I blew my very first race yesterday. Was out there in a vest and shorts when it suddenly started raining and a super cold wind came on. I freaked out, completely lost control of my heart rate, and had to walk run walk run to the finish line, shivering like an idiot. Solid last person at the finish line. Turns out I wasn't the absolute "loser", though. The people behind me simply dropped out at the halfway mark, which for some reason was never even an option in my mind. I almost started crying when the spectators at the finish line started clapping and yelling "Go go go" as I wobbled in... so, holy moly, I did it. I'm embarrassed, but also proud of myself. Better luck next time, I guess. 😅💙 Forgot to mention: I was out there again today, same weather conditions, solid 8k easy run. Got soaked messy, but I'm happy. 💪😇🏃🏻♀️💨
I just got a bit wobbly reading this comment… so much is mind over matter! The fact that you pressed on despite it getting hard is so inspiring, you totally deserved all those cheers!
@@Nick-pk4sq Thank you! Seriously, I needed to hear that because it does make me feel like a weakling when I can't do my best. (My problem is, I have paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia. It's triggered by stress, dehydration, going too hard during exercise, and sometimes just sudden discomfort (like a cold gust of wind when already wet from the rain 😅), and once your heartrate shoots up, there's little to nothing you can do DURING a run. Of course you can completely stop and try to get the vagus nerve to do its thing, but stopping is so...ugh. Basically, trying to move forward, breathing slowly, etc. was the only option. It sucks, but I knew it could happen. It could've gone well, and I'll always try again, but this is just nothing I can control. The one thing that makes it worse is being afraid of it, so I'm certainly not going to do that. )
Huge congratulations on your first race! You should be so proud of pushing through those challenges! Only just found your comment but so glad I did 😄👏🏼
@@marybridges9606 Thank you so much! I'll certainly keep trying, but it'll always be a matter of luck with my tachycardia. Ability-wise I wasn't even straining thanks to your and Ben's advice and inspiration! 💙🏃♀
Ten years in barefoot shoes here. Best thing I ever did for my (formerly flat) feet. I might not be as fast as someone in the latest carbon fibre plate shoes, but now my feet and ankles are much stronger with no injuries. I've even run truly barefoot a few times. It's a liberating feeling.
@@moi7748 Vibram FiveFingers mostly. I'd suggest looking to various guides that exist on RU-vid already. I'd suggest starting by wearing them only for walking for a week or so first, then doing no more than 200m of running in them every other day in the first week. In subsequent weeks add another 200m, for about 9 weeks. The important thing is not to do everything in barefoot shoes all at once. You'll be using muscles in your feet that won't have been used much before, and you need time for them to adapt.
Hi Ben and Mary, I found your channel a few weeks ago. And by now I have watched dozens of your video's and I just wanted to say thank you. It has only been a few weeks, BUT... you have made a huge impact on me already. What the two of you did was change me from someone who runs occiasonally to someone who sees himself purely as a runner. Yesterday I ran a 10mile race and normally the motivation drops to 0 after such a race. But now, I am just so motivated to keep on going. You've learned me that it is NOT about chasing PB's, but about running itself. It's OK to just have fun running, and I do not have to keep on pusing myself every single run. And now, I can't wait to go out again. So again: THANK YOU!
I just started running for the first time in my life (seriously) about 6 months ago. I’m in my mid thirties and athleticism is something I have to work VERY hard for (and I’m not athletic lol) so it’s been intimidating to say the least. I’ve been watching your videos to learn how to run smarter and I cant tell you how helpful they have been! I just ran 7 miles for the first time today and I killed it! I’m even considering running a half marathon later this year. Running has brought me so much joy, confidence, and a healthy coping skill when things feel tough. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and helping fledgling runners like me to feel like we can do this. 💙
Race entries- yes! My first ticket to an organized running race has led to a 2nd and a 3rd and a 4th.... and that keeps you motivated to keep running/ training to your next goal.
Have been running consistently for about 1.5 years now, implemented some of these and can attest to the effectiveness! Best thing in my running journey so far was buying a used Garmin instinct solar last October (not really used, someone got it as a gift and decided after trying it a few times that they didn't really need it) for half the price of a new one, it is almost like a running buddy for me! It is probably quite a simple watch compared to some of the stuff that's out there now, but I love it. Logs all my runs, gives me some valuable data, congratulates me on my PBs when I get new ones every now and then, and the beep after each km is still so motivating to me. I also love having a few different shoe options to rotate between, I currently have three pairs, two for trails because that's what I mostly run on, and one for road runs and tempo or interval sessions. The next two things I want to do are 1. enter a race, and 2. buy some winter running clothes, as I currently only have one longsleeve shirt and it is getting cold and windy where I live. I would like to enter a halfmarathon next spring but am really intimidated by the thought of doing an actual race, plus the fees are quite expensive for me, but I feel like the time is right and I should do it. I'll probably do a few parkruns and a 10k first and then choose a halfmarathon to enter. Always love your videos, they're so helpful and motivating, Mary's positive energy always puts a smile on my face and inspires me (no disrespect to you, Ben, as a woman I just identify a bit more with Mary :))! Greetings from Germany
I came across your channel a few months ago and I'm loving it. Not being a particularly talented runner, especially since one of my legs turned a bit problematic, often I'm not really overflowing with motivation to go out there. For a while now watching one or two of your videos has been part of my pre run routine and it has helped me out a lot. Learning new thing is always inspirational but especially seeing people enjoying running and hearing them talk about it with the passion that you do get my feet into my running shoes. So a big thanks to you guys and keep up the great work!
Your comunication style is so nice :) I really appreciate the fact that you take off all the unnecessary things and go straight to the options that really helps runners building fitness with joy and effectiveness.
As a carpenter, let me tell you all about how those door mounted pull-up bars are the worst thing you can do to your house. Some parts are built for live loads and some for static. So, your floor, your tub, the toilet, your sinks and the like, anywhere there's dynamic weight shifts is considered a live load area and are engineered and built to those standards. Sections like your walls, windows, doors and cabinets, while the amount of the load may change, it's static and has no motion. So when you exert strong dynamic forces to a part of your house that isn't built for it, you're throwing it out of whack. Next, your door frame, talk about a balanced work of art. When I install a door it is within 1/16th" of tolerance on all sides and the bubble reads DEAD CENTER. The tiniest tap while adjusting will alter the reading. The door itself is prepared so carefully and with experienced actions. All you need to know about the quality of a carpenter can be told in how well he can hang a door. Then the fitness freaks go yanking and dangling from everything around the house and the next thing you know, the floor squeaks, there's cracks in the drywall over the doors, some doors don't shut right, the floor will sag in spaces, windows start to leak, the west and tear of life happens faster. Most materials and equipment on and around your house is built to last 30-50 years. Fine for people like me, because people like you call me more often and I charge $50 an hour and up. And it always costs more than the estimate because I can't see trough walls and know the 2x4 or the subfloors are bad until I open everything up. It's like, you called me to fix the leaky window but it's ruined the outside sheeting, which means siding is coming off, the studs inside are usually bad, the drywall under the window, the baseboards and the the subflooring all need replaced. So please, for the love of God, save your money, buy or build a pull-up bar that doesn't rely on your door, which the trim is installed with the smallest nails in the industry, to tiny to drive by hand.
i started running either completely barefoot or now with barefoot shoes and i think it's a much more enjoyable and ergonomic way of running, for me at least. also if you happen to walk around barefoot from time to time anyways and you don't have completely softened skin on your feet then i highly suggest going for a barefoot run in a nice green area. it's an incredibly tactile experience and you begin to realize that you close up your nervous system to all kinds of stimuli when you never walk around barefoot and i think that really can have a profound impact on your overall perception in terms of how you move your body through space and the things you are acute to.
Thanks! Excellent! I recently bought a heart-rate chest-strap and found out today that another expected benefit was real, though it only applies if you are not in warm countries. It was cold windy and rainy, here in Canada. I just strapped the watch over my sleeve. I felt great. Seeing others had done the same barely deflated my bubble of problem solving with tech. I can't wait to not have to fumble with gloves in the winter to have a look at the watch. OK, most people won't understand this...It still makes me very messy happy
@@SubtleForces it will be here before you know it! I’m never prepared but here in the Yukon the cold is knocking on the door! I’m enjoying autumn and trying not to worry about all the cold, dark runs in our future!
I think minimalist shoes changed my running life. I used to be very intrigued by these new midsole technologies and stability features that it led me to buy shoes that had those features. However, the novelty wore off and I realised how badly my feet were aching despite the cushioning. This led me to consider barefoot shoes, namely the Xero Prio. Since there was literally no midsole, I immediately transitioned to a natural forefoot strike. Because of this, I felt an evident lack of ‘bad’ pain after every run and was replaced by ‘good’ pain accompanied with happy feelings during and after each run. It was also incredibly fun to feel and to sense the ground beneath me as your foot naturally adapted to the environment without getting blocked by a thick slab of foam. So minimalist shoes have changed my running life, I would say. A load of fun, and I can definitely vouch for its benefits. It’s nice feeling like I have upgraded feet.
Agreed. They don't work for everyone, and not everyone needs them. They're not great for racing but can really help strengthen the feet and calves if used appropriately. That said, I will not run another marathon in them!
Race entry has been my biggest motivator. Me and my wife signed up for it months in advance and while she started training for it, I made excuses and then for 2 weeks prior to the race got sick. Until then I could only manage running for 0.5kms. I decided to not take part but went with my wife to collect her bib number and t-shirt and decided to collect mine too for fun. At night l decided to take part in the race (that was next morning ) and just walk for 10 kms but was able to run the entire 10kms 😂. Thanks to that now even though I'm still slow I don't need motivation to go for regular runs.
Best purchases No. 3. By accident finding the best all-round training shoes that worked best for me. No.2. a proper GPS running watch, (Garmin Forerunner 235, now upgraded to 255)! No. 1. The Flipbelt which I have used in all my marathon and half marathon races.
Thanks. As always. This covers a lot of bases. Regarding flipbelts, though - I would recommend the Mizuno shorts that have the top half with numerous mesh pockets around the waist band. Found it this year in Nagano. Game changer.
Well done Ben! I am not super fussy with what I purchase but I gotta say a decent GPS watch has been my gamechanger. I remember the days of running a route and then driving my car to figure out how far I had run. I really enjoy racing as well and I had to be dragged kicking and screaming into my first race, now you can't not take me to a race. it has transformed my running and helped me learn to set goals and work to improve myself. As always, you and Mary are an inspiration. Keep up the good work.
I have swapped my flip belt for T8 shorts, made in Hong Kong designed for hotter climates and to carry loads, like gels, phones and even small flasks of water.
Nah it's all about the kiprun soft flask belt, just an array of pockets you can cram anything into. It'll take my phone, which all other belts struggle with. Balega socks, squirrels nut butter and nipple patches, yes you'll laugh but once you get the bug to do ultras you realise fast how important comfort is.
On point. Getting proper shoes and a watch is a game changer. If you don't have the money to fork out for a proper GPS watch, a cheap watch with a stopwatch feature and a free running app which will indicate the distance are a good stand-in while you save.
So glad I found your channel. Another great video. Love the energy you both bring. Currently training for my first half marathon, and your videos to date have been the best... Thank you!
Shoes and socks are big for me. I have about 9 pairs of socks specifically for running and I buy a new pair of shoes about once a year. I use my phone during my running for music and also to help me keep track of my mileage.
I'm coming to Thailand 🇹🇭 in 10 days time .can't wait staying in bang pai un near small tesco lotus .hopefully I'll get one race in but looking forward to get some running done
Just wondering, why did you choose the 955, over the Fenix? Was it just pure cost? I’ve wanted a Fenix but then they brought out the 955 and I’m wondering if the Fenix is really worth the hefty price tag.. I’m looking to do some longer distances, and my little 630 battery life just won’t cut it.. and the idea of getting a map on my wrist is calming my nerves regarding getting lost following bits of tape in trees and on fence posts.. Great video as always.
I really like nice running outfits, but most importantly I need it not to get horrible chaffing. Special sport underwear is really important as well, especially for long distances, for men and women.
If you wanna have the most fun you've ever had running, try doing it barefoot and naked. Most fun you will ever have. Super light, cheap and efficient too
I love the concept of the flipbelt in theory but in practice it rides up from my hips to my waist within the first 10 minutes and then bounces around on my body or I have to keep pulling it down. Does anyone else run into this? Do you just use a vest as a solution or have you found something else?
I always had trouble with my stuff bouncing around me and I never seemed to find a belt that would carry my phone comfortably and make it easy to take it out and then put it back in while running. That is until I found Cimalp Aoste shorts. Definitely my best running purchase ever: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-YpmXBh13D8s.html My next best purchase is a Garmin with a metal bracelet. I had skin irritated from the plastic bracelet for many years. I then changed it to metal and the irritation poof... gone.
Race clothing. Lidl and Aldi: first rate running tee shirts. The usual Polyester 95% Elastene 5% blend at ridiculously tiny cost! 5/6/7 £. Even less on occasions. Plus try their running socks... More money left for the *important* stuff trainers and UNDERWEAR (when you're 65 that is sooooo important!) Entering events! It is vital for me to have a *goal*.. the next half... full... whatever. I don't want to be in an event and make a complete a*se of myself... I run for myself and every other middle aged man 😁 Warning: An old man's rant follows! But the expense! Not for the poor... Oops! we aren't called that anymore except for Channel 5 documentaries... we are *low income* or some such 🤔.... Road events! Kerrhist! I'm more fortunate than most in my situation - unable to work - at least I have no dependents. £50+ for Southampton Full... over £20 for 10ks...fortunately I have a GFA so free entry into Bath Half *saved* £44! Running the Great(sic) Bristol Half this week... £44! Why? *I need excitement oh I need it bad* but as I can't get any I thought I'd have a run and let my credit card do the heavy lifting!.. + fuel + Park and ride.... By the way. I don't particularly recommend the Great(sic) Bristol event... It is *OK*.. Thanks 👍👍
Completely agree with the Flipbelt. I used to run with keys and stuff scrambling around in my pockets. With the flipbelt I could discretely carry keys, wallet, phone, gels and everything I need without it annoyingly moving around in my pockets. I wish I bought it sooner honestly.
Mary I agree with having clothes specifically for running! If anything you’re preventing chafing in cotton tshirts but it really does help get in the mindset for a run.
Great ideas for gear. The number one thing for me would be Merino wool. Socks, shirts, base layers especially. I'll mostly train in Merino wool shirts and then switch to lightweight racing shirts for races
My 955 with or without a chest strap is identical. The new generation of sensors have changed everything...including dropping the uncomfortable chest strap by the wayside!
I have slowly started implementing most of these things into my running journey. Shoes has definitely been the one thing that I don't skimp on. Finally broke down and bought my first Garmin about 4 years ago. I go to a chiropractor once a month and then to extended therapy/massage once a month. I do need to upgrade my clothes a bit and move up from my hand held water bottle to a vest but all in due time. I also do hot yoga regularly and strength training. Thanks for another great video! Have a wonderful week!
I try not to put any added weight on my body when I'm running. That being said, I used to run with my phone and water around my waist, but it was uncomfortable for me, so I only run with a Garmin watch and gels. I usually park my car along my route so I can stop for hydration breaks.
Brilliant channel, always look forward to a new release. One investment I found useful (and about the cheapest) ... a nail file for keeping toenails trimmed right back, to avoid loosing and breaking them on runs. 10p can save so much aggravation. I'm a rubbish runner, but love running.
@@ThisMessyHappy I'm going to grab a couple pairs. I never had chafing issues until I started doing 20 plus mile runs. The fire I felt in the shower after my first marathon...oof!
I haven't found my perfect shoes yet. I listened to the advice from someone in a sports shop but I'm not convinced it was the correct one. I'm still shopping for the right shoes but it's really expensive buying and trying to find out they're still the wrong shoes again 😕
For me, the best purchase has been an Apple Watch®️. I know it’s not an ideal watch for tracking runs, but my watch version has cell service and can store and stream a tremendous amount of music. On runs less than 10 miles, I carry a car key and that’s it. My watch covers music. Covers my phone. And the Watch plays nice with my AirPods. I watched a review on the music versions of running watches and they seem to be light years behind Apple Watches®️ with Apple Music®️.
Hey Ben and Mary! I have been away all summer prepping for Kona Ironman Championship. How is Mary's Boston qualifying going? What race is she going to run in order to qualify for Beantown? As always good luck in your journey to Boston and Bring the Noise!
@@ThisMessyHappy Sorry for the late reply. Here in Kona and in six days, it's race day! The training went well and ready. Good luck to you and Mary for Boston! Slainte! The US will not save the King! lol
I love the videos you's produce, great advice all round- seriously considering getting a HR monitor again now having used one back in 2000's. You would both appear to be running/filming in a Tropical location with high UV even in cloudy conditions without eye protection(possibly just to film!). I don't like wearing glasses. But I'm married to an optometrist and now a little paranoid of too much exposure-have you got any videos on eye protection for running in the pipeline?
LOVE my FlipBelts. Didn’t need to take my stuff one day, but was so upset that I found I needed my belt to keep my tights up that day! Didn’t realize it was doing that all along. It never jiggles and weighs nothing.
Definitely agree on the flipbelt. I bought one initially just because I couldn’t figure out how to carry my house keys runs without them jangling! The best thing about the hip belt is that it sits on your hips, which is ideal from a weight bearing point of view. It’s the same reason why quality rucksacks have really robust padded hip belts - you want to load up your hips more than your shoulders (as people often do).
My best purchase was my first pair of decent running shoes some Kayano 26’s. I started running in a pair of £10 trainers around 4 years ago & I still own them as a reminder how much running has given me Absolutely Brilliant channel thank you.🙌
I’m on a stage where I’m buying proper running clothes cos I live in a hot climate country and my clothes stank after sweating profusely on them. I’m not usually someone who smells so I’m getting swear wicking material outfits for running 🥲
