We Were Running With the Light!

"Disclaimer: I received an Nathan Luna Fire 250 RX to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"

Luna Fire 250 RX

What's up everybody? Ben here with my review of the Nathan Luna Fire 250 RX. That's a pretty long name for a small light so I will just call it the Luna Fire from here on out. So I run 90% of my runs before the sun comes up so I have to have some sort of light with me. For years I've been using headlamps and going through loads of batteries, so I was excited to try out the Luna Fire. I do have some issues, but they are minor and easily fixed.

The Luna Fire is a USB rechargeable clip on light that is super simple to use. Just hold down the power button for about 5 seconds and the light is on. You can press the button and change the brightness, and it gets plenty bright, or double press to start a blinking light. To cut it off simply hold the button for 5 seconds. 

The clip will adjust out for 2 clicks so you can angle the beam where it needs to be. When I used it on my chest, I would give it one click so it pointed down slightly in front of me. On my waist, I would leave the clip closed. 

Like I said before the light is plenty bright. I could leave it one the first setting and see fine. The battery life was great. I charged the light and got 3 runs of almost an hour each over a 2 week period. I feel that's really good for a rechargeable light.

My main problem is with the strap. It allows the light to bounce to much for my taste, whether on my waist or chest. I also learned that I do not like things on my chest like this, but around my waist, I clipped it to my running belt and it worked like a charm. The running belt is a thicker strap and seems to work better. 

Well, thanks for reading and if you want to get your own Luna Fire head over to NATHAN and pick one up. They also make pretty good water bottles for runners. Use code NATHANBIB20 for 20% off your purchase for a limited time. 

As always you can follow me on Twitter and Insta @bwachter70 or head over to YouTube and follow the Run Bigfoot Run channel.

DAV 5k Recap and thoughts.

"Disclaimer: I received free entry to DAV 5k Newport News race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"

What's up everybody? Ben with Bib Rave and Run Bigfoot Run and here's my recap of the Newport News DAV5k benefiting disabled American Veterans. You can also check out my Bib Rave review HERE. First off I need to apologize, I had taken photos and videos of the event and during the run, then proceeded to lose everything on my SD card. I did have the photo on my phone from packet pick up so that's a win.

Packet Pick-Up Area.

What is also a win, is going out and supporting a cause, and that's what the DAV5k is about. You sign up as a Civilian or Active/retired Military and your bib and shirt reflects that. Also as a member of the Military you receive a medal for completing the 5k. The race is not timed, this way they can pass that saving on to the DAV charity, but I would like to see them defer the shirt and maybe not have a water stop. Personally I feel for a 5k they can be wasteful, and if your out to have fun, and enjoy the day with friends you can carry your own water.

Packet Pickup was easy to find and there were several locals vendors and radio stations out with tents. The race had one tent to get your bib, and another to get your shirt and both moved pretty quickly. At the start there was an Honor Guard presenting the colors as well as the singing of the National Anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance. Soon after the Motorcycle Honor Guard started and made their lap around the course followed by the Hand Bikes, then the runners/walkers.

I kind of wish the race was timed as it was flat, and could be a good race to try for a PR. It was a loop course with 3 Cul de Sacs and was a perfect weather day, sunny and cold. I got to talk with several members of the military and they were stoked to be participating and helping DAV spread their message and cause.

Flat Me, Ready to Go!

At the finish, they had snacks and water for everyone, and an after party at a nearby restaurant. Overall, this was super event and for my first untimed 5k, I had a lot of fun. I highly suggest you look into it and see if there is a DAV5k in your area.

For check out DAV5k click HERE

Give me a follow on Twitter and Insta, @bwachter70

Check out the YouTube Channel - Run Bigfoot Run

OOFos, Look What You Made Me Do

"Disclaimer: I received OOFos Orginial Sport Sandals to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"

Feelin' the OO!

What's up everybody, Ben here with another Run Bigfoot Run review, and this one came just in time. I have heard so much about OOFos I was wanting to try a pair of them, but wanted to try them on first. When the chance came to test a pair, I went for it. And these did not disappoint.

Look at those boats!

Over 7 years of running, I've had my share of injuries, but this was my first encounter with Plantar Fasciatis. After the Freedom's Run Marathon I returned to soon to running to start training for the DAV 5k. After my second day back my foot started to really hurt, so bad I couldn't walk on it. At first I thought I bruised it but it was something else entirely. Here's where OOFos comes in. My first time wearing them, my foot was still sore, but it didn't hurt as much as my other shoes did. My foot was cushioned and the rocker in the sole helped ease me into the next step, taking pressure off my foot and reducing any fatigue.

Got sole? OOFos do.

If you get them wet, just keep on going. The sandals worked great when wet and stayed on my feet, while other sandals I own would be sliding off my foot when they got wet. The sole is channeled to help keep traction on slick surfaces and I have yet to have an issue with them slipping off.

Ugly Feet!

Looking at the reviews on the site, the only complaint seems to be the lack of half sizes, but I'm between a 13 and 14 in running shoes and went with the 13 OOFos sandal and they feel and fit just fine. My heels are right in the heel cup of the sandal, and I have some wiggle rooms for the toes up front.

I'm not sure what else I can say about this shoe, except I have loved wearing them and will definitely get myself another pair. And watch out for your dogs if you have any, they like chewing on them.


If you want to watch my YouToube review go HERE. While you're there, sub to the channel.

Want to get a pair for yourself, go HERE

as always follow me on Insta and Twitter, and thanks for reading.



Lace up and get out there!

Ben

Training for the DAV5k

• "Disclaimer: I received free entry to DAV5k Newport News race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"

What's up everybody, Ben with Run Bigfoot Run and I thought I would share my training plan for my next event, the DAV5k. DAV is short for Disabled American Veterans and this race series is supporting rehab efforts for our vets. I was super excited to run this as I have never ran in Newport News before and I'm hoping for a flat and fast course. Of course this is coming up one month after running a marathon, so that doesn't give me much time to get ready so I put together a little plan that should get me going for the shorter distance. Without further ado, here's my 4 week 5k plan...

Week 1	5 miles	8 x 400 w/200 recover	6 miles	6 miles
Week 2	7 miles	400, 800, 1200 ladders	7 miles	10 miles
Week 3	7 miles	4 x 1600 w/2 minute rest	7 miles	6 miles
Week4	5 miles	8 x 400 w/200 recover	5 miles	RACE

  It's fairly simple. I'm running 3 or 4 days a week with 2 fairly standard tempo run, a track day, and a long day. As far as pacing, I try to keep the pace between 10k and half marathon pace for the tempo and long runs, and a 5k or better pace for the track days. For weekly miles I'm going between 25 to 30 per week and I actually skipped one 6 mile run on week 1 due to my foot hurting.

 I normally run 3 days per week, but after the long slower paced training for a marathon I am looking to pick it up with the shorter distance and higher sustained speed.

 To run the DAV5k with me you can use code BIBRAVE4DAV5k to get 20% off your entry when you sign up HERE.

You can also follow me on Twitter and Insta @bwachter70

Come back in a week and see how it's going or check out the YouTube Channel Run Bigfoot Run.


Ben

Freedom, the Run not the Song

Homemade finishers medal!

• "Disclaimer: I received free entry to Freedom's Run race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews."

Flat Ben.

What's up everybody? Ben here with a Run Bigfoot Run review of Freedom's Run in Shepardstown, WV. I had a great time and this was one of the more interesting races that I've been a part of. THe race was a combination of marathon, half marathon, 10k, and 5k. A little something for everyone. I chose the marathon and this was number six for me.

The expo was at the Shepard's University Wellness Center, and was a very nice facility. They even allowed people to use the showers there after the race, which was a definite plus as I was rather stinky afterward. The expo was small and low key, with several local groups and the local running store there talking about the area and what was offered besides the race. There was no bag of flyers you never read given out, you went in a got your number and shirt, walked and talked, and that was that. I did pick up a new Buff while I was there.

One thing I would mention, is to book your room early. I waited a little too long and would up staying in Maryland, about 30 minutes away. Granted the place I stayed at was nice and there was a great restaurant across the street, but it would've been nice to have some more sleep. I never sleep well the night before a marathon.

Some runners

Some more runners

The option is given to either park near the finish and shuttle to the start or park at the start and get a shuttle back. I opted for the first, as I wanted my car at the finish instead of riding a bus back after running. There was plenty of room as they had 3 buses for us. At the start, there was bib pick up if you didn't make it Friday and a bag drop they would have at the finish for you. I love a race that offers bag drop. Dr. Mark, the race director spoke during the runners meeting and advised everyone it was a good idea to power hike the hill at mile 15. I come back to that. Being the start was in Harpers Ferry National Park, and some of the race is in Antietam Battlefield Park, there was a singing of the 'Battle Hymn of the Republic' instead of the National Anthem. I thought it was a nice touch, and everyone else seemed to agree. The marathon itself was on road, gravel, and at one point grass. I never felt off in my road shoes so if you run it just wear them. There was a big downhill section to the river around mile 2 then at 5 we crossed over the river and onto the C+O Canal Towpath. This was 10 miles of flat gravel road, with the occasional root trying to grab you as you passed. I did almost trip several times as the leaves cover them so take care. At mile 15 you join the half marathon route, and there is a water/gel stop then mile 15 and the hill, almost a mile up out of the river valley. I decided to just walk it as I didn't want to tire myself out. After the hill you run through Antietam Battlefield, which is even more hills. I would recommend doing hill work during your training for next year. Once you get to Sharpsburg, it's not bad just some rolling hills then back down to the river and into Shepardstown and the finish on the University Football field 50 yard line. That was very cool to finish that way.

At the finish they keep it green, you get a water bottle to reuse and there are no plates for the pizza, use your hands. They had apples and other fruit as well. The local watering hole, the Bavarian Inn was the place to go after the race, for your complimentary pint glass and first fill. I was not able to attend this due to a family emergency.

Super Finishers Shirt

Over all, I enjoyed running Freedoms Run. It was a challenging and fun event, and that's why I run, to push my limits and challenge myself. Would I run it again, yes. Should you run it? Yes, it was a great race, the support was super and the town was very welcoming. To register go HERE!

Until next time,

Ben

You can follow me on TWITTER and INSTA also @bwachter70

Or check out the YouTube Channel, RUN BIGFOOT RUN

I'm in the Buff!!!

The Do Rag

"Disclaimer: I received an Original Buff to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"


What's up everybody, Ben here with a review of a great product, from Buff, the new Original Buff. I've been wearing Buff products for about 6 years now, so much I wear them more than hats! They are the perfect thing in the summer when it's hot and sweat is dripping down in your eyes. In the winter I will twist it and wear it like a stocking cap. So if these are the Original Buff what's new and different?

Blind Chicken

First up is the 4 way stretch. The new materials make Buff even easier to twist and turn to fit on your head. The stretch fabric conforms to your head nicely and allows the fabric to breathe and absorb sweat while keeping you cool.

The inside-out Man Bun

Second is the fabric itself. Each Buff Original is made from 2 reclaimed water bottles that have been taken from the ocean or landfills. I love the fact that Buff is doing this and would love to see more companies get involved in using reclaimed materials.

The Stocking Cap

Thirdly, wow that's actually a word. My auto-correct didn't flag it. Well, thirdly what hasn't changed? They're still UPF 50 protection, they can still be worn 12 ways, and they still have that great seamless construction.

The Hood

The Balaclava

The Facemask

Of course my personal favorite is the Headband. It gives you good venting in the summer and doubling up the Buff absorbs even more.

The headband

Well thanks for reading about Buff and why I love them. To get your own click IN THE BUFF


If you want to give me a follow on Twitter or Insta @bwachter

You can also check out my YouTube Channel Run Bigfoot Run below. Subscribe for videos and more!

https://youtu.be/EXw9NxgVMj4

Can You See me Now?

"Disclaimer: I received a Brilliant Reflective Family Pack to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"

What's up everybody, Ben here and I'm back with Brilliant Reflective and their new family pack to help stay safe and be seen when you're out late. Or even when you are out early. Being a 'before the sun rises' runner, I started using Brilliant Reflective in the late Winter, early Spring on my shorts and shirts to add some reflection to my clothes. Most men's clothing is either black or grey so something that will help me be seen besides my headlamp is welcome.

This time around we had the Family stick on pack. This was a precut sheet of fun shapes you could apply to almost anything. My daughter put several on her bike helmet and it really stands out now. The shapes were easy to take out and are super sticky so they have really stayed in place.

 

Not much has changed with the iron on strips. Several of my shirts have them from the Spring so I know they last, however I have one pair of shorts they will not stick to.

It's better to be seen!

Light's Out!

For some reason, my Salomon shorts and the iron on strips do not like each other. I will apply them, but they only stay of about 3 or 4 washes. I'm thinking it's the fabric as all of my other applications on different shirts and shorts are still going strong, even six months later.

This is still on from the Spring!

The iron on strips are super easy to apply. Just place them where you need them and place your iron on top for about 40 seconds. I fold a paper towel in half and put it over top, per the instructions. Super easy to use and super easy to apply. Brilliant Reflective have produced a simple product that works well and does the job it's intended for.

Here's the video I made a few weeks ago on how to apply the iron on strips.




Anyway thanks for reading and watching, and go to Brilliant Reflective to get your own! Use code BRILLIANTBR for 25% off a little while longer and BE SEEN!

You can follow me on Twitter and Insta 

All Aboard the Training Train!

So we're about 4 weeks out from Freedom's Run Marathon and training is right on schedule. I am using the FIRST training plan that has me running 3 days a week and 2 days of cross training. For cross training I'm using an elliptical, I would rather bike, but I don't have one so elliptical it is.

I just wrapped up week 12, but made my long run 18 miles instead of 15 due to missing some miles last week. The FIRST method has you running less, but the runs are at a faster pace than normal and more high intensity. Looking at week 13 I have a 6 x 1200 track workout, that's pretty intense! One thing I have adjusted is I still run with a group twice a week, so I have cut back on my pace on one of those days, and just relax.

I also have one more 20 mile run at the end of week 13, then begin to taper on the long run, but keep up the track intensity and the tempo run varies until we get to the last week, when it's just easy runs with time over distance, just to keep up your fitness.

So why did I pick this plan? I had heard a lot about it and the fact it's 3 runs a week was appealing. I've done plans that were 5 or 6 days a week and could never get the workouts in and started working harder to make them up or skipped it all together. FIRST also allows us to have adequate rest between ours runs, even though we still have cross training days in between them, it's not a daily grind of pounding the roads.
 I started using FIRST about halfway through training. I was training with a group that already ran their target race and at my fitness level it was easy to switch over to the FIRST plan to finish off my training cycle.

I'll be back in 2 weeks for some final thoughts about how my training went and if I think I'm ready for Freedom's Run or not.

Spoiler: I'm ready. I've also been posting videos about my training over on the Youtube channel. Check it out and while you're there subscribe. Here's the LINK.

You can also follow me on Twitter and Insta @bwachter70


Remember, lace up and get out there

Ben

It's a Knockaround Life!

But first....

 I received a pair of Knockaround Sunglasses to test and review as part of being a Bib Rave Pro. For more information on becoming a Pro or to read and write race reviews, go to bibrave.com.

It seems like a lot of new sunglass companies are popping up offering affordable shades. You have the hip company that gives everything a funny name and then you have someone like Knockaround. No big name sponsers, no silly names, just good shades that fit and don't break the bank. I have owned expensive sunglasses before and lost them, it wasn't pretty, so I like that someone is offering a good quality shade at a decent price.

When I first received these, I was impressed with how light they were and was kind of worried. I was thinking that they wouldn't make it a week without breaking, but here we are, a month later and still going strong. And that's with daily wear. So for lightness we're giving a 10.

Next up is the reflectivity inside the glasses. Have you ever put on glasses and seen yourself inside the lenses, or at least a reflection of what's behind you? I never really thought about it until my wife put them on and commented about how there wasn't much reflection inside the lens. I never really noticed it before and started looking at other sunglasses and she was right. So we will go with a 9 for inside lens reflection. There still is some but I don't think anything can be done about it.

So I've worn my Knockarounds for quite a lot of runs, both short track workouts and long weekend runs training for Freedom's Run Marathon and they don't move. I set them on top of my head this past weekend until the sun came up and they stayed put. When I'm out running hard, they're staying put. These definitely are made to not move around unless you're doing the moving, even the time I wore them on the trails, the shades stayed in place. So there's another 10.

 The lenses come in your choice of polarized or non-polarized and are impact resistant and UV400 so that's an easy 10.

Overall, I would give Knockaround a 10 on my score. They are super light, stay put and have a classic stylish look that I love. If you want to give them a try, just go to Knockaround.com, and you can get some of your own. Use code BibRaveKnocks20 by 9/30/18 for 20% off.

Also you can check out my video review HERE. Subscribe while you're there to keep up with my goings on.

And you can always follow me on Twitter and Insta @bwachter70. While you're at it give Knockaround a follow @Knockaround.

Thanks for reading and lace up and get out!

Ben

I'm All About The Trekz Airs, No Treble!

And now the disclaimer: Aftershokz sent me a pair of Trekz Air to test and review as part of being a Bib Rave Pro. For more information on becoming a Bib Rave Pro and to read and write your own reviews, go to Bib Rave.

 I had heard people raving about Aftershokz on social media and was intrigued. When I first started running 7 years ago I wore headphones. Like everyone else I wore the kind that you stick in your ear and they block out everything else. That's good if you're in a house or at the gym, but on the road you need to be able to hear what's coming up or behind you. After almost getting hit by a car I stopped using them. That was about 3 years ago.

Aftershokz uses bone conduction to transfer sound while keeping your ears open to whats going on around you. I was skeptical at first, then I did my first 13 mile run with them. I could clearly hear my music, but I could also hear cars on the road, birds chirping and other runners when they said 'good morning' as they ran by. Simply put these things are no joke.

The specs on these are pretty impressive. Weighing in at just over 1 ounce, you really don't feel them. They're super light and stay put around your head. The part the sits in front of your ear is snug without to much pressure. As you can see from the photo, the part around the back doesn't touch your head and it doesn't bounce around.

The headphones are simple to operate. the button on the side controls answering the phone, skipping songs and pause/play. You can also use the button for call waiting and to reject a call. It can also activate Audrey, the Aftershokz digital assistant.

On the bottom of the opposite arm are the volume controls. The + button also cuts the headphones on. This is also where the battery charger is located. You get 6 hours of continuous music, and up to 20 days of standby. That's impressive. These bottom buttons also mute, change the EQ and can tell you how much battery you have left.

So after 3 years of not listening to music on my runs what did I listen to? Why 80's Brit New Wave of course.

You can get your own Aftershokz Here. Also you can use the code BRBUNDLE for $55 of the Bib Rave Bundle, which includes a trucker hat, towel, water bottle, and USB power bank. You can also follow them on Insta and Twitter @aftershokz

As always you can keep up with me on Twitter and Insta @bwachter70 and on YouTube

Thanks for reading, and lace up and go for a run!

Ben