Hi there 🙋♂️
How about that London Marathon? Phew! If you didn’t catch it, make sure you read about how Sifan Hassan won it by breaking all the rules for how you’re supposed to run a marathon. And how Kelvin Kiptum emerged as the heir apparent to Kipchoge’s marathon throne.
But today I’m going to write about something different altogether. The other day, I came across this quote that made me chuckle:
“Would you believe that there are some people out there, who don’t use spreadsheets recreationally?”
– Matt Parker
It was funny, because I was in the middle of setting up a huge spreadsheet to keep track of all my running. It’s not that there aren’t good options out there that present me with all the data I could possibly want, and much more.
I just want to make my own thing that does it exactly the way I want it.
So now I’ve got a spreadsheet that shows me stuff like mileage per week, and per month, and long runs per month and what not. And it’s presented just the way I like it. Like this one that shows a day-by-day totals per week:
I even made a little dashboard. It’s for myself to keep track of the numbers I like to keep up with on a daily basis. But you can use that link if you want to see how my running is going.
( You could, of course, just follow me on Strava. But where’s the fun in that?)
All that was just a long winded lead up to ask you the following question:
Do you track any particular numbers to inform and evaluate your training? And if so, what kind of numbers do you look at regularly?
I’d love to hear from you, because I’m always looking for new metrics to add to my spreadsheet.
Alright, time for the good stuff.
🔦 Petzl Iko Core Headlamp Review
“I’m not your typical ultra trail runner who likes to spend days upon days out in the dark wilderness. Instead, I wanted a headlamp that could light up an unlit track when doing morning or evening workouts, longer runs on unlit country roads, and the occasional trail run.”
Perhaps more relevant for my friends down under than back home up in Northern Norway right now. But it’ll be relevant for everyone eventually, so I just published a big review of the Petzl Iko Core running headlamp. Without spoiling too much, I’ll say that this is a good option if you value comfort above all else.
› Read the Petzl Iko Core Headlamp review
👟 Sponsored by SportsShoes.com
If you’re looking for the best prices and the most extensive selection of running shoes and apparel, look no further than SportsShoes.com. You’ll find the models worth running in from the brand worth talking about at SportsShoes.com.
Right now SportsShoes.com are running a special campaign on the new collection from Rab. Use code “RAB15” for 15% off already low prices for premium running apparel from Rab.
Here’s a selection of apparel that you should consider to take your running comfort while running to the next level:
- Rab Talus Trail Shorts: Lightweight, 7-inch stretch running shorts with a highly supportive waistband. Featuring a host of tactical pockets so you can ditch the backpack on shorter runs, and super stretchy, quick-dry fabric, eliminating chafe and allowing unhindered movement
- Rab Windveil Jacket: Constructed from wind and water-resistant Pertex Quantum Air, and fast-wicking, strategically placed Motiv jersey fabric, the garment is an exceptionally technical full zip windbreaker, perfect for your next outdoor adventure.
- Rab Sonic Ultra Zip Neck Top: The Sonic Ultra Zip is a highly efficient mountain running layer. Slim fitting, adaptable and built with unhindered articulation and an odour control finish.
🍿 A Long Way From Nowhere: 150 Miles at The Desert RATS Stage Race
“Centered not around winning or extraordinary spectacle—but instead one focused upon the human spirit—on why individuals, knowingly or not, seek out some of the harshest climates on earth (…) and push themselves to, and sometimes beyond, the breaking point.”
Searching for something to watch this weekend? Look no further than this recently released documentary on ultra running. A beautifully crafted hour long look into what compels a person to run, and keep running when all sense and senses tell them to stop.
› Watch this ultra running documentary
🤩 How Sara Vaughn Went from a Miler to an Elite Marathoner in Three Months
“Vaughn’s immediate success in the marathon wasn’t a matter of luck or merely pure talent—it was the product of her cumulative training wisdom, most of which can be applied to any race distance. Here’s how she made the leap from miler to marathoner while coming back from pregnancy, and what she learned in the process about training and racing.”
Sara Vaughn debuted in the marathon by placing top US female at the California International Marathon late last year. In this inspiring article from Outside, she shares her best tips for getting ready for the marathon.
› Learn Vaughn’s secrets for mastering the marathon
😂 Just for Laughs
That’s all she wrote for this week. I’m working on something new for Run161 that I’m really excited about. I hope to be ready to share it with you next week. Stay tuned!
As always, if you like the newsletter, I would love your help in spreading the word. Forward this email, or share the following link:
https://run161.com/weekly-newsletter-about-running/
See you next week!
Lars-Christian
Did you enjoy this edition of the newsletter?
Let me know by sending me an email at lc@run161.com.