hello ,
I’m running Reading half next Sunday and have never participated in any race before 🙈🤣 I need advice on the best running belt that is small (I’m a size 6) and that doesn’t bounce about , I have a zelafit vest thing which I normally put my phone in but also not sure about where to put my race number if I wear a layer , it’s all new to me so I’m just looking for the easiest way to take my phone really and help with the race bib thing as it has to be visible and has the chip in
Thank you
Exciting! and maybe a tiny bit scary too with all the unknowns of your first event 🦋
I'm not sure of the shape of a zelafit vest, but I have an Aonijie vest and there is plenty of room below it to attach my bib to my top over my tummy. A quick google suggests you will be fine.
Layers and bibs are a bit tricky if you think you'll be peeling a layer off part way through the run. Normally I would say attach it across your tummy, to your top layer; but if you think you'll be peeling that off you could pin it to the top of one of your legs (at the front). The chp should still work if it's under a top or jacket, but it would be missed on photos (and it's usually the bib number that is used to identify your photos).
If you choose not to wear the vest (perhaps because it's cooler without it), and it is only your phone you need to carry in a belt, it shouldn't bounce about too much. There are so many varieties and options. I use a Flipbelt (but am not a size 6!). They come in different sizes, the smallest being XXS which they say is 24inch before stretching. Amazon have the zip version readily available in XXS, but not the cheaper Classic version amazon.co.uk/FlipBelt-Zippe... There are lots of other cheaper brands on Amazon.
Alternatively if you pop to your local running shop, you could try on whatever they have in stock and jump about a bit 😍
Can I add your name to our spreadsheet so we can give you a big shout out the Friday before your race? It's amazing how many people will be ready to give their support and you won't be alone, we already have one HU member on our spreadsheet for the Reading half.
Just make sure you enjoy the atmosphere - race magic is a wonderful thing. Oh, and if you have the time, do post a race report to let us know how you get on. We love reading race reports here 😊
Thank you for your advice so helpful I’ll have a look at the vest, I think I might try and just wear one t shirt and not layers , someone said they just wear a top at the start when you’re standing around and just leave it there and charities pick them up which is good.
Of course you can add me and yes I’m scared lol I had a bad back only 3 weeks ago couldn’t do anything for 2 weeks , ran 15k last night with a small stop to meet running club that’s the furthest I’ve done , I’m relying on my sheer bloody mindedness and the crowd to get me through ! 🙈🤣
That's spot on about clothes at the start. Just take something old that you don't mind leaving. If it's raining or windy, a black bin bag with a hole cut in the top is another way to keep warm and dry before the start 😍 Try to stretch a bit to warm your back up before starting - knowing you did 15k last night must be a great confidence boost though. Treat the legs to shorter, easy running from now til the run - fresh legs are a great weapon, and you'll lose no fitness between now and then!Determination will be invaluable, and the atmosphere will be awesome. You've got this 😊
Thank you 😊😊
Sheer bloody mindedness is the most important thing to take along with you, it will definitely carry you from you furthest run of 15k to the finish line. I use a Naked running belt but they can be hard to get hold of. Very best of luck with race day, hope you have a great run.
If you only need a belt to carry a phone then something really cheap from Amazon will do that has adjustable elastic bits. As others have mentioned a flipbelt works fine but you need to make sure you get the right size.
Lots of great advice already there but I thought I’d throw in my experience.
I use this belt for HMs and it’s fab as it doesn't budge, is super comfortable and you can adjust the fit around the waist. It carries my phone and a few bits and pieces.
amazon.co.uk/Lava-Activ-Hyd...
If you pin your bib a bit higher up on your chest then that avoids the belt issue. Alternatively I’ve seen some runners pin their bib to their thigh so that might be an option. You just need to make sure that the timing chip is clear. Another way is to put your top over the belt rather than under.
Enjoy your taper and watch out for the pompom post on Friday 🥳
I don't have much advice beyond what has been said. However, you've chosen a great event! I did this last year and am doing it again this year. It has a brilliant atmosphere! I'm a back of the packer and they are so inclusive to people like me too - the supporters were still out as I was running - it was just fab! The only thing is it looks like being wet this year so that may affect the lovely people who stand outside and cheer you on.
First half marathon completed 
Warwick Half Marathon
Carney Half Marathon and 10k - First competitive Half Marathon.
Hertfordshire Half Marathon
October Half Marathon Group: Strategies 😊
