Alysia Montaño - 800m Goddess, Olympian with the flower in her hair, 7x USA Champ, 3x Bronze medalist, 2x American Record holder. She's a #sisterhero. And that's what is so great about the sisterhood + running community. No matter the singlet, we cheer hard. I attempted to keep my fangirling at a minimum... hope you enjoy! 

Photo: NBC Olympics

JESS: Your decision to race the USA Championships in 2014 was so inspiring and marked a moment in history for female athletes. I know you’ve talked a lot about why you made the decision to toe the line that day, but what was it like to actually race? What was the vibe? What were you thinking? Feeling?

ALYSIA: I've been in the spotlight and in high pressure situations for a very long time. I deemed this one of them, just for the simple fact that I knew there would be nay-sayers. Also, knowing what the negativity could be like... “Training during your pregnancy, what are you doing?” I chose not to focus on the negativity — I did it for women. To be that voice for maternal health and for empowerment. There is so much that people tell us that we can’t do. But we can do it. On that day, I decided not to focus on anybody else. I wanted to focus on my purpose. And that was so innate to me, because I do that in competitions on a regular basis. I just happened to have a different purpose for those two laps this time around.

J: An amazing thing: it was educational for so many people who still have that huge misconception that women should not exercise during pregnancy. What a great opportunity for you to come out and talk about this, with the USA Outdoor Championship as your platform. An 8-month pregnant athlete at a championship race - we had never seen that before!

A: Exactly. Education! That was my purpose. I remember calling Kara and asking, “okay so what’s the deal for x, y, and z?” And she says, “go off what you feel.” Simple advice! I knew this would hit the track world, but I had no idea it would go viral. If I had just reached a few people, I would have felt like I did my job. Running on that track that day was so empowering. I warmed up totally different than normal - 4 stretches and some leg swings. Just enough to get the muscles warmed up. I went to the call room and I was eating a sandwich. It feels funny to say this… but I was really trying to be a fly on the wall. Like who did I think I was? Trying to be a fly on the wall?

J: Haha! Because first of all… you’re Alysia Montaño. Second, you were 8 months pregnant. Fly on the wall — you are NOT.

A: Who’s pregnant in the freakin’ call room!? I did respect the other runners and their mission. But I do feel that in any case, with whatever you’ve set out to do, you do not have to diminish your mission because of someone else's. And then I got hungry again, so I ate my sandwich!

J: Hey, fuel the machine!

A: Exactly! So, I ate my sandwich, went out there, and I just remember that feeling of empowerment. Not just my own. Really for all of the voices that have been silenced - pregnant or not. I always drop into a mental zone when I step out onto the track, so it was such a practice to automatically go to that specific focus. Then I came out of it and thought to myself, “lap number one, Alysia, you need to run it in under two minutes, okay? Or you will get lapped.” When I came around the last turn and saw everyone standing and clapping for me, I was just so grateful. So grateful that I decided that I was going to be bold, courageous, and toe the line.

J: There’s the cultural misconception that once a women has a baby, her athletic career is over. We’ve seen that story everywhere… for years. You’ve really broken that barrier. I wouldn’t even call your career a comeback after having your daughter… you won USA’s the next year!

Photo: Christian Petersen/Getty Images

A: Yeah, I will say, that was kinda tough. I really had to work on not throwing myself too far ahead of where I was at based on the expectations people had on me: not to fail, or to fail, because I was postpartum. I’ve seen so many examples of women who have been able to go on and compete, or live a healthy and exciting lifestyle regardless of whether they decided to compete or not. I feel for Serena Williams, she says she has the intention of coming back. That’s a hard pressure for a lot of women. She hopefully can allow herself the opportunity to just start her family and not have people worry about how many Grand Slam Titles she’s going to win after this. It’s ridiculous.

Luckily for me, I do not worry about proving anything to people. It’s also a part of my personality. Once I set a goal, I am on it. My goal was to nurse my daughter for a year and work my way back into fitness and into the competition scene. Running at 6 months postpartum at Indoor Nationals was really meant to be a mental competition. I wanted to be there and I wanted to put myself in the mindset of being a champion. And then I had the opportunity to run at Drake Relays and finish 4th running 2:01 for my first outdoor 800. It put me in the pool to run the World Championship Relays where I was able to anchor Team USA to a Gold Medal at 8 months post-partum. From there, I claimed the USA Outdoors Championship title at 10 months post-partum. The Olympic year was my main focus and I was just so thankful that my head was on and I was able to feel more and more empowered every time that I ran. I think that's the point - regardless of finishing place it's the confidence and the empowerment that you build in trying.

That’s my thought for my daughter. I want her to see her mom and think wow, my mom is such a great example of empowerment and I can do whatever I set my mind to do. I can set big goals. Sometimes they’re not going to show up in the way that I want, but I am going to get up on my feet and keep going.

J: She’s so lucky! So, how excited are you guys for baby #2?!

A: Omg, way too stoked.

Click to watch their adorable baby announcement!

J: So, are you training through this pregnancy as well? Do you have plans to compete after baby #2?

A: I'm not going to go too far into plans, because that’s not how I plan any year in general. I'm just trying to stay as normal as possible. “This is my new normal” is what I like to say. I am still in the mindset of not getting too far ahead of myself. I think that does cause you to overstride and overstriding causes injury - pregnant or not. My immediate goal is to focus on my cardiovascular strength and maintaining my overall strength because I know labor is a very intense athletic activity. Probably, I’d say, the most intense one that I’ve ever been through.

We’re really excited for baby #2! With Linnea it was, okay, if I medal in 2012, we’re going to start our family. And then I ended up not medaling, but felt like it was right to keep going. It was easy for the first time to say that, and its harder for our second one. Of course I wanted to make the Olympic team, but the things that people told me that I did for them were so much better than being able to go to the Olympics and have the opportunity to medal. I felt like yeah, that was way more purposeful at this stage in my life. I was able to deem that a success and think, okay, let me not have the Olympic Trials be my last race. I’m going to keep running. So, I ended up going to the Milrose Games in February.

Lesko & Alysia 2013

Lauren & Alysia 2015

J: The last thing I want to talk about are your medal upgrades. It’s something that everyone's been talking about since earlier this year and it doesn't look like much has happened. Do you have a status on that process?

A: That’s exactly how it goes and why it’s so frustrating. That’s why we have a problem with the IAAF and the IOC in keeping those who are affected informed. There are also legal proceedings that are happening where we can’t have as much information. For instance, Savinova had 40 days to appeal after she was found guilty. Once she appeals, and she literally waited until day 39, then they begin a whole new 3 month process following that. But, I am very hopeful that I am going to have a medal soon.

It’s strange that I have a very weird amount of empathy in regards to the Russian Athletics system. Those athletes fearing for their lives. But, I am also trying to understand, why would she appeal? I understand that in their system, culture, and program… they are heroes. If you go against Russia and you say that in the athletics program, the only way you’re able to be successful is because of the drugs that they give you, it’s like you’re a traitor. I came to that understanding and recognition when I ran into Yuliya Stepanova who was the whistler blower. She realized how guarded and shielded they were from the international media. What they’re fed is what they believe. Of course it's still wrong and I want my medal, but I am trying not to go crazy about the process. Lying is lying. It is universal, I know that. But, let this process be one that is going to help Savinova become a better person and recognize the other lives that are affected aside from her own. That’s the best I can do!

J: Those moments, the podium, the bonuses — were taken from you. Nothing can change that. But, if you could have something now, what would it be? What would you do to celebrate? Could anything get even remotely close to that feeling?

A: You know, I’m not sure. It’s like what we talked about, with mostly anything… I don’t want to overstride. You’ve got to look up and smell the roses and be happy for what is in front of you. My focus in life is to really be able to enjoy the small things. And I know the greater things will be that much more exciting when they do come, but I don’t want to be only waiting for these crazy great things. People have talked about throwing me a party or having my own podium ceremony, so it’s exciting to see all of the people who want to celebrate you. Let’s make the medal happen, and then I’m down with any and all plans! Hopefully, I find out soon and we can have a ceremony postpartum so I can enjoy with some celebratory beverages. ;)

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I think we can all agree, mother runners: stroller running is no joke. As if running alone weren’t enough of a workout, pushing a kid while you run adds legit challenge. But running with the stroller often beats not getting to run at all. With all the extra weight to power forward and accompanying reaching in front of you required, it’s more important than ever to activate key muscles before you roll. Use this quick routine to activate your core, glutes, and upper back to go to work and reduce stroller strain, not to mention reduce your injury risk.

Also, remember momming itself is a workout. So consider only stroller running if 1) you really feel like it, and 2) you actually have the energy to do it. (That’s my rule for myself, anyway.)

STROLLER PLANK

• Put the break on your stroller!
• Grab the handlebar with both hands and step back into an incline plank.
• Hold for 5–10 deep breaths (or while you chat with your running buddy).

STROLLER PLANK RUN

• From Stroller Plank, lift your one foot off the ground.
• Bring the lifted leg knee toward the elbow on that side as you exhale.
• Lengthen the leg as you inhale.
• Repeat 10–20 times, keeping your spine stable.

STROLLER CHAIR GOALPOST FLOW

• Stand with your feet hip’s width apart and parallel and bend your knees to come into a chair, and engage your glutes and core.
• Lift your arms to shoulder height and bend your elbows, making a goal post shape.
• Lengthen your arms overhead as you inhale.
• Bend your elbows as you exhale.
• Repeat 10–20 times, keeping your core engaged so that you don’t back bend (your rib cage doesn’t pop open) as you move your arms.

For more routines to optimize your stroller run, hit up The Yoga for Stroller Running Collection. Bonus: This trio of videos is free! Our gift to all the mother runners out there.

This week is all about the mamas. The roll mamas. The role mamas. The mamas who raised us. The mamas we have become. So to celebrate the women in our lives who have lifted us up and given us so much — we want to give back too. So we’re paying it forward with a special challenge — The Miles To Roll Mama Challenge.

A joint production of our Girls On Track Bra Donation Program, and our Flagship store’s beloved Thursday Night Flight Club (#TNFC) — our miles to roll mama challenge gets us running together for a good cause. For every ten miles run, we’ll donate a sports bra to a girl in need. And its all going down with a virtual #TNFC as well as a big event at our flagship store. Here’s how you can get involved...

DONATE YOUR MILES TO ROLL MAMA!

Between now and May 13th, post a picture from your run and corresponding mileage in Instagram with #MilesToRollMama - we’ll put them in the donation bank! For every 10 miles our community runs, we’ll donate a sports bra to a girl in need through our GOT Bras program!

GRAB YOUR FRIENDS FOR TNFC ON MAY 11TH!

Roll mamas know that running is best when shared. So head out with a group of your best run friends on Thursday May 11th for our National #TNFC night! Post your groups miles with #MilesToRollMama and #TNFC — we’ll be giving one lucky TNFC squad a special prize!

JOIN US IRL ON MAY 13TH!

Grab your friends and head to the Oiselle Flagship store on May 13th for a morning of fun. We’ll be leading 3 and 6 mile group runs at 8:30am and 10:00am, followed by an extra special core workout known as the Dirty Dozen. Expect great photo ops, snacks, Roll Mama swag, and more!

Keep on rollin’ mamas - the fun is just beginning!

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I absolutely love track and field. I love the stories, and the back-stories. The up and down cycles. The team dynamics. The art and science of coaching. And I love watching meets. So any time I get to attend a meet where Oiselle's elites are running, that is just super bonus time for me. 

Friday I was giddy to fly down to Payton Jordan. Fleshman would be there coaching, and Mel Lawrence, Alexina Wilson, Dom Jackson, Alisha Brown, and Sasha Gollish were racing. And the 5k and 10k were stacked with so many great runners. 

"Steeple races are funny. There is a huge difference between a regular season opener and a steeple opener. Even if you’ve already raced earlier in the season, you need at least one steeple to get your legs underneath you and remember all the feelings and motions. I still have a lot to work to do and this race laid down a solid foundation for this season." - Mel

"Immediately after the race I felt disappointed. I went into the race truly believing that I was going to come away with a PR/USA's standard and I was 2 seconds off… it was frustrating. After I had some time to process, I realized a lot of positive things came from the race. I gained a ton of confidence in my water jumps, which was something that had been racking my brain this past year." - Alexina

"When the gun went off I knew that this was going to be a great fight out on the track. Fierce competitors, a rabbit going through quickly, and my mind was so ready to go. But at about 400m to go, period cramps hit an all time high. It was like my uterus clenched up, grabbed my hamstrings and hip flexors in the process. But, I never gave up. At no time did I think ‘this isn’t going my way I’m going to step off the track'. I am thankful that I have this opportunity to travel to some amazing places, see amazing friends and meet new ones too." - Sasha  

And it was a great meet. Not one of our elites felt super pumped about her race, but in the context of their training and lives, the day was a win. And every competition is opportunity to learn and improve. 

But, at the end of the evening, I also felt a little concerned for our beloved sport. The (small) crowd energy felt pretty flat, even though Olympic Gold Medalist Matt Centrowitz raced and signed autographs like a champ. The live event announcing didn't do justice to the athletes racing. Gabe Grunewald, who had just announced a recurrence of her cancer with this beautiful and heartbreaking piece of writing, didn't get highlighted during her race, or a live interview track-side. There was no human interest factor... the back-stories weren't part of the evening. 

Photos by: Heather McWhirter

I'm guessing that the Flotrack commentating for at-home viewers was more on point, but if we can't get an in-person packed stadium and crazy-hyped crowd for our own Olympic Gold Medalist, what does that tell us about our sport? I'm hopeful (but not overly optimistic) that the Tracktown Summer Series will be a good shot in the arm. We'll keep doing our part to support the women and loud-cheer them wherever they fly!

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Here at Oiselle, we like to tell stories. From sharing athlete stories to how the design team decides on color palettes, we pride ourselves on purpose. Here are some of our favorites. 

INTRODUCING DESTROY // CREATE

It is the story of us. Of a community of rebels, rioters, rejectors and defectors. And leaders, connectors practicing the artistry of community. We are proud to introduce the latest collection from Oiselle — Destroy // Create. As strong as breakers and builders in our community, the collection stands as a radical tribute to the power of the female athlete. The power to destroy. The power to create. Ultimately, the power to redefine the future.

THE ESSENTIALS COLLECTION - YOUR GUIDE TO A MINIMALIST RUNNING WARDROBE

We’ve all been there. Staring at a closet stuffed to the brim with clothes you just might wear, but never seem to work into your routine. Gaze locked on your options as you weigh distance, climate, and style; trying to make a decision about what to put on next. Minutes pass, slicing away at time that could’ve been spent in the miles. Or worse, you choose wrong, and find yourself distracted from the flow of your workout to instead focus on the feeling of an uncomfortable outfit. For a sport that’s so beautifully, radically simple - we sure can get caught up in the choices presented by our clothing.

FASHION, FEMINISM, AND THE NEW POWERSUIT 

We all have the ability to approach our clothing choices with more insight. Every day, once you are dressed, close your eyes and ask yourself "how do I feel?" and "how do I think I'll feel in six hours?" And if the answer is "probable foot pain" or "a dug-in underwire," it might be time to break up with that garment. Take it off. Thank it for its service. Then, ask yourself - how do I want to feel today? What clothes make me feel that way. Define your powersuit, and wear it loud and proud in the world. 

THE STYLES OF THE SPEED PROJECT

On Friday March 10th, a group of 12 birds took off from the Santa Monica Pier to race for the title of fastest female team in The Speed Project - a 340 mile road relay from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. Known as team #Birdstrike, the women are one of the first female teams ever to toe the line of this extremely challenging route. Knowing apparel is a competitive advantage, and a key part of any racing strategy - we put together a collection of items designed to help them go the distance. 

#WHEREIFLY - OISELLE X SARAH ATTAR

We can’t deny that running offers us a powerful sense of place. The landscapes with which we share these activities become bound to us on a deeper level. And while our footsteps may fade, we carry the stories of these spaces with us through the world. Few capture this idea better than runner, photographer, and Olympian — Sarah Attar. An inspiring athlete, artist, and advocate of women’s rights - her photography celebrates the powerful, beautiful places we see while traveling on two feet. We catch up with Sarah on running, photography, and the collection designed to celebrate the incredible places we find ourselves flying. 

THE REBEL YELL

We picked our most rebellious styles to help you channel your inner rule-breaker and define a new set of rules for your running, and your life. We see it in rebel-inspired moto inspired looks like the Portman Pants. We see it in silhouettes and prints that channel the breaking act itself. Even in feminine skirts and dresses, now in technical fabrics, reclaimed by the fierce as a new style altogether. Rebellion is our tribute to running. Saluting both the tradition of the sport, and the power it has to transform our future. 

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BY: MELODY MOORE, PH.D

“I’m a coach of a collegiate running team. How do I encourage my team to stop focusing on their and each other’s weight? How can I help them stop commenting on their bodies when I feel hypocritical, because I do the same thing?” This is just one of the messages that Lauren Fleshman and I received when we advertised our “Running and Eating Disorders” course on Embody YOUniversity, an online learning platform we recently launched at Embody Love Movement to provide access to classes that most of us weren’t offered in school.

The woman who asked this isn’t alone. Many of our 35 live participants, made up of adult runners, therapists, coaches from middle school to college, and parents of runners, wondered how to create a culture supportive of the holistic health of the individual and of their team. Their concerns mirrored those that the data we collected after our Running on Om podcast about the same topic revealed: coaches, runners, and parents want tools to shift the climate and the culture of running away from promoting comparison, a narrow focus on outcome, and a celebration of thinness, to one of mutual support, destigmatization, and a holistic perspective of the individual runner.

It’s widely known that Eating Disorders are all too common amongst competitive runners, but it seems that the stigma against them has created an environment where they aren’t often revealed. An overwhelming majority of the runners in our course and in our data never told anyone about their Eating Disorder. This is especially frightening because one of the markers of resiliency for someone in recovery is a strong sense of community support. And if no one knows about a struggle, no one can serve as a buffer against it. One obvious place to transform culture is to offer open conversation and destigmatization about the range of Eating Disorders. These conversations should include an explanation of body shaming and the detrimental impact of body talk, both internally and amongst team members. No one benefits from being told that they “look” fill-in-the-blank, and neither does anyone around them. Runners who are told they are thin or have lost weight may hear that to mean that they should continue to do so, and that this is what is pleasing about them. If they are already struggling with an Eating Disorder, comments like these will serve to fuel the disorder. If a runner is told the opposite, that she needs to find a “race weight” or “goal weight”, it could trigger unhealthy thinking and behaviors, and undermine the runner’s confidence, not to mention her health. Instead of commenting on runner’s appearance, talk about their qualities, their effort, their attitude.  

Another common question amongst the students was “How do I approach a runner/teammate who I think may be struggling?” Great question. My advice:

1. Ask permission to talk. Before starting a conversation, ask your teammate for a good time to talk in private. This allows them to have a sense of choice and control, so you’re setting up the conversation to feel safe. 
2. Don’t make assumptions. You’ll put your teammate on the defense and they’ll be much more likely to shut down. Instead, ask about their global well-being, including how they are feeling in general, their sleep, their nourishment, their energy. Show them that you care about their overall well-being.
3. Tell them what you are observing. After they’ve shared with you how they feel things are going for them, share what you have been observing. Do not tell them that they look differently (that they’ve gained/lost weight), as this could feed or trigger an Eating Disorder. Instead, tell them about any mood changes, behavior changes, or other issues that are causing you to feel concerned for them.  For example, “you’ve seemed withdrawn lately”, or “I notice you don’t ever come to lunch with the team anymore”.
4. Offer resources. In case your teammate is open to hearing your concern and being offered support, be ready to share resources with them. Depending on the age and circumstances of your teammate, you could offer to go with them to talk to the coach, their parents, or a counselor. Be prepared to offer them names of therapists who specialize in Eating Disorder recovery in case they are open to receiving help. The National Eating Disorder Association is a great place to start. *They also have a toolkit for athletes on their site.
5. Assure them that you care. Even though there may be a part of your teammate that wants to protect their Eating Disorder (which thrives on secrecy and isolation), your support and your investment in them may help pivot them toward recovery. Let them know that you are available for support.

I’m hopeful these tips allow you to feel more confident in approaching conversations like these. Still, I wish they didn’t have to occur at all. That’s why I founded a non-profit to prevent negative body image and Eating Disorders, Embody Love Movement. During Lauren and my course last week, it became even more obvious that Embody Love Movement workshops, created for small groups of girls and women ages 7-11, 12-18, and adult, would be incredibly beneficial for any team. The three-hour workshops, which Lauren says “shifted the way (I) respond when I hear other runners talking about their bodies” create a sense of cohesiveness around our common experience of being objectified and measured based on our external appearance. Each of us has been impacted, and this shared vulnerability, when channeled out of shame and into courage, creates shared responsibility. Participants leave our workshops with tools to pivot their perspective about their own bodies and to change body shaming conversations to those of substance.

If you feel empowered to shift the culture of your team or running group, check out Embody Love Movement and use our workshops to instill kindness, non-comparison, and cohesiveness.

For our part, Lauren and I are going to continue to build on the excitement garnered from our collaboration and are creating a toolkit for athletes and for coaches. Stay tuned, but more importantly, stay kind to your self. You deserve that.

- Melody Moore, Oiselle Muse

We are a brand who's passionate about the sport and committed to our community. We also make clothes for runners of all paces and places. Subscribe to stay connected to who we are, what we make, and the incredible things we do with our community.

Travelling can be just as hard on your body as your training, and for many runners, is part of the journey to the starting line. Whether you are flying short or long distance, or have a long drive planned, prolonged sitting is inevitable and can leave you feeling jetlagged, creaky, rigid, and sluggish. But it doesn’t have to. Use this quick routine to help shake off travel-related body sludge and calm pre-race nerves before you toe the line.

Oiselle Pro and Athlete for Yoga Devon Yanko shows how it’s done post-long haul flight from South Africa to London in preparation for the London Marathon!

"Flying internationally always makes me stiff, tight, and definitely not feeling sharp and ready. But after doing some easy yoga hip and hamstring work, I feel like the fluidity and ease has returned and my legs feel ready to race!" - Devon Yanko

RECLINED HERO

• Lie down with your knees bent and your feet wider than hip width (about as wide as your mat if you’re using one), and extend your arms open to the sides, palms up.
• Drop your thighs together into a triangle shape.
• See if you can take your feet another inch away from each other, so the knees might not even be touching.

RECLINED WINDSHIELD WIPERS

• From Reclined Hero, drop your knees to one side.
• Lift your knees back to center, then drop them to the other side.
• Continue for about 20 reps, just like windshield wipers moving side to side.

FLANK

• From Reclined Windshield Wipers, drop your thighs to one side and stop.
• Put your foot on top of the other thigh — reach forward with the bottom thigh and reach the arm on the same side as the bottom leg overhead.
• If it feels hard to keep your foot on the other leg or if either of your knees are uncomfortable, leave your foot on the floor instead.
• Hold for 5–10 deep breaths before switching sides.

FIGURE 4 AT THE COUCH

• Lie on your back and put your feet flat on the edge of a couch (or chair or wall) so that your knees are bent at about a 90-degree angle — if your back feels uncomfortable, move farther away from the wall.
• Cross one ankle over your other knee, keeping that foot flexed.
• Hold for 5–10 deep breaths.

LEGS UP ON THE WALL

• Lie on your back (on the floor, couch, or bed) and extend your legs up the wall, moving as far back as needed for your spine to be neutral and comfortable.
• Keep your knees bent a little and turn your feet away from each other slightly.
• Rest your arms along your sides with your palms facing up.
• Do a run visualization while you rest here — focus on your race goal and why it’s important to you, and see yourself achieving. Feel it as done — or use this guided Run Visualization.

For more yoga for runners routines, check out The 26.2 Collection and The Yoga for Runners Collection at video.jasyoga.com — new subscribers use code RUNRESET for a free month of over 90 videos to help you achieve your goals in running and beyond.

We are a brand who's passionate about the sport and committed to our community. We also make clothes for runners of all paces and places. Subscribe to stay connected to who we are, what we make, and the incredible things we do with our community.

At a time of year that’s particularly toxic - with media pushing bikini bodies, destructive diets, six-pack shortcuts, and more - we wanted to remind you of what the cover of a magazine should really look like. We hope some of these messages find their way into your own body narrative, so that each day you are reminded that you are enough.

We are a brand who's passionate about the sport and committed to our community. We also make clothes for runners of all paces and places. Subscribe to stay connected to who we are, what we make, and the incredible things we do with our community.

Last March I finished a track workout, looked down at my spikes feeling fast and confident, but couldn't help notice my stomach. I was six months post partum and my second son was born only 15 months after my first. I thought about how I used to look before having babies and how I used to feel. I felt guilty for wanting my pre-baby body back but was also in the midst of a realization.

In a short time I had worked my way back to a high level of training and racing and was in pretty good shape. I had just run 3 sets of 400, 300, 200 with my 400s at 71, 70, 69. That's the best I had run even before kids, when my stomach looked "normal" and wasn't separated by a gap and with loose skin. I wondered how many other women see themselves and chastise their own body during a time when their body is actually functioning really well and running stronger and faster than ever. But they're hooked on their outward appearance. So I shared my thoughts in that moment and posted to Instagram. Little did I know that moment would have such a rippling effect on future events. There's no better way to summarize it than with what a friend texted me, "I saw you on the Today Show, you've gone viral!"

In five days I talked with just about every major news publication about my Instagram post and its background. It started with #journeywithsteph over two years ago when I made a commitment to share my post baby return to training and racing and my journey to try and make an Olympic Team. I never set out to be an inspiration as I know there are far more inspirational people out there. I have simply chosen to share my story with candid raw honesty. Apparently in this day and age that resonated with many women and I saw an outpouring of comments, support, and love.

It can seem scary at times to be the real version of yourself, but how refreshing when you are and you realize so many others share the same fears, insecurities, self deprecation, and it can all be erased with the simple act of freeing your mind.

So my thought for everyone is to acknowledge the bias. Acknowledge the lumps and bumps and shapes that we all have, the things that we feel weird about BECAUSE of the "perfect" images of human bodies in the media. Instead of fixating on "flaws", lets shift our minds to focus on our strengths. The pieces of us that make us who we are. When we can recognize that, we can honor ourselves and all of the amazing things that our bodies allow us to do.

This month, let's collectively share the love. Let's give back to ourselves. Let's free our minds, and allow others to do the same. Because we are better than the critics; those from outside the arena and the one inside our minds. Let's replace the mean spirited voice in our heads; the one that tells us that we should look a certain way, and replace it with a voice that reminds us that we're great as we are. Let's love our bodies back. Let's fill ourselves up with positivity this May.

The build up of positivity helps us find humility and strength in the process. It helps us tackle our future endeavors and to reach our big life goals. And our stories we tell help others to grow.

Share the love and your musings with hashtag: #BuildItUp and let's continue to grow this sisterhood of strength together.

xo,

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Have you ever been reading a blog, scrolling through our Instagram feed, or listening in on a Oiselle conversation and thought to yourself… “what on EARTH are they talking about.”

It’s no secret we have fun at Oiselle. Our greatest joy is heading out into the world and doing things IRL with our community. You can find us on trails, at road races, running camps, meet ups, parties, coffee shops, the Nest (see below) and our store laughing until we can claim it as an ab-workout. Because we spend so much time out in the world with our tribe, we end up with a lot of … well… bird jokes. Crazy memories, stories, and words that we just can’t walk away from because they’re frankly too funny.

We want to share those jokes and ideas with our entire community, so we can all laugh our track pants off together. We call it a sisterhood for a reason. 

So with that, I’m thrilled to introduce our first iteration of the Oiselle Glossary. The terms you need to know to laugh with O!

1. BIRDS - Any Oiselle-wearing, flight-loving, badass member of our lady gang. If you know us, you’re in our tribe. Welcome to the sisterhood.
2. BIRDSTRIKE - The 12 women — 6 racers and 6 crew — who comprised one of the first all-female teams to take on the unsanctioned 340 mile Speed Project course from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. Spoiler alert: we won! 
3. BQ - To be admitted into the Boston Marathon, most individuals must run a Boston Qualifying time (BQ) on an approved marathon course beforehand. While the time is a subjective metric determined by the Boston Athletic Association, it often becomes a soul-consuming, gut-wrenching, total obsession for many marathon runners (myself included).
4. BROBIRDS/WINGMEN - The men of Oiselle, often found cowbelling at races, crewing long distance races, holding wee birds at photoshoots, or asking when we’re going to make a pair of “Broga” running shorts. It takes a village.
5. BTS - Behind The Scenes! Think exclusive looks at unreleased products, runner-models dancing on the seamless, or the team exploring new landscapes for photoshoots! Make sure to follow us on Instagram and Snapchat for the best #OiselleBTS action!
6. CHIEF BIRD - Founder, CEO, and Oiselle lead designer - Sally Bergesen. She’s one boss lady.
7. FLYSTYLE - High flying Oiselle style. You wear it best, so snap a pic in your new O threads and post it with #flystyle! We feature our favorites on oiselle.com!
8. GDV - Coined by the one and only Lauren Fleshman, GDV is short for “game day vagina”. High and tight — the version of your vag you bring to race day, that big meeting, or any significant stage. 
9. HAUTE VOLÉE - French for high flyer, the haute volée is our team of professional runners and emerging elites. 
10. HEAD UP WINGS OUT - Our favorite mantra at Oiselle, made to remind us of the effort, courage, freedom, and joy of running. Go forth and find it my friends!
11. JASYOGA - Yoga for athletes, lead by Oiselle friend Erin Taylor. Recover like a pro people!
12. JUNGLE CHICKEN - Friend of Oiselle and Birdstrike crew member - Erin Ward. Why Jungle Chicken? Well… it’s a long story. Just know that wherever she goes, laughter is sure to follow. 
13. LITTLE WING - a Haute Volée training group in Bend, Oregon under coach Lauren Fleshman. Members include Collier Lawrence, Mel Lawrence, Christine Babcock, and Jess Barnard (Little Wing is a lifestyle).
14. LUX - A very special O fabric. Feels like butter, strong and soft, easy care and lifetime wear. We call it the runner’s cashmere.
15. MUSES - A special group of O women whose abilities extend beyond their running practice. Sage women who guide our tribe.
16. OISELFIE - A selfie with the wings at the Oiselle Flagship Store in University Village. Add it to your bucket list.
17. POWERSUIT - The threads you wear to channel your inner warrior. The ‘fit that gets you feeling the most fierce. 
18. SPORTS BRA SQUAD - A body positive movement founded by Muse Kelly KK Roberts, helping women find the confidence to run in their sports bras. Own it birds, you are strong and beautiful!
19. THE FLYWAY - A series of essays from our community about their experiences navigating change. Named after the flight path birds navigate on long migrations.
20. THE NEST - Oiselle HQ! Located in the lovely Greenlake neighborhood in Seattle. We’re actually right above a dive bar called The Little Red Hen…(yep, birds together), which is pretty hysterical… most days. 
21. VOLÉE - French for flyer, the Volée is our amateur running team for women of all ages, places, and paces. 
22. WEE BIRDS - The tiny humans of Oiselle.
23. WHEELS UP 17 - Our monthly challenges, designed to help our community turn big goals into big action all year long. Want in? Sign up for emails at oiselle.com/subscribe.
24. WOMAN UP - Why would you man up when you can woman up? Women are strong as hell. Read more about the story behind the story here! 
25. YETI - A full body suit made for rest-day. These limited-edition O items often show up for the holidays. #GiftWeird

Got a phrase, word, or term you think needs to be added to our glossary? Add it to the comments section of the blog or tweet @oiselle with #OiselleGlossary! We’ll be regularly updating this list so everyone can join in on the fun.

Head Up, Wings Out!

We asked The Nest, “What makes Oiselle, Oiselle?”

SALLY BERGESEN – Founder & CEO

“Go fast, take chances.

The color orange.

A bazillion birds.

Breaking and remaking rules.

Girls to the front.

Design love.

Not waiting for permission.”

JENN HAROWICZ – Graphic Designer

“Creativity. Collaboration. Camaraderie. Dedication. Inspiration. Encouragement. Equality. Style. Strong. Risk. Run Love.”

HANNAH CALVERT – Marketing Associate  

“What makes Oiselle, Oiselle - is always having a Picky Bar or La Croix within reach.”

JESS BARNARD – Social Media Lead

"It's finding my runloves. Its going from fan, to model, to athlete, to Nester. It's dance parties on set. It's getting up on stage and singing a cover of "Hit Me Baby One More Time". It's breaking the rules when the rules need to be broken. It's woman-ing up." 

HEATHER STEPHENS – Volée Team Manager

“Oiselle is about people and relationships. It's about building things and saying YES, when NO feels easier. One big and beautiful love bird.”

DAVID COLBURN – Senior Accountant

“Being able to run any time during the day if you need to clear your head or wake up. Strangers cheering you on at races when you wear the singlet.”

MEGAN MURRAY – Marketing Director

“Oh it’s so simple, and so profound — the people. The amazing, inspiring, passionate, incredible people in our community. Proud to be a part of this sisterhood!”

SARAH LESKO – Corporate Development

1. The amazing people who work at the Nest

2. Our culture that embraces change as opportunity

3. "Oiselle Time" i.e. every 3 months is at least a year's worth of activities and shenanigans

4. The best parties!

5. Lauren Fleshman, Kara Goucher, Steph Bruce

6. The Volée - runfamily in every corner of the world

7. Living, breathing embodiment of "your vibe attracts your tribe"

8. We put "fartlek" on underwear

9. Running is in everything that we do

10. Sally Bergesen

Thank you for celebrating with us.

xo

The Nest

It's not a party until a close friend holds a toast - complete with embarassing stories, warm memories, and a big wish for the future. With that we present to you, Kara's toast to ten years! 

My fondest moment with Oiselle was when I officially became a member. Sally had flown out to Boulder to present me with my contract and to do a quick photoshoot so that when I was released from my former sponsor, we had images all ready to go. We were up in the foothills taking pictures and my husband called to say I had been officially released. Sally, Shanna Burnette, and I just hugged. We all started crying. I felt so free and excited about my future.

Funniest Memory

Oh my gosh, I laugh so hard when I’m with the O clan!! But probably one of the trips where I laughed the most was Boston 2014. I showed up with one crutch (I had a sacral stress fracture) and hobbled my way to the train, and then another, to get to Sally’s cousin’s house where we were staying. The house was awesome and the location was perfect, but when we all got in our little cots we couldn’t help but laugh at all the American Dolls staring down at us. I LOVE American Dolls so it was basically like being back in my childhood bedroom, and I couldn’t stop laughing.

Another great moment was when I was in NYC for fashion week in 2014 and we had gone for a run in Central Park. I’m with Sally and Ashley Judd runs by wearing a Oiselle Winona tank. I basically lost my mind yelling at her, “you’re Ashley Judd and you’re wearing HER shirt!!” Ashley ran away petrified by the crazy woman yelling at her. Sally just stood there and laughed. I literally lost my mind after seeing a celeb wearing Oiselle.

My Favorite Style

Too many to mention! Faves include mini stride shorts, jogging tights, aero tights, anything lux and flyte!

Best Sally Moment

Remember please, that I came to Oiselle from a big company so I was used to car services, room service on trips, business class, etc. The first photoshoot that I did for Oiselle was for the very first bird swim collection. I hardly knew anyone at Oiselle, Sally included. We had rented a house in Palm Springs where we were going to be shooting but also staying. Sally was showing me around the house and then said, you will be in the master. I looked in and saw that it had a big bed and it’s own bathroom. I protested, “that’s Ok, I can share a room with someone.”  And Sally said, “yes, I’m in here too.” That first night I didn’t sleep a wink! I was so worried I’d roll over and hit her. I look back now and laugh so hard. It all went fine and it was fun, we were able to do a cool photoshoot on a budget that most companies would think was small. Needless to say, I have no problem sleeping with Sally now;)!

Wish for The Future

More women uniting!! I am so grateful for the community Oiselle has created and I hope that it just continues to grow and that people can feel it’s love and authenticity. And, I’m really excited about being given the chance to design for Oiselle this fall. I really hope everyone loves it so that design can become a part of my life!

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