Category: Running Tips

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Combating Global Warming from NYC: Focused Artworks’ Eco-Friendly Made-to-Order Model

by Emily Rosario

In recent years, as environmental awareness grows and record-high temperatures impact our lives right here in New York City, sustainability has become a defining mission for brands around the world. At Focused Artworks, we’re dedicated to doing our part to preserve the planet, and we’re proud to offer a made-to-order program that prioritizes eco-friendliness and accountability. Here’s how our approach addresses the climate crisis and why it’s a step towards a global solution, with you—the customer—at the heart of it.

1. Made-to-Order: Reducing Waste, Supporting Sustainability

Our made-to-order program is designed to produce only what is needed. Every item we create is crafted in response to a specific customer order, reducing the risk of overproduction and the need for unsold stock. This focused approach directly addresses one of the major challenges of the traditional retail industry: excess waste. By aligning our production with demand, we’re able to reduce landfill contributions and minimize the environmental footprint of each product.

Men's High Performance Reflective Top

Men’s High Performance Reflective Top

$74.50

The **Men’s High Performance Reflective Top*** from Focused Artworks offers lightweight, eco-friendly fabric with moisture-wicking and mesh ventilation for ultimate comfort. Featuring 3M reflective material for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions, it’s perfect for safe, sustainable performance. The model is 6’2’’ 180.8 lb weight and wears a size M.

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2. Partnering with Pre-Existing Clothing Factories

Instead of building new facilities, we partner with factories that are already operational and committed to eco-friendly practices. Our partner factories have taken steps to ensure sustainability throughout the production process, including the use of recyclable materials, sustainable energy sources, and efficient water usage. By supporting these pre-existing facilities, we contribute to the circular economy, promoting efficient resource use and reducing the carbon emissions typically associated with building and maintaining new manufacturing sites.

3. Prioritizing Recyclable and Sustainable Materials

A key part of our sustainability strategy is the use of recyclable materials. From the fabric to the packaging, we choose materials that can be recycled or have a minimal environmental impact. This is a conscious effort to ensure that when our products reach the end of their life cycle, they have as little impact on the environment as possible.

Our commitment to using sustainable materials also extends to selecting durable fabrics that can withstand wear, so your gear lasts longer. This reduces the frequency of repurchases and, in turn, the resources needed for production. By choosing recyclable, long-lasting materials, we’re ensuring that our products are not only good for you but good for the planet as well.

Unisex All Weather Swish Pants II

Unisex All Weather Swish Pants II

$118.50

These lightweight, water-resistant polyester pants offer a relaxed fit with an elastic waistband, zip pockets, and a breathable mesh lining—ideal for active lifestyles. Designed for comfort and versatility, they’re perfect for everyday wear or outdoor activities.

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4. Accountability Through Transparency

Accountability is at the core of our sustainability efforts. We believe in sharing our progress with our customers and holding ourselves accountable for our environmental impact. As part of this commitment, we strive to be transparent about our supply chain and the sustainability practices in place at each of our partner factories. Our goal is to empower customers like you with the information you need to make informed choices about the brands you support.

5. Tackling Climate Change Together

We’re facing record-breaking heatwaves in New York and climate changes across the globe. It’s clear that sustainability is not a trend—it’s a necessity. At Focused Artworks, we recognize that every action counts, whether it’s choosing to purchase from a responsible brand or supporting initiatives that reduce carbon emissions. But we can’t do it alone. We need customers like you who are dedicated to making sustainable choices and understand the role of the consumer in pushing for a greener future.

As we work to build a more sustainable brand, we invite you to join us in this mission. Every time you purchase from Focused Artworks, you’re not only supporting eco-friendly practices, but you’re also joining a community that cares about the world we live in.

Women's Pro Runner Shorts

Women’s Pro Runner Shorts

$50.00

An essential runner short for your closet, these all-weather shorts will get you going where you need to go.

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A Call to Action

At Focused Artworks, we’re proud to be part of a global effort to build a better future. Together, through conscious choices and a commitment to sustainability, we can make a meaningful difference. Let’s work to ensure that future generations have a planet that’s not just habitable but thriving.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us, and for supporting a brand that’s dedicated to sustainability from production to packaging, and from New York City to the world.

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From Tossing to Training: Running at 2 A.M. in New York City

by Emily Rosario by @EmilyIsFocused

This article is for entertainment purposes only. I am a professional runner, professional actor and stuntwoman.

Yes, the title is correct. I ran at 2 AM on August 12, 2024. If you’re not following me on Strava, maybe you should. You should probably join the run club too. Lastly, here’s the Strava Run that this post is all about.

Run at 2 A.M., said no one EVER..

I had to do two runs in less than 12 hours. My regularly scheduled Sunday Long Run, and a second run that had to be done by 6 A.M. because I had to catch my flight to the West Coast. My first run, the Sunday Long Run, was done in the evening, around 6 P.M. However, what I didn’t intend, was getting zero sleep from overthinking and becoming overly excited from my trip.

Let’s just say, I was tossing and turning with dozens of thoughts passing through my brain, endlessly ending those final work tasks, by going to my phone to complete them, and then going back to an attempted sleep, which ended up becoming a mind awake nap.

After completing those final work tasks, it then came across my mind when was I going to run? So, I look at my watch as it reads 1:43 A.M. I already knew that I would have to wake up at 4:30 A.M. for my second run. “Hurry Up Emily,” I said to myself. “FALL ASLEEP… for these short three hours of sleep…. OR… I could run right now… while my mind is still awake… and my muscles feel ready and able to run…“

That’s when I decided. I’m going to run right now and then maybe I’d fall asleep with a task completed mindset.

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FACTS I KNEW BEING A BROOKLYNITE (A NATIVE NEW YORKER WHO IS FOCUSED)

  • FACT: New York City is the city that never sleeps

Even though it was a Sunday night going into a Monday Morning, I knew there’d be people out and about still celebrating the Dominican Day Parade.

  • FACT: You’re always going to be judged

“No matter how dedicated you are to your desires, you’re always going to be judged. Positive or Negative; That’s a fact to follow anywhere you go.“

Many more people noticed me and called me crazy names because I was running at 2 A.M. But honestly and this is my personal opinion, WHY is it okay to hang out, smoke and drink at 2 A.M. but not run? WHY is it okay to drive around or take the train at 2 A.M. but not run? What society justifies as NORMAL, does not mean it works for everyone else. So, I DO WHAT WORKS FOR ME. That’s why, Emily Is Focused.

  • FACT: Stay on the main roads

I don’t have a personal head lamp or any of that tech gear. I just have my natural instinct to make good decisions. That includes running on main roads that are well-lit, and commonly driven on.

  • FACT: Wear BRIGHT clothes and wear clothes based on weather conditions

I checked the weather app and followed through. It was not raining at 2 A.M. but a crisp 69 degrees.

  • FACT: No earbuds.

I mean it is still a 2AM run… haha. As my mom who was NYPD would say, stay aware of your surroundings

  • FACT: Always look out for yourself

If you are passing someone on the sidewalk, especially at a pretty decent pace, remember to call out

“ON YOUR LEFT” or “COMING FROM YOUR RIGHT”

This means that right before you pass them, you’re telling them which way you’re coming from, so they are AWARE of you, especially if you’re a light, quiet and quick stepper like me.

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FACTS I LEARNED RUNNING AT 2 A.M. IN NEW YORK CITY

  • FACT: The air is soooooo clean

Running at 2 A.M. has officially got me breathing clean air! When the average person sleeps, MTA Transit runs less, and there’s no traffic on the road, I actually felt and tasted the clear air in my lungs, pass from my nose and out of my mouth.

  • FACT: It’s RAT city out there.

Yes, mice and rats feel most comfortable to come out when they know there isn’t much noise around. They are actually scared of us, haha. I managed to see at least 10 rats during my run, including one that I didn’t see and actually stepped on by mistake. Sorry!

  • AGAIN, FACT: Be aware of your surroundings!

When I was running back home, I noticed meters in front of me something crossing. I first thought I was about to run into a raccoon but, in fact, it was a skunk. So, as a smart person, I saw it crossing to my right, so I slowed my pace down without much stutter or fright, and also passed him carefully from behind. They seemed not to mind me, as they had their own plans crossing the road. I also want to annunciate the fact that I didn’t stutter or feel frightful because animal can actually sense our emotions… like when Spiderman gets a Spidey-sense…

New York City is for the gut-taking breed of people because in order to survive, you really have to hustle. So, if you like that pressure and atmosphere, you might want to live here. And maybe you’ll see me running right past you!

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Reasons to shop Focused Artworks Athletics

by The Focused Assistant

🌿SUSTAINABLE, ECO-FRIENDLY PURCHASING

100% of purchasing our products contribute to reducing the Earth’s carbon footprint 🌍👣

This is done with our Made-to-Order policy exclusively at Focused Artworks, ensuring that nothing is produced until purchased.

💚WE PRIORITIZE RECYCLABLE FABRICS

In our commitment to sustainability, we prioritize recyclable fabrics for our athletics clothing whenever feasible, ensuring quality without compromise.

🔒ENHANCED SECURE PURCHASES

All purchases made through our WooCommerce checkout are 100% secure.

Remember,

It is an Art to be FOCUSED.

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Top 6 Reasons: XC Benefits for Track Runners

by Emily Rosario @EmilyIsFocused

SO, let’s first start with the fact that XC and Cross Country are the same word.

Cross Country, also known as, XC is a phenomenal way to build strength for Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field.

Ever since I began running as a novice in high school, to now, a current elite professional middle distance runner, I have found to believe that this (training and competing for XC) is MY BEST WAY to earn strength and endurance gains for the latter part of the season.

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So why do I share it with you?

Maybe you’re stuck in your training, and you have been dying to get a PR, but all else has failed and want to try something new.

Either way, here’s the reasons why I LOVE XC:

  1. Great way to reduce stress on the joints, meanwhile also strengthening them with unpredictable terrain.
  2. Makes you work harder; this isn’t a flat round track. It’s hilly, muddy, messy, but VERY fun.
  3. It’s the hills that pay the bills; the more you train on hills, the more than likely your body will thank you. I.E., the final 200-400-800 meters (your last bit before the finish line) is stronger from the background training you did in XC
  4. It’s a great way to start training for track without overuse of the left turn ((running around the same oval, over and over again)
  5. Personal Gains are almost always achieved. I say almost, because you still have to do the work that helps (lifting, eating right, supplementing, RESTING, all that jazz.
  6. The grass works on your turnover; and the better your turnover, the faster you’ll run on a flat track.
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Embracing Athleisure: Fashion Meets Function for Everyday Fitness

The athleisure trend has soared in popularity, merging the practicality of athletic wear with the comfort of leisure clothing. Perfect for those who wish to move seamlessly from a workout session to casual social settings, athleisure includes stretchy leggings, supportive sports bras, and sleek trainers. But athleisure isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about garments that support your active lifestyle. When shopping for athleisure, consider pieces with antimicrobial properties to combat odor, as well as moisture-wicking technologies to keep you dry whether you’re powering through a gym session or running errands. With athleisure, you don’t have to sacrifice style for functionality or vice versa – you can have the best of both worlds as you maintain your fitness throughout the day.

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Tips for Casual Evening Runs

by Emily Rosario @EmilyIsFocused

So maybe you’re one of those 9am to 5 pm workers that don’t run until later in the day. Or maybe you want to avoid that terrible weather from scorching heat, or it’s just raining cats and dogs, so you push your run for later in the day. Either way, you want to learn some simple and effective tips to get you going during those evening runs. Have no fear, Emily Is Focused, is here.

Professional Runner Tips for Beginners to Experts

1. Wear reflective and neon clothing. Avoid dark colors when running at night.

I couldn’t help to list this as number one because well frankly, there’s someone who doesn’t know this or is just getting into evening runs. Below are some suggestions from Focused Artworks.

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Women’s Pro Runner Shorts in Neon Green

Men’s Reflective Running Shirt

2. Grass is my favorite surface to run on, followed by Gravel and Asphalt.

For easy longer runs, there is no need to run around in an oval track. However, if you do not have access to a well-lit park and access to beautiful green pastures, my recommendation for evening runs is to run on the bike lanes. Most city-like areas have bike lanes and are usually well-lit. Bike lanes are a great way to avoid pedestrian traffic on the sidewalk and car traffic on the street.

P.S. It IS harder to run on grass, but it does wonders strengthening your lower limbs. If you want to feel relaxed, run on asphalt such as bike lanes.

3. Always remain aware of your surroundings.

Most of this know this, I hope. When crossing any street, busy or quiet, remain vigilent and double check your surroundings before getting to the otherside. You never know if there’s a hog behind the bushes, a raccon in the trash can or pedestrian trying to cross the street, a biker speeding right behind your or a car who forgot to turn on their headlights.

Also, view the ground as surfaces change. Most road surfaces aren’t perfect; some have ditches, small potholes, loose gravel or dirt on the ground that could possibly make you slip. Whichever the case is, I can’t remind you enough, to watch where you are running to.

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4. Always stretch after your run, your body will thank you.

You always want to have a goal to stretch afterwards. Your muscles are warmed up and loose from your run, so now is the perfect time to stretch. Believe it or not, stretching helps with your cool down and recovery. Stretching is also considered as a strengthening exercise, especially if you get into something like yoga. However, for your easy run, stretching your body can be beneficial for you as an athlete and a person who is rushing to catch the train on time.

5. Muddy Shoes? No problem.

If you’ve stepped on dirt, mud or even poop, be sure to remove the inserts or orthotics from your shoes. Also, remove the shoelace so it can be washed separately. I recommend a gentle wash and to set them to the side by the window and let them air-dry overnight.