Post-baby PB
On Saturday 10th December I was up early as it was the first day that I was allowed to run. I was so excited as I’ve really missed running. I got dressed in my favourite black shorts and my purple parkrun volunteer t-shirt. That was the last t-shirt I wore to run in before I had baby M! My first run would allow me to set my post-baby PB (PBPB).
Testing some Hoka One Ones
I was also excited to try out some completely new shoes. I was sent a pair of Hoka One One Bondi 4s by Millet Sports. Although I’ve walked parkrun in them, I’ve not had a chance to run in them until now.
Hoka One One were the sponsors of the run section of Ironman Kona, so I was intrigued to try out this brand. I don’t know any local shops that stock them, so I’ve not even had a chance to try on a pair before. I chose the same size as I usually wear in Brooks and New Balance shoes and would say that the fit is the same. The delivery from Millet Sports was prompt.
Usually the shoes would cost £110, which is at the upper end of what I can justify spending on running shoes, however, there is currently a sale on, so they are reduced by 30% (many other shoes on the site are reduced by up to 55%, so the sale is worth checking out).
My verdict on the Hoka One Ones
The shoes are incredibly comfortable and springy. They are designed for road running, so they have quite a lot of cushioning, but they are also grippy enough that they would be fine on light trails and dry grass. I was able to maintain a comfortable midfoot stride in them and didn’t feel any discomfort, even though it’s been 8 weeks since I last ran. The two-tone laces look attractive and tied easily. They are not slippery laces, so I don’t think they’d undo whilst running. The shoe’s upper has lycra in it, which meant it was a comfortable fit.
The sole of the shoes is shaped, which means that you roll through each step. It was an unusual feeling initially, but I got used to it very quickly. I’m hoping that I’ll be back up to running 10k+ very soon, so it will be interesting to see how they feel on longer runs.
How was my run?
As usual, I started off rather quickly, but I was determined to keep a steady pace throughout, so I tried to slow down a bit so that I didn’t run out of steam. I tried not to look at my watch whilst running but was also determined to beat my final pregnancy time of 30:50-something.
I crossed the line and was determined to see my time:
It’s the fastest I’ve run since February (before I knew I was pregnant), but I’m determined to work on it. I hope that I can at least get down to 26:XX in the not too distant future. After that, I’ll be aiming for a PB (sub 24:42).
How’s your running going? Have you run a 5k PB this year?
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