Saying hello and looking for recommendations

[mhdd1997]

Hi all,

New to running, C25K and the forum. I've just completed W5R1 this morning and continue to be excited by the progress I've made and how much I'm enjoying running.

I've got the shoes, the earbuds, the new leggings are on their way but I'm looking for recommendations for tops.

I'm currently running in cotton t-shirts and they've been fine so far but with the warmer weather and longer runs, I want to get something that'll deal with the sweat better.

My main issue is being a larger lady - 18/20 on top, depending on the brand - who doesn't want skinny fit that exposes all the lumps and bumps. I also like something with a bit of length on the back to hide the bum. Lots of brands seem to stop at 16/18.

Any suggestions for larger tops, reasonably priced as I'm already shifting weight and am hoping I'll need to downsize gradually in coming months?

Thanks in advance.

[Cmoi Graduate]

Decathlon? See here: decathlon.co.uk/sports/runn...

The KIPRUN Run 500 Dry Women's Breathable Running T-shirt looks like it'd meet your requirements. £9.99, and there's a code for 10% off if you buy two or more.

[CBDB Ambassador]

I can empathise!

I have different combinations of tops that I wear, but as I often wear a running belt, I use the two layer solution:

1) winter and cooler weather: long sleeved t-shirt (mine initially were from a sale at lands end, but I have some Concept2 ones as well) and sleeveless light or thicker fleece (fleece from decathlon, my lighter one fits loosely but is a men’s size)

2) spring and autumn: short sleeved T-shirt (this can be a technical T-shirt, snug fitting. I picked some up at some races) and either my sleeveless light fleece or if it’s warm, a supper loose sleeveless tank top. (The tank top I picked up as a set of two in Switzerland, but they have been so great for this purpose as they were designed to be loose fitting as they were part of a layered look)

3) summer and hot days: one shape-hugging sleeveless tank top (I have some technical ones again from races or some from Lands end in various colours) and over this my super loose sleeveless tank top.

As you can tell, I like the layers. And I find them useful as I wear a running belt over my first layer, and the second layer covers the running belt.

not sure this helps but maybe gives some ideas.

[Mummycav Administrator Graduate]

decathlon..I was going to share the link but Cmoi beat me to it 🏃‍♀️

[MissUnderstanding Administrator]

Firstly, yes always to Decathlon!!

M and S Good Move t shirts are great. These ones are longer at the back…I’ve got two in different colours. They’re a little more expensive but I was seduced by the bum coverage!

marksandspencer.com/scoop-n...

I like Sainsburys and Tesco activewear for t-shirts, and I’ve had some nice bits from Lidl middle aisle too. You’ve got to be a bit lucky with what’s there. Vinted could also be your friend for bargains to buy and for selling when your T-shirts don’t fit you.

Wishing you loads of luck with the programme. You’re doing something brilliant for yourself and I really hope it goes well. Can’t wait to hear how you get on!

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Lidl... lots of choices and check out some of the brand names and sales!

Layers , as CBDB suggests... and take a look on the online Oxfam Shop too... T shirts a plenty there!

HUGE well done to you... !

[mhdd1997]

Thank you all so much - that's a huge help for now and for the future.

And for the good wishes too - four weeks ago I'd never have believed it be looking at running 20 minutes solid this week and feeling that's achievable!