The Running Thread - 2026

[StinkerBelle222]

I know this has been discussed in the past, but I feel like there may be some opinions on them at this point.

Thoughts on weighted vests *FOR WALKING* (and maybe weight training stuff as a supplement to dumbbells)? Fixed weight? Adjustable weight? Shape/design that you love or hate?

I only do walking and started using a weighted vest in February. I have noticed a big difference already. I purchased 2 different vests and this is the one that I decided to keep. It is adjustable from 6-18lbs. I started at 6 and have recently moved up to 9lbs. I preferred this Y style compared the the other vest I tried that was a U style. That one put too much pressure on my shoulders. The weight feels more centered and balanced with this one. My posture has improved dramatically, I feel that I engage my abs more on walks now and it makes me work a little harder in my walk so I feel like I am getting more bang for my buck.

Edited to add image.

 

[Fenway1970]

Congrats @jrsharp21! Nicely done!

 

[FFigawi]

But the more I think about the day, the more the needle creeps closer to possibly. Someone asked me what’s next. That is really where I am struggling with. What is next? I have three sprints scheduled for the summer. I think I will do 70.3 Waco again. I think after that I will make my decision if I do IMTX again. I already kind of feel like there is a hole in my life without a training plan this week. LOL.

When you do another one (they really are like potato chips or tattoos ), IMFL is a great race with conditions that are normally better and faster than IMTX. If you want to travel abroad and really have a good time, IM Hamburg and Challenge Roth are two of the fastest courses and best crowd experiences anywhere.

 

[Stitch&Co.]

Amazing accomplishment @jrsharp21! So much adversity to overcome and you did fantastic. It’s hard to make changes on the fly like that and then add in all the rain.