Hey folks
Well after hardly any sleep last night 2-3 hours down to anxiety and stuff kicking in, I decided work hard today on exercise to try get some feel good inputs, so went to circuits (VIPR &TRX) this morning and we got pushed really hard, luckily some of it was outdoor otherwise I'd have melted to the gym floor! so after cycling home I tried get myself together and I got out later for a 6 miler run ok not as long as I'd have liked but seriously I had nothing in the tank and my legs had no strength from all the mornings work...it felt a very long 6 miles and took me 51.49.
but I've really enjoyed the double I actually enjoyed both sessions and think at least once a week this will be something I'll do.
hope this finds everyone well, and run happy!
or do whatever but do it happy I hope :)
Gareth (TheTryAth)
Wednesday, 24 June 2015
Dragons Back Race 2015 I'm a fan!
I've been really hooked on the Dragons Back Race, the Race runs follows the mountainous spine of Wales from Conwy Castle to Carreg Cennen Castle, that's approximately 300 kilometres long with 16,000 metres of ascent. It runs over 5 days from 22/26 of June...its an awesome event and achievement and something I would love to do in the future.
Get involved I have! its been great to be a fan this year as they have a live feed update with map positions, race position and lots more. I've found it really motivating and an inspiration to watch these folks work hard out there.
You can catch all the action( and want to run it yourself next time like me!) at:
http://www.dragonsbackrace.com/
thanks all, I'm off to enjoy the sunshine :)
Gareth (TheTryAth)
https://twitter.com/thetryath
Get involved I have! its been great to be a fan this year as they have a live feed update with map positions, race position and lots more. I've found it really motivating and an inspiration to watch these folks work hard out there.
You can catch all the action( and want to run it yourself next time like me!) at:
http://www.dragonsbackrace.com/
thanks all, I'm off to enjoy the sunshine :)
Gareth (TheTryAth)
https://twitter.com/thetryath
Tuesday, 23 June 2015
Suns out, Run out!
Hi
Last week was better run wise I managed a couple of longer runs, and 8 miler and took it up to a 10 miler with trail running pack on Sunday. My pace is slower than I was running before injury but really not worried about that at moment just happy to be completing the miles.
Today was first run of this week and to be honest I did not feel good today mood was really down, so decided a shorter run(5mile) and alongside the River as it was a sunny day might help improve things....it did I am feeling a lot better, I've said it before but getting out around nature might not solve all problems but it DOES help! lots of people walking, jogging and cycling there too today and although its not chatting with people(anxiety is bad at moment so social contact has dropped too...easier to write here than actually talk to people) it just felt better to be part of something others are doing too.
Hope this finds all well, and hope you all can get out and enjoy nature too, does wonders for mental health :)
Gareth (TheTryAth)
https://twitter.com/thetryath
Last week was better run wise I managed a couple of longer runs, and 8 miler and took it up to a 10 miler with trail running pack on Sunday. My pace is slower than I was running before injury but really not worried about that at moment just happy to be completing the miles.
Today was first run of this week and to be honest I did not feel good today mood was really down, so decided a shorter run(5mile) and alongside the River as it was a sunny day might help improve things....it did I am feeling a lot better, I've said it before but getting out around nature might not solve all problems but it DOES help! lots of people walking, jogging and cycling there too today and although its not chatting with people(anxiety is bad at moment so social contact has dropped too...easier to write here than actually talk to people) it just felt better to be part of something others are doing too.
Hope this finds all well, and hope you all can get out and enjoy nature too, does wonders for mental health :)
Gareth (TheTryAth)
https://twitter.com/thetryath
Platypus SoftBottle (0.5 Litre) Review
Hi
I recently received a Platypus SoftBottle and this is how I've got on with it :)
First impressions
The Platypus SoftBottle, is reusable Bladder/Bottle Hybrid design so you get the easier access to fill and access to water but the benefit of a bladder means it can be rolled up for storage in a pack or pocket after use or to carry as water container on the go when you need it. The SoftBottle I have is 0.5 Litre but its does come in a larger 1. Litre unit. There are options for a drink tube etc available as separate products.
Field Test
I decided to test this out first on a run, its easy to fill as once you take the drink cap off the opening is a reasonable size, once it is filled the bottle is very comfortable to carry as due to design moulds to your hand, also sat well in a pocket for same reason more comfortable than a standard bottle I found. The Bottle push pull cap is easy enough to drink from and thanks to the soft body you get the liquid very easy with a quick squeeze. Once the SoftBottle is empty I found it easy to roll up and stick in my pocket, one tip for this is carry an elastic band to keep it rolled tighter.
Conclusion
Great little bottle for Runners or those who want carry water without having to use a large Sports type noticeable Bottle. the option to roll up after or before use for storage is a winner.
Thanks for reading
Gareth (TheTryAth)
https://twitter.com/thetryath
Full Product Info available at :Platypus
I recently received a Platypus SoftBottle and this is how I've got on with it :)
First impressions
The Platypus SoftBottle, is reusable Bladder/Bottle Hybrid design so you get the easier access to fill and access to water but the benefit of a bladder means it can be rolled up for storage in a pack or pocket after use or to carry as water container on the go when you need it. The SoftBottle I have is 0.5 Litre but its does come in a larger 1. Litre unit. There are options for a drink tube etc available as separate products.
Field Test
I decided to test this out first on a run, its easy to fill as once you take the drink cap off the opening is a reasonable size, once it is filled the bottle is very comfortable to carry as due to design moulds to your hand, also sat well in a pocket for same reason more comfortable than a standard bottle I found. The Bottle push pull cap is easy enough to drink from and thanks to the soft body you get the liquid very easy with a quick squeeze. Once the SoftBottle is empty I found it easy to roll up and stick in my pocket, one tip for this is carry an elastic band to keep it rolled tighter.
Conclusion
Great little bottle for Runners or those who want carry water without having to use a large Sports type noticeable Bottle. the option to roll up after or before use for storage is a winner.
Thanks for reading
Gareth (TheTryAth)
https://twitter.com/thetryath
Full Product Info available at :Platypus
Sunday, 21 June 2015
Summer Fitness Challenge 'Puma Points' with The Running Bug and Puma
Hi
spoke before about using social media to help get support and motivation if like me your not part of a running club (just not something I'm ready for with social anxiety issues), or then again even if your part of a club some extra support is always nice...
So this Summer the folks at +The Running Bug are running fitness challenge with Puma called 'Puma Points', a chance to log work outs and they are going give out some prizes too. I have joined up and I'm in Team Energy .
Here is a LINK to the Running Bug site :)
The Running Bug site states
P.S I've just posted about my joining up these are my views, I am in No way affiliated with this challenge, so if your thinking of entering check terms and conditions and details at the Running Bug site.
Thanks for reading
Gareth (TheTryAth)
spoke before about using social media to help get support and motivation if like me your not part of a running club (just not something I'm ready for with social anxiety issues), or then again even if your part of a club some extra support is always nice...
So this Summer the folks at +The Running Bug are running fitness challenge with Puma called 'Puma Points', a chance to log work outs and they are going give out some prizes too. I have joined up and I'm in Team Energy .
Here is a LINK to the Running Bug site :)
The Running Bug site states
GET FIT FOR SUMMER WITH THE PUMA POINTS CHALLENGE.
- TEAMS
JOIN ONE OF FOUR TEAMS - POINTS
GET POINTS FOR WORKING OUT, RUNNING, AND BEING ACTIVE - RECOGNITION
EVERY TIME YOU ACHIEVE A GOAL WE'LL TELL YOUR TEAM SO THEY CAN SPUR YOU ON - PRIZES
WIN INCREDIBLE PUMA APPAREL AND RUNNING SHOES UP FOR
GRABS EACH WEEK
THE CHALLENGE STARTS JULY 1ST. THE TEAM WITH THE MOST
POINTS AT THE END OF THE MONTH WINS.
POINTS AT THE END OF THE MONTH WINS.
JOIN NOW AND WE'LL REVEAL WHICH TEAM YOU'RE IN AND
CONNECT YOU WITH YOUR TEAMMATES.
CONNECT YOU WITH YOUR TEAMMATES.
P.S I've just posted about my joining up these are my views, I am in No way affiliated with this challenge, so if your thinking of entering check terms and conditions and details at the Running Bug site.
Thanks for reading
Gareth (TheTryAth)
The Ultimate Direction Wasp Running Vest - Review
Hi as I'm moving into more trail/hill/mountain running and upping distance I finally purchased a Trail running vest/pack this is my thoughts on the Ultimate Direction Wasp Running vest/pack.
First Impressions
So firstly some reasons why I chose this pack, it is a fairly minimal design so less body coverage by the pack, this is personal preference, also the front pockets on the straps are open type and positioned so could fit water bottle in them only bad point of the pack the pockets are smaller than some others and means you could fit maybe a 300ml bottle but not a 600ml :( (the problem with having to mail order) but its not too much of a problem buy I would have preferred the option for full size bottle storage.
You get the pack and it come with a 2 Litre water bladder, the pack carried this easy with plenty of storage as its volume is 8.9 Litre capacity. It has a main zip compartment which has separation for the water bladder. It has a small compartment on the top of the main pack which is zipped for secure storage(keys emergency items etc) and a large open pocket on the pack for quick storage of items like a jacket. on the straps each has an open pocket and underneath a secure pocket the left side is a stretch pocket great for a phone the right a more roomy pocket suitable for gels or quick access gear.
Field Test
I took the pack out today for first longish run a 10 miler on the Hills, I filled the water bladder to see how it carried the weight along with some bits of kit I take (waterproof jacket, first aid etc), one note is the Bladder it is easy enough to fill but takes a while as its a top seal bag and is sealed like a dry bag, not too much of an issue but for quick refilling I might replace the bladder for Race/Event conditions. The pack sits well and was very secure during my run, I did not have keep messing with fit once fitted comfortably it stayed in position and no hindrance on my natural running action from straps/pockets etc. The water access was easy enough the bite valve worked well and it can be stored either side for preference do to holding loops on both straps. The Pack gets big points for design it was a hot day yet did not feel any additional heating as to running without a pack.
Conclusion
The fit was excellent and pack storage is ideal, is has secure storage and can easily fit enough trail running gear to keep you safe and comfortable, drawbacks front pockets could have been slightly bigger and given the option of large bottle storage, and water bladder takes time to fill (but can easy be replaced with a quicker fill option)
4/5* down to the front pockets or would have been a 5*
I purchased my Wasp Pack for £80.99 from http://www.floodies.co.uk
Images
Ultimate Direction
First Impressions
So firstly some reasons why I chose this pack, it is a fairly minimal design so less body coverage by the pack, this is personal preference, also the front pockets on the straps are open type and positioned so could fit water bottle in them only bad point of the pack the pockets are smaller than some others and means you could fit maybe a 300ml bottle but not a 600ml :( (the problem with having to mail order) but its not too much of a problem buy I would have preferred the option for full size bottle storage.
You get the pack and it come with a 2 Litre water bladder, the pack carried this easy with plenty of storage as its volume is 8.9 Litre capacity. It has a main zip compartment which has separation for the water bladder. It has a small compartment on the top of the main pack which is zipped for secure storage(keys emergency items etc) and a large open pocket on the pack for quick storage of items like a jacket. on the straps each has an open pocket and underneath a secure pocket the left side is a stretch pocket great for a phone the right a more roomy pocket suitable for gels or quick access gear.
Field Test
I took the pack out today for first longish run a 10 miler on the Hills, I filled the water bladder to see how it carried the weight along with some bits of kit I take (waterproof jacket, first aid etc), one note is the Bladder it is easy enough to fill but takes a while as its a top seal bag and is sealed like a dry bag, not too much of an issue but for quick refilling I might replace the bladder for Race/Event conditions. The pack sits well and was very secure during my run, I did not have keep messing with fit once fitted comfortably it stayed in position and no hindrance on my natural running action from straps/pockets etc. The water access was easy enough the bite valve worked well and it can be stored either side for preference do to holding loops on both straps. The Pack gets big points for design it was a hot day yet did not feel any additional heating as to running without a pack.
Conclusion
The fit was excellent and pack storage is ideal, is has secure storage and can easily fit enough trail running gear to keep you safe and comfortable, drawbacks front pockets could have been slightly bigger and given the option of large bottle storage, and water bladder takes time to fill (but can easy be replaced with a quicker fill option)
4/5* down to the front pockets or would have been a 5*
I purchased my Wasp Pack for £80.99 from http://www.floodies.co.uk
Images
Ultimate Direction
Description
The Ultimate Direction Wasp Running Vest
For longer distance running, or when the forecast is changeable, you're going to need a slightly bigger running vest like the Wasp from Ultimate Direction. The 8.9 litre main back compartment holds an extra couple of layers, plenty of food and includes a 2 litre bladder. Pockets up front give fast access to small items, snacks and gels and are compatible with Body Bottles. Cool Wick Air Mesh fabric is used on all areas that may contact the body, for supreme chafe-free comfort.
- Weight: 460g
- Capacity: 8.9 litres
- Seamless back panel prevents abrasion and discomfort
- Rear stretch mesh pocket and bungee
- Height-adjustable, top sternum strap
- 2 front multi-use stretch mesh pockets
- 2 larger, front-zippered security pockets are phone compatible
- 2-litre reservoir included:
- The reservoir can removed and filled while leaving the hose threaded through the pack
- Reservoir can be turned inside-out for easy cleaning
- The opening automatically shuts off when the hose is removed
- Smooth inside, for easier cleaning
- Slightly smoother outside, to slip in and out of packs
- BPA Free
- Top closure is fold-over and slide-closed resulting in never leaking and opens fully for cleaning
- Utilizes a Hypervalve Hose which incorporates an on/off bitevalve
Thursday, 18 June 2015
Montane Minimus Smock - Waterproof - Review
Hi
In this this review I look at a recent purchase I treated myself too, as I want to spend more time on the mountains not just walking but moving more into trail and mountain running. I have needed to get some of the essential gear first up was new waterproof, I needed a light and breathable one suitable for trail running. I read various reviews on a number of brands and finally settled on the Montane Minimus Smock, I had also seen one of these in use and had been impressed at its weight and build quality.
First Impressions
Out the pack the Smock looks good I liked the brighter blue colour as easier visibility if folks need spot you, it comes with a stretchy mesh type bag/stuff sack for storage in a pack too. I ordered this in the size XL as that's my normal size and it fits fine although its worth noting the Smock is quite fitted. The fit is for movement though and no problems in moving arms around does not effect the Smocks fit.
Field Test
have taken the Minimus Smock out a few times now as living in Wales never a shortage of rain, I've used it running, on walks and also out on my bike, the Smock packs down to such a small size and its weight is so light its great in a pack. It was comfortable to run in as well no restriction in movement and its breathability was excellent so did not overheat the zip from the hood does come far down and the large front pocket acts as a vent if need expel a bit of heat build up. The big question of course the waterproof and this Smock really does perform keeps everything out and the hood fit stops anything getting in. I used it in some very wet area's (rainy day along the coast) and dry and comfortable the whole way. This smock does come in jacket form but I preferred the Smock as from past experience I found the less zip the better when it comes to a waterproof.
Images
Conclusion
The Smock is pricey I paid roughly £100 from Amazon (May, 2015) but it lives up to its requirements, if you want a very light small pack space waterproof its ideal.
thanks for reading
Gareth
https://twitter.com/thetryath
official spec available at :http://www.montane.co.uk/range/men/shell/minimus-smock
In this this review I look at a recent purchase I treated myself too, as I want to spend more time on the mountains not just walking but moving more into trail and mountain running. I have needed to get some of the essential gear first up was new waterproof, I needed a light and breathable one suitable for trail running. I read various reviews on a number of brands and finally settled on the Montane Minimus Smock, I had also seen one of these in use and had been impressed at its weight and build quality.
First Impressions
Out the pack the Smock looks good I liked the brighter blue colour as easier visibility if folks need spot you, it comes with a stretchy mesh type bag/stuff sack for storage in a pack too. I ordered this in the size XL as that's my normal size and it fits fine although its worth noting the Smock is quite fitted. The fit is for movement though and no problems in moving arms around does not effect the Smocks fit.
Field Test
have taken the Minimus Smock out a few times now as living in Wales never a shortage of rain, I've used it running, on walks and also out on my bike, the Smock packs down to such a small size and its weight is so light its great in a pack. It was comfortable to run in as well no restriction in movement and its breathability was excellent so did not overheat the zip from the hood does come far down and the large front pocket acts as a vent if need expel a bit of heat build up. The big question of course the waterproof and this Smock really does perform keeps everything out and the hood fit stops anything getting in. I used it in some very wet area's (rainy day along the coast) and dry and comfortable the whole way. This smock does come in jacket form but I preferred the Smock as from past experience I found the less zip the better when it comes to a waterproof.
Images
Conclusion
The Smock is pricey I paid roughly £100 from Amazon (May, 2015) but it lives up to its requirements, if you want a very light small pack space waterproof its ideal.
thanks for reading
Gareth
https://twitter.com/thetryath
official spec available at :http://www.montane.co.uk/range/men/shell/minimus-smock
- PERTEX® Shield + provides exceptionally high fabric breathability at 25,000 MVTR with a 20,000mm hydrostatic head
- Micro-taped seams throughout increase breathable surface area
- Articulated arms for reach high movement and tailored specifically to reduce hem lift
- Stretch bound hood ensures a snug fit around the face and a low profile underneath a climbing helmet
- Pre-elasticated rear hood gives a close fit for swift, effective weather protection
- Mesh lined front bib pocket sized to fit large maps and featuring a YKK AquaGuard® zip
- ½ length YKK AquaGuard® front zip with internal storm flap
- Stretch bound cuffs and hem to prevent weather entry and heat loss
- VIA reflective logo details
- MONTANE® stuff sac perfect for storage on the move
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