Key Jangle and Other Things You Should Know About Running
There is lots of advice on the web about running. you can find pages and pages on different training programmes, the importance of having the right trainers and other major considerations when embarking upon your journey into the world of running. there isn’t though, a list of the little things that you might have to think about or the tiny annoyances that some runners face on a daily basis. so, because of our helpful nature, we thought we’d put together a small list for you.
1) Key Jangle-
the phenomenon that is the noise generated when two or more keys are placed inside a pocket and are then jostled whilst the individual runs.
Having your keys jangle at the start of your run when you’re out on a quiet pathway without your mp3 player can begin to irritate. An hour later and failed attempts to modify your running style to keep the keys still and that little irritation will have turned into a constant grind.
Key jangle prevention is simple, only take one key or keep keys separated by soft material that won’t make the jangle sound. Don’t ruin your run with the key jangle.
2) Drink Transportation -
the method by which the runners carries their replacement fluids. Methods can include backpacks with water bags, tiny bottles in a Batman style utility belt and the good old-fashioned bottle in the hand.
Plan ahead how you want to carry your drink. A bottle in one hand can put you off balance, the utility belt may not feel comfortable and the backpack may feel unusual. there are good products out there and something for everyone.
The alternate to carrying your drink is to leave it on the ground a pick it up as you do circuits. one of the outcomes of this, though, can be turning the corner to see someone’s dog licking the bottle, only for the dog walker to smile and apologise.
3) Runner’s etiquette -
a code of behavior that delineates expectations for social behavior according to contemporary conventional norms within the running community (how runners should behave towards other runners).
When running past a fellow runner it is important to acknowledge them without disrupting their run. Casual nods, hellos and smiles are fine but high fives and bum pats are a no-no and trying to stop them to start a conversation is an act worth punishment.
If being taken over; do not disrupt your run to avoid being overtaken, you may ruin your run and the run of the overtaker. If you try to keep up with your fellow runner you may struggle to finish your run.
If overtaking a fellow runner you should do so respectfully; avoid laughing, cheering and turning round to gloat. that runner may be a slower runner but all runners are equal. Also, watch out as that runner may be on a recovery run and might wipe the floor with you at your next race.
4) Noisy headphones -
wearing headphones that are playing audio files at a volume at which others can hear.
This is sort of a sub-section to runner’s etiquette. before you start your run, turn on your mp3 player and listen to the headphones from an arm’s length away. If you can clearly hear the music, it needs to be turned down. otherwise be prepared to not only be deafened but for everyone you pass to hear that cheesy Rocky theme tune you’ve got on repeat.
5) Windswept hair -
an undesirable look that involves the individual’s hair being messed up due to windy conditions.
It is difficult to go for a run and look good. Celebs in magazines or the person on the front of Runner’s World do not represent what most people look like when out on your run. Combine the effect of the wind with your sweaty brow and you have the makings of a bad look.
But don’t sweat, or do sweat but only on the run, you may not look great when you’re out on your run but your body will have everyone grabbing for their running trainers.
6) Needing the loo -
the desire or requirement to go to the lavatory to empty your bladder.
When your run is going great the last thing you want is the sudden urge to pee. make sure the last thing you do before you leave the house is go to the toilet to get that bladder good and empty. then only drink the amount of fluid that you need on your run and avoid overfilling.
In case of weak bladders or long runs, plan a running route that has loo stops. These should be somewhere hidden to offer you some privacy and avoid arrest (so not in the middle of the street).
Most races have designated loos on race routes but if PB’s or positions are on the line, you may have to consider peeing on yourself. this should never happen on a training run.
There you have it, a few things that you may not have thought about, about running. it would be great if you could add some of your own or let us know about your experiences with any of these.