Skins & Blisters

Well as much as the long training runs are a way of conditioning my body for the Ultra's, they are also a time to test kit and find comfort in running. There is nothing worse than setting out on a long run and feeling discomfort or worse pain.

Getting the kit right and staving off any potential pains is the key to long distance events. It is imperative to nip that little rub early before it develops into a blister that is going to hinder you in the future.

Well, my problem is always between my 4th and 5th toe where I always cut due to the point my smallest toenail rubs the side of the 4th toe. This first came to light in one of my first long training runs when I looked down to see this!!

Well on Sunday during a gentle 13 miles on the South Devon coast I tried to find a solution. I purchased a gel-filled toe protector from Boots and cut it in two and slipped one half over each of the toes. The result was 13 miles of pain free running and absolutely no rubbing! Success!!!

Also for the run I used my new A400 Skins for the first time. Did they work? Well I have to say at about the 11 mile mark I felt the smallest discomfort in my left knee, but nothing like the discomfort it has given me previously. They also eliminated any pains around the calves which I have been getting.

So, slowly I am getting there with the kit requirements and comfort, just need to bank the miles now.

For those with an interest, after a recommendation, I have started reading Relentless Forward Progress: A Guide to Running Ultramarathons. It is filled with good tips for running your first Ultra.