iPhone5 running apps : RunKeeper it is

On my iPhone 5 now I have six running-related apps installed : RunKeeper, Strava Cycling, MapMyRun, TrainingPeaks, Fitocracy and Runmeter.

I've decided that these apps and their associated websites to host and analyze data is just too complicated and takes too much time to sync the data, etc.
TrainingPeaks (TP)  is associated with my Timex Ironman GPS triathlete watch which even though it is waterproof has such slow GPS sync that has become less useful to me. So, TP and Timex watch have been retired.

Strava Cycling is fine for discovering other cyclers in your area but the interface is not tuned for runners and since I'm a runner who occasionally cycles not that useful.  Strava is out.

Runmeter is kinda cool but because I disabled payments 'General->Restrictions->In-Apps Purchases set to OFF' on my phone the app constantly prompts me asking me if I'd like to turn it back on. Very annoying and by that general principle alone RunMeter is out.

MapMyRun with its many advertisements using the free version couple with many route print features disabled again in the free version is out. However, our club leader uses it and has many saved routes, so will keep it until I've run all routes to have my own history in RunKeeper, then out!

Fitocracy isn't just a running app and incorporates points/quests for total workouts so will leave it installed for now. Plus I have it linked with RK so I get updates automatically.

RunKeeper (RK).  Has the simplest interface, no ads, has auto-pause, posts to facebook/twitter in the free version (only runkeeper live is not available in free version).

There was the problem of not having a widget for Blogger that was compatible for RK but I have since found one _and_ I found someone who knows how to bulk load all my RK history into dailymile!   So, whether I use RK or Garmin I can pretty much get the data automatically updated in Fitocracy, RK, Dailymile and on Blogger.

Life is incrementally less complex but still looking for easier integration of data and social media sites.

References:

• How to Export RunKeeper logs.
• Contact 'Dailyworkout' regarding unsupported but effective process to import into DailyMile.

Running the ITR 50K at Lake Folsom

After I finished two marathons in the month of March (Napa Valley and Oakland) I thought what would be my next logical challenge?  Somehow, not exactly sure how, the thought of running 6 extra miles to make the magical 'ultra' millage just wouldn't leave my mind.  Knowing the difference between a road and trail race I consulted an experienced trail ultra runner named 'Ken' from Running Stupid regarding running a trail marathon and which race would be appropriate for a newbie.  I actually volunteered at an Inside Trail Racing (ITR) 50K race at Lake Chabot and got a first hand view of all the 50K'ers, got to hear about all the races they've been in, equipment they used and tips/tricks used to help complete the race per their desired pace/time.  After the race as we were cleaning up the finishers table, cooking that last pot of vegetarian and beef noodle soup, I decided on the Lake Folsom 50K towards the end of April because the race _only_ had 2,850ft of total elevation change over 31 miles.  Elevation change is obviously a major indicator of how challenging a course is and there are other factors!

Product Review : Sketchers Go Run 2

I held off trying the new Sketchers shoes because let's face it the parent company makes kids shoes!!!  However, after reading RunBlogger's review of the shoe in February I bought a pair and have been truly impressed by how comfortable they are and how much they can improve your track workouts/5k sprints.

Overview of The Skechers 'GoRun' Shoes in this Roundup

•  Go Run 2 (GR2) : A minimalist, lightweight, flexible 4mm-drop racing shoe.
•  Go Run 3 (GoRide 3) : A more traditional, generic 4mm-drop running shoe. (read the review here)
•  Go Meb : A Minimalist, stability 4mm-drop racing shoe. (read the review here)

The shoes really should be called slippers as they are so flexible and comfortable.  In fact I wore them to work for several days and really didn't want to take them off.  However, track Tuesday finally came around and I had to take them for a test drive doing ladder runs.  I was not only able to maintain my 5K race pace but completed a 6 min/mile 200 and 400 sprints in them.  These are my 'goto' shoes for 5K and track work outs now.  I've heard about people doing long distance runs and even trail running in them but two things concern me:

1) The bottom 'cleats' are very soft and within two weeks several wore right off.
2) There is little protection in the toe so trail running is out

I think they would do fine for a single marathon but then you'd have to buy a new pair for your second.  Good for sketchers bad for runner's budget.