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Which Parmesan is Best for You?

Which Parmesan is Best for You? Let’s Talk Aging (the Cheese Kind 😉) Whether you’re browsing the deli counter or sprinkling some on your pasta post-run, not all Parmesan is created equal, especially in Italy, where we’re talking about the real deal: Parmigiano Reggiano DOP. The aging process, called stagionatura, is what gives Parmigiano Reggiano its unique flavour, texture, and digestibility. During this time, the cheese breaks down casein (a milk protein) into simple amino Read more

By kellypuffer, ago

Why Parmesan is a Superfood for Runners

Parmesan Cheese: The Secret Fuel for Runners & Active Women You already know that Parmesan cheese is a staple in Italian cuisine (if not, check out this post on why Italians love it!). But did you know that it’s also a nutritional powerhouse for runners and active women? Let’s break down why this aged cheese deserves a spot in your diet. Why Parmesan is a Superfood for Runners 1. High-Quality Protein for Muscle RecoveryPamrmesan contains Read more

By kellypuffer, ago

Why Italians Love Parmesan & Its Origins

Parmesan Cheese: Italy’s Most Beloved Superfood If you’ve ever taken a bite of authentic Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano), you know it’s something special. Nutty, slightly salty, and packed with umami goodness, this Italian staple isn’t just for sprinkling on pasta – it’s a way of life. But what makes it so beloved in Italy? Let’s dive into its rich history and cultural significance! Where Does Parmesan Come From? Parmesan cheese originates from Northern Italy, specifically Read more

By kellypuffer, ago
Pilates

Why Pilates is a Game-Changer for Women Runners

Why Pilates is a Game-Changer for Women Runners Running is amazing for so many reasons—both for our mental and physical health. We all know it, and science backs it up with thousands of studies. But beyond that, running is a fantastic way to get outside, connect with nature, and explore new places. That’s one of the things I love most about it—you get to cover more ground and see so much more than you would Read more

By kellypuffer, ago
Top view of green olives in oil, black olives, and pepper on a cutting board.

Discovering the World of Olive Oil in Italy

Discovering the World of Olive Oil in Italy When I first moved to Italy, I thought I knew olive oil. I’d grab a bottle at the supermarket back in the UK, drizzle it over a salad, and call it a day. But living here, I’ve realized there isn’t just one olive oil—there are countless varieties, each with its own personality and purpose. Italians treat olive oil with the reverence it deserves, and I’ve learned why. Read more

By kellypuffer, ago
olive oil, truffle oil, mediterranean, gourmet, organic, condiment, delicacy, bottles, olive oil, olive oil, olive oil, olive oil, olive oil

The Magic of Olive Oil: Fuel for Running, Beauty, and Life

The Magic of Olive Oil: Fuel for Running, Beauty, and Life As a runner living in Italy, I’ve learned that olive oil isn’t just a staple in the kitchen—it’s a way of life. Italians call it “liquid gold” for good reason. Not only does it elevate dishes with its rich, peppery flavour, but it’s also packed with benefits for your health, hair, skin, and even recovery. Let me take you on a journey through the Read more

By kellypuffer, ago

The Benefits of Coffee Before Running

The Benefits of Coffee Before Running As someone who never drank coffee in the UK, I soon arrived in Italy to find that, well, if I wanted to truly embrace the Italian lifestyle, I had to start drinking coffee. I began experimenting with different blends and brews, and it quickly became a part of my daily routine. Naturally, as a triathlete and someone who loves diving into nutrition and neuroscience, I was curious to understand Read more

By kellypuffer, ago

A Guide to Ordering Coffee in Italy

A Guide to Ordering Coffee in Italy Italy isn’t just the land of pizza and pasta—it’s also the birthplace of coffee culture. And I had a real moment of realisation about this the other day at the office. As soon as I arrived, I could sense a strange, anxious atmosphere. There was a lot of chattering, as if something terrible had happened. Curious, I went to find out what was going on—and to everyone’s horror, Read more

By kellypuffer, ago

How to Get Faster as a Runner

How to Get Faster as a Runner: Simple Drills and Sessions to Transform Your Training When I first started running, I thought the only way to improve was to just keep running the same pace, the same way, over and over again. My go-to was a 10k loop at a steady pace of around 5:30 per kilometer. I stuck with it for three years, wondering why I wasn’t getting any faster or feeling any stronger. Read more

By kellypuffer, ago
Adult preparing a fresh vegetable salad in a cozy kitchen with various ingredients and kitchenware.

The Flavours of Tuscany in May

The Flavours of Tuscany: Eating What’s in Season for Health and Energy Tuscany, with its rolling hills, ancient vineyards, and charming villages, is a region deeply connected to its land. The food here is a celebration of simplicity, freshness, and local ingredients. As a runner who loves life in Italy, I’ve discovered that the Tuscan diet not only tastes incredible but also offers the perfect nutrition to fuel an active lifestyle. Eating with the Seasons: Read more

By kellypuffer, ago