A couple of weeks ago it was my birthday, again. About a year ago I first stepped foot inside the Velorunner store to get my birthday present and with a view to beginning my first ever marathon training in earnest. Somewhat on a whim - I guess it was one of those “it’s now or never” thoughts which I knew I’d better not give too much thought to or else I’d talk myself out of it – I’d signed myself up for the virtual London marathon. I’ve been running as regularly as I’ve been able to since I was 16 years old (over half a life time!!!) – just because I enjoy it. Now I was going to need all the help I could get to complete the goal, especially with regards caring for my feet and legs through the months of training and the big day itself.
I’m not great on a treadmill – I’m more a leap over rocks or muddy bits, and hop over the tree roots kind of runner – but I jumped on for a few minutes and found my stride. Peter was able to advise me about my running style and technique and wanted to know how far and where I run. He then had suggestions of suitable trainers at different budgets. I tried on several pairs and gave them a short test run on the treadmill again. It was a no-brainer for me (that’s one of the things I love about running by the way – the head-space it gives me), the On Ultras were supportive, light yet supportive all the way around my foot; not to mention like running on clouds. The gorgeous turquoise green colour was an added bonus! For good measure I took Peter’s advice and invested in a pair of compression calf sleeves which I confess I was a little sceptical about. Little did I know how they would become my new post-run best friends!
As my training ramped up I began running longer than I’d ever run before. Never once did I get any discomfort on my feet. That alone made the investment in the trainers priceless. As for the compression sleeves, I would put them on as soon as possible after longer runs or when my muscles felt particularly tired and wear them as much as I could for a day or two (even sneaking them underneath my workwear!) and overnight at times too! The relief they gave was so soothing!
My marathon day came and went. The trainers didn’t let me down – they did what they’d done all along and supported me every step of the way as I made my way across the hilly (why?!) 26.2 mile route I’d created from Carsington Water into the Peak District and back again.
I’m still running, and I’ve just had another birthday. You won’t be surprised to hear that my present this year was a new pair of trainers from Velorunner. I tried on a few pairs which they recommended to suit my running style and requirements, but maybe it’s a bit like slippers – none felt as comfortable as the ones I’d had before. I guess it’s a case of getting it right first time! So yes, I have a brand new pair of On Ultras – this time in sporty violet… As for another marathon? Not just yet… but you’ll notice I didn’t say no…