Now that the holiday parties and feasts are all over, it's time to hit the gym and get back to your normal workout routine. But to make getting -- and staying -- in shape a bit more fun (and boozy), we found some great gear and events any drinker would love.
And to help you out, we also got a few training tips from top professional runner and foodie Deena Kastor, who earned a bronze medal in the marathon at the 2004 Summer Olympics and has won both the London and Chicago marathons. First off, don't deprive yourself of good food and drinks when you're exercising, she says. "At the end of the day, it's important to reward yourself," Kastor advises. "Take pride in the recovery." And after a grueling session, that often means for her a glass of red wine from California's Central Coast or a refreshing and bubbly Gin & Tonic featuring Hendrick's Gin and Fever-Tree Tonic Water.
Kastor suggests setting a goal for yourself as well, like signing up for a road race. And as far as we're concerned, the best race ever created is Buffalo Trace Bourbon's Great Buffalo Chase 5K, which tours the beautiful grounds of the Lexington, Ky., distillery every July 4. (You can register at buffalotracedistillery.com/events beginning April 1.)
Looking for a longer race? Then check out the French Marathon du Médoc, which runs through the famed Bordeaux wine region and wends its way past picturesque châteaux and across historic vineyards. Forget water and Gu Energy Gel; along the route, the runners, many in costume, enjoy wine, cheese, oysters and steak. All the finishers receive a medal and, naturally, a bottle of vino. You can sign up starting next month, and this year's race is on September 13.
If biking is more your thing, then pick up this stylish limited-edition racing jersey (£40) from peaty single malt Ardbeg. Not only is it very cool, but all the other cyclists will also know that you're serious about your Scotch.
For a leisurely ride, St-Germain is offering a single-speed retro bike ($1,000) complete with a leather strap to carry a bottle of its elderflower liqueur.
No excuses; it's time to work out!
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