Running 4 Women » safety

Winter Is Coming

Peter — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:27:10 +0000

Winter is coming…………….

Ok, so a month ago I folded away my summer kit and started to dig out the running tights, jackets, log sleeve tops and even had the hats and gloves ready in my running draw. It was mid September and autumn was on its way. Then last week I was frantically trying to find my shorts, vests and sun cream, as it was nearly 30 degrees again at the start of October!
Madness, and no wonder us Brits spend half our lives talking about the weather. If you ask my dad what’s the weather going to do later, he’ll say “clearing up”, and to be honest I think he’s always right.

However, the reality is that the mad British winter is on its way and us runners need to get organized. There really is so much to think about at this time of year. What kit will I need and will the colour of my new tights match my favourite running jacket? Have I got a pair of trail shoes for when the park and paths get a little muddy, and where did I leave my reflective top and flashing running light? That’s right, the clocks go back soon and it will be dark by 5pm! God this is all so depressing isn’t it, and I’ve got to start thinking about Christmas presents soon as well…..!

It really is the time of year where you could start to slip into those bad habits. Its raining outside so I wont bother with that run today, or its quite cold actually so I think I will run tomorrow. Some of us will even find it a chore to get into the car and run on the treadmill in the gym. It’s all just too much.

But is it really? To be honest we see it totally differently and its time to get excited about the changing seasons. Lets make some plans and set some new goals. Lets also try a few things that are maybe new to our running mix.

First of all, have you got the right kit for all winter weather? Yes those base layers, long tights, visible running jackets or gillets and the all important matching hats and gloves. Be safe, seen and be warm this winter.
Are you going to make it to the park if its wet or icy, well you might if you invest in a pair of quality trail shoes? Have a look at what the brands have on offer and treat yourself to better grip, support and maybe even a waterproof Gortex option.

Have you joined that running group, club or set up some buddy sessions. You know you are far more likely to leave the front door if you run with friends this winter. It’s certainly much safer when running in the dark. There really are so many running groups out there these days. Have a look online or maybe ask around on the running4women community.

Set yourself some short term and long-term targets. The bigger long-term target might be a 10k, half or full marathon next spring. Have you entered it yet? Don’t get caught out guys, the best Spring 2012 races are already selling fast………….get that entry in and put the date in the dairy. This is now your main long-term goal.
Have a look at the local 5k Saturday Park Runs and maybe a goal for December and January. Perhaps it will be your first trail race or a 10k. Whatever it is, be excited and put it in the diary. We certainly recommend a 5k once a month to keep you motivated and focused.

Finally, look forward to some of the inspirational moments the winter can bring. Running through the frost in the park, seeing your own breath or the mist lifting, splashing through the puddles and that warm glow as you return to the indoors knowing you are a real runner who loves all seasons.

Have fun guys and stay safe…………………….

Phoebe & Nick

www.runningwithus.com

Uban Tool Sports Holster

Peter — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 10:32:51 +0000

Urban Tool Product Review – SportsHolster

by ez

The very last thing anyone wants is to be carrying loose change, keys or a mobile phone in their pockets. What usually happens is that we end up hiding our stuff somewhere which of course isn’t safe and constantly plays on the mind while we’re on the move. The Sports holster was sent to us to test and we’ve found it to be an absolutely perfect accessory, It is basically a vest type holster which fits on the upper torso as tight as a glove and allows for storing all of the above mentioned items within the straps themselves. This leads to you being able to go for a run without any worry at all and seeing as the vest is very snug, means that every movement is possible without any problems. If you really want, you have a storage space in the back part that can hold your mp3 player.

Style – Looks cool. Comes in a choice of two colours (black or yellow)and three sizes (Small, Medium or Large). Score: 5/5

Fit - Very snug fit. The instant you put it on you forget that you are wearing it. When running the holster remains snug and doesn’t move at all, so full marks here. Score:5/5

Weight – Super lightweight. What more can be said? Score: 5/5

Durability – Material feels tough and from testing we’d say that they hold up well even in extreme conditions Score: 5/5

Value - You need to search around but on the net they can be found for about £33 which isn’t cheap but as an example – at a recent training session Blue and Sticky had their unattended bags stolen which contained keys, money, train tickets home, mobile phones and an mp3 player. All of this ran into a few hundred pounds and could have been avoided with something like the holster, so in our opinion this is value for money. Score: 5/5

Overall – If you have anything of value on you while training and want complete peace of mind, look no further. Score: 5/5

Some Simple Do’s and Dont’s

Peter — Wed, 12 May 2010 14:06:29 +0000

Do’s

Have a health check.
Ensure that you buy running shoes that are correct for you.
Find out if there is a group to run with in your area – if not assemble your own through the Running4Women. network.
Determine safe, well lit areas to run, or find an adequate gym if you are working on a treadmill.
Be imaginative and creative in your choice of training routes.
Progress patiently.
Keep a sense of purpose and structure to your running.
Adopt an holistic approach.
Determine when is the most effective and realistic time of day for you to run.
Set goals but hurry slowly.
Ensure your running enhances and enriches your lifestyle.
Be positive about what YOU can achieve irrespective of all the doubters.
Enjoy the time to yourself that running provides.
Find a little time to stretch before and after your runs.

Don’ts

Be put off by anyone.
Run with colds or injuries.
Buy shoes for their looks.
Try to do too much too quickly.
Run alone in the dark at night.
Allow your running to make you feel rushed.
Doubt what you can achieve.