Welcome to the Weekly Wrap!
This linkup is hosted by yours truly and my good friend Tricia at MissSippiPiddlin. The purpose of this link is to connect with and support other active women.
You can summarize your whole week or just a small portion of it. It's up to you! Race recaps are also encouraged! {See rules} We hope you'll challenge yourself to come back later in the week and interact with more women. It's a wonderful way to make new friends!
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| HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY ! |
First of all, have you registered to earn this very cool BB8 finishers medal from Level Up Virtual Runs? Hurry, today is the last day! You don't want to miss this one of a kind spinning medal. I will be highlighting the participants in a post race wrap up on March 1st. Please join in!
Click RIGHT HERE for more information and a discount code!
Secondly, I had the wonderful opportunity to review the SLS3 Dual Pocket Belt. I was provided with this belt at no cost in exchange for an honest view. All opinions expressed are my own. Because my hips are wider than my waist (putting it mildly) belts just do not stay put. Typically, they inch up to my waist and bounce around. Yep, this drives me bonkers. So, I was excited to try this belt!
The first thing I noticed was the strap. It is flat and wide with very squeezy elastic {such technical terminology, I know}. I was able to get it tight enough, which is a problem with my current belt. My large iPhone 6 while still in it's rubber protective case fit easily in one waterproof pocket. For kicks, I stuffed 6 GU (that's all I had), a mini Cliff Bar and my car key fob in the other waterproof pocket. It could have held more. Both pockets are extremely expandable.
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| Not one, but TWO roomy WATERPROOF zipper pockets! |
I fastened the belt low on my hips and took off. Within a couple of minutes, sure enough -- it had risen to the smallest part of my waist. But guess what? It did not bounce! The weight of my phone was not causing any sagging either. I completely forgot I was wearing it. I have never been able to say that.
The next time I used the SLS3 Dual Pocket Belt, I went ahead and buckled it around my waist - right against my bare skin - instead of on my hips. Again, I completely forgot it was there. I felt the tag in my pants! I felt the seam of my sock! I felt the hooks of my bra! But, I did not feel this belt! This speaks volumes. It's a definite keeper for me.
The wonderful folks at SLS3 are currently offering an introductory $12.90 discounted price (a whopping 57% off retail) through AMAZON. (<< Click). In addition, they are very graciously giving one away to a lucky reader.
The wonderful folks at SLS3 are currently offering an introductory $12.90 discounted price (a whopping 57% off retail) through AMAZON. (<< Click). In addition, they are very graciously giving one away to a lucky reader.
And finally, I'm back (in the saddle again ... I'm back!) I believe my ITB problem is in the past now. Knock.On.Wood. I even ran a 5k Saturday. It feels so good to be running regularly again. My early morning runs were quite frosty this week and I enjoyed them immensely. I faithfully attended Physical Therapy to work on strengthening my hips and did my at home exercises as well.
Tuesday - Ran 4 miles
Thursday - Ran 5 miles
Saturday - Ran 3 miles
Sunday - Ran 9 miles
Total Weekly Miles = 21
On Saturday I ran in the Love Run 5k. It's a very hilly route, 230 feet of gain to be exact -- pretty strong for a 5k don't you think? You can be assured any race held in our downtown area will be that way. The last time I participated, I swore I never would again. See how well that worked?
After everything I've been through, my pace has suffered a good deal. I hope getting back to regular 5k runs will help my speed. I've used them many times as tempo runs in the past during half marathon training. I did place 2nd in my age group, but they only awarded 1st place.
Since our kids had other plans Saturday night, we went to our favorite local, authentic Italian restaurant for a quiet meal for Valentines Day. I admit it. I ate a cannoli for dessert. Delicious!
My long run Sunday was a delight. It was very sunny but windy and I wore some festive (aka very loud pink cheetah print) capris in honor of Valentine's Day.
And that's a wrap!
Do you like wearing a running belt?
Do you do regular exercises to strengthen your hips?
I've been struggling a little bit with pace issues as well. I'm hoping that once my foot settles down (if it ever does), I'll be able to pick it back up again.
ReplyDeleteI was able to test out that belt and I really liked it too!
I'm guilty of wanting to run all of my runs at the same pace. If I could commit to just one speed session, I think it would help. This is the best belt I've tried. It still won't stay low, but it's so comfy I don't seem to mind. I hope your foot settles down!
DeleteGlad to hear your ITB issues are fading! Congratulations on running a 5k with no problem!
ReplyDeleteThe belt sounds good. I do run with a belt and the one I have is okay but it has been uncomfortable on occasion, particularly if I'm running a faster pace or get a stitch. Maybe I need to try the SLS3 belt!
This belt is the most comfortable I've tried. Maybe you should buy it while it's at the discounted price!
DeleteSo glad that your ITB has been feeling better! Nice job in the 5k...I feel like my speed is always the first thing to go when I am dealing with an injury. It will come back faster than you think!
ReplyDeleteI'd like to try to work on speed while it's still cold. I find it much harder in the heat and humidity.
DeleteI ran a 5K this morning, my first race since early December; and I was slow as mud. I suppose everyone else in my age group has the winter slugginess because I placed second in my age group as well!
ReplyDeleteI wear my SPIbelt on all of my runs. It looks very similar to the one you're reviewing. Love it!
Thanks for the linkup!
Hooray for 2nd place! I made myself go for the practice. 5ks make you run faster, whether you want to or not! There's a free one next weekend, so I have no excuse except to try again.
DeleteNice mileage this week! We went out to dinner last night too and were surprised at how empty the restaurant was. Granted, it was just a neighborhood pizza place, but we can't be the only ones who can enjoy a cheap date even on Valentine's weekend! I just won that belt from another blogger! I can't wait to try it.
ReplyDeleteWe thought the same thing about our restaurant at first. But, by the time we left the place was packed. I think you'll like this belt.
DeleteThat is some serious elevation on that 5K! Congrats on the AG performance, love those tights! I really should do more hip strengthening. My strength workouts have definitely fallen by the wayside with my schedule disruptions recently. Healthy eating and then strength work tend to be my first to go.
ReplyDeleteI was relieved my ITB held up on those downhills! I've got to get back on track with healthier eating. I do good for a few days, then...no.
DeleteI don't want to be aware of anything I'm wearing or holding. In fact, I won't hold anything at all. LOL. Maybe your hips are not tight because you were diligent about your exercises. I hope I'm back on track. Right now, I'm sore from all of the PT.
ReplyDeleteI have a Spi Belt that I really like - I usually use it in races. YAY for feeling better too!!! So glad to hear you're back running! I do a lot of band work to keep my hips strong. I'm also doing a lot of work on my glutes. Those are great tights too! Happy Valentines Day!
ReplyDeleteI'm doing quite a bit of work using resistance bands too. It really is making my hips sore, but I guess that is part of the process. I have never raced with a belt, but I think I could do it with this one.
DeleteWelcome back! You must be over the moon! I've never run with a belt, but this one looks awesome. Keep being proactive with your recovery and it will definitely pay off.
ReplyDeleteIt feels good to be back to somewhat normal after the marathon and ensuing ITB pain. I will definitely continue with the strengthening exercises.
Deleteditto on the belt...despite it doing what all other belts do to me (slid up to my waist), it also did what the others did NOT do...and it actually did not bounce. Definitely a keeper ;-) And, I should write a blog post about all the times I have placed 2nd (and got nothing for it), or 4th (and, again, nothing to show for it but a PR). Once, I even did a tough, hilly course in cold, damp, windy conditions...and placed third (but they only awarded the 1st and 2nd place runners). #truth
ReplyDeleteI was surprised at how comfortable this belt felt on my waist! I am the queen of placing 4th in half marathon age grouping. It's just a private joke now. I don't even have to look at the results.
DeleteI am so glad than cranky IT Band has settled down. It is about time. We ain't got time for it for sure! Congratulations on your 5k and AG placing. I love the wild leggings too I would say they are perfect for Valentine's Day! Gosh wasn't that wind something? I did not have enough layers on Saturday and I'll make sure to check that!! I have got to break down an try this belt! It really is a great deal! Are you ready for another busy week? Let's do this!!!
ReplyDeleteThe wind was blocked on much of my long run from the trees and hills in my neighborhood, thankfully. But every now and again, BAM. Those capris were pretty comfy. Nike has always been good to me. Yeah, this is going to be a busy week for sure!
DeleteNice miles and great to hear your ITB problem is in the past! Also, congrats on 2nd place in the 5k! I was able to try the SLS3 belt and I like it too!
ReplyDeleteQuite a few of us in this circle reviewed the belt I noticed. I really liked it though. It's a good product.
DeleteI am not a big belt person. I have a flat one that I wear on long runs, I prefer having things around my hips and hate things around my waist.
ReplyDeleteSo glad you are feeling yourself again ! That's a lot of mileage, congrats.
I don't normally run with a belt but this one is the most comfortable I've tried. I will definitely use it on the bike because I feel I need my phone on long rides.
DeleteHello! It's my first time linking up and I'm excited to be joining you guys! I see that you're recovering from injury as well - it's so hard but it's also so exciting when you finally start seeing progress! I'm still using walk breaks when I run just so I don't overuse my hips and get injured again, but I'm getting there!
ReplyDeleteWe are excited to have you! Yes, I fractured my foot in the fall while training for the Chicago marathon. And then, I ran the Disney marathon after it healed -- which gave me ITB issues for a few weeks because I was not accustomed to running much. Whew! I hope all of that is over with now.
DeleteI don't mind a belt if it doesn't bounce, I use a Flipbelt for my phone when running and find I don't mind that much. I did win one of these so I won't enter your giveaway, I hope I like it! Glad to read you are running good again! YAY!
ReplyDeleteMy oldest son really likes his Flipbelt. That is one I haven't tried. I think you'll like this belt. It's comfy.
DeleteI'm glad that you're racing again. Congrats on 2nd place!
ReplyDeleteIt was felt good to get back to racing. I certainly didn't expect to win anything. My time was definitely OFF.
DeleteHooray to be back out there again! And wtg on not only that tough 5k but the long run the next day! I don't do hip strengthening exercises, but I know I should. I should do more strength training in general.
ReplyDeleteI've been really bad with incorporating any strength training. I don't enjoy it. I do water ski in the summer, which is great for the upper body. I will continue to work on my hips on a regular basis.
DeleteGreat news the ITB is behaving and congrats on the race! Bummer only first place got an award though. Been there and it's so disappointing. We stayed home for V-day dinner cuz I suspected all restaurants would be a total zoo. Thanks for the linkup!
ReplyDeleteI wasn't expecting to place in this race. I made myself go just to face my fears -- it's been so long since I've run a 5k. I knew it would make me run faster.
DeleteSounds like you had a great week! I have an SL3 pocket belt to check out as well. Now if I could only get back to running to try it! I'm doing clams with a resistance band for my hips now...I just upgraded to the resistance band at physical therapy. Let me tell you, my hip muscles burn when I'm done! -C
ReplyDeleteThey had me doing those clams right away. The weighted side lifts are a killer too. I'm also doing a lot of stability work. I really feel that in my lower legs and ankle area in addition to my hips.
DeleteI have to keep it slow until my scar tissue issue is fixed. But I'm still out there, and the weather's warming up already here. It was a little bit more brisk than I thought on Saturday, but when the wind wasn't blowing, it was quite nice.
ReplyDeleteI hope your scar tissue problem is resolved soon! Our weather was very nice here too. Most of the wind was blocked when I ran in our wooded and hilly neighborhood.
DeleteSince my it band issue last year, I have been trying to do better at hip work but I do forget at times. Glad yours is doing better.
ReplyDeleteLove the run belt. I use to use a arm band but it never stayed up. . The belt is so flat at fits perfectly doesn't it?
I am doing the run like a princess virtual race with level up....a little blind and a tierra...yes please!!
Have a great week Holly!
I saw the March virtual race of theirs too. My sister mentioned doing it for her birthday so I may join in on that one too. The SLS3 belt is very comfy.
DeleteYay! So glad your back out there!! It's so frustrating being sidelined! The only belt I have ever tried bounced and twisted and drove me nuts! I'm excited to try this one! I'm registering for the virtual run right now!
ReplyDeleteThat's the way I felt about belts too. It's good to know I can wear this one if I need to take my phone with me.
DeleteI've never worn a running belt for the reasons you mentioned. My hips are a bit more generous than my waist & everything seems to move around or ride up. I'll wear a hydration pack for hot, long summer runs, but it doesn't help me when all I really need to carry is my car key & don't want to hold it in my sweaty hand. So, I think I need to try a belt, I'm just nervous!
ReplyDeleteAt the heavily discounted price, at least you could try this one and it wouldn't break the bank.
DeleteI love my running belt - I wear to all my races to carry my phone & attach my bib. You are doing great!!! I only ran 9 miles and I was not injured. And 2nd place, you rock!!
ReplyDeleteI'm just trying to get back into the swing of things. I was much slower than the last time I ran this race, unfortunately.
DeleteSo glad to year you're back at it! Congrats on 2nd place! I usually need a belt for anything over 6 miles and at races. I'm loving the SLS belt so far! I've been doing at home exercises to work on my extremely weak hips- hoping to avoid PT although, our local PT does a running form evaluation and analysis so I"m considering having that done just to find out what needs worked on and hopefully prevent future injuries!
ReplyDeleteThe evaluation and analysis might be a really good thing. At least you would know what areas to work on. I'm doing this mainly for prevention too.
DeleteYAY for running without pain! Always a good thing.
ReplyDeleteI'm thankful that my skirts have enough pockets for everything I need. I have a few belts and some of them are fine, I just prefer not to wear them. Glad you found one you like.
I appreciate the pockets in my skirts too! Funny, I don't wear them on typical weekday training runs though. I feel I need to save them for races -- I don't know why!
DeleteI love running with belts as they really help hold my phone, keys, etc. But they can't bounce! I don't do hip strengthening exercises but my hip has been bothering me lately so maybe I should.
ReplyDeleteNo, they can't bounce! My hips get cranky. I always chalk it up to my age. Maybe I shouldn't do that. Perhaps I can prevent it after all.
DeleteGreat to hear you're IT problems are behind you! Hope it stays that way! That fuel belt looks pretty cool - I've been running with a SPI belt forever and love it. Always good when you can find something that works for you!
ReplyDeleteI'm going to be working hard to get the IT issue away. And, anything/everything else. Here's to a healthy year!
DeleteYay! Glad to hear your ITB problems are behind you! Sounds like a great week of runs! I do have a flipbelt but I am looking for a belt that can hold more especially for when I train for a marathon. I do like how the belt you have is waterproof!
ReplyDeleteI don't think you'd have a problem fitting everything you need into these two pockets.
DeleteSo happy to hear your doing so well, YAY! Now you can run/workout as you want too again!
ReplyDeleteI use a flipbelt, I like it but I have their older version that doesn't have any zippers. Nothing has ever fallen out, but I don't put anything valuable in it just in case.
So I do like that this belt you have, has a zipper!!!
I'm still trying to hold the reins. I want to run every day and that is not the smartest thing for me right now!
DeleteI do run with a running belt when I don't carry my water bottle holder that also holds my phone. I have only tried the FlipBelt, which I do love. I wouldn't mind though if I could fit my phone in my belt while still in the case! I currently remove my cover to fit in my water bottle holder and also to fit my FlipBelt. Not a real problem but this one you reviewed here looks pretty cool. I am SO happy for you that you are BACK to hitting the pavement! Happy Running!!!
ReplyDeleteI have other products that require me to remove my phone case. Oh my, it's almost impossible to do that! I usually have to get one of my kids to help me. It wasn't meant to be removed.
DeleteI have a love hate relationship with belts. I wear them. I have a spibelt. but if I put anything heavy into it --- well then I hate it. I just picked up a new option called a roopack on Saturday. I'll review it soon to let you know what I think.
ReplyDeleteAhh hip exercises. Do you know the Myrtl routine? Google it.It's really good stuff for opening hips and engaging the glutes. Basically, at the end of the day our hips will tighten up if our glutes are not firing and or not strong enough. So 3x a week I do squats and lunges and old fashioned jane fonda leg lifts plus some hip circles and donkey kicks. Plus I stretch. Yup. It's fancy stuff. :-)
I have an older RooSport Pocket but my phone doesn't fit unless I remove it's case. I do like the idea behind that product though. Maybe they're making them bigger now for the bigger phones? I have looked at the Myrtl routine. I do a lot of the same exercises but those hip circles look difficult!
DeleteGlad you're back in the saddle and enjoying running again! Love the Valentine's Day running outfit :)
ReplyDeleteMe too! Apparently, I'm drawn to very colorful clothing.
DeleteThat's so great that you can get back out there! Way to kill it this week. I usually wear a Nathan hydration belt, but with marathon training starting - I don't have enough room for my fuel - this belt sounds amazing! Thanks for the link up!
ReplyDeleteThis belt will hold all the fuel you need! I'm glad you joined us this week.
Deletegreat job getting back out there and that is a hilly 5k course!!
ReplyDeleteI usually wear belts and rotate between 4 different types depending on the length run i will be doing.
It's funny how I forget about the hills and keep going back for punishment!
DeleteThat's great that the ITB problem seems to be in the past! And I love those cheetah print leggings :)
ReplyDeleteThat print goes perfect with my green and pink shoes too!
DeleteI enjoy the SLS3 Duel pocket running belt as well! I always have to start it at my waist, but no bounce! I also wear it around when I do not have pockets on my jacket :)
ReplyDeleteI think I've come to terms with the fact it will be on my waist. It's the only thing I have that will hold my phone in it's case.
DeleteI'm so glad you're back to running regularly! Yay! I bet all those runs were just lovely. It doesn't sound like your pace suffered too much if you got 2nd place in the 5K! Using 5Ks as tempo runs during training is a great idea.
ReplyDeleteI was more than 90 seconds slower than the last time I ran the same course. I have some work to do. But, I'm looking forward to it -- because it means I'm running!
DeleteOh, that good ol' IT band... I'm glad to hear you're feeling better and moving forward!
ReplyDeleteI hope it behaves now for a very long while!
DeleteI think I've conquered my ITB as well, yay!
ReplyDeleteI saw that on your post. I'm happy for the both of us!
DeleteThis is my first time linking-up with you and Tricia. I saw the link on Wendy's Page and thought I should check it out. So here I am! That was a fun post about race shirts, and you're wearing my favorite one! I happened to wear it in my training log for this week,too! It really does have a great fit and my kids love it, too!
ReplyDeleteWe are so happy you joined us. I've worn that red shirt a few times but I'm treating it with extra care, at least until I get the next one!
Deletecongrats! Back in the saddle lady! Doesn't it feel great! I am happy for you- good week with the miles :) Good job on the belt review, I enjoyed mine too!
ReplyDeleteIt feels great. Even after my foot healed, that little marathon kind of messed with me for a while. Now I've got to make some plans!
DeleteCongrats on being back into the running routine! Once I recovered from IT Band issues, I have been very vigilant about keeping up my strengthening exercises to avoid getting it again! Good luck with this week!
ReplyDeleteYou can bet I will keep up my routine once I'm released from PT. I'm already diligently doing my at home exercises.
DeleteI have Steven Tyler screaming in my head now, thanks to you ;-) Welcome back! I know it feels so good to finally be feeling back to normal and to be able to get back into a regular routine. That sounds like a really hilly 5K! And those are some pretty sweet pants!
ReplyDeleteYou could be singing the Gene Autry version too (but you are way too young for that). I've been singing both. It's been a long time getting back to normal.
Delete