nikewomen and enter now!

To see a recap of all the prizes we’ve gifted so far and to sign up to Get Gifted, click here and login to Facebook.

Be sure to tweet your followers to let them know how they can sign up to #getgifted!

Good luck and happy holidays!

UConn vs. Baylor 12.18.11

NIKEWomen — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 21:40:59 GMT

We’re just two days away from the most anticipated women’s college basketball matchup of December, when No. 2 Connecticut takes on No. 1 Baylor. With nine and ten wins respectively, both teams are undefeated and the stakes are high. Under the guidance of seven-time NCAA Division champ Geno Auriemma, UConn knows a thing or two about winning and will be bringing stiff competition to Waco. But with Women’s Basketball Hall of Famer and two-time coach of the year Kim Mulkey calling the shots for Baylor, the hometown team will be tough to beat. We're excited that both teams will be repping the swoosh in their HyperElite uniforms and the 2011 Zoom Hyperdunks.

This is one match up you wont want to miss. Be sure to tune in to ESPN or ESPN3 on December 18 at 8:30PM ET to catch all the action!

Go Huskies or Sic ‘em Bears? Which team are you rooting for? Let us know in the comments below!

NTC Now! With Jane Wake

NIKEWomen — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 18:29:55 GMT

Top fitness expert Jane Wake will be joining us live tomorrow on our Facebook page for this week’s edition of NTC Now! The London native has run her own fitness consultancy, Body A-Wake, for eight years, where she teaches NTC programs as well as pre and postnatal exercises and nutrition. We sat down with Jane to find out more about her experience as a trainer, and what she’s looking forward to at tomorrow’s NTC Now! session.

How did you get started as a fitness instructor?
I trained as a fitness instructor while I was getting my Masters in Sport Management at university. Shortly after I left school I started my own personal training business, and wrote to Nike to say that I wanted to work with them. I auditioned for a fitness role, and have been with Nike ever since.

What are your predominant areas of expertise?
After 24 years in the business I can honestly say that I have done and can do almost anything related to fitness!! Primary focuses for me are pre and postnatal health, running, functional training, and core training. I am an advanced pilates teacher and I have done a lot of rehab work, so I’m pretty good with sports injuries.

You have a seriously stacked resume. What’s your proudest achievement?
I’d say my greatest achievements were completing my Masters, running a sub-4:00 marathon, climbing a volcanic mountain, and giving birth to my two gorgeous children.

What's your favorite post-exercise meal?
I often have to train later in the evening, so when I get home it’s just too late to eat a heavy meal. Instead, I’ll make myself a big plate of veggies and hummus. It has to be said though, after a really long run on a Sunday there is nothing better than good old-fashioned English roast beef, Yorkshire pudding, and roasted potatoes. After all, a girl’s got to have balance in her life!

Do you have a personal motto?
“My job is to put myself out of a job.” Which means that if I can’t motivate, empower and educate my clients/students on how to train and develop on their own, then I am not doing my job properly.

What is your favorite piece of Nike training apparel?
That is such a hard question! So many things! I’ll try to narrow it down to three:
I just received the Nike+ GPS SportWatch-- it’s genius! I also love the Nike Pro Hyperwarm Crew Training Shirt. The little thumbholes keep your hands so warm, and the snug fit shows off your form while allowing you to move. Last but not least has to be the Nike Free Trainers. I once had to recover from a serious injury by going barefoot to strengthen my ankles and calves. I took up Karate as a result, and now know so well what the benefits of barefoot training are. With the Frees I can apply what I learned during that time to any sport or fitness regime!

What do you like to do in your free time?
I don’t have a lot of free time! If I had some though, I’d want to be on a beach with my kids and my hubby, kickin’ back and relaxing! But only after I’d run about ten miles or challenged my little boy to a vigorous game of beach volleyball first!

What are you looking forward to in regard to your NTC Now! guest spot?
The chance to speak to people I otherwise wouldn’t get a chance to speak with, and hopefully solve a few fitness dilemmas!

To ask Jane your fitness question, join us tomorrow, December 15 at 8:00AM to 9:00AM PST at facebook.com/nikewomen. See you there!