Planned recovery week. 31 miles w/ nothing stressful except for strides on 2 days.
SUN- 5
MON- 3.5
TUE- 5
WED- 5
THR- 6.7
FRI- 0
SAT- 6
Get after it y'all,
Edgewood
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The promised review of the Shoulders Back device.
http://www.shouldersback.net/
Product is $49.95 + shipping directly from the manufacturer. It is basically a triangular shape of lycra-type stretch fabric with Velcro straps. Lay the item flat, connect the straps to make the 'arm holes' and slip on as you would a jacket. Secure the lower strap around the chest as you would a HR monitor. I always wear a tee shirt under the unit. As soon as I cinched up the Velcro I felt my shoulders being pulled back. I measured 5'4 1/4" tall without the device and 5' 4 5/8" the first time I put it on.
I have worn the Shoulders Back between 1 and 5 hours everyday for the past 3+ weeks. Around the house it's no problem being seen with it on but when going out and about I pull on another shirt to cover it up. In summer heat the extra shirt may be uncomfortable. The unit itself is snug but not awkard (my wife jokes that I have my JogBra on backwards).
I have not attempted to use the product while running or doing any other exercise.
I was taught to carry my arms low and occasionally brush the waistband of my shorts with my thumbs (of course this changes as the pace increases). After 2 weeks I noticed I had to intentionally move my hands to be able to touch my waist when running. Although not as extreme, I feel as a bodybuilder-type appears when running with their lats pushing their arms wide. My running friends have not indicated any noticable change in my running form.
Often during the day when not wearing the unit I find myself 'shrugging' into the position I feel when wearing the device. This happens when driving, walking, at meals and practically every other waking activity.
Because of the thumb rub differences and the daily shruggs, it appears the Shoulders Back has conditioned my upper body into another posture. However, in the mirror I see no difference and my family does not see a difference in posture when I am not wearing the device. I remain my non use 5' 4 1/4" height.
I do not believe the unit has had a short term impact on my running economy. Time will tell if there are long term benefits in efficency.