The Coach House Diner (Hackensack)
Feb 29 2020
The Coach House Diner (Hackensack)

The Coach House Diner (Hackensack)

While in Hackensack, I drove by the “Coach House Diner.” I swear I’ve been to the Coach House Diner before, but after spending too much time looking into it, I realized I went to the Coach House Diner in North Bergen. Even when I was sitting inside, The Coach House Diner in Hackensack looked almost identical to the Coach House Diner in North Bergen.

The Coach House Diner (Hackensack)

Ironically, I went in to wait out the traffic, but while I was eating, there was an accident on Route 4, which caused about a 30-minute delay. I could have been home much faster if I hadn’t eaten at the Coach House. No regrets.

The Coach House Diner (Hackensack)

The Coach House Diner (Hackensack) Atmosphere: A
The Coach House Diner in Hackensack looks like an old coach house. Inside is mid-evil with plenty of booths, tables, and a full-length bar. There is also a salad bar.

You won’t find a bright shiny diner, but I always appreciate a diner that stays with it’s theme.

The Coach House Diner (Hackensack) Coffee: A
The coffee tasted good. The waitress brought plenty of refills.  I guess I forgot to take a photo, which is unfornate because the coffee was great.

The Coach House Diner (Hackensack) Food: C
The Coach House Diner menu has everything you expect in a diner. There is an all-day breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I was surprised that there weren’t any specials at all.  I was between a salad with grilled chicken and the greek but decided for the greek.

I wasn’t too hungry, so I decided to order their greek salad with salmon. It’s a staple meal for when I’m not hungry but don’t want to wait (2 hours) to drive home. The salad itself was on the smaller side and there wasn’t a lot of lettuce. I was disappointed with it. The salmon was ok and I was happy it came with anchovies, but no bread like it stated on the menu.

The Coach House Diner (Hackensack) greek salad
Greek salad with salmon

In all, it was ok. It was edible, but by no means great.

The Coach House Diner (Hackensack) Service: A
The waitress at the Coach House Diner was friendly and the food came out fast. I couldn’t have asked for better staff.

The Coach House Diner (Hackensack) Cost: $$
For my coffee and salad, it was $22, which was pricy for what I got.

Overall Thoughts/Would I go back to The Coach House Diner (Hackensack)?
The Coach House Diner (Hackensack) was a decent stop. It wasn’t the best or the worst diner I’ve been too. I do appreciate the atmosphere of the Coach House, though.

Atmosphere: A
Coffee: A
Food: C
Service: A
Cost: $15-20
Overall: B

You can see all 288 Diner Reviews here.

Questions for you:
Have you been in a Coach House?
What is your favorite type of salad?

Hollie 1 Comments
Hoka One One Cavu 3 Shoe Review
Feb 28 2020
Hoka One One Cavu 3 Shoe Review

Hoka One One Cavu 3 Shoe Review:

The Hoka One One Cavu has been one of my favorite shoes since the first version 2 years ago. When the original Hoka Cavu came out, I liked how responsive and light the Hoka Cavu is. I found it great for workouts and faster longer runs because I feel more connected to the ground.

If you’ve run in Hoka shoes before, the Hoka One One Cavu 3 is a lot lighter and a lot less shoe than other Hoka models. It’s also similar to a shoe like the New Balance 1400 or Saucony Kinvara versus the Hoka Bondi 6. My body appreciates the cushion of the Hoka Cavu 3, but also enjoys how responsive it is for workouts.

Hoka One One Cavu 3 Shoe Review

The Hoka Cavu 3 looks boring and not like a Hoka shoe. Just glancing at it, you might not even realize it’s Hoka at all. There is a lot of cushion in the Hoka Cavu 3 without it being heavy or bulky.

Hoka One One Cavu 3 Quick Facts:

Hoka Cavu 3 Weight 7.2 oz
Hoka Cavu 3 Heel to Toe Drop: 4 mm

Hoka One One Cavu 3 Fit:

From previous versions, the Hoka Cavu 3 upper has been completely redesigned. The Hoka Cavu 3 now has a stretch knit upper with a bootie construction. The tongue of the Hoka One One Cavu 3 is attached to the shoe so it doesn’t slide around. The tongue-less construction makes it fit more like a slipper than a shoe. Hoka claims the lace less adaptive stretch knit upper provides a secure fit and I would tend to agree. It almost feels like you could run with the shoe untied and be fine.

Hoka One One Cavu 3 Shoe Review

As Hoka mentions, the Hoka Cavu 3 now uses zonal perforations within structured sections to allow increased breathability.  The perforations allow more breathability in the inclement weather. We haven’t had much of that this winter, but I imagine it’s also good during the summer.

I’ve been wearing a retired Hoka Cavu 2 for living life and I already notice the tongue difference. One thing that I’ve noticed is the Hoka Cavu 3 does run slightly more narrow than previous versions. I typically wear either a women’s 10.5 or men’s 9.5 in the Hoka Cavu and I found even the men’s 9.5 was more narrow than previous versions. Is the Hoka One One Cavu 3 too narrow to run? No, but more narrow than previous versions.

Hoka One One Cavu 3 Shoe Review

Hoka One One Cavu 3  Ride:

The Hoka One One Cavu 3 has entirely changed from the Hoka Cavu 2. This made me both nervous and excited. I was a fan of the original Hoka Cavu the most and I also liked the Hoka Cavu 2, but still like the original the best.

The cushion is made up of a top layer of PROFLY material with a layer of EVA underneath. This blend makes the Hoka One One Cavu 3 light and soft but also responsive. The updated eva midsole provides more comfort underfoot and cushion in the Hoka Cavu 3 and a reason you can run fast in it.

Hoka One One Cavu 3 Shoe Review

The outsole of the Hoka Cavu 3 uses rubberized EVA. What does this mean? The Hoka Cavu 3 lacks blown rubber to grab the ground in inclement weather. While the Hoka Cavu 3 is not the worst shoe in icy or inclement weather, I would probably grab a different shoe if the weather is bad.

I’ve run a variety of runs in the Hoka Cavu 3 and find it best for faster long runs or workouts. I like the amount of cushion without being bulky.

Hoka One One Cavu 3 Shoe Review

Hoka One One Cavu 3 Conclusion:

I like the Hoka Cavu 3 and it will remain in my rotation. I will say, the original Hoka Cavu is my favorite but the Hoka Cavu 3 is a great addition. The lightweight comfort allows you to run fast but not bang your body up too much.

I’ve run about 50 miles in the Hoka Cavu 3 and will continue using it.

Current Rotation:

Easy/Daily Runs: Mizuno Rider Waveknit 3, New Balance 1080 v10, Diadora Mythos Blushield Blushield Hip 5, Hoka Bondi 6, Asics Cumulus 21

Speed Work: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike React Infinity Run

Long Runs: Brooks Ricochet 2 Shoe Review, New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Saucony Ride ISO 2, Hoka One One Cavu 3

Races: New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%,  Reebok Run fast Pro 

You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.

Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook I talk about why you need a good running shoe, the anatomy of a shoe, neutral vs stable, and even myths of running shoes. 

Questions for you:

Have you tried the Hoka Cavu 3?

Have you tried Hoka before? 

 

Hollie 0 Comments
Huma Energy Gel Review
Feb 26 2020
Huma Energy Gel Review

Huma Gel Review

If you run long distance, chances are you’ll need an energy gel or sports nutrition at some point. Many people asked: what is the best energy gel for running? Which energy gel won’t upset my stomach for running? Which energy gel gives me the most energy? How often should I take an energy gel while running?

The list of energy gel questions is endless, but it all can easily be answered by: it depends on you.

A few months ago, I wrote a post about Maurten Energy Gels.

Huma Energy Gel Review

This week I wanted to Focus on Huma Energy Gels:

What Makes Huma Gels Different?

  • Huma Gels are 100% Natural: Gel is made from real fruit puree.
  • Real Food ingredients include Chia Seeds.
  • Huma Gels are made from Gluten-Free, Dairy-free, Vegan-Friendly.
  • 2:1 Glucose to Fructose Ration.
  • All Huma Energy Gels contain all 9 essential amino acids.

Huma Energy Gel Review

Huma Energy Gels use the Following Formula:

Milled Chia Seed + Sea Salt + Citric Acid + Cane Sugar and Brown Rice Syrup + Water

Throughout running and training, I’ve tried each flavor of Huma Gels. I like each of the flavors of Huma Gels and found them to be easily digestible. Like anyone, I have my favorite flavors of Huma Gels, but I haven’t had an issue digesting any of them. I could use any flavor of Huma Gel and be fine.

Huma Energy Gel Review
Even my cat likes Huma Energy Gels…or just photobombing

So what Makes Huma Gels Different?

Huma Energy Gels use chia seeds to give you energy throughout a run. Huma Energy gels are made from real food, all-natural fruit purees, cane syrup and chia seeds. Huma gels come from natural substances so you aren’t wondering what you are digesting. Most Huma Chia Energy Gel contains about 100 calories. You can use them for a shorter race or 100-mile race (and they have athletes that do both), whatever you are training for.

One thing that is interesting about Huma Energy Gels is with the chia seeds; the gel contains natural fiber. The fiber from the chia seeds does allow energy to be released during exercise. This means you won’t have a spike in energy. I’ve also found with Huma Energy Gels; I don’t feel a crash post-race.

The 2:1 glucose to fructose in the Huma Energy Gels ratio is ideal for your body to breakdown and convert quickly to energy. The Huma gels also contain all 9 essential amino acids to nourish your muscles. One thing of importance is Huma Gels are gluten-free,dairy-free as well as vegan-friendly. Of any gel, I’ve found Huma Gels to be the best and easiest to digest.

Huma Energy Gel Review

Here are are a Few Huma Energy Gel Flavors:

Huma Gel Originals:

  • Strawberries
  • Raspberries
  • Apples and Cinnamon
  • Blueberries
  • Mangos

Huma Gel Originals with Caffeine:

  • Lemonade (1X caffeine)
  • Chocolate (1X caffeine)
  • Cafe Mocha (2X caffeine)

Huma Energy Gel Plus + 

What makes the Huma Energy Gel Plus Different? The Huma Energy Plus Gels are double the electrolytes. This means potentially you can completely replace sports drinks. If you are vegetarian or vegan and prefer to steer clear of sports drinks, the Huma Energy Energy Gel (original and plus) come from all-natural sources like sea salt and coconut water.

  • Strawberry lemonade
  • Blackberry Banana
  • Berries and Pomegranate
  • Chocolate Raspberry

Huma Energy Gel Review

Huma Gel Recovery Smoothie:

The Hüma Recovery Smoothie is one of my favorite products from Huma. While on the go, I appreciate the ease of just grabbing a post-run or race Huma Gel Pack versus having to pack something big and bulky. The Huma Gel Recovery Smoothies have 14g of complete protein, real fruit-based carbs, healthy fats, and natural electrolytes.

Huma Energy Gel Review

While I’m not marathon training, my long runs are about 14 miles and I feel better with a gel. My current favorite flavors of Huma Gels are the chocolate raspberry, chocolate, and mango. Plus, the Huma Gel recovery. If you are looking for a gluten-free, vegan-friendly gel, and stomach-friendly gels, the Huma Gels are one of the more stomach-friendly gels.

You can see all product and gear reviews here.

Finally, next week in the newsletter, I will have a giveaway for a variety pack. If you’ve wanted to try Huma Energy Gels, subscribe to the newsletter. 

Questions for you:

Have you tried Huma Energy Gels before?

What is your favorite energy gel? 

Hollie 23 Comments
Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy me
Feb 25 2020
Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy

Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy Marlton

Recently I went to the new Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy in Marlton. The company, Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy is a franchise and there are plenty of locations, including Marlton and my hometown of Virginia Beach. I popped in because I was interested in some of the services they provide. Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy in Marlton also offers discounts for military, veterans, firefighters, police, high school athletes & persons aged 60+.

Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy me

A few serviced the Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy provide:

  • CryotherapyCyroskin
  • Compression with Normatec
  • Photobiomodulation
  • Hyperbaric
  • Stretch base
  • Infrared

There are a lot of things at Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy that were new to me. In fact, I’ve only ever tried Cryotherapy. As someone who doesn’t love the cold, I can’t say it’s for me, but I know a lot of athletes swear by it. My body responds better to active release and heat!

Recovery Services:

Cryotherapy:

Cryotherapy is a 3-minute treatment that reduces inflammation and releases endorphins. Cryotherapy can help alleviate pain and increase the body’s natural healing abilities.  It gets colder than an actual ice bath and for a shorter amount of time. With cryotherapy, your body is exposed to temperatures colder than -200 degrees F for about 3 minutes.

They also do isolated cryotherapy that can be good for individual spots like feet or Achilles. This is a good option if you have an isolated issue or don’t want to get your whole body cold.

Stretch Base:

Restore Hyper Wellness is known for its stretch base and therapy. You can get professionally stretched, which who knew that was possible. As one of the least flexible people I know (I’m working on it), stretching is something I’ve actively worked on. With my Achilles, I’ve been focusing on stretching my calves to get more blood flow to the Achilles.

At Restore Hyper Wellness in Marlton, each stretching session begins with vibrational therapy using a percussion therapy (IE message gun) to increase blood circulation and relieve muscle tension. Then based on your needs, they’ll help stretch you as appropriate. The employees that work there, like Krista, have a college degree in sports medicine so they are interested in helping you towards your goal.

Compression with Normatec:

Normatec has become the latest and greatest in sports recovery.

What are NormaTec Recovery Boots? Using sequential pulse technology, NormaTec synergistically combines three massage techniques to speed the body’s normal recovery process. It allows helps your body to get more circulation.  I’ve used NormaTec in the past, and I find the best use for them is on my calves. I don’t think they take the place of getting active release or a deep tissue massage, but I do believe they allow you to recover faster (like compression socks).

Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy

Photobiomodulation (PBM):

I had no idea what Photobiomodulation was before visiting Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy, just that I wanted to try it. What is Photobiomodulation?  Photobiomodulation was once known as Low-Level Laser Therapy. It is the use of near infra-red light to improve soft tissue healing and reduce inflammation. It works at a cellular level by stimulating repair. In fact, Photobiomodulation has been studied for nearly 40 years.

Photobiomodulation doesn’t heat tissue; it increases circulation. One reason I wanted to try Photobiomodulation was because it has is used for experimental treatment of both depression and anxiety. I’ve had both and I’ve responded well to light therapy. Photobiomodulation has been linked to increased cerebral blood flow, which can help lead to reduce symptoms of some neurological disorders. It’s never a bad idea to consult with your doctor to figure out what’s right for you.

Going inside the Photobiomodulation Room at Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy was fun. It’s a small room with infrared lights. You stand for about 12 minutes. I will say, I did feel good after coming out.  Even if its placebo, my mood felt better and there aren’t many substitutions for that.

Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy

Infrared Sauna:

The infrared Sauna is like a traditional sauna but infrared light to heat you directly instead of heating the air. The result is a much more comfortable experience.

The Infrared Sauna at Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy in Marlton also has a chromotherapy light. Chromotherapy is often used to help manage SAD (or Seasonal Affective Disorder). Something I dealt with more when living in Northern New York.

Hyperbaric Chamber:

I had never heard nor seen a hyperbaric chamber before visiting Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy. In fact, there are very few in the country.

The Hyperbaric Chamber is a noninvasive therapy method that has users lie in a pressurized chamber while breathing between 90% – 95% pure oxygen. The chamber expands to over twice it’s size!

What does this do? The excess pressure causes all of your cells, tissues and fluids to hold up to 10 times more oxygen than normal concentration. Research has shown it helps heal traumatic brain injuries, help fight off cancer, and heal tissue that is slower to recover.  While it sounded interesting, I’m slightly squirly in enclosed spaces, so I decided not to try. 

Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy

 

Skin and Beauty Services:

I don’t have great skin and even with annual visits to the dermatologist, I’m never going to have flawless blogger skin.

Cryoskin:

While I haven’t tried it yet, one of the features I’m most interested in at Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy is the Cryoskin.  Cyroskin uses cold temperature, which causes the widening of the blood vessels in the face.

This extra blood flow helps collagen production which is important for skin health. I wrote about how collagen has helped me here. Cryoskin reduces pore size and improves the elasticity of the skin.  I already take a collagen supplement at home.

In all, Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy in Marlton is a fun and unique spot. I know I’ll be back for Photobiomodulation and Infrared Sauna as I do feel like those are great resources for me personally. I do want to try the Cryoskin as well and see how my skin responds to that.

They have a lot going on. The important thing about Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy is they aren’t diagnosing you with problems or issues, but they are helping you recover. If you find yourself with a serious injury or issue, it’s important to go to your doctor.

Questions for you:

Have you tried Cryotherapy?

Have you been to Restore Hyper Wellness and Cryotherapy?

Hollie 0 Comments
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