Spandex

With all the running I've got this planned for this year I've been thinking about ways I can keep fit, not get injured and making running as enjoyable as possible.

So for my birthday I bought a few treats for myself.

Number 1 gifts was a new pair of running shoes. One of my world famous shoe posts to be coming soon with more on that. What I will say is that after a couple of runs in the new shoes I think I'll be buying at least one or two more pairs again this year, it really does feel so much better running in new shoes.

Number 2, I bought one of those arm belt thingies to put my phone in while I run, it also holds some money and my travel card in case I get stuck somewhere. I've run with it a couple of times and hardly notice it's there which is great.

Number 3, a pair of compression running shorts. These look like cycle shorts but without the cushioned saddle bit. I'm pretty sure on numerous occasions in my life I've sworn I'd never wear anything like this. What swayed me initially was the suggestion that compression shorts are supposed to reduce fatigue on your legs, that's the main premise for wearing them. The other benefit I've found is no chafe. In normal running shorts I get through stacks of Vaseline trying to keep the chafe away, now I think I've found a solution which is going to make running so much more enjoyable. And finally, it makes my legs look great but I think I'll save you the pictures :) Here's a link if you want to see pics of compression shorts, or see recommendations for good ones  If you run and you haven't tried them, I give you permission to give them a go.