Brooks Frunner : Can you feel your calves tonight? A quick review on Brooks PureGrit

As some of you know, I'm quite a newbie when it comes to running. Albeit being quite active in the gym scene for the last few years, I've only took up running a couple of years or so. This was to tweak and give more variety to my workout routine besides the usual gym classes. Never had I thought that I would be so hooked into running that its turn into quite an addiction. But running on the treadmill and on the road has it's limitations. Just over a little a year ago, I've started to do some trail running as well. 

I've read a lot about the benefits of trail running before embarking into it. As time goes by, I got really bored on just running on a "straight line". Where else with trail running, you be able to run on a rough terrain, work lateral movements, get wet, get dirty and etc. And running in a jungle or forest is just pure awesomeness.

I have the pleasure of staying close to FRIM (Forest Research Institute Malaysia) and it's my usual "go-to" trail playground. Just recently, I've obtained the new Brooks PureGrit (under the Pure Project line) to test out. 

Lets look at the design and specs of the shoe.

Look of Brooks PureGrit overall. 

Brooks PureGrit is a minimalist shoe, so it's lightweight (weighing at 8.9oz - that's light!). A collaborative effort with ultra-marathoner Scott Jurek, you know this shoe is something. A first look at it and you can tell that everything is designed to it's minimal. The heel-toe offset is about 4mm, giving it an almost barefoot feel and your feet is closer to the ground. You won't be sacrificing comfort as the sole is made from Brooks BioMogo DNA midsole, so it does give a little cushioning.

A closeup on shoe material.

Upon wearing it the first time, it feels like you slipped on a pair of gloves. The shoe is designed to anatomically fit the natural form of the feet. The shoe is well ventilated as well.

Closeup of the tongue of PureGrit

The tongue of the shoe is pretty standard but don't be fooled. It's actually quite padded; almost like it has a pocket of air tucked underneath it. Unlike most lightweight shoes I owned, the tongue is usually a piece of flat material and can cause quite a discomfort. So the the comfort over the top of my feet is a good feature.

The Nav band

Next up is a Nav band. It's like a giant rubberband that wraps around the feet to give it a right amount of secure feel without over tightening it. Nifty little idea, especially every runner's feet is different.

The ideal heel. 

On the back, there is the "Ideal Heel". Doesn't sound so exciting. What it does is it helps to promote a natural foot strike by landing in a more forward position on the foot.

The Toe Flex. Ninja soles?

Then there is the Toe Flex. This is one interesting bit that caught my attention. First thing that came into mind was "Ninja Toe" shoes? Well, it's suppose to allow the big toe to function independently and engage the runner's balance. Hmmmm...something new.

Base of shoe.

Last but not least, the base of the shoe. Besides it's awesome looking colour, it has the usual grooves of what you expect from a normal trail shoe. But because of it's minimalist approach, the grooves were smaller and further apart. Perhaps not to my liking but let's see how it fares on my trial.

Is that a wink of approval or pain?

Now see my face. This is the face I made after 1km on a pretty standard trail road. I'm feeling a bit of pain cause my feet is adjusting to the shoe and the sole of my feet is hurting. But all this were momentary and I soon forgot about the pain as I started to observed how my running patterned "changed".

A minimalist or a lightweight shoe usually has a less dense sole, so you would feel the ground more. Sooner you will feel that you actually land mid or land forefront more. These shoes were meant to assist runners to run in a more natural style (or the correct term is - the CORRECT running style). That is why in recent years, more and more runners are embracing lightweight shoes or even going barefoot.

Well, there is always the constant debate of running with shoes or going barefoot. To me, either way works. In the end, it's what the runner themselves feels most comfortable in.

Observe the fore front lift off.

Initially the pain started to go away and I ran quite comfortably in them. I'm usually quite observant when I run; constantly reminding myself to land mid or fore front. With the PureGrit, it's almost quite natural. Most of the time I'll be landing mid or front. It's almost like running barefoot.

You can always try this experiment. Try running barefoot and observe most of time you will always land front instead of heel. There have been studies that suggest that running in this manner lessens or prevents injuries.

Stride shortened.  Fore front landing.

I've dabbled with "barefoot running" with the Five Fingers (aka. Hobbit Shoes as I like to call it) and it has almost the same feeling. Nowadays, I just use them as my "conditioning shoes" for walking. I've noticed that I don't take my usual longer strides but shortened. I could feel my calve muscles were activated more and more engaged; resulting in a more faster lift off. Sounds so powder-full!

Half way running through the trail, a thunderstorm was about to start and rain started pouring! Even better as now I could test out the shoes in wet muddy conditions.

A little faster and I'm sorta back into my original landing. Midfoot landing. 

As I got a little faster, I felt a little more energy return with each stride. But soon my calves were burning and alas I could only do so much speed at a short amount of time. I was told that this is because my leg muscles is adjusting. But this is a good thing as it works the calve muscles more for more better lift offs.

Soon hell broke loose. The thunderstorm was a little too much to take and the rain was heavy. Already soaking wet from head to toe, I had to cut my noon run short. But I had still about 3km to my car!

While running back, I tried to at least rough it out on rougher terrains and muddy patches. So far so good. Then came the tar road. Cause it's still raining heavily, the road is quite slippy and I had quite a few (near) slips.

Muka siaran thergendala.

Albeit the slips, it still fared quite well on leveled tar road as long it's not too much of an elevation. As soon as I got to my car, the rain stopped completely! What siaran tergendala is this? Anyways, I had to stop anyhow as it was very cold and I'm seriously too soaked. But how were the shoes?

Amazingly clean after the rain.

One look down and I'm amazed. Besides looking clean, it still looks like it's new! Another surprising factor is that it's very well ventilated although I'm wearing quite thick socks. It doesn't feel soggy and heavy albeit drenched wet.

So clean!

In a nutshell, it is a great shoe. I've yet to test it on more rougher terrains like what I did with my Brooks Adrenaline ASR 8. It's still quite good for anyone thinking of going minimal or something less bulky for trail. As for me, it's good to at least have another pair of lightweights and have another variety in my trail arsenal. Hopefully in the future I will be able test these babies on some "serious business". So far I'm quite liking it.

As for now, let's ease out the calve pains...

Ps: Don't forget that Brooks Malaysia is still having their RM150 rebate promo of their latest line. Offer still valid till end Sept 2012. Do hurry!

Brooks Frunner : How to get your ideal shoe with Brooks

We live in a world with advertising media blasting constantly through our daily lives. More often than not, consumers are often enticed with catchy, brilliant advertisements; but not really knowing what they are "buying" into. Buying a pair of trainers is one of them.

I for one would love to get a pair of trainers and RUN HAPPY with it. Not bogged with bombastic "claims" of "ridonkulous" features I don't need.

Choices, choices?

Have you ever gone to a sports shop and not knowing which pair of running shoes to get? Based on my personal experience, the sales assistant will just point you to their latest, most expensive model without even questioning what purpose it is for or what kind of shoe is suitable for you. The worst feedback I got is "This is the latest model and brand new COLOUR!". Sorry, but the colour of the shoe isn't going to help me with my running.

My beautiful pair of Brooks Adrenaline GTS 11.
Sexy "Yer-row" colour!

I've long proned with running injuries; from blisters, cramps and knee pains. So one day, a friend recommended that I should try Brooks running shoes for a change. At that time, I've heard about Brooks but never had the guts to actually tried it. I was overly consumed by the big major brands that I was too afraid to "make a change". Anyhow, I did finally make a purchase of my first Brooks (GTS 11) and I've never regretted it!

Of course now you have the GTS 12, which is even better.



Just to share my experience, this is how it went with Brooks (Sunway) on helping me choose the correct running shoes for me.

As a perfectionist freak as I am, I usually like to do a study or survey before purchasing something. I made a phone call to Brooks Sunway Pyramid to ask some info and was advise to come over the shop to try out the shoes.

Your feet will me measured as well.
Do bring an old pair of trainers for the staff to analyse. 

Here I was, first time meeting with Manson, the manager of Brooks Boutique shop at Sunway Pyramid. First, he asked me to do a "catwalk". I wondered why cause I ain't model material. Then he asked me to do a light run as he observed. OK, now I get it.  It was to see my walking/running style and how is my pronation. After some observation, he realised that I under pronate when I'm running but neutral when walking.

To add on, I strongly suggest to bring at least an old pair of trainers for the staff to analyse. This is to better understand where you wear off the soles of shoes more.






Nowadays if you go to any Brooks boutique shop, all these could be easily done with their in-house Pressure Gait Analysis machine. Just step on it for 10 seconds and viola! You get a result of your current feet shape, pressure points and gait pressure. From this, the sales assistant would be able to tell you what shoes is suited for your feet and running style.





I had the pleasure of trying this machine on my 3rd Brooks shoe purchase. It seems that I've turned from a under pronator to a neutral runner. Wow, my pair of GTS corrected my gait issues?

 

Left :I present to you the  Pressure Gait Analysis. Don't mind me with my failed attempt of being Vanna White.
Right : Step on the pressure pad for 10 seconds.

The results are out in a jiffy! I've turned into a neutral runner. Well, sorta....

Testing out a pair of trainers and a quick tutorial on shoelace tying. 

Next up, the sales assistant will recommend the specific shoes according to your NEEDS. Yes, that even means that you have an eye for another pair that might not be suitable for you. Manson was very honest with me about the shoe specifics and my running needs. I take that as an initiative to go an extra mile with your customers.

My first visit, I was given the choice from the SUPPORT range which consist of Raveena, Adrenaline GTS and Trance. All of them features the Brooks DNA and the BIOMOGO Technology which I'm truly enticed about during my research. Many people may forgo technical jargons, but these 2 technology is well worth to know about.

I decided that I should go with GTS 11, as I felt Raveena was too light and Trance was too heavy to my liking. Something in between to begin with. What came next was a pleasant surprise. Manson taught me how to tie my shoe laces! I mean, how hard can that be? Oh boy, was I wrong.

Below is a video link taken during my first visit to Brooks Sunway last year and how Manson taught me how tie my shoelaces properly. Very educational.

All in all, I loved my first pair of Brooks. My GTS 11 had accompanied me to many races and many of them I had my Personal Best (PB) timing with them. It had never failed me.

Buying a pair of running shoes isn't that difficult. But it's just made much more easier with the helpful and friendly staff from Brooks. Do drop by to one of their shops and give it a try. And for this month of September, Brooks Malaysia is still having the RM150 rebate for their latest models. Do bring in an old pair of trainers for the rebate.

If you are staying around the Sunway area, do look for Manson (Sunway Pyramid).

Brooks @ Sunway Pyramid

Manson Chew @ Brooks Sunway Pyramid (03-5631 7831)

If you are staying around the Mutiara Damansara area, do look for Peter (The Curve).

Brooks @ The Curve

Peter Loh @ Brooks The Curve (03-7725 8775)

For the full listings of other Brooks Malaysia outlets check out this link.

Nothings beats a good run with a good pair shoes and RUN HAPPY with it. 

SHIVZ GRILL on a Wednesday Night

So this is my first foodie write up. Can't be just yapping bout run and cycle all the time. Like how my running group (Dutamas Runners) motto is; When we don't RUN, we EAT. OK, I just made that up but we obviously had that sort of mentality. Besides, why work out so hard burning off the calories without at least enjoying some gastronomical adventure.

SHIVZ GRILL - Tandoor , Tava, Grill.

SHIVZ GRILL Restaurant, along Jalan Maarof.

Couple of days back, mom and Aunty Lynn wanted to meet up for dinner with me and suggested this lovely place at Bangsar. Located along Jalan Maarof, SHIVZ GRILL is just one of those hidden gems. I've passed by this place many times; either going to Maybank or to McD (busted!) but never really took the initiative to try out the food. So this was my chance.

Beautiful Decor. 

We arrived around 8.30pm and the place is a bit quiet at the moment. There were a few dining patrons and a dance workshop is in progress. Yes, there is a dance floor complete with mirrors and beautiful latin music. It's one of those restaurants where you could dine and dance; which is pretty rare in KL. The ambiance is fabulous and very inviting.

Free Intro Workshops offered as well.

As the night progresses. 

Of course, I'm more into food. So straight I went analyzing what they had to offer in the menu. I was kinda expecting some Latin food but was greeted with a Northern Indian menu list instead. Quite the juxtaposition of Latin feel restaurant and Indian food, but I ain't complaining as I totally support uniqueness. As I flip through the menu pages, there were some western dishes as well.

I went with the Afghani Kebab, a grilled chicken leg marinated with cream, pepper and cashew paste with a delicate hint of spices. Mom went with Mumtaz Grill (Signature Dish) and Aunty Lynn went with Chicken Briyani.

We are greeted with huge, HUGE portions!

Afghani Kebab

Mumtaz Grill (Signature Dish)

Chicken Briyani.

Mom and Aunty Lynn are basically small eaters, so imagine the glee smile I had when I had extras. Food was great. I tried all 3 chicken and there were beautifully grilled, succulent and bursting with flavours. For the price; it's definitely worth it. By the end of it, I'm stuffed!

Wednesday night is Salsa Wednesday!

As the night progressed, the place started to fill up. Mind you, it's just Wednesday night and the place is filling up like it's the weekend. Beautiful Latin music started to blast away as patrons proceeded to the dance floor; most who went up seems like professionals!

Dancing the night away. Don't be fooled, they dance very, very well.

Hospitality was good but be patient with service as the night progresses and it does get busy. Rest assured all orders will be served. Shiva, the owner of SHIVZ GRILL was on the floor making sure every patron is served. He not only serves food but he serves a wicked dance routine with a willing dance partner on the dance floor anytime!

Owner of SHIVZ, Shiva by the dance floor.

Open daily for business, SHIVZ is a great hangout place; either for dining or dancing. Patrons are to purchase a first drink at door. Combo meals and other special offers are also available. 

1st drink purchase at door for socials. 

Shiva and crew are ready to serve. 

Check out SHIVZ GRILL at 64, Jalan Maarof, Bangsar Baru, 59100 Kuala Lumpur or at their FB fanpage at this link. Do check for any updates for their events, dance classes and promos.

In the mean time do enjoy the video I've captured on the night that I visited. Definitely a great place for food, dance and socializing.

Trailing FRIM with DR gang and chasing MTB bikes

It has been some time since my last trail run and that with the Dutamas Runners (DR gang). I think I may be taking my sabbatical a bit way too long since SCKLM 2012; since I'm still tending to injuries. The running pains may be gone but I'm still quite weary about the injuries being further worsened.

The usual suspects. The DR gang.

On Sunday, the DR gang gathered together and did FRIM (our usual trail spot). Yvonne is prepping her training for the upcoming TMBT while the rest of us just wanted to catch up with our training. It has really been some time since we last trained together. Mainly it was me, Vons, Capt Khoo, Paul, OKT, Melvin and Yloon. We've been discussing for days which route we be taking and since Von has been regularly training at FRIM, we asked her to lead the way.

Pretty gloomy at Dream Trail but manageable by our standards. 

Started off round 7.30am from the tennis courts heading towards Dream Trail. This is the first for most of us and I actually find this route pretty spectacular. It was still pretty gloomy when we started. The trail isn't particularly hard but they were a few parts that were narrow.

We took our run pretty easy, stopping several times for "poser shots". Generally, I quite like it this way; where I'm not rushing for time and just to absorb the fresh air and atmosphere.

Tree canopies seen from Dream Trail.

Von trying to be our topography/ geography teacher.

Capt Khoo still experimenting with his new camera since Boston.

It's just nice to have a group of company that not only train with you but share a laugh while running. Loads of jokes made made on Von's expense regarding about her geographical and topography skills. We kept bugging her about this particular topic of canopy trees seen along Dream Trail. Not that we know the name of trees ourselves anyway.

Capt was playing with his new camera; purposely bought for his Boston Marathon this year. He is still fumbling about the functions. Had to re-teach him the marvelous Slow Motion Video. He managed to capture a few beautiful slow-mo video of us running. I say, I've never really seen my stride frame by frame. Need to get one of these cameras one day.

We exited off Dream Trail in less than an hour and Capt, Yloon and OKT needed to go off. The rest of us continued on heading towards Salem Country Heights. While at it, me and Vons were trying to scare Paul about the "infamous" Steroid Hill.

The signboard of Mountain Bike Track.

 Mountain Bike Trail (or officially Mountain Bike Track) is relatively pretty easy with gradual elevations. As the name suggest, this is where the MTB bikers will cycle through to get into Salem Country Heights and Steroid Hill. Weekends are pretty filled up with bikers with the occasional runners running along. Just have to be weary as you run path as some bikers would speed along without any warning. Upon reaching the end of the trail heading towards Steroid Hill, I couldn't tell Paul's face was either excited or pale. Was the sight of Steroid Hill too much to take? Anyways, since there were a lot of bikes around, we decided to take a counter clockwise route instead; skipping Steroid completely.

Paul, running straight for the hills. Salem Hills that is.

Do you know that FRIM is a Forest Reserve? Didn't find Tongkat Ali though.

 Salem Country Heights is one of my favourite trail routes. It's as if you landed into some mythical, LOTR-ish wonderland. Fresh air, no pollution and basically quiet. What an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Plenty of routes to venture into.

MTB bikers challenging the route.

They are fast; real fast!

On this particular day, we did manage to find a lot of runner training at this route. Most of them are with hydration bags pounding through the trails. We soon realise that majority of them are training for the upcoming TMBT. Most of them are doing their LSD training! We adjourned prematurely from the trail as most of us got really hungry. On the way back, we bumped into Ooi; also training for TMBT. Still looking fresh, he is about to conquer Steroid Hill. Feeling a bit paiseh ourselves, we promise that we would do it next time when we regained enough our stamina back.

Ooi Wei Min training for TMBT. Look at all the bikers!

As we ran back to our start point, more and more MTB riders passed us by. Looks like a busy day. The trail suddenly turned into a highway of sorts. Being the devil I am, I decided what it feels like chasing bikes from behind. Fast and tough; my heart pounded madly. All is recorded just for fun, but also to see whether I could do it.

Below is the video recorded of our entire journey. Sorry for the shakiness; as it may cause dizziness while watching. It was one HELL of a great fun to see my POV while running trails.

After about 2 hours, we've reached back to our start points. It was pretty slow by our standards, just covering only about 12km. But it was a good slow and easy training. Most important of all, it was the fellowship of the DR-nians as we happily "blow water" along our training. Till the next round!

Kindly obligatory, spotted another runners Cascadia after his TMBT training.