GoaD on the Run - now with MFP freshness.

Calvin2008Brian
Posts: 1,024 Member
This thread is for GOADies who like to run. New runners, old runners, and even wannabe runners meet here to discuss the joys and challenges of running. Use this space to log your miles, ask questions, or post anything else related to running.
New runners - and even those just thinking about starting out - are always welcome. There's no reason to lurk here. Join the pack and tell us about your running!
Oftentimes the GotR thread will pose a question or raise an issue in order to facilitate the conversation, but this is always an open forum to chat about any running-related topic.
Topic: something new. Do you get energized by new gadgets, apps, gear, shoes, etc.?
New runners - and even those just thinking about starting out - are always welcome. There's no reason to lurk here. Join the pack and tell us about your running!
Oftentimes the GotR thread will pose a question or raise an issue in order to facilitate the conversation, but this is always an open forum to chat about any running-related topic.
Topic: something new. Do you get energized by new gadgets, apps, gear, shoes, etc.?
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I'm all geeked out about making Garmin Connect associate with My Fitness Pal.
I've been tracking calories on the LoseIt! app, but after giving it a quick audition I'm going to start using MFP's tracker. I assume there's a smartphone app. Even more new fun stuff to tinker with!0 -
My newest acquisition this year is a Garmin eTrek. It is a handheld GPS that provides topological maps plus a whole lot more. It has been very handy for my hiking adventures. It also provides very easy to read maps (unlike the mapping app on my iPhone) for when I've ventured out in the country and need a little guidance on the best way back to my car/hotel.
Brian - there is a smartphone app for MFP. I have it both on my iPad and iPhone. I really like the iPhone app for when I'm off doing my adventures so that I can keep track of what I've fueled my activities with.
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I am both bummed, and freaked out, because three days ago, I lost my Fitbit! What am I going to do? I've taken all of these steps and they don't count!!
I have downloaded the MFP pedometer, but it appears you have to have it on to work. I guess that if my Fitbit does not turn up soon, I'll either have to buy another, or try something else. I'll likely stick with Fitbit to keep my historical (hysterical?) records. I've been tracking my food here. I'm frankly not sure if I have any reason left to stay with WW. I only rejoined to connect with my friends. Now they are all here!
Brian, thanks for starting the thread! It is not the same without Dennis, but he'd be pleased that the group is continuing on.2 -
Steve (shenry) - If you have an MPF account, the main app counts all your steps as long as you have your phone on you. It also counts while in the background. Not perfect, but a potential stopgap.0
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I'm new to running, and have traditionally hated it and the idea of it (preferring cycling). My bike is broken at the moment, so thought I'd give running another go as a cheap way to do cardio. I went out on first jog yesterday just to test base level - could do about 4 minutes without stopping so through combination of jogging and walking managed 3k in about 22 minutes.
I have a cheap pair of neutral running shoes for now (may upgrade if I get into it) and have downloaded runtastic on my phone to track the runs (as it connects to MFP).
Happily hear any advice for a newbie? [NB: New to running - not exercise in general] I'm thinking about using the Couch to 5K plan as an intro (judging by yesterdays jog will start at Week 3) - does anyone have experience of this?
p.s. Did have a look at local running clubs, but the nearest one is a bit out of my reach. Their mid-week runs are generally 6-8k with 10k+ runs at the weekends. There are some others which do more entry level stuff but they're not near enough that I'd be likely to go!0 -
I haven't posted on the GotR thread in years! I thought I'd pop in and say how nice it is to see this thread migrate over here!
I still run, although much less than I used to. I generally am still trying to get in 3 runs a week, although they're usually short runs (like 3 miles ea).
dkabambe: I did the Couch to 5K (C25K) program, and loved it! I was never a runner before, so I found it very helpful.0 -
dkabambe - welcome! I don't have personal experience with C25K, but I've seen many, many others use the program and praise it.
The key is not to overdo it early but instead to ramp up the running slowly. Especially for someone like you who's not coming to running straight from the couch, you're likely to feel more capable in a cardio/pulmonary sense than your running muscles, tendons, and ligaments are up for. Give it time, with rest and cross-training in the mix, so the stressed/sore parts have a chance to recover.
Also, think about a visit to your friendly local running specialty store sooner than later. They'll be the best guys to help you select the right shoes for you. Go when you have time and they're not busy so you can sample lots of different shoes and pick what feels best for you.
Good luck!0 -
Thanks both for the advice - I think I will give the C25K a go. Fortunately as it's designed for beginners it does build up slowly and only advocates 3 runs a week so plenty of time for rest and other activities. I'll stick with my shoes for the next few weeks - like I say if I get into it I will definitely go invest but don't particularly want to splash out too much just yet until I know I'll stick with it.0
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dkabambe - Glad you are on here! I did use C25K on a treadmill and then again to get used to outdoors running. I will also probably use it again to get back in the swing later this year. It is a really good program to help build you up slowly.
FWIW, I have three rules for running that you may find useful.
1) Run happy. - As you said, if you don't enjoy it, don't do it.
2) If you think you can run slower, you are running too fast. Especially starting out, try to find that nice, easy pace.
3) Run like the runner you are, not like the runner you wish you were or the runner you used to be.
Good luck!0 -
Thanks @jbrack381us but slightly confused by (2). Maybe that's because I'm not sure I could run any slower than I do without calling it walking. Maybe that means I'm getting it right?0
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Yes. When I started C25K the first time, I was dumb and thought the run sections meant run full sprint. It only took into week 2 before my knee rebelled. 3-4 weeks of rest and a visit to the orthopedist later, I learned that run did not mean sprint. Also reading John Bingham's "Running for Mortals" was a huge help. You should be able to find it in your local library.0
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I really continue to be technologically free when I run. I use the countdown timer on my watch and that's really it.
dkabambe--I highly recommend C25k. I used it when I came back from long lay offs and found it very effective.0
This discussion has been closed.