This Old Runner Writes About Running

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.

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

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.

There are four removable trigger points that look like golf balls. You can adjust the band to use 1, 2, 3 or all 4.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

#CTMBand #DiscountCode #PromoCode #CTMBIBRAVE #CTMBandBR #BibChat #BibRavePro #MyofascialRelease #CompressionBand #Flossing #SelfMyofascialRelease #DOMS #DelayedOnsetMuscleSoreness #RunnerProbs #ITBandSyndrome #ITBand #ShinSplints #RunnerPain

What is Plogging?

4/27/2018

Have you heard about Plogging? There's been a lot of it going around here lately in celebration of Earth Day. Yet, it's a great idea any time of year.

The word "Plogging" is a combination of "jogging" and "plocka upp," a Swedish term for picking up. It refers to stopping to pick up trash while you run. It's a nice way to reduce litter and show appreciation for the places where we run and walk outside.

FlipBelt Crops are great for plogging graphic.

I realized while running trails that if I'm wearing FlipBelt Crops I can stash trash in the 360º pockets. I grabbed this wrapper and an empty water bottle on my trail run.

Plogging Started in Sweden

People have been plogging in European countries for a while. Now, the idea is getting popular with U.S. runners. The first Facebook group, Plogga, showed up in January 2017. You can find dedicated Ploggers on Instagram, too. My favorite is Plastic_SolutionPollution.

All you need to plog is a place to put the trash you find. Take a grocery bag or a garbage bag. You may want to bring a pair of gloves. If you want to plog in a group, look for local activities organized by Keep America Beautiful.

Hand wearing rubber glove making the okay sign.

You can use disposable gloves or garden gloves to pick up trash on your run.

Picture of FlipBelt Crops with key ring and pockets.

FlipBelt Crops have plenty of room to carry a bag and gloves you'll use for plogging. They're also good for stashing random trash you find on a run when you didn't intend to plog.

Plogging on Trails vs City Streets

I spotted trash out on the trails the other day. Not cool, hikers. Not cool. Since I was wearing my FlipBelt Crops (of course!) I realized they were perfect for plogging.

It was easy to grab food wrappers and bottle caps and put them in my pockets. I decided next time I'd stash a bag and gloves in my FlipBelt Crops for a serious plogging session.

I think plogging works best on trails, or less busy suburban routes. You're able to run and pick up trash. If you're on city streets with heavy pedestrian traffic, it's more challenging. In most cities, it's lots of picking up and little running.

I've read about running groups that run first, then take 20-30 minutes afterwards to pick up trash. That's certainly an easier way to plog in the city.

Plogging Can Be a Workout

Some runners like to run a route once with an eye out for trash, then repeat the course to pick it up. I use this method when I run around a nearby lake.

However you plog, it's good for the environment, and adds stretching and squatting to your workout. In fact, the Swedish fitness app Lifesum, lists plogging as a fitness activity. If you're wondering, it burns 288 calories in 30 minutes.

Disclaimer: I received a pair of FlipBelt Crops 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!

SAVE 25% on Your Own Pair of FlipBelt Crops

Use the code: "BIBRAVE" when you order online and SAVE a whopping 25% on your own pair of crops. Visit FlipBelt.com right now to get yours.

You can read my reviews of FlipBelt Crops here and here.

#Plogging #Ploga #Plog #PickUpTrash #FlipBeltBR #FlipBelt #FlipBeltCrops #EarthDay #Conservation #Environment #BibRavePro #BibChat #KeepAmericaBeautiful #RunStPete #RunTampa #RunSarasota #RunTampaBay #KAB #ArborDay

A Few of My Favorite Things About the New @FlipBelt Crop Capris

4/14/2018

I'm kinda in love with these! Here's why:

SAVE 25% on Your Own Pair of Crops

Use the code: "BIBRAVE" when you order online and SAVE a whopping 25% on your own pair of crops. Visit FlipBelt.com right now to get yours.

#FlipBeltBR #FlipBeltCrops #FlipBelt #BibChat #BibRavePro #DiscountCode #PromoCode #SaveOnFlipBeltCrops

Review of FlipBelt Crops - Running Capris

4/4/2018

Do You Like to Run Hands-Free?

I don't want to hold stuff or tie it to my wrist or arm when I run. Carrying a water bottle, phone and fuel makes me feel clunky. I want to run like Phoebe!

But, if you run far from home like I do, you have to carry your stuff. That's why I was excited to try FlipBelt Crops. Keep reading to learn more.

Phoebe Running GIF from Weirdo GIFs

FlipBelt + Running Capris = FlipBelt Crops

Photo: FlipBelt.com

What exactly are FlipBelt Crops?

They're mid-rise athletic capris. They have a FlipBelt waistband that holds ALL your essentials.

I tested the crops on two runs so far. I'll wear them again on a trail run this weekend.

Something tells me I'll be wearing them for lots of activities. They're perfect for lots of things — yard work, yoga, walkabouts and the gym.

Fit and Function

The front pockets have two access points. You can slip any size phone in there, and still grab it easily to take photos on your run.

Even with the phone in there, you'll have plenty of room to stash your keys, fuel, snacks, water and more. There's a key hook sewn in. Just secure your keys and push them into the pocket.

FlipBelt Crops have a rear zipper pocket, too. It's easy to access, and works well for small items (jewelry, cash, money cards). The zip pocket is separate from the rest of your storage. By the way, the rear pocket is big enough to hold your phone.

There are two access points in the front.

There is a zipper pocket in the back.

Fuel and key holder in FliBelt Running Crops

The key holder is sewn in for security.

FlipBelt Crops running capri with water bottle.

The FlipBelt water bottle slides into the pocket.

FlipBelt Crops are real tech activewear. The built-in FlipBelt waistband blends form and function into a unique pair of running and workout pants.

I took my FlipBelt Crops on a 7-miler the first day I had them. I didn't feel or think about my phone while I was running. The belt fit snug, but not tight. There was no bouncing or jostling. I didn't have to adjust anything while I ran.

I placed my phone in the front pocket for my run. That made grabbing it and taking pictures super easy. The phone slid in and out of the pocket in seconds.

The anti-chafe flat seams and moisture-wicking material made these capris very comfortable in the Florida heat and humidity. The material is soft and opaque.

Something I really, really, really liked is that the sizing was true-to-size. Bonus points for that!

Storage Capacity

I doubt I'll ever need more than a few gels during a race. BUT, if I do I'll store them all in my FlipBelt Crops! That's right. I tested the capacity.

Fuel used by runners during races and workouts.

Running fuel in FlipBelt Crops Running Capri.

I probably could have fit more, but you get the point, right?

Watch the Unpacking!

It's amazing to see what fit in there!

Save 25% Off With Code "BIBRAVE"

Get your very own pair of FlipBelt Crops at a 25% discount when you use my code: BIBRAVE. Visit FlipBelt.com right now and order yours.

I'll meet you outside and we can run like Phoebe!

#FlipBeltBR #FlipBeltCrops #FlipBelt #BibChat #BibRavePro #DiscountCode #PromoCode #SaveOnFlipBeltCrops

New Gear! I'm Trying The CTM Band to Relieve Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness

3/23/2018

Ever have one of those tight, achey spots? The kind that shows up a day or two after a half marathon or an intense workout? That's Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness.

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!

I know my muscles will recover, but I like to help the process along. After all, I still have to climb stairs and get up and down from my desk all day.

I already use foam rollers and compression bands. But I'm super excited to try the CTM Band because it has built-in trigger points.

I care about the trigger points because I always seem to have one spot I can't reach with the foam roller. Do you know what I mean? You try and try, but if you aren't a pretzel, you can't make contact. Enter...the CTM Band!

Here's Some History on the CTM Band

The CTM Band was designed by Dr. Kyle Bowling. He's an avid runner and sports chiropractor. He created the CTM Band to offer a new approach to myofascial release. He did extensive research on self myofascial release and created the CTM Band to combine compression, tension, and movement in one dynamic tool.

The CTM Band means you don't have to use a combo of foam rollers, trigger point balls and floss bands to relieve soreness. You can speed up your muscle recovery with one tool that's easy to carry with you — to races, the gym, or on a trip.

You'll be ready to release a knot, relieve a muscle spasm, or activate your muscles before a race. I wish I had it the time I got a charley horse at mile 10 of a race.

Save 20% with Discount Code "CTMBIBRAVE"

If you want to get your own CTM Band, use my code CTMBIBRAVE to save 20%. The band is 4 inches wide by 7 feet long. It has a maxium stretch of 150%. There are four built in trigger points, which are removable so you can customize the band.

It's available in red, yellow, blue and green (like mine!). Order your band here.

CTM Bands come in blue, green, red and yellow.

Stay Tuned for My Testing Details

My CTM Band arrives tomorrow. (I know this because I've been tracking it like a hawk.) I have a long run planned this weekend so I can test it right away. I'll let you know how it goes!

#CTMBand #DiscountCode #PromoCode #SaveMoney #CTMBIBRAVE #CTMBandBR #BibChat #BibRavePro #MyofascialRelease #CompressionBand #Flossing #SelfMyofascialRelease #DOMS #DelayedOnsetMuscleSoreness

Click to Check Out More Discounts on Running Gear

A Runner's Review of BibBoards

2/7/2018

Disclaimer: I received BibBoards 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 first time I ran a race I worried a lot about what to wear:

Hat, Buff or Headband?
Shorts or Capris?
Tank or Shirt?
Water Bottle or Aid Stations?

But I never thought about pinning on my bib. Not until I fumbled with the pins in the starting corral. I got it on, but it wasn't secure. Or straight.

I'd Operated Safety Pins Before. I Didn't Think Pinning My Bib was Going to be a Thing.

My poorly pinned race bib irritated me for 13.1 miles! It was the first half marathon where I RAN the entire race. That bib was a big distraction. It flapped. It wrinkled. It moved around. It caught the wind like a parachute on a downhill slope. It made noise on every single step.

What's the Big Deal if a Race Bib Makes Noise?

A noisy bib is like a dripping faucet — a constant irritant. During a race, you don't want to think about anything except putting one foot in front of the other. Little things are annoying. (Especially in mile 10 to 13!)

By the end of the race, my bib was a mess. The safety pins pulled the bib until each corner was permanently wedged in the circle end of the pin. When I took the bib off, there were pin pricks on my shirt. The corners tore. The bib was crinkled.

Race After Race I Pinned on my Bibs

I kept using safety pins because everyone else did. My pinning skills improved over the years, but not by much.

An experienced runner told me to crinkle the bib before pinning to reduce noise. But, I wanted to save my bibs. Maybe get a cool race bib bag, or coasters or make my own letters like they do on etsy.

(Photo credit: Gone On A Run)

(Photo Credit: Bibs2Bags.com)

(Photo credit: BibBinders on etsy)

Maybe I'll make bib pennants to hang in my home office.

BibBoards Beat Pins and Saved My Shirts

After using #BibBoards, I'm done with safety pins on race bibs. Here's why:

BibBoards don't damage my race shirts (or bibs). No pin holes, rust stains, tears or thread pulls.
It's easy to reposition the bib. Now my bibs are straight and secure. I like to think it makes me look like I have a clue about racing.
BibBoards work on thin and thick materials. I've used them on lightweight tanks and heavier sweatshirts.
I like the smiley face emojis on my BibBoards, but there are lots of choices. You can order from the stock selection, or upload your own artwork.
Discount Code! Go to BibBoards.com and use my code: #BibChat for a 20% discount on your order. Everything's better with a discount code.

Think of BibBoards like a snap. The front snaps into the back without puncturing your shirt. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Your race bib stays flat on your shirt. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Detail of reverse side of shirt with bib boards.

The plastic BibBoards won't damage either side of your shirt. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Bib Boards on Best Damn Race Safety Harbor bib.

I wore BibBoards for a two race challenge, and they worked very well. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Choose from an assortment of designs, or upload your own artwork. (Photo credit: BibBoards.com)

I think these are a great gift for anyone who runs. I'm giving some to my daughter. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Smiley face sunglasses emoji bib board attached to a watch.

Sometimes I wear one on my watch during long runs! (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

I keep them on my hat so I have them at the ready on race day. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

That's Why I'll Keep Using BibBoards

There you have it. That's my honest (overly detailed?) review of BibBoards. Bottom line? I really like them! Give them a try!

Don't Forget! Code #BibChat for 20% Off!

See you at the starting line. I'll be one of the runners wearing BibBoards! 😎

#BibBoards #SaveTheShirt #BibChat #BibRave #BibRavePro #RunSarasota #RunMIA #Run305 #BDR #BestDamnRace #RunStPete #RunTampa #RunBradenton #RunFlorida #RaceDiscounts #PromoCodes #RunnerCodes