With 1 week to go until the Run Reigate 10k, I have pretty mixed feelings about my training.
Sunday was the Great North Run and I will admit it knocked me a little thinking that I was missing out, even though I know deferring was the right decision. I never like giving up on a challenge but at the moment I am just not enjoying pushing myself on runs, preferring to take my time, stop for photos and take walking breaks when required.
I'm up to running 9km as my training plan suggested by this point, but I wouldn't say it was comfortable and I'm not feeling optimistic about a PB- I've only managed two runs per week instead of the three I was hoping for and have definitely slacked off on the yoga. Still I don't want to seem all doom and gloom! This is the longest I've run for about 6 months (Richmond Riverside 10k in March) and with my asthma, transitioning from cycling to running has been much harder than anticipated - particularly with the warmer weather.
A few bits of new kit have definitely helped to put a spring in my step though! It might seem shallow but new shoes or new running leggings give me an incentive to go out, if only to test them out. And I have to say I'm a huge fan of my new Brooks Adrenaline GTS*. I've always run in the Ravenna, but the Adrenaline offer a little more support and cushioning which can only be a good thing with my dodgy knee. I've been wearing them with some Skins compression capris* from the new Dnamic range which have the most amazing patterns and prints! The gradient compression is designed to support the glutes, quads and hamstrings, increasing oxygen delivery and reducing lactic acid build up. They definitely feel super comfortable to wear and have helped get me through my last couple of long runs with minimal achiness.
The Fitbit Surge* is my latest gadget as well - this comes with built in GPS as well as the heart rate monitor and step tracker. You can also log other workouts such as hiking, yoga and weights, and view your calls and texts! However, the first few days of use I was really disappointed in the battery life. Using the GPS was running it down so fast that I was basically having to charge the watch every day. However, once I let it run completely down (I put it in my bag and forgot about it for a day) and then charged it again, the battery seems much better. Don't get me wrong, the GPS still eats up the charge but it now lasts for around 3-4 days and I'm really enjoying using it. I can sync it directly with Strava and I really like having just one watch that does everything instead of a Fitbit and a Garmin.
Of course, not everyone enjoys running with tech, but I like seeing my (slow) progress and earning my Vitality rewards, Bounts and Earthmiles from racking up the steps too. It is probably a bit too bulky to sleep in really but I've kind of got used to it being on my wrist, although I do wish the strap was a bit shorter (I've got the large).
I will definitely be sticking these items on my kit list for next weekend's race, as well as packing my trusty Jabra wireless headphones and wearing a Shock Absorber bra - my absolute running essentials!
What are your thoughts on running tech? Any new items on your race day packing list recently?
Beki x
NB: Items with an * next to them have been gifted to me for review, but as always all opinions are my own.
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I've also got a 10k race this weekend... sounds like your training is going a lot better than mine! I've probably averaged one 6k run a week over the last month or so, oops. My main problem is that at the moment I'd much rather be on a bike, haha
I can relate Katy! Good luck with your 10k this weekend 🙂
I do love running tech! I've recently brought a new Polar but that's more to look into my HR training rather than my mileage.
I have a 10km in a few weeks and I've only ran 10km once since signing up, some last minute miles and no PB for me! But I don't mind, sometimes it's nice just to run without pressure and enjoy it 🙂
Have a great race! x
Thanks Katie - sometimes it's better just to take the pressure off yourself as you say 🙂 I'd love to hear how you get on with the Polar HR tracker!
I think we're in the same place when it comes to running at the moment! I've been finding things really difficult for awhile now, and I'm not sure where the love has gone. It's frustrating when every run feels like a push and the spark isn't there. You'll be great next week, and there's nothing wrong with not pushing yourself and simply enjoying the ride xx
Sorry to hear you're also struggling Bethan but I can definitely relate! It's definitely frustrating but I think that perhaps taking the pressure off will help me to regain a bit of the enjoyment 🙂 I hope you find that too!
I'm not aiming for a PB at the half marathon this weekend either - I'll give it a good go (hopefully) but I know I'm not in PB shape! I love tech. I like having all the data and info after a run. I know people can say that sometimes you just need to run without all the baggage but for me it's a big part of why I love running. I'm a geek at heart and I love analysing things afterwards like the route I took, elevation etc. I accept that some runs are slow and some are better!
A few new additions to my race day pack are: bodyglide, fruit pastilles and flip flops for afterward. Do you recommend the Skins compression tights?
Yes, definitely - the Skins compression tights are great, and do seem to mean my legs are less achey after a run!
I always put face wipes in my race bag too, as I get a lot of dried salt on my face and feel so much better once I have wiped it all off.
Don't feel pressure to always be chasing a pb either- there is nothing wrong with running a race to run somewhere new, or to run a distance alongside other, or to earn the medal or t-shirt.
I like technology when I am running, but I don't always look at my Garmin while I am running, sometimes I look at it after on Strava just to see how I got on. Other times I will be aiming for a certain pace so I keep an eye on it. I like the bounts and earth miles too, and I signed up to running heroes but have not redeemed any of those points yet.
Enjoy the race!
Face wipes are a good call Maria! And thanks, I am definitely excited for the medal 🙂