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The Annual Running thread - beginners/ultras/whatever

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Any forumites experienced running kit by Patagonia or Arcteryx? I'm looking at their lightweight showerproof tops (Airshed Pro pullover and Incendo Hoody). Happy to consider other suggestions e.g. Ron Hill, OMM etc.

Thanks


 
Posted : 09/09/2020 10:29 pm
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What kind of running will you use it for? For hill running in exposed areas, I'd say such a layer is prudent, for anything else, you'll just sweat your tits off in it.


 
Posted : 09/09/2020 11:22 pm
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It'd be for longer efforts 10 miles plus on local exposed roads in the non summer months with the odd foray offroad in the Dark Peak. I agree with the sweating argument - I find long sleeved lightweight thermal baselayers suit me in most conditions aside from higher temps and heavy rain. This purchase would maybe provide a more allrounder option.


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 1:21 am
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New guidance in, is that club runs done for the moment? The guidance seems a touch ambiguous as to if that’s the case. I for one will be gutted if it off for a while.


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 8:08 am
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A local walking group get round it by taking everyone's details and keeping them for 21 days, for track and trace.

Makes sense to me, haven't looked into the details tbh.


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 9:06 am
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It’d be for longer efforts 10 miles plus on local exposed roads in the non summer months with the odd foray offroad in the Dark Peak.

Can you take a small backpack? My go-to for those kind of conditions would be arm warmers (easy to pull up/down as needed) + some kind of jacket in the pack.

Oh, and Arcteryx is generally good quality kit IME. Not the cheapest, though.


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 10:07 am
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Arcteryx is pricey at RRP, but I don’t think I’ve ever paid RRP for it. Sport pursuit have a lot on sale at the moment.

For runs on open moors in winter I take my arcteryx alpha fl. 350g for a full on goretex pro hard shell.

Got it at 50% on sportpursuit.


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 10:40 am
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I'm hoping to continue my running through the Autumn into Winter and beyond! What would you recommend as a basic kit list to get through that? Unsure how hardcore I'll be with regard to running in rain or hail, might give that a miss. OTOH not much in the way of sub-zero temps down here in the SE! Pretty flat here, no rocky mountain passes. Could get muddy if I continue off-road, and long wet grass, but could equally avoid it (or the worst of it).


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 11:37 am
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Basic kit for me in winter for normal (non-mountain) running are 3/4 tights, a tight short-sleeved base layer, and a looser one over that. If it's windy I'll use a windcheater, for rain I've got a proper jacket but it gets a bit warm and sweaty so I tend to avoid it unless it's really pissing down. Gloves and a beanie to finish off.

Basically layer up as you would on a bike. The only main difference is nipple rub, which is why I wear the tight-fitting base layer.

Edit: if you've got a Decathlon near you a top like this is excellent for winter running:

https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/kiprun-warm-regul-long-sleeved-zip-t-shirt-black-blue/_/R-p-187851?mc=8520941&c=BLUE


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 11:45 am
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@sirromj, a lot depends on how hot you get when you're running.
A long sleeve baselayer is pretty useful, but don't get one too thick or you'll cook.
Arm warmers are good for in-between days.
Gloves are a must for me, I really feel the cold in my hands.
Many will say tights, personally I won't wear them unless it's less then about 4 degrees or again, I cook. Even then I wear thin ones.
Headband or buff to keep your ears warm maybe?
Headtorch if you venture off road.
I've never got cold feet, others do so maybe some slightly warmer socks?
Jackets I don't get. Some swear by the but I've never worn one that I wasn't cooking in within 10 minutes of starting. Even in the rain, a good baselayer keeps me warm enough.
If you're staying off road then trails shoes will help on the mud.


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 11:48 am
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I’m hoping to continue my running through the Autumn into Winter and beyond!

Tbh I run more in the cooler months than I do in the summer, as I'll be biking and hillwalking in those months too, so less time/need to run.

I really like having a pair of goretex road shoes for winter, it's a boon going out running on wet roads knowing your feet stay nice and dry. Also wear compression LS baselayers, hate baggy tops, and also lined shorts as they're far more comfortable.

I only break out the tights if it's ****in baltic and I'm going high.

Cheap Decathlon gloves too, and I've loads of Buffs from events and races.


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 11:52 am
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Thanks.

Yeah I'll be getting hot when running for a few more months yet I reckon. Pretty much drenched in 23+C.

One of my favourite cold weather cycling tops is actually a Kalenji running top from Decathlon, but will need to be cold for that.

What expectation of waterproof shoes? Is it much like flat pedal shoes, your feet get wet regardless? Thin sealskin socks and just continue with my Merrell trail gloves?


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 12:20 pm
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The problem with Merrell trail gloves is they're very thin and you run a risk of getting cold feet despite running. I'd give them a go, and if that happens look for something with a bit more padding between you and the ground. I wouldn't bother with Goretex, at least not for running. I'd rather have well draining normal trail shoes than a shoe full of warm water that can't get out and is causing you blisters. Likewise I wouldn't bother with Sealskin socks, just normal (or slightly thicker than normal) socks.


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 12:23 pm
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What expectation of waterproof shoes?

I only wear goretex shoes on the road, and yes, feet will stay dry, 100%, not like cycling.

Trail shoes I don't bother, as IME waterproof trail shoes just hold water in (and it will get in, most of my hill runs are pretty boggy at one point or another) and stay heavy. I'd rather have a trail shoe that drains and dries quickly. Feet don't get cold as they do on a bike, as they're constantly moving and not stuck static on a pedal, so cold feet not an issue IME.


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 12:28 pm
 Spud
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As above; my winter gear is 3/4 tights, compression base layer, Helly or similar over it depending on temp. Beanie and sometimes gloves. Then an Inov8 thermal pullover which does even in rain unless it's properly horrid then an Alpkit waterproof smock. Shoes are Inov8 and thick merino socks, yes they get wet but also drain. Not had a problem with cold feet. But then I only tend to do 4 muddy miles.


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 12:40 pm
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I have mixed views on waterproof shoes.
Mainly, I find them to hot which can often lead to sweat and blisters. My Gore-Tex Asics Cumulus run particularly hot, the Nike Pegasus Shields are much better but not quite as waterproof. I'd not wear them off road though, as above, water will get in and so it needs to get out.
What they are brilliant for is the 4 mile run to parkrun and then standing around volunteering for 90 mins before running home. Lovely warm feet!
I think there's more value in a slightly warmer sock.


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 12:41 pm
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Thanks for all the great tips, I think I should be able to make do with the shoes I have combined with select cycling stuff and get a gauge of what else I might need as the weather worsens.

Might have to do a STW search for head torch threads...


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 8:57 pm
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Petzl Bindi 😁


 
Posted : 10/09/2020 9:09 pm
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I’m a big fan of my petzl swift rl, so impressive in the middle of nowhere. Made me feel a lot safer, turning night into day.

Side note - still unable to run, awaiting an mri for hip stress fracture


 
Posted : 12/09/2020 4:09 pm
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Ah yes, the Saturday long run. 15 miles, good pace, sunshine, just about perfect...as was the lunch and a beer at the local cafe afterwards.
Happy, content Lunge.


 
Posted : 12/09/2020 4:25 pm
 Rona
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^ 😃

Just 20 minutes for me this morning - coming back from 2 weeks off after being under the weather. Wore my new Hoka sofa shoes - without doubt the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn (running or otherwise) - and they make me feel quite tall! Initial indications suggest shoe success, but I'll wait to see after a few runs.

Sorry to hear it - j4mesj4mes. Get well soon.


 
Posted : 12/09/2020 7:09 pm
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First run with daughter (14 months) in the buggy this morning. We sold a bike trailer because we never used it and ebayed a Bob Revolution- quickly coming to the realisation that we should have bought one for when #1 child was younger, we'd have got much more use out of it.
Initial impressions are that it's dead easy to run at near normal pace with, but I was probably working harder than I realised as I can really feel my legs this evening after just a 40 min run. Needs a bit of careful route planning to avoid blocked pavements, kissing gates and such like but we'll get the hang of it and with the 4 year old able to ride 10-12km around the forest on his bike, there's a good chance of getting more weekend miles in than before.
I'm calling it a success so far.


 
Posted : 12/09/2020 7:53 pm
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Update from the bloke with shin splints. Stretching, stretching and some more stretching seems to be doing the trick along with a new pair of shoes. I went for a fitting at a running shop and came away with a pair of Hoka Bondi 7's. Bloody comfy but I may be inclined to agree with @wardee on the feedback issue. I feel the softness of the shoe encourages me to run heavier and I have to concentrate on running lighter but given my history I'm pleased with the outcome. I'd be interested in trying a slightly stiffer shoe but I'm not buying two pairs just yet (heathen I know!). Managing about 3 to 4 runs a week of about 4 miles for the last 4 weeks with a total of 60 miles so far. Still get twinges but I spend most evenings stretching so this helps a lot. Going to try for a longer run tomorrow if I can stop drinking tonight, but that remains to be seen! Thanks again for all the advice, it has helped me no end!


 
Posted : 12/09/2020 9:23 pm
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Managing about 3 to 4 runs a week of about 4 miles for the last 4 weeks with a total of 60 miles so far.

The frequency you get out seems good for a beginner to me! I've totalled 64 miles for the whole of 2020, beginning lockdown.

I had a slight knee issue so hadn't been out for a run for over two weeks until Wednesday just gone. But decided to push past my usual 4 miles (every 6 days) run to do 5 miles. I was thinking I might be able to try for 6 before the 4 mile mark, but toward the 5 mile mark (where I ended up doing a 2nd circuit of a sports field) I'd had enough!

A run planned for the tomorrow morning (4 days after last run), will play it by ear as to whether I try faster or longer, thinking longer currently... I need to get a 10k under my belt so that Strava stat is filled!


 
Posted : 12/09/2020 10:23 pm
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I’m trying for a 10k tomorrow! Combining the two routes I do so I can bail out halfway if necessary! I’ll report back tomorrow if I make it!! Good luck when you try it!


 
Posted : 12/09/2020 10:42 pm
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I’m trying for a 10k tomorrow!

Good luck!


 
Posted : 12/09/2020 11:01 pm
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I’m trying for a 10k tomorrow!

Go smash it @jodafett, good luck!!!


 
Posted : 12/09/2020 11:17 pm
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I only went and bloody done it! I know it pales into insignificance compared to most of you guys but it’s a wee goal I’d set myself. Shins complained until about 8k then they gave up moaning. Average pace was 8.3/miles and I did it in under an hour which was my other goal! Well chuffed! Now I’m going to spend the rest of the day stretching!


 
Posted : 13/09/2020 10:24 am
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Any advice on constant calf and hamstring pulls and tears. I stretch warm up hydrate massage etc but an ongoing issue. Love running but impossible to properly get in to. Compression sock make much difference?


 
Posted : 13/09/2020 11:42 am
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After advice on here I spend a lot of time stretching. Calf stretches, glute stretches but the key ones (I think) for me have been -

Kneeling on the floor with tops of feet facing the floor and slowly sitting back on my heels

And

Standing up while placing one leg slightly back with the top of yours toes curled under so they touch the floor. Apply downward pressure and you should feel the stretch.

Also

Stand with feet shoulder width apart and roll your feet outward so you’re standing on the outside edge of your feet.

All these were advised by guys on here. I joined this thread on page 127 if you want to look there for advice. It’s helped me massively.


 
Posted : 13/09/2020 11:52 am
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Thanks if much appreciated.


 
Posted : 13/09/2020 12:00 pm
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Good work @jodafett!
I can confirm it’s lovely running weather here in the midlands, sunny, not to warm and just a hint of breeze.
After doing 15 miles yesterday I thought I may be a tad tired so went out with no plan at all. 10 glorious miles later I’m happy as Larry with a beautiful ache in the legs.
Happy Sunday all!


 
Posted : 13/09/2020 12:01 pm
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Cheers Lunge. I can confirm it was bloody awful in Edinburgh this morning. 40 mph winds made for an interesting run!


 
Posted : 13/09/2020 12:20 pm
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well done on the 10k. I went out this morning with thoughts of 10k but just not there yet. was warm and sunny with a breeze. 5 miles.


 
Posted : 13/09/2020 2:28 pm
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"Any advice on constant calf and hamstring pulls and tears. I stretch warm up hydrate massage etc but an ongoing issue. Love running but impossible to properly get in to. Compression sock make much difference?"

Zero drop Altra shoes changed the game for me. I found them more natural to run in and and now get injured less.


 
Posted : 13/09/2020 4:22 pm
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Zero drop Altra shoes changed the game for me. I found them more natural to run in and and now get injured less.

Yet weirdly, zero drop shoes make a pigs ear of my calf’s and Achilles. Not for me at all.


 
Posted : 13/09/2020 4:45 pm
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Well done all the new runners on here with your 10ks and injury avoidance. Keep it up and take it slow - it’s worth it.

I’ve been doing slower runs based on heart rate for a few months now and I’m really feeling stronger. Endurance is much better and I can do a long run and not be shattered.

Longest run ever at 30km today as part of training for 50km ultra in October. Felt good, pace a bit fast at 5:55/km so will be aiming to be slower than that. Legs nicely used, quite tired but still can’t quite believe I ran so far and for 3 hours. Maybe, just maybe I can do it????

As for running clothing. I personally always get way too hot so only if it’s below about 9 degrees will I wear a HH base layer. Pertex good for rain - not waterproof but keeps the wind off.


 
Posted : 13/09/2020 5:37 pm
 Rona
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jodafett - well done on the 10k. 😃

My run this morning was eventful ... got chased by a wayward dog and ended up leaping onto someone's garden wall to avoid getting chomped. I can confirm that Hoka shoes are also good for the high jump. 😉


 
Posted : 14/09/2020 9:44 am
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You've got to love a bit of bounce, Rona!
As an ex-high school high-jumper, I love the look of bemusement on the faces of my fellow club mates when I elect to vault over fences and gates rather than climbing over them. One day I'll bugger it up and land on my arse!


 
Posted : 14/09/2020 10:17 am
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Well done Joda, superb!.

I've been a lazy runner for about 3 months now, lucky if I've averaged about 10 miles a week, but been doing loads of hillwalking instead. Need to get my finger out, was out biking yesterday and felt my fitness was down a bit.


 
Posted : 14/09/2020 10:21 am
 Rona
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As an ex-high school high-jumper, I love the look of bemusement on the faces of my fellow club mates when I elect to vault over fences and gates rather than climbing over them. One day I’ll bugger it up and land on my arse!

Ha ha - nice to have hidden talents!

I don't think I'll be trying that any time soon - I think the technical term for my stature is 'short-arse' - which may well be derived from the act of coming up short while attempting to vault a gate and landing on one's arse! 😉


 
Posted : 14/09/2020 11:52 am
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Bugger. Just back from the physio - hernia that needs surgery 🙁


 
Posted : 16/09/2020 1:54 pm
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@turboferret - next one for you?? https://www.inov-8.com/blog/alison-walker-the-smog-graham-round/


 
Posted : 16/09/2020 7:15 pm
 loum
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Morning all.
Can I pick your brains on how you're dealing with hydration on your longer runs.
I'm having a crack at a marathon later next month and I'm going to need to drink.
I've run before, but hydration has always been part of the event, water tables every 3 to 5 miles so it's been looked after by others and I've not worried.
Now, the marathon I'm going to do will be social distanced, on my own, so I'll have to look after my own drinking. I guess it means I'll be carrying water in a camelback or running vest and I'm looking for recommendations for what people use and find comfortable to run with?
I've read that normal running requirements are around 400 to 800 ml per hour. Can't see myself taking less than 4 hours so that would mean carrying around 2 litres. Does that seem reasonable?
I suppose Another option could be too run laps passing back past the house ( or even car) every 5 to 10 km, but I think I'd rather run somewhere nice and try to get into a rhythm going further. Multiple shorter Laps always feel longer and harder in my head , so I'd rather not.
Ideally I'll get something soon so I can try it on a could of longer runs before the day and get used to it. I've seen a few nice vests from Salomon, and sports pursuit have raidlight and UD on offer at the mo, so any experience or recommendations welcome.
Thanks in advance, loum


 
Posted : 20/09/2020 1:06 pm
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You’ve a few options @loum.
1. Don’t drink. Be really hydrated before you start and just crack on. It’s very doable but not ideal, I’ve done 20 miles that way, never more but it can definitely be done.
2. 2 13.1 mile laps via your car/house. My preferred option. I change direction for the second lap which normally freshens things up. You don’t actually even have to do laps, 2 different loops work too, as long as you pass the central point.
3. Shops. Even in the hills you can tweak your route so you go via a shop. Crap a bottle of water and a Mars bar and you’re sorted.
4. Hydration packs. There a reason I put it at 4, I don’t like them at all, particularly when they’re full. But many wear them and have no issues at all so I accept I may be in the minority. I have a fairly cheap Decathlon one that I can’t fault, it’s comfy, doesn’t rub, no issues, I just don’t like having a bag on.


 
Posted : 20/09/2020 2:24 pm
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