Gear Guide: Essential Tools for Trail Running

Women's Journal Staff on November 13, 2024

Venturing out on trails presents a unique blend of exhilaration and challenge. But running off-road also requires a set of gear that differs significantly from what you’d need on city streets. Having the right equipment not only enhances comfort and safety but can also make each run feel more seamless, allowing you to focus on the trail and the experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or just starting, investing in essential gear is crucial. The right trail running equipment will help you handle a range of conditions, terrains, and even emergencies. Here’s a breakdown of the essential gear for trail running and why each piece deserves a spot in your kit.

Footwear First: Choosing the Right Trail Running Shoes

When preparing for your trail running adventures, one of the critical aspects to consider is choosing a trail running shoe that fits your needs and terrain. Unlike road running shoes, trail running shoes are designed with specific features to protect feet against the uneven, unpredictable surfaces of trails. The type of trail you’re tackling—whether it’s rocky, muddy, or loose gravel—plays a huge role in the type of shoe that will help support your run.

Trail running shoes generally have rugged outsoles with deep lugs for better traction on unstable surfaces. Some models also come with reinforced toe caps and rock plates to protect feet from sharp rocks and roots. Waterproof options are available for wetter climates, and certain shoes feature breathable mesh to keep feet cool in warm conditions. Choosing shoes with the right grip and material can make a difference in staying upright and injury-free on steep or slippery trails. For those who expect longer runs, look for added cushioning and ankle support to sustain your comfort and stability.

Finding the perfect fit is key: trail shoes should feel secure without pinching, as an ill-fitting shoe can cause blisters and discomfort on longer runs. Consider your foot shape, the trail type, and any additional support you might need. Trying on several options and taking a few steps on varied surfaces can help you pick the pair that will keep you comfortable and protected on all your adventures.

Hydration and Nutrition: Staying Fueled and Energized

On the trail, staying hydrated and fueled is non-negotiable. Trails often lead runners far from convenient water sources, so carrying hydration is essential. Hydration packs, vests, and handheld bottles are popular choices among trail runners for their convenience and ease of use. Vests and packs are especially useful for longer runs as they allow you to carry more water along with energy gels, bars, and other essentials.

For most trail runners, a lightweight hydration vest or pack with multiple compartments can accommodate water bladders or bottles, making it easy to sip hands-free. For shorter runs, a simple handheld water bottle with a comfortable grip may suffice. It’s a good idea to plan ahead based on the trail’s difficulty, length, and temperature, as these factors can affect how much water you’ll need. Most hydration packs also have room for nutrition items like energy gels and salt tablets, which help maintain stamina and electrolyte balance.

Nutrition is equally important, as trail runs often demand more from your body than road running. Energy gels, bars, or easy-to-digest snacks provide essential fuel on the go. Some runners also carry electrolyte tablets, which can be added to water to replenish minerals lost through sweat. Remember to bring small amounts of trash bags for waste, as trail etiquette often involves “leave no trace” principles, keeping natural areas clean and beautiful.

Safety and Navigation Tools: Prepare for the Unexpected

Trail running takes you through scenic, sometimes remote areas, where cell service might be limited and weather can change unexpectedly. As such, having safety and navigation tools can be lifesaving. GPS watches are widely used in the trail running community because they provide real-time stats like distance, elevation, and even route mapping. For runners heading into unfamiliar or rugged areas, these devices offer a sense of security, allowing you to track your position and return safely.

A map and compass are also valuable tools, especially for more advanced runners exploring trails that may be less defined or marked. It’s wise to familiarize yourself with basic navigation skills and to plan out your route ahead of time. In case of emergencies, a compact first-aid kit is a must-have. Basic supplies like blister pads, adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, and compression bandages can help treat injuries, giving you a quick fix until you reach safety.

If your run will extend into low-light conditions, a headlamp is another essential. Models designed for runners are lightweight and fit securely around the head, ensuring you can see even on dark or shadowed trails. In unpredictable weather conditions, packing a lightweight windbreaker or rain shell can also be invaluable for staying dry and warm. Many jackets are foldable and can be stowed in a hydration pack without taking up too much space. A whistle or signal mirror is another smart addition for those running on isolated trails, as these small tools can be used to alert others in case you need assistance.

Trail running requires a mix of endurance, adaptability, and respect for the environment, and having the right gear can make all the difference. With proper footwear, hydration, and safety equipment, you’ll be better prepared for whatever the trail throws your way.

Published by: Holy Minoza

Nundiah Danielle Edwards on Empowering Women Through Fitness

Women's Journal Staff on November 13, 2024

By: Lydia Patel

Nundiah Danielle Edwards, Founder of The New Body Project™ and Atrium82™, inspires women across Brooklyn to embrace their wellness journey with strength and purpose.

In the heart of Brooklyn, Nundiah Danielle Edwards is redefining fitness, empowerment, and community with her unique ventures, The New Body Project™ and Atrium82™. As a mother of two and a passionate entrepreneur, Nundiah’s work is more than business—it’s a mission. Her dedication to creating spaces prioritizing women’s wellness and self-belief has led to two flourishing establishments that stand out in purpose and impact.

The New Body Project™: A Sisterhood in Fitness

At The New Body Project™, Nundiah has established Brooklyn’s first all-women’s bootcamp studio. This isn’t your typical gym; it’s a community where accountability, integrity, and personal growth take center stage. “We know your name here,” Nundiah shares with a warm smile, highlighting the personalized touch that sets her studio apart. Unlike conventional gyms, where members often come and go anonymously, The New Body Project™ is rooted in personal connections and collective motivation. Every member is greeted, valued, and supported through their fitness journey—traits that have garnered strong loyalty among the women who walk through its doors.

“When a husband came up to me and thanked me for giving him back his wife, it was one of the most touching moments in my career,” Nundiah recalls. “He shared how his wife was mentally transformed and felt more empowered and resilient than ever before. That’s when I realized the depth of our impact. It’s not just about physical transformation; it’s about helping women reclaim their strength and confidence.”

Atrium82™: A Space to Gather, Celebrate, and Heal

With Atrium82™, Nundiah offers a beautifully curated space that hosts everything from weddings to wellness events. Inspired by her children and the challenges of the pandemic, she designed Atrium82™ to be an intimate yet versatile space where the community could gather meaningfully. The name reflects its charm: an atrium-like front and a curved glass window at address 82.

In addition to serving as an event venue, Atrium82™ is also a wellness haven. The space transforms to accommodate The New Body Project™ ‘s fitness sessions, showcasing the blend of community and functionality that Nundiah envisioned. “It’s a mighty space,” she laughs, “small but impactful. I love seeing how it evolves with each event, knowing it’s a place where people feel at home.”

Nundiah Danielle Edwards on Empowering Women Through Fitness

Photo Courtesy: Neialah-ava Clarke

Overcoming Hurdles as a Woman Entrepreneur

Nundiah’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. Access to funding remains a major hurdle for many women in business, and Nundiah’s experience was no different. Despite excellent credit and solid projections, she faced repeated denials from banks. But she rose above each obstacle through faith, persistence, and a solid network of supportive women. “I educated myself, read voraciously, and leaned on the knowledge of other successful women,” she shares. “I wasn’t afraid to ask for help or seek out mentors. I went back to basics, even utilizing my local library as a resource, which I highly recommend to others.”

Her advice to aspiring women entrepreneurs is clear: surround yourself with a community that uplifts and inspires you. “The path to entrepreneurship can be lonely and challenging, but remember, the lessons you learn from failures are what lead to success. Hold on to your vision, even if it means staying at your nine-to-five a little longer. It’s a journey, and every stop along the way matters.”

Photo Courtesy: Neialah-ava Clarke

A Global Vision with Local Roots: The Ghana Desk Project

Beyond her business endeavors, Nundiah is dedicated to giving back globally. Through collaboration with the Ghana Desk Project, she helps provide desks for children in underserved areas of Ghana. “For every new member of The New Body Project or booking space at Atrium82™, we contribute to building desks. It’s a beautiful full-circle initiative that supports education and provides jobs for local carpenters,” she explains passionately. “It’s about extending our impact beyond the studio walls and making a tangible difference.”

Photo Courtesy: Neialah-ava Clarke

A Call to Action

For women seeking a supportive, transformative fitness community, The New Body Project™ is more than a workout—it’s a sisterhood. And for those looking for a unique, intimate event space, Atrium82™ offers a versatile venue filled with love and purpose.

Visit www.thenewbodyproject.com to schedule a consultation or book an event. To reserve Atrium82™ for your premier intimate events, visit www.atrium82.com to learn more about the space and its offerings. You can also follow The New Body Project™ and Atrium82™ on Instagram to see the vibrant community in action.

Nundiah Danielle Edwards has carved out a space where women feel seen, supported, and strong. Through every rep and every gathering, she’s proving that women-centered spaces aren’t just important—they’re essential.

Published by: Holy Minoza

Key Considerations for Pricing and Promoting Your Home

Women's Journal Staff on November 13, 2024

Selling a home independently can be a challenging but rewarding experience, especially when you’re committed to following effective strategies. By understanding and applying specific techniques, you can make your home-selling journey smoother and potentially more successful. Here are four ideas that could improve your chances of a rewarding sale:

Find the Right Price Range – Avoid Setting Your Price Too Low or Too High

One essential aspect of selling a home on your own is determining a realistic price range that allows room for negotiation with interested buyers. It’s best to start by identifying both the highest price you hope to achieve and the minimum you’re willing to accept. These figures can be estimated by examining comparable properties in your neighborhood; however, it’s critical to remain objective rather than overly scrutinizing nearby homes. This objectivity ensures that you set a reasonable price based on current market trends rather than subjective comparisons.

Additionally, look at homes priced about 5% higher than your desired price point as well as those priced 5% lower. Doing so may provide a better perspective on a competitive asking price for your home, ensuring that you aren’t pricing yourself out of the market or undervaluing your property.

Maximize Your Home’s Curb Appeal to Draw Buyers’ Attention

Curb appeal is one of the talked-about aspects of selling a property, and for good reason. The exterior is the first impression a potential buyer gets, and a well-maintained front yard can encourage them to stop and take a closer look. To create a welcoming atmosphere, keep your lawn trimmed and bushes neatly pruned. Additionally, remove any clutter or debris from the yard to give the property a tidy and appealing appearance.

Small enhancements can also make a difference. For example, adding a potted plant near the front entrance can serve as an inviting touch. Painting the front door, updating an old mailbox, spreading fresh mulch around trees and flower beds, and placing flower boxes in the windows are all small adjustments that may boost your home’s curb appeal without requiring a significant investment. Ultimately, these small but impactful steps can help potential buyers envision the property as a place they’d like to call home.

Make a Strong Impression by Thoroughly Cleaning the Interior

The cleanliness of a home can strongly influence a buyer’s perception, allowing them to focus on the house’s strengths rather than any mess or clutter. Keeping the interior of your home spotless may enable buyers to appreciate the property’s true potential. A clean, well-maintained interior can also demonstrate that the house has been properly cared for over time, which can be especially valuable in older homes.

If your property is older, hiring a professional cleaning service might be beneficial. Deep cleaning services ensure that every inch of your home is pristine, giving it a fresh and appealing look for open houses or showings. This professional touch may add value by creating an atmosphere of cleanliness and readiness, something that prospective buyers will likely notice and appreciate.

Market Your Home Like a Professional with High-Quality Photos

One of the important steps to take when selling your own home is to approach marketing with a professional mindset. Increasing the visibility of your property helps attract more interested buyers. Since much of today’s home-buying process begins online, investing in high-quality, well-staged photographs is essential to make your listing stand out. Unless you have experience in real estate photography, it may be beneficial to hire a professional photographer to capture images that highlight your home’s best features. High-quality photos not only attract more clicks and inquiries but also offer a strong first impression, drawing in serious buyers.

In addition to photographs, consider creating a detailed and informative listing description that provides key information about your home, such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, recent upgrades, and special features like a spacious backyard or energy-efficient windows. Marketing your home effectively can increase awareness of its availability and help ensure that prospective buyers take the time to view your listing.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as financial advice, nor does it replace professional financial advice, investment advice, or any other type of advice. You should seek the advice of a qualified financial advisor or other professional before making any financial decisions.

Published by: Josh Tatunay

Trasy Ashton: Inspiring Readers with Transformative Writing

Women's Journal Staff on November 13, 2024

Trasy Ashton has carved a unique path as an author, captivating audiences with her powerful and uplifting messages. Known for her motivational writing, she has reached readers from all walks of life, offering guidance and encouragement through her heartfelt storytelling. Her books cover a range of topics that resonate deeply with readers, each one crafted to inspire personal growth and self-discovery. With every new release, Trasy continues to solidify her place as an author dedicated to making a positive impact, one page at a time.

A Journey Defined by Purpose

Trasy Ashton’s journey as an author is deeply rooted in her commitment to inspire and uplift. Her work isn’t just about writing words on a page; it’s about connecting with readers on a personal level and offering them insights that can lead to lasting change. From the beginning, Trasy’s mission has been clear: to create stories that spark a shift in perspective and encourage a more fulfilling approach to life. Her journey reflects her dedication to this mission, and her growing catalog of books stands as a testament to her purpose-driven approach.

Trasy’s writing is distinguished by its accessibility and relatability. She understands that inspiration isn’t just about grand gestures or extraordinary accomplishments—it’s about the daily small, meaningful choices made. This perspective shines through in her work, where she takes complex ideas about fulfillment and personal growth and presents them in a tangible and achievable way. By grounding her messages in real, everyday experiences, she invites readers to see themselves in her stories, making the journey toward personal transformation feel both relatable and within reach.

A Catalog of Inspiration and Insight

Trasy Ashton Inspiring Readers with Transformative Writing

Photo Courtesy: Trasy Maria Ashton

One key reason Trasy Ashton’s work resonates so widely is her ability to address universal themes that speak to the human experience. Her books explore topics that many readers can relate to, from finding purpose and inner peace to embracing change and resilience. She tackles these themes with warmth and honesty, making her writing both comforting and motivating. Each book offers readers a fresh perspective on life’s challenges, providing them the tools to navigate their journeys with greater clarity and confidence.

Trasy’s approach to writing is deeply reflective, with each book serving as a larger puzzle revealing her vision of a meaningful life. Her stories are not about prescribing answers but offering perspectives, encouraging readers to seek their own paths. By sharing her own observations and insights, she creates a space where readers can reflect on their own lives, considering how they might apply her lessons to their unique situations. This focus on self-discovery rather than instruction is a hallmark of her work, and it’s a quality that keeps readers returning to her books time and again.

Connecting Authentically with Readers

Beyond her words on the page, Trasy Ashton is a writer who values her connection with her readers. She understands that inspiration is a shared experience that grows stronger through community and interaction. Through her website, www.trasyashton.com, and her Instagram account @prophetesstrasy, she reaches out to her audience, sharing messages of hope and encouragement beyond her books. Her online presence reflects the same authenticity found in her writing, creating a supportive space where readers feel seen and valued.

Social media has given Trasy an additional platform to share her message, and she uses it thoughtfully to engage with her followers. Her posts often echo the themes found in her books, offering daily affirmations, reflections, and insights that encourage her audience to positively approach each day. This consistent engagement allows her to build a relationship with readers that feels personal and genuine, reinforcing the impact of her books and creating a loyal community around her work.

A Lasting Legacy of Positivity and Growth

Photo Courtesy: Trasy Maria Ashton

As Trasy Ashton continues her journey as an author, her dedication to inspiring others remains steadfast. Her books are more than just stories; they are guides to living a life of meaning and fulfillment. Each one adds to her legacy as a writer committed to making a positive difference, and her influence continues to grow with every reader who discovers her work. Trasy’s writing offers motivation and a sense of hope—a reminder that personal growth is always within reach and that each person has the power to create a life they love.

Through her storytelling, Trasy Ashton has created a body of work that speaks to the soul. Her words inspire readers to look within, seek out their potential, and embrace the journey of self-discovery with open hearts. With a catalog of books that continues to expand, Trasy is poised to touch even more lives, encouraging readers everywhere to find strength, purpose, and joy in every chapter of their own stories.

Published by: Holy Minoza