The Running Thread - 2016

[Baloo in MI]

QOTD: What training program did you use when you first started running if any? Why did you make that decision?

I was a runner in school, both cross-country and track. But after graduating I let it go. A few times I would run some but never stuck to it. Then a few years ago I just decided that I wanted to be a runner again. I ran for almost two years on my own before finally deciding to try a race; Goofy Challenge. To prep for it I used a Galloway plan. It worked very well for prepping me.

QOTD: Lets discuss running shorts. What do you like or dislike in a pair of running shorts? What are you looking for when you buy shorts?

I prefer medium length shorts. Nothing to short or a running friend of mine will refer to them as "old man running shorts", and that hits too close to home! I don't like long shorts either though, especially in hot weather. I do prefer dark colors and they must have pockets. Lastly they must coordinate with my shirt and if they can wrap in with the shoes then that is a bonus and I am sure I run faster!

 

[Kathymford]

QOTD: Lets discuss running shorts. What do you like or dislike in a pair of running shorts? What are you looking for when you buy shorts?

Count me in the RUNderthighs group. SparkleSkirts have been a lifesaver for me, as I like to wear as little as possible (family friendly of course) and shorts are just not long enough. I was a capri girl until I started running longer distances; luckily I found sparkle skirts and haven't looked back. I recently discovered Inknburn also. I've never been a print girl, so this is all new Kathy for 2016! Why are all my obsessions so expensive??

Mmmmm ... Sports Beans. No lie, I had some the other day as an afternoon snack because they were there and sounded delicious at the time.

Yes! I love the sport beans!! I never want the gels during a run, just too goopy (I am perpetually dehydrated, though getting better). The beans are my go-to now. I use the waffles too, but I find the ones I like kind of messy. So now I've switched to the waffle pre-race/breakfast.

 

[Miranda]

At a race, I saw someone do something with their key that I probably wouldn't have thought of. He went to some rocks near his car and put the key underneath one. I know they sell little boxes that you can attach to the underside of your car, too. Mine usually goes in my SparkleSkirt waistpouch, but I do have trouble sometimes because I also use magnetic Race Dots for my bib, and then sometimes my shirt gets stuck to my waistband because the magnets attach to my key.

 

[The Expert]

My FlipBelt has a tether and plastic hook inside that I can attach to my key or keyring before tucking them into the belt. I've never had it work its way out, but if it did, it wouldn't go anywhere.

 

[run.minnie.miles]

I like any shorts with a thick, soft waistband... makes my tummy look a little better Currently loving an UA pair.


Does anyone struggle with their feet? Any suggestions on casual shoes to wear outside of running?

 

[keahgirl8]

QOTD: Lets discuss running shorts. What do you like or dislike in a pair of running shorts? What are you looking for when you buy shorts?

I only wear Old Navy compression shorts. I'm tall, and I don't want anything bunching or rubbing, so they have to be pretty long. I'm gradually getting them a little shorter, just because I found some on sale. They're still considered long though, just not as long!

Mmmmm ... Sports Beans. No lie, I had some the other day as an afternoon snack because they were there and sounded delicious at the time.

I LOVE Sport Beans. I missed the original question, but that is what I use when I run any longer than 1 hour. I eat a few every 30 minutes. I also like Honey Stinger chews, but they aren't as convenient to carry. They're bigger, harder to chew, and more sticky. As fuel though, they're just as good.

I'm pretty picky on how stuff touches me - like, I don't want to feel it at all or else it annoys me.

Me too! I don't even like my hair touching me. I put my hair in a ponytail bun and wear a headband. If any of my hair comes down and touches me, I have to redo it. lol

QOTD: Lets discuss running shorts. What do you like or dislike in a pair of running shorts? What are you looking for when you buy shorts?

ATTQOTD: As a tall, self conscious, newish (2 yrs) runner, I was apprehensive to wear running shorts. However, I am always hot when I'm running, so I decided to just go for it (and really after the first 5 minutes of running, my shorts are the last thing I'm thinking about). I've found I love & need the small zippered pocket for my key. For my first half marathon, I put my key in my armband and actually lost it at the end of the race when I took my phone out to turn off Strava. Spent a good 15 minutes looking for it, and somehow managed to find it. I prefer dark colors because they go with everything. And, after trying both I prefer the built in compression as opposed to the built in underwear.

Exactly. I care a little about what I look like, but mostly I care about being comfortable. I get really hot when I run, so shorts and a tank top it is! I kind of feel like vanity has little place in running for me.

My FlipBelt has a tether and plastic hook inside that I can attach to my key or keyring before tucking them into the belt. I've never had it work its way out, but if it did, it wouldn't go anywhere.

I have never lost anything out of a Flipbelt. I love that thing! Have you tried carrying water in it? I have a bottle, but I've only tested it walking.

Does anyone struggle with their feet? Any suggestions on casual shoes to wear outside of running?

I used to, before I wore proper shoes! In the summer, I wear Oofos. In the winter, or if I'm going to be walking a lot, I wear the same style of shoes I run in.

 

[asheleycs]

QOTD: Lets discuss running shorts. What do you like or dislike in a pair of running shorts? What are you looking for when you buy shorts?

Like others, I don't run in shorts. Also, I'm too big for most athletic brands. I can't really fit into XL Under Armour or Nike. However, well-fitting, tight capris, knee-length shorts, or pants are critical to prevent chafing, which is the fastest way to quit this whole running thing. I'm also particularly sweaty (which may or may not be related to my weight), but tights keep sweat from worsening that chafing.

In case anyone on here (or lurking) also has this problem... I really like the outlet version of Gap for capris. The XL is fine for me (about a size 18-20), and they also go to XXL. (This is not true for retail Gap, and their XL runs smaller.) I also have some from Old Navy that I like, but they changed their material to something more cotton-y and I find it holds too much sweat. I also LOVE Athleta, which carries plus sizes online. 1x is perfect, but they also have 2x. Lane Bryant, the (unfortunate) standard in clothing for plus size women, carries workout clothes. However, their prices are near those of Athleta, but with Old Navy quality. But they do have sizes for women who might not otherwise be able to find them. If anyone is looking for workout clothes in plus sizes, let's just say I have a lot of experience--feel free to ask.

I really want a Sparkle Skirt. I think the hiker length would work, and they come in larger sizes, but I'm just not convinced the shorts won't roll on my chubby thighs. It's a lot of money to end up disappointed. If anyone has experience with the larger sizes, I'd love to hear about it.

 

[Miranda]

I really want a Sparkle Skirt. I think the hiker length would work, and they come in larger sizes, but I'm just not convinced the shorts won't roll on my chubby thighs. It's a lot of money to end up disappointed. If anyone has experience with the larger sizes, I'd love to hear about it.

I am about an 18 and wear a L in SS. The shorts stay put. I'd reconsider the hikers for running, though. I thought I might want a hiker because I am tall (6'0") with long legs, but they are too long, too much fabric. The general consensus is usually hikers are good for casual wear, but most people run in swings or slims (unless they are tall and in the smaller sizes). They are pricey, but there are also fan groups on FB where there are resales and you can get them for a little cheaper to try out (although the down side is that you can't return them... but you can probably resell it again )

 

[The Expert]

I have never lost anything out of a Flipbelt. I love that thing! Have you tried carrying water in it? I have a bottle, but I've only tested it walking.

Yes! In fact, just yesterday I tried it for the first time with one of their water bottles. I got the smaller size (6 oz) that fits in the belt and put it at the small of my back. It didn't move or slosh at all and it was great to have! I did buy two and could carry both if I were doing a longer run. https://flipbelt.com/water-bottles

 

[Kathymford]

@asheleycs there is a Sparkle Skirts group on FB (well, there are a few), and believe me there are all different kinds of people in there! All ages, sizes and people from all over the place. It's a resale group too and sometimes you can find a pretty good deal. PM me if you want more information. Honestly, almost everyone who ever tries these skirts, is converted. At least in my experience. Hoping to convert a few more women at this year's DLH expo!

 

[LSUlakes]

I used to insist on the zippered key pocket as well when I drive to the trails, but I went a little while ago and wore the "wrong" shorts so I had nowhere to put my Jeep key. I ended up just hiding my key up in the wheelwell and it worked out fine, and I've used that trick a couple times since. Maybe I'm just too trusting towards trail runners and hikers??

I know a lot of folks used to do that at the main area in town called Baton Rouge Beach (Not so much a beach). It went on for years until someone who isn't a runner noticed people doing it and would wait and watch for people to do exactly that, then when they took off for the run, he would just take their car. This went on for 2-3 weeks I believe before they caught the guy. So, just be aware of who may be watching while you hide your key.

I also use magnetic Race Dots for my bib, and then sometimes my shirt gets stuck to my waistband because the magnets attach to my key.

I tried those race dots before, because it looked like a solid idea. Well those things are the devil! Even if I get them on correctly, as soon as I start running they move around so much they just all and up stuck together into this big ball that was the front of my shirt and bib. They are awesome for the fridge now. Glad you are having more success than I did.

 

[Miranda]

I tried those race dots before, because it looked like a solid idea. Well those things are the devil! Even if I get them on correctly, as soon as I start running they move around so much they just all and up stuck together into this big ball that was the front of my shirt and bib. They are awesome for the fridge now. Glad you are having more success than I did.

They do take some practice to get on. It's actually easier to get them pinned on when the shirt is not on, but if you don't pick up your bib ahead of time, then you have to do some contortions. One time I did have a problem with it folding up on itself... it was a really small bib and they were just too close together. Most of the larger bibs they have been ok.

I have had some issues in the portapotty with them folding up on themselves, though. Portapotties are always a challenge for me when it's warm... trying to get spandex compression shorts/skirt off (or back on especially) after I've already started sweating and they are stuck, without losing anything out of the pockets or touching anything that I don't want to be touching. If I am twisting around too much I sometimes get the bib folded up on itself.

If I never had to use another race portapotty, I would be a really happy lady.

 

[keahgirl8]

Yes! In fact, just yesterday I tried it for the first time with one of their water bottles. I got the smaller size (6 oz) that fits in the belt and put it at the small of my back. It didn't move or slosh at all and it was great to have! I did buy two and could carry both if I were doing a longer run. https://flipbelt.com/water-bottles

Good to know! I have the 6oz also. I got it before a race, but I walked that one and I've been treadmilling lately, so I haven't given it a good road test yet.

I tried those race dots before, because it looked like a solid idea. Well those things are the devil! Even if I get them on correctly, as soon as I start running they move around so much they just all and up stuck together into this big ball that was the front of my shirt and bib. They are awesome for the fridge now. Glad you are having more success than I did.

They are a huge pain to get on sometimes, and you have to be careful if you sit down in your bib. Once I'm running though, I don't notice them at all!

 

[keahgirl8]

They do take some practice to get on. It's actually easier to get them pinned on when the shirt is not on, but if you don't pick up your bib ahead of time, then you have to do some contortions. One time I did have a problem with it folding up on itself... it was a really small bib and they were just too close together. Most of the larger bibs they have been ok.

I have had some issues in the portapotty with them folding up on themselves, though. Portapotties are always a challenge for me when it's warm... trying to get spandex compression shorts/skirt off (or back on especially) after I've already started sweating and they are stuck, without losing anything out of the pockets or touching anything that I don't want to be touching. If I am twisting around too much I sometimes get the bib folded up on itself.

If I never had to use another race portapotty, I would be a really happy lady.

Haha! The Race Dot struggle is real. I still can't find anything I like better though.

 

[baxter24]

QOTD: Lets discuss running shorts. What do you like or dislike in a pair of running shorts? What are you looking for when you buy shorts?.

I don't run in shorts. I made the switch to running capris and tights a few years ago and haven't looked back. The tights and capris are way more comfortable to me and I don't feel like I am tugging at them like I did shorts.

 

[disneydaydreamer33]

I prefer capris to shorts. But when it's really hot, I will wear one of my random shorts I've purchased over the years. The ones I like best happen to be basics since they seem roomier. I've worn sparkle athletic skirts with either compression shorts or capris for races. I've had sparkle skirts on my list of "rewards" forever (yes, I am an adult that bribes myself to reach my goals- health or otherwise), but always end buying other things over a sparkle skirt. One of these days, I'm going to get one and I'm sure I will love it!

 

[camaker]

Haha! The Race Dot struggle is real. I still can't find anything I like better though.

Count me among those who loved the idea of Race Dots, but not the reality. I got tired of fighting to get them situated the night before a race and then struggling to get the shirt on without the magnets folding the bib over to stick to themselves!

I have switched over to Amphipod race belts and not looked back. I routinely run in an Amphipod Microstretch Belt (which stretches plenty to hold an iPhone 6s+ comfortably) and the race belt just adds two sliding tabs to the belt that hold the bib in place with no issues.

 

[Slogger]

I know a lot of folks used to do that at the main area in town called Baton Rouge Beach (Not so much a beach). It went on for years until someone who isn't a runner noticed people doing it and would wait and watch for people to do exactly that, then when they took off for the run, he would just take their car. This went on for 2-3 weeks I believe before they caught the guy. So, just be aware of who may be watching while you hide your key.



I tried those race dots before, because it looked like a solid idea. Well those things are the devil! Even if I get them on correctly, as soon as I start running they move around so much they just all and up stuck together into this big ball that was the front of my shirt and bib. They are awesome for the fridge now. Glad you are having more success than I did.

Same advice can be used for vacationing at the beach. You never know who's watching where you put your keys, wallet, camera, etc.

Race dots were a disaster for me too......always sticking to the other dots and let's not even discuss a simple bathroom break. Safety pins work just fine.

 

[Slogger]

ATTQOTD-running shorts. I'm not very picky about my running shorts and have a variety of lengths that I use. UA, Nike, Champion are the brands that work fine. I prefer pockets and always careful to keep valuables in one pocket and gels in the other. I used to keep them in same pocket and almost lost my id that way.

Haven't tried the sparkleskirts but promised my wife that I would consider it if I ever run a Princess event.

 

[keahgirl8]

I don't run in shorts. I made the switch to running capris and tights a few years ago and haven't looked back. The tights and capris are way more comfortable to me and I don't feel like I am tugging at them like I did shorts.

If tights and capris work for you, great. If you did ever get too hot and want to try shorts again, I might suggest you try a different kind. If you're tugging on them, they're not the right shorts. I never give my shorts a second thought, because they stay put.

Count me among those who loved the idea of Race Dots, but not the reality. I got tired of fighting to get them situated the night before a race and then struggling to get the shirt on without the magnets folding the bib over to stick to themselves!

I have switched over to Amphipod race belts and not looked back. I routinely run in an Amphipod Microstretch Belt (which stretches plenty to hold an iPhone 6s+ comfortably) and the race belt just adds two sliding tabs to the belt that hold the bib in place with no issues.

I don't know if I'd like a bib down there. It sounds like a good idea when I think about not having a bib on my shirt, but I think it would bug me. Plus, I'm pretty attached to my Flipbelt!