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    Is The Thule Urban Glide 3 The Best Running Stroller? I Tried It Out

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    As a new mum, getting back into running (or even just some form of exercise) can feel like an uphill battle – especially if you don’t have the right gear. Between squeezing into your pre-baby leggings and actually finding the energy to plan a run, it’s a lot to juggle in those early days.For me, the key items to get were the pram, car seat and cot (these are where I’d suggest investing your money, the rest you can pick up later). So, if you’re hunting for the perfect stroller, you might want to read this first. After all, strollers are a serious investment – you want something that’s going to work for both you and your little one. That’s why I put the Thule Urban Glide 3 to the test, so you don’t have to.Tried & TestedOver the last three months, I’ve walked, jogged and explored with this stroller, and I’m convinced it’s one of the best choices for active parents. We took this stroller everywhere – and when I say everywhere, I mean it. If there was a limit, we were going to find it (spoiler: there weren’t many). Thule is known for performance, and trust me, this stroller doesn’t disappoint.The rotary brake on top of the handlebar.

    The Thule Urban Glide 3 Stroller.

    Large wheels for stability.We really put it through its paces – stability, manoeuvrability, handling and comfort for our little one – and I can confidently say, this stroller clings to the road, offering a smooth ride no matter the terrain. The only challenge? Pretoria’s thorn trees. If you’re not careful, the tyres could take a hit. Mom’s hot take: use bike tyre sealant. That way, if you do get a puncture, it’s not a crisis – you can fix it when you get home.Folding this stroller is a breeze and it fits well in the car. That said, if you’ve got a compact car, you might need to pop the wheels off and get a bit creative with the packing.READ MORE: 10 Super-Cool And Inspirational Fit Moms You Need To Follow On InstagramWhat’s In The Box?The Thule Urban Glide 3 is a full-sized, all-terrain stroller designed for both tiny babies and bigger kids. With added comfort features like a built-in leg rest, an adjustable seat tilt and a soft top that provides full coverage with ventilation, every ride is as comfortable as can be.Specs:Max child weight: 22kg

    Folded dimensions: 88 x 58 x 31 cm

    Pram weight: 11.9kg

    Seat height: 51 cm

    Door passage width: 69 cm

    Max cargo basket capacity: 7kgSo, Is This Stroller for You?If you’re a parent who loves an early morning jog or you’re always planning the next adventure, this stroller ticks all the boxes. It’s lightweight, smooth and ready for action.Pros

    Quick and easy to set up

    Loads of storage

    Adjustable handlebar

    Cons

    A bit bulky, especially for smaller cars

    No completely upright seating positionREAD MORE: This 15-Minute Pregnancy Workout Does It All – FastStand-Out Features I LovedThe Handbrake Yes, there’s a handbrake at the top of the handle! If you’re running downhill or feel like you’re going too fast, you can slow down by gently pulling on the rotary brake.The CanopyThe canopy is massive – it practically reaches your kid’s legs, offering top-notch protection from the sun, wind and even rain. No need to stress about the elements getting in your way.Storage, Storage, StoragePockets. Everywhere. Perfect for stashing snacks, water bottles and all the little things you’ll need on those long walks or runs.Easy Fold You can collapse the stroller with one hand, while still holding your toddler with the other. Yes, it’s that simple.Big WheelsThanks to its large wheels, the Thule Urban Glide 3 offers great stability on the road. We picked up the pace during our runs and I was pleased to find that the pram stayed steady  – never tilting or rattling. READ MORE: Hey New Mom — These Products Will Change Your LifeQuestions You Might Have…Can you use the Thule Urban Glide before six months? Yes, you can! There are bassinet attachments available to adapt the pram for newborns. Plus, there are plenty of other add-on accessories to make the pram even cooler and more functional.Can the Thule Urban Glide 3 recline and sit more upright?The seat can be adjusted with a pull strap at the back. It’s a simple system – pull to raise the seat or loosen it to recline. However, this pram doesn’t offer a completely upright seating position. But our kid seemed to love the slightly reclined position, more time to kick it back and enjoy the view while mom runs. Is it easy to clean or even washable?Straight up, yes! Testing this pram with our toddler definitely had me wondering – because, well, toddlers. Snacks on the go, dirty feet and general messiness are part of the package. But with just a soapy washcloth, I wiped down the seat and cover, left it to dry in the sun and it looked as good as new in no time.What colours does it come in?Thule Urban Glide 3 – Mid Blue

    Thule Urban Glide 3 – Nutria

    Thule Urban Glide 3 Double – Black

    Chamain is the Online Editor of Women’s Health. Explorer by heart, a creative thinker by day and a coffee addict, always. My hobbies include hiking, drawing, painting, photography, cooking and *recently* running. More

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      “I Took On The Wildest Half Marathon — Here’s How It Went Down”

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      When it comes to bucket list runs, I’ve ticked off some wild and wonderful locations: the damp forests and slippery glaciers of Patagonia, the icy altitudes of the Alps and Rocky Mountains and the landmark-strewn streets of London and Paris. However, it was Mpumalanga’s Skukuza Half Marathon that provided the most thrilling run I’ve ever had – and I relished every moment. On the eve of the race, we entered the Kruger Park from the Paul Kruger Gate and drove to camp along the Skukuza road. It wasn’t long before we saw the most elegant male leopard out for an evening walk – perhaps hunting now that the sun was low. Deep in the thick bush, we tracked him for ten minutes; his exquisite tawny coat flowing between the muddied backdrop of the Mopaneveld. We lost sight of him behind a huge acacia tree. There was no mistaking it: we were in the land of the untamed, with wild animals and the magic of the African bush.

      READ MORE: The Only Half-Marathon Training Plan You Need Per Run CoachesThe next morning’s race started at 8:30, after a helicopter buzzed any potential threats away. As a safeguard, there were more than 40 armed rangers on the course to help provide a sense of calm. Elephants, hippos, buffalo, leopards and lions were all constantly being urged away from the route by the SANParks helicopter. At first, I mistook it for a TV camera heli, smiling and waving until I realised that every time it came close it was because there were wild animals nearby. Later on I confirmed with the pilot that they were indeed constantly leading buffalo, hippos and leopards away from the course. READ MORE: Running Wild For A Greener FutureOasis Water To Beat the Heat Kruger National Park itself spans 19 455km and Skukuza Camp is just 280m above sea level, so there is no challenge of altitude, but the route is a tough one which many underestimate. Underfoot are mostly gravel roads with slippery corners in places and there’s about 8km of tarred roads, too, so it’s a real mashup with both road and trail shoes being an option. What’s most punishing, however, are the many short but very sharp hills. Overall elevation gain is 218m and it was a scorching 28ºC by 8:30am. This is where the Oasis Water availability throughout the full 21km was a complete game-changer. Not only was it stocked every few kilometres, but it was at a chilled temperature that tasted delicious with every sip and step. There is no doubt this race is a unique, visceral thrill. It’s the real deal: running in the wild, sharing the space with Africa’s most revered game. It hit home hardest when I recognised the acacia tree from the previous evening. Just ten metres away. I did what I had never done before in a race: I stopped, ignored runners in front and behind me and peered into the bush, wondering if there was a leopard staring back.For more information on how to enter, visit krugerparkmc.co.za. And for more details regarding Oasis Water’s dedication to sustainable and healthy living, visit oasiswater.co.za. More

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      Your Easy 10K Training Plan And Tips To Crush It In Just 6 Weeks

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      So, you’ve aced a 5K and now want to work toward crushing a 10K race? Well, having an easy training plan and expert-approved tips makes it SO much easier to cross that finish line.Ready to get started? This plan, designed by running coach Kim Maxwell, is for beginners so no need to feel intimidated. The plan will ease you into running a longer distance, starting with a few 15-minute long runs. Most of the weekday runs take less than 30 minutes and the longest run tops out at eight kilometres. Totally doable, right?READ MORE: The Only Half-Marathon Training Plan You Need Per Run CoachesNow that you’ve downloaded the plan, let’s decode the terms Kim uses in the programme: The easy run:Don’t focus on speed/time, rather run slowly. The aim here is to improve your fitness. If you run too hard, you’ll throw out the week’s training.The tempo run:This prepares your body to deal with sustained running at a consistently hard pace. Your pace should be challenging, but comfortable – just below race-day pace.The easy run with pick-ups:Gradually increase your pace from your easy-run speed to 90 percent of a sprint speed by the end of the prescribed interval. Think of it as a skills session. It also deters from the monotony of the easy runs and promotes good form. For four kilometres: 4 x (800m easy + 200m pick-ups). You should be at a 90 percent sprint for the last 20m of each 200m interval.The time trial:This is a race, but focus on trying to hit an even pace at each of the kilometre markers. Start out at a moderate pace and finish strong. Record your time and the weather conditions on the day so you can track your progress and always use the same route – five-kay is a good distance.The turnover drill: Turnover is the number of times your feet hit the ground per minute. The higher the number, the less time you’re spending in the air. A turnover drill means measuring this – wait until you’ve hit your stride, then count how many times your right foot touches the ground in one minute and times by two. Slow down for a bit, then go again, trying to increase the number.The long run:As the name suggests – this is your longest run of the week. Focus on completing the distance rather than speed.Looking for more running tips? Here are 11 starter tips all newbie runners need to know. More

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      11 Starter Tips Every Newbie Runner Needs To Know

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      Newbie runner? Or keen to start? Even if you’ve been pounding the pavement for a while now, sports scientist Ross Tucker has some simple tips to help you with your running, whatever the level:1. Set a medium- and a long-term goalSet yourself a shorter-term goal, to provide the first motivation for running.2. Expect to get worse before you get betterThe body takes a while to adapt when you start out, so expect some days to go well, others not so well.3. Listen to your bodyParticularly early on, give your body every chance to recover and adapt, don’t force anything.READ MORE: Fix Your Running Stitch Instantly With This Crazy Simple Trick4. Pick comfortWhen it comes to clothing (including shoes), go for comfort, ahead of gimmicks and gadgets.5. Alternate hard and easyAvoid consecutive hard days (long runs, time-trials, speed work), rather alternating easy with challenging days.6. Eat small meals oftenThe practice of smaller meals more regularly during the day helps keep energy levels up.7. Look after your shoesMake sure that you replace worn shoes before it’s too late. For most, 600 to 800km is a safe “life-span”.READ MORE: The Best Running Shoes For 5k, 10k And 21k8. Be on the lookout for over-trainingSymptoms like lethargy, poor recovery, unexplained muscle soreness, insomnia and general irritability mean you should back off and take it easy for a day or two.9. Everyone needs speedRegardless of whether you’re a 29-minute 10km runner or a back-of-the-pack fun-runner, speed work will help your running. One session a week, minimum, will give you a boost and invigorate your running.10. Variety is the spice of lifeAvoid allowing running to become routine. Mix your routes, run with a watch, run without a watch, run off-road, run on the track.11. RestEveryone needs complete rest at least once a week. So give your body the break it deserves, and make the most of the other days of running. More

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      Fix Your Running Stitch Instantly With This Crazy Simple Trick

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      You know the feeling only too well… you’re on track for a PB in your five-kay. Your legs are feeling strong and you just passed that woman with a pram who beats you every Saturday. And then, out of nowhere, you feel a sharp pain in your side. You try to ignore it, but it builds and twists and next thing you know, you’ve totally lost your rhythm. And that elusive PB. Sound familiar?

      Stand Straight, Run Faster

      Now for the good news: The fix for your stitch could be as simple as tweaking your posture. Crazy, right? But it’s true. Research in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport found that people who round their upper backs are more prone to these crippling cramps and feel more intense discomfort. A hunched posture may compress the nerves that run along your spine and into your tummy, making them more sensitive to pain, says lead researcher Dr Darren Morton. Exercising may irritate those already tuned-up nerves.

      READ MORE: 5 Signs You’ve Bought The Wrong Running Shoes

      Fix The Stitch

      Use these two steps to get rid of that irritating pain and get back on your game.

      STEP 1: Do a hunch check: stand sideways in front of a mirror and compare your posture with this diagram. If you line up with the red, your posture needs work.

      READ MORE: Can Wearing Wrist Weights On A Walk Really Tone Your Arms? We Asked A Fitness Expert

      STEP 2: Need to realign? Gently correct the bend with this stretch: lie on the floor and place a towel folded or jersey to 10cm thick under your shoulders (perpendicular to your spine); clasp your hands behind your head. Lie on the towel for 30 seconds; sit up for 30 seconds. Repeat three times.

      Want more? Here’s how to determine common aches and pains from running. Plus, the best running shoes for every distance. More

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      The Best Running Shoes For 5k, 10k And 21k

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      You’ve started your running journey and you’ve just signed up for a new race when it hits you: do you have the best running shoes for that distance? Right now, they might be feeling a little thin after all that training.

      Believe it or not, the right shoe for your distance does more than get you a new PB. Wearing the right shoes can prevent injury, since the best running shoes for you supports your unique gait, offers the right cushioning and can handle the lengths you want to go. When picking a shoe, think about your distance, terrain and the technical aspects of the shoe. We’ve got all that info right here.

      Here, we’ve rounded up top trainers for different distances, and are dishing intel on how to know if the shoe you like is right for that distance.

      The Best Running Shoes For A 5K

      Whether you’re just starting out (good for you!) or want to speed up your 5K with speed drills and hill sprints, look for a shoe with less height but sufficient cushioning since this supports your weight but also allows you to run more naturally. These new shoes have stacked soles but are light and built with speed in mind.

      On Cloudsurfer 7

      Heel drop: 10mm | Cushion: Moderate | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 399  | Weight: 205g

      A pronounced forefoot rocker forces your foot onward with each strike, propelling you forward. As your feet hit the ground, the CloudTec Phase® midsole collapses in sequence, creating a smooth roll from heel to toe. They’ve also kept the environment in mind: their dyeing process requires 90% less water and the total recycled content is 30%.

      PUMA Deviate NITRO™ 3

      Heel drop: 10mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 799  | Weight: 236g

      Made for everyday runs with extra oomph, this shoe features PWRPLATE technology that stabilises the midsole but also allows your foot to be pushed forward when your foot touches the ground. The cushioning is made from NITRO™ foam, a nitrogen-injected foam that adds a bouncy response to each strike. More than that, for a shoe with a 10mm drop, it feels incredibly stable.

      HOKA Rocket X 2

      Heel drop: 5mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R5 250  | Weight: 193g

      HOKA has redone their propulsion carbon fibre plate and sandwiched it between two responsive layers of foam. You’ll notice a reduced drop at the heel with a chunky support in the midsole. They’ve purposefully put the foam in strategic zones so you get the support where it’s needed.

      Reebok Floatzig 1

      Heel drop: 6mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R2 799  | Weight: 277g

      This incredibly popular shoe makes for a springy, fast run. The lightweight foam is sectioned off, making it more flexible when your feet curve while running. A full-length carbon rubber creates a firm outsole, with some extra cushioning in the midsole. This is an excellent option if you’re new to running and it’s specifically designed to get people pounding the pavement. Plus, it’s a great price.

      READ MORE: The 8 Greatest Smartwatches And Trackers To Elevate Your Health and Fitness

      The Best Running Shoes For A 10K

      Now that you’re logging longer distances, you’ll need a shoe with a bit more cushioning and extra durability. Try and find a light shoe – you’ll reduce significant energy when you’re not dragging your shoes along.

      Under Armour Infinite Pro Breeze

      Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral/Supination | Price: R3 499  | Weight: 326g

      This shoe is light and springy, making for a fun run. As you log longer distances, the breathable upper is a welcome feature, as is the 3D-moulded sock liner that cradles your foot for comfort. UA HOVR™+ cushioning reduces impact, returns energy & helps propel you forward. The outsole is made to handle things in the long run.

      Nike Zoom Fly 5

      Heel drop: 10mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral/Pronation | Price: R3 500  | Weight: 242g

      A nice, stacked heel ensures you’re supported through a 10km run and beyond. A carbon-fibre plate sits inside the shoe, offering extra propulsion. They’ve reworked the foam in the midsole, making it lighter but also more responsive. If you’re a pronator, this might work for you: the forefoot and heel have wider bases for more stability and the banana-like shape raises to create a healthy arch.

      Hoka Cielo X1

      Heel drop: 7mm | Cushion: Firm | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R5 750  | Weight: 264g

      Yes, it’s a stable foam that feels closer to the ground, but this goes the distance with speed. The resilient two layers of PEBA midsole provide a bouncy feel with energy return. Between those layers sits a winged carbon fibre plate that widens the surface area on the rebound. The rocker shape creates constant forward propulsion with every step.

      Saucony Ride 17

      Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 500  | Weight: 250g

      For soft, plush rides, this shoe might be your fave. The PWRRUN+ foam, their softest-feeling foam that’s plush and springy, is paired with higher sidewalls to provide extra stability. The upper is a breathable mesh, which is important for long runs and the outsole is durable and protective. It’s also vegan and contains recycled materials.

      READ MORE: 5 Signs You’ve Bought The Wrong Running Shoes

      The Best Running Shoes For 21k+

      For 21km runs, personalised comfort is the name of the game. At this stage, you’ll know what kind of cushioning you like and the stability you need. Nonetheless, a long-distance running shoe should carry you through race training and all 21K races going forward, so look for durable outsoles and reinforced uppers.

      adidas Adizero Boston 12 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

      Heel drop: 7mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R2 999  | Weight: 216g

      This shoe, created especially for the 2024 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, sits at a very reasonable price point while adding vooma to your runs. The ultra-light mesh upper guarantees breathability, while the Lightstrike Pro cushioning feels light and responsive underfoot. As per usual, adidas uses a Continental™ Rubber outsole, which ensures grip in all conditions and is very durable. It features at least 20% recycled materials. 

      New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4

      Heel drop: 4mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R5 399  | Weight: 188g

      Save this one for race day when you’re chasing a new PB. The thick, soft heel keeps every strike ultra cushioned and a thinner, snappier carbon fibre plate gives you a springy energy return. It’s also got that rocker feel that transitions from heel to toe very naturally. And, it’s incredibly light.

      Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 PLATINUM

      Heel drop: 8mm | Cushion: Plush | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R4 000  | Weight: 262g

      This shoe, made for long-distance runs, offers a lightweight ride that feels soft but remains durable. To reduce the impact of running on your joints, Asics uses their GEL™ Technology in the front and rear. They’ve added in an improved midfoot, a knitted upper that’s supportive inside. For those looking for a supportive shoe, this one has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance – meaning it’s good for your feet.

      Brooks Ghost 16

      Heel drop: 12mm | Cushion: Medium | Pronation: Neutral | Price: R3 050  | Weight: 241g

      Despite the thick sole, you’ll find this shoe to feel incredibly light, thanks to the nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 midsole, which cushions comfortably. With a spacious toebox for wider feet and a durable outsole using recycled silica, this would last for a variety of distances. The wider toebox is also supported by the wider soles at the forefoot, which provides good stability.

      READ MORE: Tried & Tested: New Running Shoes From Asics, PUMA, Salomon & Under Armour

      Michelle is the features editor at WH. She’s immensely curious about the world, passionate about health and wellness and enjoys a good surf when the waves are good. More

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      6 Running Pains — And How To Treat Them So They Never Come Back

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      Got some aches and pains from running? Here’s how to determine just what damage you’ve done…

      As any runner knows, running is a lifestyle. Unfortunately, injuries have been known to sideline as many as 50 percent of runners each year, per studies. That’s a whole bunch of unhappy people… That’s why we’ve sourced the ultimate guide to your ache or pain, so you can remedy it the right way – and ensure it doesn’t return to haunt you the next time you hit the trail or the streets.

      When is running pain a problem?

      Some pain is normal when you first start running (remember those first few weeks, guys?), but look out for things that change how you move, says sports doctor and marathon-runner, Dr Jordan Metzl. “If you’re running differently because your knees or hamstrings hurt, have it checked out,” he advises.

      And see your doctor if you have running pains that lasts longer than a few days or keeps you up at night – especially if you spot it on this chart of common culprits. From runner’s knee (or the more scientific patellofemoral pain syndrome, a soreness under your kneecap) to shin splints, iliotibial band syndrome (a lesser-known syndrome that involves pain on the outside of the knee), good old plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis and the dreaded stress fracture, we’ve got you covered.

      Common Running Pains And Treatments

      1. Runner’s Knee

      Spot it: Soreness under your kneecapLikely culprit: Weak or inflexible hips or quadsPrevent it: Strength-train twice a week; foam-roll your hips and thighs.Treat it: Ice for 15 minutes post-run; take ibuprofen or another anti-inflammatory.

      READ MORE: The Beginners Guide To Foam Rolling Correctly

      2. Shin Splints

      Spot it: Achy pain in the lower legs, usually the inside.Likely culprit: Too much training too soon – or a quirk in your body structure – overloads your bones and muscles.Prevent it: Build up slowly; focus on a quick turnover or cadence (180 steps per minute).Treat it: Cross-train and ice. More stable shoes may prevent inward rolling. NB: see a physiotherapist if you have pain in the front of your shinbone.

      3. ITBS

      Spot it: Pain on the outside of your knee soon after starting a run.Likely culprit: Inflammation of the thick band of connective tissue that runs from your hip to just below your knee.Prevent it: Stabilise your hips by training your core and butt.Treat it: Foam-rolling just above your knee for three minutes on each side daily. NB: Visible swelling or a clicking sound.

      READ MORE: Sculpt A Great Butt With This Home Booty Workout

      4. Plantar Fasciitis

      Spot it: Heel pain, notably first thing in the morning.Likely culprit: Connective-tissue inflammation on the bottom of your foot.Prevent it: Foam-roll your calves; strengthen your feet by wearing less supportive shoes when not running.Treat it: Ice; use a golf or tennis ball to massage the bottom of your foot.

      5. Achilles Tendinitis

      Spot it: Ache or pain on the tendon behind your ankle.Likely culprit: Tight calves pull on the tendon.Prevent it: Foam-roll your calves; strengthen them with eccentric raises (stand on a step or curb, then lift and lower your heels).Treat it: Cross-train, ice and anti-inflammatories. NB: crunchiness or a lump.

      READ MORE: The Only Half-Marathon Training Plan You Need Per Run Coaches

      6. Stress fracture

      Spot it: Pain in the lower leg, foot, shin, or groin that doesn’t decrease.Likely culprit: Stress leads to a hairline bone break.Prevent it: Build up slowly; make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D.Treat it: NB always see a doctor for a fracture.

      New to running? Check out this strength and cross-training workout to improve your running. Plus, 18 new running shoes to help you run faster and further. More

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      7 Useful Mind Hacks To Overcome Tough Runs

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      Reaching the end of a long run and seeing that you outdid your last pace and set a new PB feels like glory. It’s everything that warrants an Insta Story to let the world know of the day’s great feat. The reality? Not every race feels like you’re flying through it, with every song in your playlist egging you on. Sometimes, pushing through to overcome tough runs is… tough.

      Do we ever talk about the gruelling moments in the run? That moment when you’ve only hit 600m, but you already know it’s going to be a difficult one? Or that moment when you’re 2km from completing your goal, but it feels like torture to continue? 

      For many of us, those moments can be too excruciating and end not only that one run but the motivation to try again tomorrow. But what if you could fight through those moments, overcome tough runs and come out even more victorious at the finish line? At the end of the day, your ability to push past the pain is an integral part of your running life. 

      Here we’ll go through some of the most effective strategies to help you overcome tough runs. 

      Believe in your pain threshold 

      If you believe that you can push past the bouts of muscle pain throughout your run, then you’re already one step ahead. This is according to a study done by researchers at the University of Illinois. The study found that athletes who believed they could push through leg muscle pain did better than those who did not.

      Remember your why

      Sports psychologists Noel Brick and Stuart Holliday wrote a new book, specifically looking at ways to make running more enjoyable. Their first tip? Decide why you’re doing it. With motivation, things are far more likely to get done. “We know that those who have meaningful reasons for running are more likely to maintain running longer term and get through those challenging experiences when running can feel hard, unpleasant, and not particularly enjoyable,” Brick told Newsweek.

      READ MORE: What You Really Need To Know About Running For Weight Loss, According To Experts

      Have a mantra 

      Numerous studies have found that repeating mantras can relieve stress and do wonders for calming the mind. One study concluded that silently repeating one word to yourself brings you peace of mind. This type of positive affirmation is important for any run – particularly a painful one. Repeating the mantra is also a good way to keep yourself distracted so that your focus is not only on muscle pain. 

      Create a power playlist 

      We all know that listening to music while exercising changes everything! But not every song on your Spotify might work well for your routine, so shuffling isn’t the answer. It’s important to take the time and curate a playlist of your power songs. These are the songs that you know always keep you going. It’s also important to try identify one particular power song that can get you through the extremely tough moments. 

      A 2017 study looked at the effect of music tempo on exercise performance among young adults and found that there was an increase in total duration of exercise and heart rate when fast and loud music was played. 

      “Motivation by music can lead to an increase in exercise duration, which is a stress alleviator in young people,” the study says. “Nevertheless, the importance and beneficial effect of music on health cannot be underestimated.” 

      READ MORE: 18 New Running Shoes To Help You Run Faster And Farther In 2024

      If you can overcome a tough run, you can overcome anything

      One of the many wonders of sport is its ability to create grit and mental fortitude that inevitably impacts other areas of your life. The discipline of forging ahead, even when you’d much rather curl up in a ball, spills over into work, relationships and everything else. Remind yourself of this when the going gets tough.

      Focus on the moment

      It’s true: running can become meditation. That’s because by focusing on every step, every breath, the feeling of moving through the air – and nothing else, becomes meditative and reaps benefits. In one study, cyclists who did seven weeks of mindfulness training had changed brain patterns, making them better able to adapt to stress.

      The pain is not forever (if it’s not an injury)

      One thing that can help you get through a tough moment in a run is realising that that’s all it is: a tough moment. It’s not going to hurt forever. It will come and go and each step forward you’re taking is bringing you closer to the finish line. 

      Know when to stop

      Not every difficult moment is an opportunity to fight through – sometimes you have to stop or you could run the risk of getting a serious injury. Here are quick signs that you should never ignore:

      Chest pain 

      Limping 

      Vomiting 

      Diarrhoea 

      Sharp and sudden pain 

      If you experience any of these on your run, stop and get professional medical help.

      READ MORE: Can Wearing Wrist Weights On A Walk Really Tone Your Arms? More

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      Effortless Running FTW With The New Cloudsurfer Next

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      Launch yourself into running with the Cloudsurfer Next. With all-new CloudTec Phase® cushioning, you’ll experience an effortless glide that makes every run feel like a breeze. Plus, the pronounced forefoot rocker is here to give your stride a powerful boost. Comfort? Check. Energy return? Double check.

      The ‘Smooth Operator’ Of Running

      As your feet hit the ground, the CloudTec Phase® midsole collapses in sequence, creating a smooth roll from heel to toe. It’s like running on clouds. The easy step-in design accommodates a wider range of foot shapes, so you’re good to go from the moment you lace up. And when it’s time to push off, the bouncy Helion™ superfoam gives you that extra kick. Every step feels effortless, yet dynamic.

      Looks Fast, Feels Fast

      The Cloudsurfer Next’s updated forefoot rocker pushes power to the front. Built for daily running, it’s light, cushioned and responsive. And feels fast too. Combined with Cloudsurfer cushioning for an effortless feeling, put simply, it makes faster running feel easier. Inspired by the design of our race-day shoes (Silhouette inspired by our pinnacle race-day shoes) the engineered woven upper provides a seamless fit.

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      Next Level Comfort

      Modelled on the top race-day shoes, the updated Cloudsurfer Next upper is engineered ultralight. Highly breathable, its woven mesh hugs your feet for a comfortable and secure ride. As you pick up pace, rubber pads on the outsole grip the road.

      Explore the world of effortless and dynamic running with the Cloudsurfer Next. To learn more about their shoes and apparel, visit tifosisports.co.za and join the conversations on Facebook and Instagram.

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