This Is Why I Run – Timothy Olson
- November 10, 2017
- Audio, Running, Ultramarathon, Video
My name is Timothy Olson and I am the two-time winner and record holder of Western States 100 Mile race. I enjoy long runs up mountains, challenging my body, mind and spirit. I find inspiration in the land, trees, mountains and wildlife, connecting with them on the run, feeling their energy, allowing me to run wild and free. I believe that by being connected to our earth and living consciously and mindfully, we can create vibrations to inspire individual and collective steps to heal, care and nurture our environment and ourselves. I use a daily meditation practice and have found the value of this practice to motivate, inspire and balance my passions of family, running, nutrition and mindful lifestyle. I reside in Boulder, CO with my wife, Krista, and sons Tristan & Kai.
“I can be at ease with how life flows”
I run to be free and to appreciate life. With each step I feel at peace and grateful for air to breathe, a body that moves, and the connection with our magnificent earth. When I run, worries melt away and I know no matter what, I can be at ease with how life flows. Nature offers an endless network of inspiration and healing that anyone can engage with. My medicine of choice is running. There’s something so primitive and freeing about taking in a three hundred and sixty degree mountain landscape. It brings my awareness into the present, which is always right there but can be missed in the hustle, bustle, and “to do” list of life . I run to enter each present moment with a sense of appreciation and a sense of gratitude.
Photo: Greg Snyder
“Once that switch flipped, and running became meditative…”
My entrance into trail running came from a somewhat darker place. I ran as an escape from my insecurities of the past instead of as a medium into the present moment. Now, this is my aim everyday, every moment, and a continuous practice; to rip off the blindfold of anxiety, insecurities, and depression that ruled my life for too long. Once that switch flipped, and running became meditative, the true energy of it awoke within and around me. I felt a ripple effect of balance flowing into all areas of my life. This balance is what I hinge my livelihood on, what grounds me even on the busier or more stressful of days. Whether it be a difficult training day, playing with my two dapper boys, or waiting in a busy security line on the way to the next great place, I lean on the balance and presence running has introduced to me.
“my family always comes first”
I have two young, wild boys, Tristan (5) and Kai (1.5). No matter where running takes us, or what race I’m focusing on, my family always comes first. If we’re traveling the world or at our home in Boulder, life is usually a whirlwind of chaos. Through this chaos, my two wild boys and beautiful wife, Krista remain the fiber of my ethos. Running gives me the patience and presence to be a better father, husband, friend, and person.
“I couple my running with a sitting meditation practice”
While ideally every moment during every run would feel zen-esque and enlightening, even in the midst of a grueling adventure, freezing, in the middle of the night with precipitation slapping you in the face at mile 80 – this isn’t always the case. So, I couple my running with a sitting meditation practice. This builds a sort-of repertoire of mental fitness I can later tap into while I’m digging deep on the next crazy adventure, like last month as I ran the Bear 100 mile run. Being present forces you to recognize your weaknesses, front and center, and acknowledge them. You can then investigate what you can do and eventually accept that moment, no matter how grim. In transcending this, you are able to embrace the freedom in surrendering to the moment. Big mountain adventures, just like many moments in life, can really rock you to your knees. I’ve taken these moments, like in both of my Hardrock 100 scenarios and applied my meditation practice. Once I accepted the weather, pain, and nausea, flipped my attitude from “poor me” to “wow, I’m grateful to be alive”, the scenario in my head changed, and I was able to make the most of being out of my comfort zone. I embrace the journey and feel what it means to truly live.
“It can be as simple as breath and body awareness”
Photo: Emma Hussey
Now you don’t need some intense experience or mile 80 breakdown to trigger the thought that “maybe I should train/nurture my mind, too.” It can be as simple as breath and body awareness just one, five or ten minutes anytime during the day. I’m a firm believer that a simple meditation (try attaching it to a normal part of your daily routine like running, showering, or brushing your teeth) a few times a week can help you not only run happier and possibly farther, but it can also bring a sense of joy to simple, ordinary everyday life. While running/exercise is great, in the times when that’s not an option for a plethora of reasons, a daily dose of mindfulness with a sprinkle of gratitude seems to ground me and balance life out.
“It takes me back to my high school days with my friends and cross-country team blasting MMMbop by Hanson on a cassette deck.”
When I’m meditating routinely, my running feels at its peak. Some runs the only muse I need is the all encompassing beauty around me. Other days I need a catalyst to enter the moment and embrace the unknown, that’s when I put in my headphones and allow a good jam to amplify my run. It’s silly how something as simple as putting in a pair of headphones and one great song can create a zone for me to focus, embrace the detours, and push through wherever the path takes me. It takes me back to my high school days with my friends and cross-country team blasting MMMbop by Hanson on a cassette deck. That nostalgia reminds me why I run and why I love running. When you run, at its essence, you’re totally present and you’re totally free.
Running has allowed me to see the world and share these incredible experiences with my family. And you following and cheering me on, I appreciate it all immensely. So why I run, I can think of countless answers, but in the end, it’s simple – I run to be free, to be the best damn human I can be and not take a single moment or stride for granted. My hope is that you go and do the same. Peace world.
We also want to hear your stories. Share your motivation for running in a short story and hashtag #whyirunjaybird on Instagram for a chance to win weekly prizes including earbuds and a chance to be featured on our social channels. We’re inspired by every type of runner, so don’t hesitate to share your passion with us. To the parent that wakes up early before sending their kids off to school, the beginner seeking to finish their first 5k, and the marathoner looking to set a new PR, your passion inspires more people than you’ll ever know. Share your stories with us and #runwild. Find more info about the This Is Why I Run series here.
Keep in touch with Timothy!
This Is Why I Run – Meredith Edwards
- October 20, 2017
- Running, Ultramarathon
My name is Meredith June Edwards and I am a mountain endurance athlete based in Jackson, Wyoming. I am a lover of mountains, adventures and my dog Moe. Aside from being a professional athlete, I’ve spent the last 9 years working as a residential counselor for kids with disabilities.
UTMB is unlike any other race I have ever seen or heard about. The level of competition, the excitement of the supporters, and the terrain is one of a kind. For years I’ve worked my butt off just to qualify and get to the starting line, and it’s been an unbelievable journey. Years of crewing points and racing in the UTMB series has proved to be beneficial. Finishing 10th at CCC in 2015, and landing 2nd place on the podium last year in TDS, set me up for what I thought would be a great UTMB in 2017. Here’s how it went down – real and raw like a journal entry for each painstaking and amazing day:
August 21 2017 –
I don’t feel good. I work at residential school for kids with special needs, and all of my clients are sick. I’m nervous knowing I leave the 24th for Europe. I drink lots of lemon water and eat garlic.
August 22,2017 –
I’m sick. I have a low grade fever, and my ear is blocked after running a quick workout up the local ski hill here in Jackson, Snow King. I leave work early due to my fever and head to the doctor. They tell me I have a sinus infection that has moved into my ear. They place me on antibiotics that will last for 10 days. Not stoked on this issue, I have no choice but to try and get better.
August 24 2017 –
I feel a little better, but I’m just excited to get to France.
August 31, 2017 –
I set off on my last run before UTMB and feel excited. My legs feel great. It’s a bittersweet moment to know after 5 years the time has come. “Am I ready?,” I ask myself. It doesn’t matter because no matter what, at this time tomorrow I’ll be toeing the line.
September 1, 2017 –
It’s weird to wake up around 9:30am for a race. I get up, eat, and go back to laying in bed because I don’t have to be ready till 5:30pm. I lay in bed reading a book, trying to not to think about what’s to come. I take a shower and slowly start to get myself ready. The time has come! I look at myself in the mirror and notice how far I’ve come from the CCC 100k. I’m not the same from when I started this goal, and I don’t think I’ll be the same person I am now when this race is done.
I get to Chamonix and make my way towards the start. Crowds and crowds of people are everywhere. Music is playing and my senses become heightened. As I enter the coral, I have Jason Schlarb to the right of me and both of us go down towards the start. With people lining the whole way, everyone is cheering. I hear my name being yelled and I wave. It is the moment I will never forget. I find a close running friend Amanda Basham. We met in China during an FKT project and became close. It was comforting to stand next to her in a sea of amazing athletes. We talk and make sure our backpacks are ok and wait for the countdown.
photo: Ugo Richard
September 31, 2017 6:30pm –
The race starts. It’s intense. Everyone is yelling, and I can’t stop high fiving everyone. The first 8k is pretty flat and I catch myself going out way too fast. My legs start to feel awful, and I notice I’m achy. On the first climb, my legs don’t want to move. I become scared because this is not how I want to feel. I make an effort to slow down, but I’m still not happy, and of course my ear is blocked and won’t pop. It makes me feel off balance and just plain annoyed.
On the first descent, my legs cramp and I’ve already gone through 1 liter of water. I remember not liking the 19 miles to the first aid station at Les Contamaines. Unlike CCC and TDS, UTMB had a lot of rough terrain in the beginning and with my legs and even my arms cramping, my body was not happy. In Les Contamaines, I meet my Jax crew. I was already crying because of the way I feel. She looks at me and says “no, you just keep going”. We switch out my bottles and she puts food in my backpack. As I leave the aid station, I get a hug from Celia(GU Manager) and I’m on my way.
For whatever reason, I feel better and my legs want to work. I start up a huge ascent to Bonhomme. On my way up, the weather gets intense, and I need to put on another layer to help with the high winds. Somewhere in that transition, my food to get me to Courmayeur falls out of my backpack. I’m not sure when I notice this, but when I do, I try not to freak out and work with what I’ve got: one Gu chocolate Waffle – dang!!! My nutrition is pretty specific: one gel every 30 minutes, one waffle every 3 hours.
So there I was, just pushing through for almost 3 hours on little bites of my waffle. With no aid station anytime soon, I just tried to keep my cool. Fortunately, I came across Sally McRae – I was so happy. She tossed me two small snickers, and I couldn’t be more thankful. It lifted my spirits, and I finally made it to an aid station and stuffed my backpack with cookies, bananas, and downed a ton of soup.
I knew the descent into Courmayeur was steep, long, and technical. I slowed down to save my legs, but I was feeling great. Coming into Courmayeur, I was feeling strong and determined, which is way different than when I started. But, this is where my first big mistake happened. I had picked up quite a bit of spots, and feeling excited, I didn’t take a long enough break and came out of Courmayeur way too fast.
I picked up 2 more girls on the ascent and started to feel a little dizzy. This is when I think my energy bonk from the previous incident kicked in. I was down over 400 calories and could not catch back up. I lost my down hill legs and this is when things started to get real. From what I remember, I felt really dizzy and was not quite with it. At the Bonatti aid station, they asked me if I was ok after swaying around trying to drink soup. Of course I said yes and just carried on my way. By the time I got to the aid station at Arnouvaz, I fell apart. When I saw how people were looking at me, I got scared – apparently I was very pale. The medics would not let me leave until color returned to my face. So I ate a bunch of food, I changed into warmer clothes, and eventually just started to cry knowing I lost all my momentum. The medics comforted me along with Magda Boulet, Amy Sproston, and Major Srnik. As I watched everyone leave with me still sitting there, I wanted to quit. I just kept crying. Finally, after sometime, they let me go.
The weather was horrible. It was -9°C(15°F) at the top of Col Ferret, and the wind was blowing hard. It was such a struggle, and all that food they made me eat decided to come back up. On the 30k descent into La Fouly I threw everything up. In my mind, I had decided to drop when I saw my crew next at Champex.
I cried so hard. Even on the little downhills I couldn’t move. It was mentally derailing, and I hated it. When I arrived at Champex, I was so happy to see Jax. I sat down while she ripped off my socks to change. I tried eating but kept dry heaving. I was snappy but I realized I couldn’t stop. I wanted to but I’m 100% sure Jax was not going to let that happen. Getting up was hard but on I went. I decided I could run for 20 steps and walk for another 20. I kept throwing up my food every time I ate, but I kept moving. The weather was so hard to deal with. One minute it’s raining, another minute you’re sweating, and then it’s freezing. Like the weather, my emotional state was just as unpredictable. One minute I’m crying, laughing, then singing out loud. I had lost it. I was convinced at one point I had a fever and I was going to pass out. I had to call Jax on the second to last climb just to keep me going.
After running CCC two years ago and knowing the terrain, I was so upset at how I could not run anything at this point . Who have I become? This is not me. I looked for the muddiest part of the trail to run in, so I could just slide a little bit with each step. It was purely survival mode and saving face at its finest. I was in a dark head space on the last climb and had so much anger towards myself for allowing this to happen. I cursed every step and fell completely apart. These were the hardest final hours of any race I’ve ever been in. When I got to the top of the last climb there was a sign saying 8k. I couldn’t believe it. Really? 8k!!!!!! ehhhhhhhhh. I told myself I have to run. Get it over. I was angry, then embarrassed, but I finished. As I made my way into Chamonix, my dad was there smiling. He grabbed me by the hand and ran me in. It was over. I was mad but didn’t have enough energy to keep it up. But it was over, and I had finished.
September 15, 2017 –
I’ve had some time to process this experience. It’s been hard, but I realize so much good has come out of it.
1. This was my first 100 mile race. Can’t expect to go out and kill it.
2. It’s easy to run a race when everything is going well, but how about when everything goes wrong? I finished and for now, it’s good enough.
3. I need to work on my positive self-talk. However, for the next race I can look back and tell myself that I finished UTMB against all odds. What a great experience to have to build off of. I can do hard things.
4. The passion is still there and growing. I can’t wait to come back and do it all over again. I love this sport, my competitors, and the life the spectators give to this event.
5. One race does not own me. This isn’t the end-all. Instead, this is just the start.
6. I have an amazing best friend, Jax, who will always keep me going.
7. I finished a 5 year goal and that is called winning!!!!
You are always stronger than you think. Don’t ever give up and remember things worth achieving are always worth the fight. I will be back stronger, wiser, and ready to test my limits again.
Happy Training.
We also want to hear your stories. Share your motivation for running in a short story and hashtag #whyirunjaybird on Instagram for a chance to win weekly prizes including earbuds and a chance to be featured on our social channels. We’re inspired by every type of runner, so don’t hesitate to share your passion with us. To the parent that wakes up early before sending their kids off to school, the beginner seeking to finish their first 5k, and the marathoner looking to set a new PR, your passion inspires more people than you’ll ever know. Share your stories with us and #runwild. Find more info about the This Is Why I Run series here.
Keep in touch with Mere!
Always Improving
Download the latest firmware updates to ensure your buds are always performing at their top level.
Releasing RUN into the world has been a phenomenal step for us. We’re psyched to hear about users who’ve been able to fit their headphones right out of the box and run freely with incredible sound. We’ve also recently received feedback from some users that they’ve experienced Bluetooth connectivity issues. We’ve worked hard to improve this situation, and have just released a firmware update to address these occasional connectivity issues. You can download the firmware update here: Jaybird Run Updates.
We’re confident that these firmware improvements will resolve the majority of connection issues users are experiencing. As with all Bluetooth devices, many factors can impact connectivity, such as RF interference, distance between the phone and headphones, etc. To get the best Bluetooth experience, please check out the diagram below. If you have any questions after updating your firmware, or need further assistance, please reach out to us at jaybirdlistens@jaybirdsport.com. We’re here to power your passion, and we want you have the most seamless experience possible.
- To minimize audio drop outs, try to reduce the distance between your right earbud and your audio device. For example, try to have your audio device in your right pocket or on your right arm if running with an arm band.
- While the range of most Bluetooth devices is 10 meters (33 feet), the optimal range for any Bluetooth audio device is about 60 centimeters (2 feet) from the audio source.
- Some environments, cell phone towers, dense wifi networks, and other transmitting devices can interfere with your Bluetooth connection. If possible, try to move away from the area or devices.
Volcano Running in Long Valley Caldera
Andrew Miller is an accomplished photographer, adventurer and creative director focusing most of his work in winter climates exploring and chasing storms usually with a snowboard under his feet. From the Andes, Alps, Interior B.C. to the West Fjords of Iceland and high peaks of the Himalayas his award winning images has taken him to remote mountain ranges across the globe while working with a vast range of clients and editorial titles worldwide. From the skin track, helipad to the resort lift and sled trail Andrew has been out there creating his work and quickly establishing himself as one of the most well rounded photographers in the snow industry.
When you think of the word caldera, the first thing that comes to mind is lava, extreme temps, and a rugged volcanic landscape. Situated in the heart of the Eastern Sierra, Long Valley is one of the earth’s largest calderas created by a massive volcanic eruption over 700,000 years ago. In this massive crater sits one of the most unique landscapes in the west. The valley is lush with rich green pastures, winding rivers, glacial lakes, and natural hot springs surrounded by a vast range of some of the highest and most rugged peaks in the U.S. When people visit to hike, bike, run, snowboard, fish, or off-road, most don’t realize they are doing these activities inside, on, or next to an active volcano.
There’s no better way to take in this 20 mile long, 11 mile wide beast then by foot. The large amount of BLM protected land and miles of unpaved back roads make for an amazing trail system to enjoy all the unique qualities of this area up close. A typical afternoon adventure run starts somewhere around the lake. You can follow the rivers and take a dip to cool off before gaining some elevation, cruising through various forest burns, and scrambling through some obsidian rock domes. Finally, you can top things off with an epic sunset view on top of the vista. As the end of summer is nearing, these long warm days on the trails will soon fade as the leaves start to change, temps drop, and the landscape slowly turns white. Get it in while you can… winter is coming!
Great place to reflect on things under the watchful eyes of Mt Morrison & Mt Laurel.
As you get higher up the Long Valley Caldera the scene changes from green pastures to a sea of rocky obsidian making you feel like you’ve landed on mars.
Best part of exploring this area on foot is finding secret spots off the trail that you might normally just drive past without noticing.
Miles and miles of back gravel roads all to yourself here in the heart of the Eastern Sierras.
Always more inspiring to run through a multitude of different landscapes throughout the day. Here, remnants of an old forest fire charred the land but after a record breaking winter the spring & summer run-off rapidly increased new growth restarting the cycle of life and making for really enjoyable soft and fast trails.
Various Obsidian domes lay across the Caldera making from some fun scrambling and trippy views across the shiny volcanic glass rock.
Empty roads, colorful California wildflowers, and towering 13,000ft peaks make for some easy motivation to keep up the pace.
The halfway point on this run requires a mandatory dip in the river for a quick recharge. This is just few miles down from the Hot Creek geological site, so the water’s just the perfect temperature for a warm day.
Smokey Sunsets up on the Minaret Vista and the edge of Caldera. All that is West from here is endless miles of rugged trails, passes, and peaks just waiting to be explored.
This Is Why I Run – Rory Bosio
My name is Rory Bosio, although friends call me Bozo and my family calls me Billy Goat as i love to run up mountains and smell nearly as bad. When asked my profession I say that I’m a part time pediatric ICU nurse and part time ultra runner. Running in the mountains is my true love (apologies to future boyfriends). I ran my first ultra race in 2007 and became instantly addicted. I’ve since logged thousands of miles on my own two feet all over the globe & hope to continue to do so for the rest of my life.
I run for the complex mixture of freedom, equanimity, joy, and discomfort it provides. Running brings me more pleasure, pain, frustration, and rewards than any other element of my life. Over the past couple decades running has been the backbone to my life. The reasons I run are more numerous than the grains of sand on a beach or the amount of shoes in Imelda Marcos’ closet, but here are a few factors that motivate me to lace up the shoes and head outside practically every day.
“Running brings me more…”
“Luckily my experience with running improved…..as for the boys, not so much”
Reason #33:
Running has been a part of my life longer than my love of Marky Mark (back when he was in the Funky Bunch…remember that Calvin Klein ad? Ooh la la)
I ran my first race at 8 years old. It was a mile around the elementary school, and I hated practically every step of it. It was more of a struggle for me than asking the popular boy to prom in high school. Both left me feeling dejected and frustrated. Luckily my experience with running improved…..as for the boys, not so much. I ran cross country in high school and had more of a natural affinity for it by then, but it wasn’t until I was out of college that I discovered my love of the long, long, long run. I was living in my hometown of Tahoe City and instead of bar hopping my way through life like my friends, I spent my days in the mountains, exploring my backyard on my own two feet. I grew up in a very outdoorsy family, always hiking, biking, skiing, etc., so it was natural to spend as much time outside as possible.
“I had done plenty of drugs in my youth, but nothing was as ecstasy-inducing as running for hours and hours on end.”
On a lark, I signed up for a 50km race thinking it would be something I would do just once to challenge myself. That first race was definitely a mental and physical challenge, but it was also surprisingly fun! Like a lot of ultra runners, I became addicted to that cliched “runners high”. I had done plenty of drugs in my youth, but nothing was as ecstasy-inducing as running for hours and hours on end. From there I progressed to running 50 milers and then 100 milers, my true love. The longer the run, the more I felt like I was in my element. I’ve since structured my life around running. Working as a nurse gives me a flexible schedule to play as long as I want in the mountains.
“There is no better way to see the world than on my own two feet.”
Reason #13:
Running is the means to discovering the world and my personal limits:
For me, there is no better way to see the world than on my own two feet. Through running, I’ve been able to explore places all over the world from my home mountains in California to the Alps in Europe, to the Atacama Desert in Chile and everything in between. The simplicity of running and the fact that I’m not going at break-neck speeds allows me to immerse myself in nature and fully absorb the beauty around me. While I love to do other activities such as mountain biking and skiing, I never feel as fully connected to nature as I do when I’m running. It probably has to do with the fact that I have to concentrate more with other sports or am going too fast to fully appreciate my surroundings. For example, going downhill on a bike gets me worried about going ass over tea kettle, so I have to focus more on not crashing whereas with running I can get into a flow zone easier. Of course, ultra running has also challenged me to push past my perceived mental and physical limits. Running a hundred miles is difficult and forces a person to dig deep. However, I live such a cushy life, spoiled by the creature comforts of modern life, so I think it’s important to feel discomfort and pain once in awhile in order to have a more enriched human experience. I also use running as a way to work through whatever is pestering my mind. I get my best thinking done on a long run. It has something to do with the methodic tempo of running. My thoughts start to flow at the same pace and suddenly my mind is operating on a higher level. If only I could have channeled this when I took the SATs!
“I can truly feel like I’m living in the moment when I’m out running.”
Reason # 1:
Running is my true love. (Sorry Alex Trebek! But you’re a close second….)
Other people reach their happy places by meditating, or maybe shopping, playing video games, lounging on a couch, eating, snorting enough cocaine to kill a pony, but for me, running is the portal into my happy zone. I can truly feel like I’m living in the moment when I’m out running. The rest of the world dissipates. My troubles no longer seem to exist, and I’m the master of my own little universe for that period of time. Of course, this doesn’t happen every time, but it feels like I’ve hit the jackpot when it does. And to think, all it took was putting one foot in front of the other.
We also want to hear your stories. Share your motivation for running in a short story and hashtag #whyirunjaybird on Instagram for a chance to win weekly prizes including earbuds and a chance to be featured on our social channels. We’re inspired by every type of runner, so don’t hesitate to share your passion with us. To the parent that wakes up early before sending their kids off to school, the beginner seeking to finish their first 5k, and the marathoner looking to set a new PR, your passion inspires more people than you’ll ever know. Share your stories with us and #runwild. Find more info about the This Is Why I Run series here.
Keep in touch with Rory!
Free Your Run With True Wireless Music
RUN, Jaybird’s first ever truly wireless headphones have arrived, and we couldn’t be happier. This means you now have access to true wireless headphones that are secure and comfortable for prolonged physical activity, regardless of the shape of your ear, sweat-proof and water resistant for outdoor excursions – and they pack an impressive 12 hours of portable battery life with the included charging case. Jaybird RUN is designed for runners, by runners.
Jaybird has always been about bringing music to where you sweat, and we’ve done that wirelessly since day one. Over the past few years, we’ve worked with our athletes and engineers to create a true wireless headphone that will set the bar for true wireless sport headphones. Because what’s the point of removing all wires if the headphones aren’t sweat-proof, water-resistant, and provide a comfortable, secure fit that actually looks good?
As we went through this process, our athletes were clear about two things: Running with music, without a single wire, will be an absolute game-changer, but the headphones have to look clean and fit like Jaybirds – compact, small, and comfortably secure.
We wanted to create headphones that we’d feel confident running in, so we made sure the form factor was as natural as possible. RUN holds true to the Jaybird standard with a slim, compact, and premium design – no unnecessary bulk and no awkwardness.
“Music fuels my run,” says Timothy Olson, Jaybird athlete and two-time winner and record holder of the Western States 100 Mile race. “I have my training playlists, and they power me on the trail, but in the past, cords would always get in my way or snag on bushes and trees. Jaybird RUN headphones are the perfect way to bring music with me. It’s amazing to run with complete freedom and no wires, and the fit is so natural and secure that I never worry about losing them.”
Whether they’re training or listening intermittently on a race, long-lasting battery life has always been a major need for our athletes, which is why we all agreed that 12 hours in your pocket was the way to go with RUN. You get 4+ hours of playtime on a full charge, and the small carrying case adds 8 hours when fully charged. RUN gives you confidence to run your favorite trails without any worry that you’ll ever run out of juice. You also get portable charging and quick charging – 5 minutes in the carrying case gives your headphones an hour of playtime, so you never have to hit the road without your music.
Our runners were also clear about wanting the ability to run with an open ear to their surroundings or running partners. RUN offers a one-bud option, which means you can run with only the right bud in and pay attention to what’s going on around you. RUN also works with our acclaimed Jaybird App. Not only can you use RUN and the app together to tweak your sound and share Spotify playlists with the new Running music feature, you can also use the “Find My Buds” feature to locate your headphones if one of them goes missing.
With all of these running needs inspiring the hardware and software design of RUN, we knew that the name of our true wireless headphones was right before us. Whether you train to run or run to train – everybody runs. Running in itself has no limits or rules. There’s no designated speed, method, or direction. You just grab your headphones, lace up your kicks, press play – and get out there and run wild. Jaybird RUN true wireless sport headphones are the next step, the most freeing music and performance experience out there.
Jaybird FREEDOM 2 with SpeedFit: A Redesigned Fit to Help You Run Wild
We love that runners across the globe appreciate the ultra-small, secure comfort-fit of Jaybird Freedom. These sleek wireless headphones with on-the-go charging have let athletes of all levels achieve their goals without worrying about loose cords or wires.
Some of you have also given us the feedback that the process of setting up Freedom can take some time, and we take your feedback seriously. Just as runners continue to work towards their PR, we do the same at Jaybird.
And that’s why we’ve completely redesigned the fit of Freedom to introduce today Jaybird FREEDOM 2 with SpeedFit, Jaybird’s smallest wireless sport headphones with new, combined fin and tip options for smaller and larger ears as well as a SpeedFit integrated cord management.
SpeedFit lets runners switch from an under-ear to an over-ear fit easily, depending on their activity and preferences, and delivers a completely secure feeling with the cord lifted off the back of the neck. The combined tips and fins are softer, more flexible, and ergonomically shaped so you get a simple and seamless fit that’s ready to go whenever you are.
Much like Freedom, FREEDOM 2 with SpeedFit is sweat-proof with double hydrophobic nano coating for the ultimate protection from sweat. It also maintains the revolutionary on-the-go charging from Freedom, so you can keep on running and listen while you charge. In total, you get eight hours – four on the headphones and four from the charging clip. The updated Jaybird app lets you not only share your favorite Spotify running playlists, but also tweak the lows, mids, and highs, saving your custom sound profile directly to your buds for your personal sound signature on any device.
FREEDOM 2 is here to make the transition from wired to wireless as simple as possible for your next run. Just cut the cord and run freer than ever with your favorite playlist pumping through your veins.
This Is Why I Run – Jennifer Kyle
- September 01, 2017
- Audio, Running, Uncategorized
I’m so excited to be back on the Jaybird blog again! You may have read my previous post talking about food & running here. For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Jennifer Kyle – or JBird, as my family calls me. I live in Marin County, California, and I love to run and train for various races. I mostly do half and full marathons, though I’m getting excited to test my legs out on some shorter distances this year.
When I first started running, I spent a lot of time on the treadmill. This had a lot to do with safety for early morning runs – I didn’t want to run on dark roads. And I still believe that training on the treadmill can be a very effective tool. But I quickly learned that I had to reserve my long runs on the weekends for outside, so I could feel confident on race day.
All that said, I felt a bit sheepish after having lived in Marin for over a year – I didn’t quite know where to go to run 20 miles. So before we get into my favorite long distance runs in the Bay Area, I wanted to share my tips for finding your own routes in your area or even when traveling:
- Local running or biking store: Find your people! The folks who work at these stores usually do these sports themselves, and they can be a fantastic help when you are looking for a route. A track that is open to the public at 7am, a hilly route with water fountains, or the best route for views.
- Apps: MapMyRun, Strava, and even your phone’s maps app can be your friend. You can look for a route there, or even build your own by distance. One of my favorite things to do when in a new city is pick a landmark and run to it. Because photos ops – duh.
- Hotel concierges: Most concierges will have a recommendation of at least one or two loops or routes near the hotel. Don’t be afraid to put a copy of their map in your pocket. No shame.
- Internet search: Some of my favorite searches are “running bloggers ‘x’ city” or “running routes ‘x’ city.” This is also helpful when talking to a local running store or hotel concierge, because it gives them a place to start. For example, “What do you think of the Cherry Creek Trail?” Travel websites also have forums where you can search for keywords like “safety”, “10 miles”, etc.
Ok – now the really important part. The best long distance runs in the Bay Area! This area offers some of the most beautiful views and runs in the world. It is also known for its hills, so make sure you bring your climbing legs with you. If you get the chance, running here is a must! These are just a few of my favorites in the area. There are infinite possibilities and I’d love to hear your favorites in the comments below.
- Marin Headlands: This route is about 8.5 miles of some of the most spectacular views in the Bay Area. I especially like this run because it is easy to get to but feels like you’re so far removed from the city.
- Sausalito to AT&T Park: This was my favorite route when I trained for my first half marathon. You can start in Sausalito by taking the ferry there, or driving your car to the Vista Point viewing area on the North side of the Golden Gate Bridge. From there, you run over the bridge and down into the city through the financial district and along the Embarcadero. When you’ve reached AT&T stadium, you can turn around and do it all over again. This can get you 14-16 miles, depending on where you turn around. You also have the option of taking the ferry back to Sausalito from the Embarcadero Ferry building.
- Dipsea: This is a famous route in Mill Valley, CA. It is 7.4 miles from Mill Valley to Stinson Beach. A Dipsea Double would be doing the course out and back – clever name, I know. You can actually run the Dipsea Race if you are in the area the second Saturday in June. Known for its gnarly elevation gain, narrow trail and steep stairs – this route is quite a doozy.
- Mt. Tam: I’d be remiss to talk running in the Bay Area and not mention Tam – or Mount Tamalpais. If you park in the Pan Toll parking lot, you can do 15 miles of out and back trails with beautiful views of Stinson Beach & Point Reyes. Your legs will be jello when you are finished, but your heart will be full.
- Paradise Loop: I am ending on this route because it was the location of my first ever 20 miler, which is such a special day in any marathon training cycle – whether it be your first or 50th. I was so nervous, but this route took great care of me. The whole thing is actually 26 miles, but you can make it any distance you choose by doing an out and back, or utilizing the ferry boats in Tiburon. As unglamorous as this sounds, my favorite way to use this route is by parking near the Corte Madera shopping mall. I can run 10 miles to Tiburon, and there is a big hill about 12 miles in that you have to conquer. I felt that it really helped me to feel prepared for Heartbreak Hill in Boston!
Check out my playlist of the week:
We also want to hear your stories. Share your motivation for running in a short story and hashtag #whyirunjaybird on Instagram for a chance to win weekly prizes including earbuds and a chance to be featured on our social channels. We’re inspired by every type of runner, so don’t hesitate to share your passion with us. To the parent that wakes up early before sending their kids off to school, the beginner seeking to finish their first 5k, and the marathoner looking to set a new PR, your passion inspires more people than you’ll ever know. Share your stories with us and #runwild. Find more info about the This Is Why I Run series here.
Keep in touch with Jennifer!
10 Summer Running Tips
My name is Rebecca Trachsel. I’m a mom, runner, music lover, high school XC and track coach and admitted coffee addict. I’ve been running in some way since 5th grade, ran competitively at Colgate University and started doing marathons in 2007 after my kids were born. This fall, at age 42, I’ll be lining up for my 18th marathon where I’ll be trying to break three hours. I never run without music and Jaybird keeps me going.
Let’s face it, summer running is a beast. Heat, humidity, sun; they’re all forces to be reckoned with. But, if you’re a runner in any way, shape or form, you’re gonna go. Personally, my music usually helps me get through it. Throw on my Freedoms and a good song and, regardless of the temperature, I’m ready to rock. But, even with good tunes, some days are substantially harder than others. I’ve been running for many years and have come up with quite a few ways to beat the summer heat. Below are some of my tried and true methods. I’m often using some, if not most of them, in the blazing hot days of August. And, hey, if it works for me, might as well share it with others. So check these out, lace ‘em up, and go. You got this.
10 Summer Running Tips
1. Run inside. I’m not a huge fan of the tread(dread)mill, but running 20 miles or mile repeats in the heat and humidity doesn’t always appeal either. If it’s really that bad, why not head to the gym? Speed work? Break it up. Head outside for your warmup and cool down but do the hard part inside so you don’t overheat. Long run? Throw your Jaybirds in and watch a movie. It’ll be over before you know it.
2. Plan your route. Always pick routes that have sources of water along the way….water fountains, bathrooms, sprinklers, lakes. Just being able to splash water on your neck or head makes a considerable impact on overall comfort. Shade is your friend, too. Choose the bike path lined with trees as opposed to the city streets. Comfort is key.
3. Start off cool. Consider switching your morning coffee to something cold. When you eat or drink something hot, your body temp tends to spike. Down a hot drink and you’ll be sweating before you leave your front steps. Make coffee the night before and throw it in the fridge for iced coffee the next morning. Or opt for a NUUN with caffeine for your morning boost instead.
4. Freeze your accessories. Throw your hat, visor, headband, sweatbands, whatever, in the freezer and pull them out right before your run. This will cool your main pressure points (head and wrists) down at the start of your run, which will keep your overall body temp down, for a few miles at least.
5. Clover. My running partner and I have coined the term “clovering” for our long runs. Instead of going out to no-man’s land for our 20 milers, we do loops from one of our houses so we can grab fuel and water every 6 miles or so. That way, even if we’re struggling, we know there is water close by which can make a big difference mentally.
6. Break it up. Do half of your run in the am. And half in the pm. Then brag to your friends that you did double sessions because you wanted to, not because you had to.
7. Run naked. When it’s hot and humid out, unless you’re Usain Bolt, you’re gonna run slower. Map your route out ahead of time, leave the watch/fitness tracker behind and JFR. (just f***ing run)
8. Go light. That black, cotton Jaybird tee? Super cute. But not the best choice for summer running. Stick with lightweight, light-colored, moisture wicking fabrics.
9. Start early or wait and go late. In other words, don’t leave your house at noon. It’s not going to be pretty.
10. Distract yourself. Download a new playlist, an e-book, or a podcast. Then put your Freedoms on, settle in and zone out. Distraction is such a powerful tool. Jaybirds plus Bluetooth. Done and done.
This Is Why I Run
Running is universal. It’s our instinct to run – some would even say we were born to run. While it can be the road to salvation for some and the scourge of existence for others, running changes lives and everyone can do it – there’s no right or wrong way. This simple activity with primitive roots has the highest participation of any sport in the world, and it continues to grow at a rapid pace. From local 5ks to marathons, obstacle races, and ultramarathons through the mountains, running events are on the rise globally.
So what motivates us to wake up at 5 a.m., lace up our shoes, and pound the pavement? Why do we disappear into the mountains for 50 miles at a time? Do we thrive on the physical pain, or are we relying on the therapy it provides? To those who live to run and run to live, it means all of these things and more. We all start running for different reasons, but we keep running for the same reason. It gives us a feeling that nothing else can – especially when we add music to the experience.
At Jaybird, music and running are in our blood. We support athletes from all walks of life in chasing their running dreams around the world, and we provide them the best earbuds we can so they can go harder and further, motivated by the power of their favorite songs. Some run for pride, some for the competition, some for physical fitness, and others to overcome their past.
Our athletes’ unique backgrounds have motivated and inspired us on so many different levels, and we know that hearing their stories will inspire you as well. We’ve created a video series called This is Why I Run, featuring nine different Jaybird athletes, to share their life-changing stories, hoping that many of you will connect with their heartache, passion, and motivations. This has been a labor of love for all of us, and we can’t wait to share it with you.
We also want to hear your stories. Share your motivation for running in a short story and hashtag #whyirunjaybird on Instagram for a chance to win weekly prizes including earbuds and a chance to be featured on our social channels. We’re inspired by every type of runner, so don’t hesitate to share your passion with us. To the parent that wakes up early before sending their kids off to school, the beginner seeking to finish their first 5k, and the marathoner looking to set a new PR, your passion inspires more people than you’ll ever know. Share your stories with us and #runwild.
