THOOSA IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Those of you who’ve already invested in the fabulous Thoosa Chill Jacket this season, won’t be at all surprised that it scored full marks in running4women.com’s product review ! It’s always fantastic to see our products reviewed by real runners.

Thoosa designs are made to make you feel sporty, serious about running or fitness in general, and also to fit the purpose perfectly. In addition, we want them to make you feel comfortable and feminine with fantastic design features and attention to detail.

We couldn’t be happier that Jessica, a running4women member, thought the jacket did all of the above. In her own words Jessica “could not fault the jacket, hugs the body in the right places and doesn’t ride up when running. Perfect running jacket for these cold winter months. Also nice to wear to the gym, lots of people commented on it”. Need we say more?

Click on the link above to read the full review, and, if you haven’t bought one of these beauties then why not drop a Christmas hint and add it to your wish list?!

THE BEGINNER'S BLOG - A GREAT WAY TO START THE WEEK

I admit, my great, “getting back into running” plan has experienced a few setbacks of late. Firstly there was tonsillitis. Then I picked up an annoying little cold that made me ache, grumble and splutter for a good four or five days.

And then it was Monday. As I wondered, sleepily into my sister’s room (we share a flat), she asked how I was feeling, if I was actually going through with my grand, Sunday night idea, of going for a Monday morning run. I explained that, although I obviously sounded much better, I still felt pretty exhausted and, reluctantly, thought it best not to push myself. Her annoying boyfriend pointed out that it’s always thought easier to write about stuff as opposed to doing it. Hmmm...right I thought! I almost replied “WHATEVER”, then realising I was thirty, not thirteen. I refrained.

Five minutes later I was in my fabulous thoosa kit. I looked the part. I talked the talk now time to walk the walk. Luckily for me the sun was shining. Properly shining, I was so glad I “pushed” myself into getting out.

I decided to stick with Week 1 of my ‘Beginners’ Guide’ www.running4women.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/5kBeg.pdf. The five minute fast walk to start with was brilliant. Following a programme made me feel far less intimidated by the other runners in the park. I walked with purpose, knowing I was sticking to a training programme; very important. The five minute run that followed was fairly easy but equally I was relieved when it was over. As I settled back into another five minute walk, I was amazed how I felt. The walk allowed me to appreciate the effect of my, all be it very short, run instantly. This is the exact feeling that you want when running. I wanted to start running again, to continue the effects, making my legs feel stronger, making me feel stronger. Running with almost instant gratification was the perfect way to start the week. This could be the start of something good.

Pippa

THE BEGINNER'S BLOG - GETTING STARTED

So, getting started. I have armed myself with some beautiful new kit, thoosa of course. It still being fairly mild outside, I chose a City tank and City capri both in rose (pictured right). The tank’s neckline is really flattering as it isn’t tight on the waistline. Also I thought the pretty ruche detail would help me still feel vaguely feminine, whilst probably looking like a sweaty mess. And, to prevent me from becoming, ‘all the gear with no idea’ girl, I have armed myself with stacks of running and health magazines, and a beginner’s guide.

Immersing myself in magazines completely helped in motivating me. If you’re thinking of taking up running I cannot recommend it enough. It made me feel enthusiastic and fall in love with the idea of running before I even set out the door.
Having done some research I have decided to follow the running4women beginner’s guide (http://www.running4women.com/category/starting-out/training-programmes/). I found them to be really clear, and they seemed to have realistic, achievable goals that didn’t overwhelm.

With my music blasting I was away. I decided to not stray too far from home. The park opposite my flat is familiar enough not make me feel daunted or to get lost in. I started off walking, just like the guide suggested. I’m not sure if I lasted the whole five minutes as I found my feet were actually itching to go a little faster. The good thing was that once I set a steady pace and had kept it up for a few minutes I didn’t feel guilty about walking again, as I knew this was all part of my plan. Twenty minutes later I felt pleasantly exhausted, a sweaty mess, as predicted. Walking back to my flat I found myself smiling. Perfect, ‘I’m back’ I thought to myself. I’m actually looking forward to my next run!

Pippa

TIPS FOR A HEALTHY AUTUMN

TIP 1 - MAKE NEW FRIENDS

With the nights starting to draw-in it's easy to fall into the trap of letting your exercise routine take a back seat until Spring. If you're going to stay fit duing the winter, now is the time to form some good habits. Our tips are reasons to stay active during the cooler months so that you can stay healthy and then reap the rewards come the new year.

Human contact and companionship are important to all of us and it's never too late to make new friends. Joining a local running group is a great way to stay fit and be sociable at the same time. It's also a safe way to running during the short winter days.

There are women's running groups springing up all over the country. A good place to start is the Women's Running Network . There are also local groups under the umbrella of the Running Sisters . Running4women is also a good place to find a running companion in your area.