This Old Runner Writes About Running

Review of Athlinks: The Perfect Place for Tracking Your Race Results

5/22/2018

Largest Database of Results for Athletes

If you've crossed the finish line of a race your results are probably on Athlinks.

That's because Athlinks is the world's largest database of results for athletes.

Results include running races, triathlon, swimming, cycling, mountain biking obstacle course races, and nearly any other timed endurance sport. If the results are available, Athlinks adds them to the database so you can link them to your account.

Instead of scribbling your results on the back of a bib, you can have them in a searchable database that lets you track your progress, plan your races, and compete with rivals. Keep reading! There's a lot more to Athlinks.

You can sign up for a FREE Athlinks account with email, Facebook or Google.

Disclaimer: I'm writing this review of Athlinks as part of being a BibRavePro.

Use Athlinks to Track Your Progress

Athlink uses information from race directors and athlete communities to fill the database. When results are posted online, the Race Director sends files and/or links to the Athlinks team. Athlinks uploads the information to the website and database.

I had 30+ races done when I opened my free account. It was fun to create my profile, then link to all my races. It didn't take long to assemble all my stats on Athlinks. Now, I see my progress all in one place. While I'm not the fastest runner, progress keeps me motivated.

Athlinks gives you a few ways to view your race results:

Overview
You'll see your upcoming events, as well as your friends' races.
Results
Results includes every completed event in chronological order. You can scroll through your entire race history!
Following
The Following tab gives you a searchable list of fellow runners who you're connected with on Athlinks.
Rivals
Want to see how you stack up? The Rivals tab shows how you finished in races compared to friends in the same race.
Statistics = Personal Records
The Statistics view shows your personal records. You'll see your best efforts for each type of race.

Personal Records Image for This Old Runner on Athlinks.

Feeling competitive? Click the Rivals tab (shown below) to see how you compare to other runners. If you run the same race as someone you follow, Athlinks keeps tabs on who beats who.

Image of rival runner times on Athlinks.

Plan Your Race Schedule with Athlinks

Whether you're already registered, or looking for your next race, Athlinks is an impressive planning tool. Use it to view upcoming races so you can plan for training and recovery.

To find a new race, enter an event name, date range, location, and/or type of event. Hit search and Athlinks will show your results. Below are results from searching for races near Tampa, Florida between May and December, 2018.

As you can see, there are clickable links for previous years. Use those to see stats on the race. You can search results, see the number of participants, winning times, weather, etc. You'll find a lot of useful info. BTW, there were more results than I'm showing here.

Free Training Plans and Advice

Yep, there's more than statistics. Athlinks has resources for endurance athetes. You'll find advice on training, gear, and nutrition. Visit the Athlinks Blog for details.

Featured Events and Destination Races

Have your eye on a special race? You'll find plenty of featured events and destination races on Athlinks.com. There are descriptions of racecations for foodies, special attractions, charities, and landmarks. FYI, I want to run the Pittsburgh Half Marathon next May.

You'll also find articles on gear, coaching, the best races for first-timers, races for people who like to party, and more.

There's An Athlinks Mobile App

Take Athlinks with you using the mobile app. You can stay up-to-date with race details using the official event feed.

Share your race with family and friends. The mobile app has animated maps that predict your location during an event. Your peeps can track you on course. It's perfect for meeting up during and after the race.

Image of the Athlinks mobile app for race day.

Join the Athlinks Community!

Go ahead and follow me on Athlinks. You probably run faster than I do, and that's okay. I'm just here to make you look good! You're welcome.

#AthlinksBR #Athlinks #RaceIgnited #PoweredbyAthlinks #BibRave #BibRavePro #TrackYourResults #RaceResults #RaceSchedule #Statistics #PR #ThisOldRunner

Check Out My New Running Gear Discounts

5/20/2018

I Have Lots of New Discounts for You

Discounts available on running gear from BibRave Pro.

(Graphic credit: This Old Runner)

Visit my Running Gear Discounts page to see the latest promo codes. Take advantage of the discounts to save money on these running essentials:

AfterShokz Trekz Air Headphones
KT Tape Blister Treatment and Prevention Patches and Tape
Shady Rays Polarized Sunglasses
Rudy Project Cycling Gear
Brilliant Reflective Safety Strips
Luvo Meals - Delivered to Your Home!
Mercury Mile Curated Runner Activewear

Hurry up and use these discounts while they're available. I'm so happy I can offer them as part of being a BibRave Pro.

#Rudy #RudyDiscountCode #Godspeed #GodspeedDiscount #AfterShokz #AfterShockzDiscount #BrilliantReflective #BrilliantReflectiveDiscount #KTTape #KTTapeDiscount #LuvoMeals #LuvoDiscount #ShadyRays #ShadyRaysDiscount #ThisOldRunner #Discounts #PromoCodes #RunnerDiscounts #BibChat #BibRavePro

Bigfoot Tri & Trail Races are June 23-24 in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

5/11/2018

Price Increases May 27 for Bigfoot Tri & Trail

Bigfoot Tri and Trail Run in Lake Geneva, WI

Compete in the beautiful Lake Geneva, WI area on June 23-24.

Disclaimer: I'm promoting the Bigfoot TRI and Trail Races as part of being a BibRavePro. Learn more about becoming a
BibRavePro (ambassador) and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

Register for the Bigfoot TRI and Bigfoot Trail at Bigfoot Beach State Park! The trail races are on Saturday, June 23. The triathlon is on Sunday, June 24. All events take place in beautiful Lake Geneva, WI.

Every participant gets the hydration pack pictured above in their goodie bag!

Score Bonus Sunglasses with My Code

Use my promo code: “BRBigfoot” for BONUS Ram Racing shades! You’ll be ready for summer with a new hydration pack and sunglasses!

Register for the Tri, 5K Trail or 10K Trail Run

Don't wait! The price increases on May 27th. Register for the TRI or Trail now at: https://www.bigfoottriathlon.com/

#BigfootBR #Triathlon #JuneTRI #RaceWI #BibRavePro #BibChat #RacePromo #BonusCode #BigfootRace #RamRacing #ChicagoRaces #SummerTri #BigfootBeachStatePark #LakeGeneva #BigfootTRI #BigfootTRAIL #Bigfoot

Tips for the Best Race Costumes

5/8/2018

Costumes at October races are expected. The same is true at any Disney event. But now, people dress up for St. Patrick's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and even non-holiday races.

Why? Because costumes make any race fun for both runners and spectators. And, the race distance doesn't seem to matter. I've seen costumes in 5Ks, halfs, marathons, and trail races.

There's no reason you can't PR in a costume. But, if your outfit malfunctions it can ruin your race. Keep reading for tips so that doesn't happen to you.

Disclaimer: I'm promoting Pumpkins in the Park 5K as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRavePro ambassador and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews.

Confirm Costumes are Allowed at Your Race

There are security issues at many races. Check the race rules. Are costumes allowed? Are there any restrictions?

Some races don't allow masks or certain types of accessories. Find out before you make your costume.

Brainstorm Costume Ideas

Some costumes are for walking, not running. (Photo credit: http://soome.convio.net/)

Take a cue from the event or time of year to find a costume idea. Maybe you want to be a can of cranberry sauce at the annual Turkey Trot.

That's fun, but can you run in the costume? Will it work if it's really cold or raining? Look for ways to adapt your idea so it's runner-friendly. (More on that below.)

Your costume doesn't have to be movie star quality. In fact, some of the best ideas are simple. If you want to wear an elaborate costume, you can walk the race instead of running it.

Make a Runner Friendly Costume

Once you have an idea, you need to make it runner-friendly. What does that mean?

Can you see and hear?
Is it lightweight?
Is it easy to wear?
Will it stay together for the entire race?
Is it comfortable?
Can you move your arms and legs?

Headwear
Try not to wear a wig. Wigs are hot. If you can use temporary hair color instead of a wig, you'll be cooler. If it's a winter race, go ahead and wear a wig instead of a hat.

Headbands are okay, but attaching things to them can be a problem. They're going to bounce around while you run. See if you can adhere your accessories to a race cap for stability.

If you want to wear something like a cowboy or leprechaun hat, make sure it will stay on your head. Remember, a chin strap is annoying after a few miles.

Don't wear a costume that makes it hard to see where you're going. (Photo credit: Flickr paul_photos)

What's fun at mile 3 can be a nightmare at mile 11! Just sayin'.(Photo credit: Flickr videolux)

How many miles do you want to run with this on your head? (Photo credit: breakingmuscle.com)

Start with Athletic Base Pieces
Definitely wear something under your costume. Ideally, your base layer should be moisture-wicking gear. If you have a total costume fail, you can run in your base clothing.

If you can't find the right base pieces in standard running gear, check golf apparel. You may find a golf skirt or polo in the color or cut you want for your costume. Golf clothes are usually made of moisture-wicking material.

Expect to sweat more in a costume. Overheating can lead to painful chafing. If possible, add some holes for ventilation. Plan on using Body Glide or vaseline to avoid blisters and raw skin.

Create Your Own Shirt Designs
If you're skilled at Photoshop or Illustrator you can design your own costume shirt. Printing on performance wear tanks and t shirts is easy. Try a local custom shirt store, or upload your design to an online vendor.

Masks
If masks are allowed in your race, make sure yours doesn't obstruct your vision.

Make sure you can breathe, too. It can be hard to breathe through a mask. And what about drinking at aid stations? If a fabric mask gets wet it can cling or chafe.

(Photo credit: Florida Road Races)

Face Paint Pointers
Want to paint your face? Face makeup can be a problem if you sweat. It can smear, run down your face, stain your clothes, get in your eyes, etc.

It's a gamble unless you use theatrical makeup. For extra stability, use a professional setting spray to set your makeup — but keep it away from your eyes.

P.S. Bring towels to use after your run!

Do a Test Run in Your Costume

#PumpkinsInThePark5K (Photo credit: @RamRacing)

Even if you made a runner-friendly costume, it's important to go on a test run. Make sure you can see and move in it. Practice at night if you don't want to alarm your neighbors.

A test run is the only way you'll know how your outfit performs in race conditions. It's best to discover problems early and fix them.

Another obstacle can be using the port-o-lets before, during, and after the race. Can you get in and out of your costume? Practice so you're ready on race day.

Solo, Duo, and Group Costumes

If you're running solo, you can be whatever you like. Check out My Running Costumes for the ultimate one-of-a-kind crafty race costumes. They're amazing!

If you have a running friend, team up for a duo costume. I've seen some great two-person costumes — hamburger and french fries (AKA Fast Food!), Wicked Witch and flying monkey, Kermit and Miss Piggy, taco and hot sauce, etc.

If you have several runners, use your numbers. Pick a costume that looks good multiplied. Be a swarm of bees, minions, or a pumpkin patch. More is fun!

Some might say if you can't eat bacon, be bacon! (Photo Credit: Fox 61 2015 Manchester Road Race)

These vikings plan to conquer their race. (Photo Credit: Fox 61 2015 Manchester Road Race)

A group of Candy Corn race in Lincoln Park, Chicago at the Pumpkins in the Park 5K. (Photo credit: @RamRacing #PumpkinsInThePark5K)

Want to Buy Your Running Costume?

If you're not interested in a making costume, it's easy to buy one online.

GoneforaRun.com has a large selection that covers everything from princesses to pumpkins to patriots. You can buy all the pieces, or just one.

Or, have someone else make your costume. Search Etsy for some excellent choices. I'm in love with the Tigger race outfit shown below. It's by the talented Etsy artist/seamstress at iglowrunning.

It will cost more to have someone else make your outfit, so weigh that against your budget. Another option is to check thrift stores and resale shops.

Gone For a Run offers lots of running costumes. You can purchase items separately and customize your look. (Photo credit: GoneForARun.com)

Tiggers are wonderful things! This custom-made performance wear costume is available on Etsy. (Photo credit: iglowrunning on Etsy)

Race Costume Contest Prizes

Your random Saturday in May race costume probably won't get you a prize, but most Halloween races have legit costume contests.

The Ram Racing Pumpkins in the Park 5K has prizes. Prizes are awarded for the Best Original Costume and Best Group Costume. The race also has an Elite Division with cash prizes for the fastest runners— in or out of costume.

Have Fun Racing in Costume!

Don't take your costume too seriously. It's suppose to be entertaining for you and the spectators. There's no need to stress out over it. Just have fun.

Consider that you may need to remove part or all of your costume if it malfunctions, hurts, or becomes dangerous (can't see, trip, etc.). Drop things at aid stations without worrying about littering.

Don't be surprised if spectators comment and cheer as you pass. Decide if you'll stop and take pictures or not. It can be fun to stop for selfies — especially if you find a matching or rival costume.

Wearing a costume may slow your pace, but the bottom line is to have fun!

#PumpkinsinthePark5K #BRPumpkins #RamRacing #LincolnPark #Chicago #HalloweenRaces #RaceCostumes #BibRavePro #BibChat #RunChicago #DisneyCostumes #DIYRunningCostumes #SuperHeroCostumes #BuyRunningCostumes #MakeRunningCostumes #CouplesCostumes #GroupCostumes #RunningCostumes

Review of the New CTM Band

4/28/2018

Whether you've been a runner for ten minutes, or all of your life, you should try the new CTM Band. I've used mine for a month now. I'm really happy with the results. Keep reading to find out why.

Disclaimer: I received a CTM Band to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews!

The CTM Band comes in a reusable plastic pouch that's easy to toss in a gym bag. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

There are four removable trigger points that look like golf balls. You can adjust the band to use 1, 2, 3 or all 4. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

The CTM Band comes in blue, green, yellow and red colors.

The CTM Band is available in blue, green, yellow and red. It's easy to keep clean by wiping it with a damp cloth. (Photo credit: CTM Band)

CTM Band Combines Compression, Tension, and Movement for True Myofascial Release

Myofascial what?

Myofascial (my-o-FASH-e-ul) release is a manual therapy technique used in massage. Self-myofascial release means you do it yourself.

Basically, you apply gentle sustained pressure into your muscles and connective tissue to stop pain and restore motion. The pressure relaxes the muscle and improves blood and lymphatic circulation. This relieves tightness and knots. It also stimulates the stretch reflex in the muscle.

Genuine Myofascial massage must include movement (stretching) and pressure (compression band + trigger points) to release the trouble from your muscles. The CTM Band let's you put a trigger point on the tight spot, then apply compression and stretch.

The result? Pain relief and faster muscle recovery.

CTM Band Versus Other Recovery Tools

CTM Band Therapy is more than a compression band or a pressure point. Why? Because it combines compression plus tension plus movement for true Myofascial massage.

Foam rollers, balls, and massage sticks give you pressure and movement, but no compression. Floss bands give you compression and movement, but no pressure.

If you want to remove accumulated adhesions from your fascia (and you do!), you need compression and movement while you apply pressure.

The CTM Band is the only recovery tool that uses all three essential elements. That means you don't have to use multiple recovery tools to relieve your muscle soreness. You can speed up recovery with one tool that's easy to take to races, the gym or on a racecation.

My Experience with the CTM Band

I was using several types of recovery tools: a foam roller, trigger point balls, and a floss band. Each tool helped, but I needed all three to take care of everything.

My foam roller does a great job of working out tight spots on my back, thighs and shins. But, there are some muscles it will never reach. The roller is stiff and doesn't adapt.

(Photo credit: This Old Runner)

(Photo credit: This Old Runner)

I had a spot on my right calf that bothered me for months. I could loosen it with my foam roller, but it kept coming back. Now, I wrap it with the 4 trigger points and stretch before every run. Problem solved.

I can wrap my knee or ankle and stretch with the CTM Band. I can get that tight spot on my shoulder or bicep, or the bottom of my foot. I even wrapped the CTM Band around my waist with the trigger points on my lower back one day. It worked on my achey muscles.

I was satisfied with my compression band until I used the CTM Band with the trigger points. The trigger point balls let me pinpoint the tight spots. I got results faster with the CTM Band than a standard compression band.

Next, I tried the CTM Band on my feet. I used two of the four trigger points on the bottom of my foot, wrapped it with the band, and stretched back and forth. It felt really good. The compression and the trigger points hit the spot. It was much better than rolling my feet on a spiked massage ball.

The CTM Band puts what I need into one recovery tool that's easy to carry. I can take it to the gym, a race, or outside to stretch in the sunshine. I even use it while I'm a passenger in a car. That's a win for me.

CTM Band Relieves Runner Aches and Pains

The CTM Band works on lots of runner problems. I suggest you visit the CTM website to watch the videos on the correct way to use the band.

If you suffer from any of the following issues, the CTM Band can help you recover.

You also can watch explainer videos on the CTM Band YouTube Channel.

Tight hamstrings? No problem. (Photo credit: CTM Band)

Showing proper way to use the CTM Band on a shin.

Visit the website to meet the inventor and learn how to use the CTM Band on your shins, shoulders, IT Band, and more! (Photo credit: CTM Band)

Pre-Workout Stretches and Warm Up

Have you ever had a tight spot BEFORE a run? I have. I used to stretch a bit and hope it would work itself out by mile 2 or 3.

Now, I'm using the CTM Band before my workouts with good results. I wear it while I go through my stretches. It makes my muscles feel relaxed and ready to run.

The CTM Band is a wonderful recovery tool, but it also works when you use it during your dynamic warmup.

Save 20% with Discount Code "CTMBIBRAVE"

The CTM Band costs $40. I feel it's worth it — I use mine every day. Plus, it has a lifetime guarantee. If you hurry, you can save 20% with my discount code: CTMBIBRAVE.

FYI: The CTM band is 4 inches wide by 7 feet long — plenty of band to wrap those muscles. It has a maximum stretch of 150%. You can order your band here. I hope you will!

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