Here we are again, and the corner is filling up . Folk eager to pop inside for a warm by the fire and chance to sit and share what has been happening in their running!
My winter cushions are out, the curtains are drawn and we can relax.
Well. Catch-Up Corner is a great name and suits my running perfectly. I really need to catch up ! I have not run in an absolute age.., and if this icy snap does not disappear by the weekend.. I am not sure where I will have to go! Thank goodness for the challenges on the Strength and Flex forum , where I know some of you have been having look around. I am moving...just not in a running way! On the positive side... my arm strength is improving and the Adriene Yoga challenge is still keeping me calm : )
I do know, though, that many of you are finding a way to run and keep to your plans.
This is an odd time, a busy time. Winterval, Christmas on the way, and for many, many folk a time that potentially, can be fraught with worry; about money, family, illness, injury, strikes and everything in between. It can be hard, and add to that the fact that we may not be able to get out to run...it starts to feel a tad overwhelming!
I felt on that score we needed something to think about to lift our spirits and make us smile.
Imagine my surprise when in one of the replies to my Winter Running Blues post... I read something that seemed exactly right! I have Swimming24 to thank for that...her reply summed it up beautifully .
She wrote, ”I am not sure if others feel like me but my trainers have become a happy friend because I know that when I put them on and start to run I feel that sense of well-being “.
So then I got to thinking..!
OH no! Not again... but I did... and I thought... which bit of my running gear makes ME feel happy. Now you really do think that I have lost the plot, but I haven't. For me, there is one piece of running gear that, when I put it on, I think, yes, ,ready to go and ready for anything! My leggings! I have a lot.
All bought in sales and all worn regularly. Different leggings for different weathers and locations... spring ones, summer ones and winter ones. ! Because I also have a thing about wearing certain colours on certain days ( yes, I know...loopy), I do try to match the leggings to the day! They obviously serve a purpose... they keep me cool, warm, free from insect bites, sunburn and all manner of wind and weather. They make ME smile and what is more, they make OTHER folk smile. I have had many, many folk over my nearly seven years running, comment on them. Not other runners always but mainly folk I pass, on the fields, on the pavements and on the coast!
I have a very favourite pair... they are wearing very, very thin, and I wear them on special occasions. They were my first pair of what I call my sassy leggings. I wore them for my first post Graduation Run on a Winter's day in 2015 and I wore them for Tim's Run, and I shall wear them on Saturday... weather permitting for my seven year Runniversary ! I wonder if you can guess which they are in the photo... no prizes I am afraid.. Those are just some of my happy leggings... !
Okay.
Is there anyone as daft as me? What is your piece of happy running gear? Have you got one? Is it your shoes, your cap, a favourite pair of socks, a t shirt or a bit of tech gear. What is it that you have that you put it on, and feel happy, ready to run and ready to enjoy.
I REALLY hope we get some replies !
Looking forward to seeing and hearing from you.
Oldfloss x
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Great topic and a hard one to nail down. Shoes are key for me and I adore mine so that’s definitely on the shortlist but if I’m really honest, my bone conducting headphones are probably my favourite thing. I can listen to music, hear Coach Bennett but also chat to people I pass and hear the traffic. They’ve been game changing for me.
Speaking of chatting to people, I’ve seen some amazing leg coverings on recent runs and shared my approval as I passed. First lady wearing striped Christmas leggings in red and white. Very festive. Then on a run about a week later, passing the pubs, one lady had the most amazing sequin trousers. I nearly ran into a lamppost while telling her how much I liked them 😂. I think, based on the photo above, you would have approved
Those leggings sound fabulous... sequins! Christmas ones too.... I have Queen of Hearts capris for Summer ... red and white... but I like the idea of striped ones! Oh yes... headphones.
Yours sound very posh!!! I forgot about the benefits of CB and his dulcet tones...although why he is off with you I am not sure.. !
Thank you for popping in... I am off to look for sequin leggings! x
Love your display of leggings Oldfloss, a great collection, sassy leggings lol, good luck for your seven year anniversary run running in them on Saturday, most of my running are ran in normal running shoes with running socks to match, this morning I bought 4 pairs of new running socks, each sock is marked with a L or R letter, left or right foot, so no danger of me putting a sock on the wrong foot, I also bought a new pair of slippers and I am wearing both at this very moment, my feet are lovely and warm, temperature outside is - 5C, in the house +21C.
Glad you are toasty warm inside... it is blinking cold! I think your socks are definitely a happy addition.... and I will let you into a secret...mine have an L and and R on too! Glad you are here with us... x
👍 Thanks Oldfloss, I very much doubt that I will be at parkrun this weekend, the weather forecast for the next few days is snow on Friday, snow showers on Saturday and snow on Sunday quickly changing to rain.
If I don't get to parkrun on a Saturday I run what I call "a 3K maintenance run" usually in the park near to where I live, it happened last week, the parkrun was cancelled, however, I ran that 3K on part of the parkrun course.
The usual riddle is: you have a drawer with 10 pairs of identical red socks and 10 pairs of identical blue socks. How many do you have to take out of the drawer to make a matched pair. (The answer is three, because you don't care about the colour.)
BUT, for "handed" left and right socks, if they're of identical size and design, it's the same as waiting for a head to follow a tail (or vice versa) when tossing a coin.
You have a 50% chance when taking out two random socks of getting a left and a right, then each further sock is also a 50% chance of getting a L+R pair.
So, first pair drawn 50%, third sock from drawer 75%, fourth sock 87.5% (½+¼+⅛), fifth sock 93.75%...
Or as a ratio it's evens chance you're not going to get a suitable pair on the first go, one in four that you won't have a pair on the third sock, one in eight on the fourth, one in sixteen on the fifth, one in thirty-two on the sixth...
I think while mathematically correct, ignores the 100% chance than when you’re running late, all of the R socks have mutated to become L socks so you’re guaranteed to be annoyed when you finally give up looking for a R sock!
No, you're wrong about the perversity of things. If you're running really late, all the matching socks will have metamorphosed into wire coat hangers or non-working biros, or bits of small change in a foreign currency that doesn't exist any more.
Like most men I sometimes lose one of my socks when washing, from now on I will be very careful for that not to happen when washing, I don't want to wear 2 R or 2 L socks🤔
I love your collection of leggings! I’m also a bit of a fan of a bright print and have been accumulating quite a range in sales. I was wearing a pair of burgundy ones with a black leaf print when I fell over recently and I was so relieved they didn’t rip. That was the first thing I checked! Knees will heal but those leggings are discontinued so it’s great they survived!!!
I’ve got a perfect hat from Topshop of all places. I must have had it for fifteen years. It’s just a black beanie with little bear ears on. Slightly silly but not too much. I wear it all the time and I’d be gutted to lose it. I’m wearing it on at least 50% of the photos of me outdoors!
Probably my most treasured clothing items are my two tops from the half marathon I ran in October. One is the charity vest I wore on the day. I won’t wear that running because it’s got too much emotion in it. That’s in the memory box with the medal and photo of me with my friend who I ran for. The t-shirt I got at the end goes on all the time though. Perfect over a soft long sleeved base layer at the moment.
Just like Vespina , best tech purchase was bone conduction headphones. I wish I’d bought them ages ago. I’d recommend them to anyone.
Dear Misunderstanding, I LOVE the beanie description! That made me smile. I want one of those! I have a "dog" hat. It's just a pull over knit number with a miniature dog applique on it. When I take my dog out, I put it on and say, "I'm putting my dog hat on!" and she gets all excited--probably not understanding my little applique, but just seeing that she'll be going out in a trice.
Hi Oldfloss, it’s a sad time of year as running is on hold during this icy weather, I’m still struggling with my anxiety and running eases it, never mind, I’m sure the ice will go soon. Regarding running gear, odd as it seems it’s my bone conductor headphones, I know I’m going to be happy moving my feet to great tunes I’ve recorded. Let’s hope 2023 brings good health and plenty of enjoyable runs. 😊😊
Oh goodness, that is so hard. I do know exactly what you mean. That is why I am carrying on with my regular exercise regime inside and adding the extra bits! I am akso making sure I use the extra time to do a few more hand painted Christmas cards, and I can lose myself in that!
The earphones being the happy piece of your running gear seems to be something many folk agree with. I never thought of it, but can see why. Happiness coming with the tunes as you run and knowing that it makes you feel so good. It is obvious really
I feel that most of us will agree with your wishes for 2023. Healthy, happy and running !
Your cushion is here, any time you need to call in for a chat x
I struggle with anxiety, too--and really get tetchy if I can't run on a regularly scheduled run day. Running really helps. There's something special about the first 5 or so minutes of a run--it just makes me feel so free and good! I'm a caretaker for my husband who has dementia, severe hearing loss, macular degeneration, and is somewhat crippled from falling off a ladder. I really nag my son horribly until I can get out and do a run.
MissUnderstanding That hat....it sounds wonderful!!!And the leggings too....your HM vest...those precious items...Happy, yet tinged with deep emotion..so special.. and so good to know how we all have these individual items that are with us on our runs.
I need to look at these earphones now... I have some good ones...but...these sound pretty special.
I bought them because I love to run to music/podcasts but round the country lanes, the traffic can be a bit scary so you want to be able to hear. These headphones are great for that. They’re quite expensive but definitely for what I wanted them for, worth it. I’ve got the Shokz open run mini (for small heads!).
I did look at those beofre I got my Runar... I have ver small ears and I had a bit of problem with an ear infection... so i got over ear ones and they are fantastic...BUT... it is Christmas !
I run in an old wool coat. It is ragged! And uncomfortable for running, but is really warm. The dog has pulled down the lining so I've had to cut parts of the lining off. There are typically treats in one pocket and she noses under the wool outer part in search of those treats. I have thought of getting a new luxury model, top-of-the-line, running jacket at a local running store where I got my shoes and socks, but have not gotten around to it yet. But then I worry if Molly will rip it because she gets her teeth into a lot of things that she shouldn't, and my son says I don't need the jacket people wear to Mt. Everest--just a good, solid, running jacket.... So--soon I will get one--as soon as I find the time.
I know that you love that coat! It has got to be one of your happy bits of your running gear!
Maybe it is time to keep treats in a separate little bag so your dog does not destroy your clothes! A lightweight warm jacket with layers on underneath is the thing... son is right, you don't need quilted or padded... Take a look in the sales.. here at the moment the online shops are almost giving things away!
Dear Oldfloss, the coat is really ragged and old. The ends of the sleeves are no longer woven in some places, but for working outside, my coat is the ticket because it is WARM! A fashion statement it is not!!! I have been thinking of using my husband's passport holder thingy for treats and thinking it would save me some $$$ instead of buying a treat bag at the pet store, but I just haven't looked for it, wherever it is.... No, I need to ditch the old coat for running, reserve it for yard work (and dog walking,) and get a new number that I will NOT wear with Molly!
What a great pair of pins you have OF! My guess on your faves are ‘The Little Miss’ ones. Your running socks (top left look comfortable ones too) and I love the rainbow leggings (bottom left)! I just like buying bright coloured tops - I always wore black when I first started running as I didn’t want to be noticed but now I’m proud of getting out there.
I’m still not over my cold and have not run in 11 days up to now - and I’ve not even been doing any home workouts either, I’m just wiped out when I finish work. If this ice is here to stay for another week or do I’ll be waiting even longer as it’s too risky.,
I’m planning on a 5k run on Tuesday evening with my running club and to have a hot choc and mince pie afterwards 🤞🏻The thing is I don’t feel worried I won’t get back out there as the running pull is too strong - I need to run now so I’ll be patiently waiting.
I have new trail shoes to try running in so looking forward to testing them out.
Thanks for the cushion and have toasted my feet lovely and warm by the fire 🔥☺️ x
Good to have you here with us It is cosy isn't it?
Thank you! My legs are not so bad for an old 'un.... and now I have started building back the muscle tone, they do feel like, my, legs again... they did get a bit like sparrow legs !
Oh my goodness. These pesky colds and virus things are hitting so, so many folk really hard. Working when you feel like that is hard enough, let alone anything else. You are doing the right thing and listening to your body, which is telling you very clearly that you need to rest.
Ice is horrible. I fell once, ( not running ) and it was not good.
Your group run sounds just the thing. and a little treat afterwards, ideal. New shoes too to try out, even better, you can wear them in around the house and look forward to it!
We shall watch for your report , take care and thanks for popping in x
What a wonderful post … an absolute tonic! (Loved all the sock talk it generated too 🤣) The purple ones I think 🤔 Hopefully we will get a photo of the winning pair in a runniversary photo. Thinking of you tomorrow & hope it goes well. Please take care out there Oldfloss remembering all the good advice you give to us..especially when you haven’t run in a while…( another confession from me… neither have I … too icy 🥶 BUT I have been moving & grooving inside 🤣)
We all need to smile... times are so so tricky for so many right now...
Yes... the lovely AlMorr always makes me smile. He is so enthusiastic and supportive to all of us and is doing a fantastic job as an Ambassador. His running is inspirational and not just for folk like me, ( the more seasoned runner) !
I really hope that I may get out there. Mr OF has said he will run me down the hill to the fields if it is still icy! Photo will be taken!
I am so glad that you are being sensible too... it can be tempting to get out there, if the sun is shining and the sky is blue. Freezing fog makes it not so tempting.
Well done you...moving and grooving sounds perfect to me. YOU are going to LOVE next week's Catch Up Post! xxx
Thank you for the invite and the slightly Warhol influenced collage, watch out for the Holly and snags! Wow your cushions are cosy.
I've just had an invite from Strava to subscribe (again, I'm thinking about it) and the hook this time is I'll get to see my annual data which was free all previous years! I can still see a summary but not in the lovely graphic form, just raw data. BUT and here is the point, I've just this week ticked through 500kms of running since I started this running malarkey in mid April. Previously I used Strava for cycling and rambling, the latter I still do, the former I am missing a lot.
You asked what is your favourite gear and there it is, it has to be the tech that supports this journey. Yes you can run, cycle and ramble without tech. But when a loved one is anxious where you are and what you're up to, more importantly are you upright or prone, (MissUnderstanding! Hope you're getting better by the day), tech by way of Beacon on Strava has been a liberation.
Yes you have to put up with the odd call, "Why have you stopped?" "Strava's stopped, I can't see where you are?"! Thankfully 8 months on the insecurity of potential loss has diminished.
May be next year the tech will allow me to get back on the bike. The bike extends my range and before my stroke I had big ambitions for a cycling adventure. Necessarily cycling is often more remote to find the safe traffic free routes, but clearly an emergency would find or not find me ..........
I am a convert to running and it has given me my life back from a very low point following my stroke. Tech has been a big part of this comfort blanket including the linked Google wear smart watch. The stats of my clearly improving fitness at my age are very re-assuring. It's never too late......
Now in the scheme of things, especially compared with the stats of people who have run throughout their life , my stats are modest.
BUT I'M STUPIDLY PROUD OF THEM. THEY ARE THE BIGGEST XMAS PRESENT THIS YEAR.
Thank you C25K, thank you HU forum members. Merry Xmas
And if that is not HAPPY... I do not know what is! Your tech gear' has given you a HUGE smile and yes, you should be so proud of those stats!
We may underestimate the value of our technical stuff, but this really brings it home. I know Mr OF likes to know exactly where I am running and he has, like MissUnderstanding 's other half had to come to the rescue !
You have done incredibly and I really hope that the Gods smile on you and your technical accessories, to get out on your bike. There is I think something... an app ? I have seen advertised on TV? It is a cyclist, who has had a fall, and it alerts an emergency link??? I cannot remember what it is...it is not What3Words...
Maybe someone can help?
A nig Well DONE to you, and you are welcome to come and sit on the cushions her at any time at all. Keep us posted !
Leggings are my thing. I have a pair of camouflage leggings that were given to me as a birthday present by a very good friend and I really love them. Unfortunately they are not warm enough to wear in this freezing cold winter weather.
i love my running gear as well, i also have a lot of leggings, but mostly black, long and short ones, winter and summer ones, my Asics Gel Cumulus 23 in Fuschia pink (and i'm not a pink kinda gal) i feel really fit just putting them on with my wireless ear buds and music even before i go out the door lol. However, haven't been out for a week now with this freezing cold snow and ice (dont want to break nay bones!) i did see a man running in the icey pavements and i thought good for you mate, whilst i sat in my 21c warm car lol, i hope it clears by Sunday as i am itching to get outside, i did try a run on my treadmill but hurt my knee (i must be running weird or stiff on it) and my knee still aches today, but can't wait to get outside again
I joined C25k about 3 months ago but don't usually post anything, i just love to read everyone else's posts and have taken on board all of the excellent advice on here and i bought 3 pairs of Asics Gel Cumulus 23 in the same colour (even though i don't wear pink lol) all in the sale so i have 2 extra pairs when first ones eventually wear out. My wireless ear buds were just £20 from amazon but they are fantastic and i can control the sound and stop/start with a touch of the finger (even though i have an Apple Iphone i can't justify purchasing their wireless ear buds for hundreds of pounds)
That man i saw this morning was running slow but the pavement he was running on was really icey all along and i would not take the chance, i broke my foot 3 years ago and as a 59 yr old I don't want to ever go through that again as it takes so long to heal and i don't want to stop the programme as i love being outside and running.
Love your funky leggings as well, i do have some colourful patterned ones i bought recently but wont wear them yet until the better gets a bit better.
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Fish, chips and mushy peas!
Hello all - 71 years old and hoping to run!
FAQ Post C25K COMPLETED…….WHAT NEXT?
