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Here are some words or phrases that will be encountered, perhaps repeatedly, in this blog - and which are typically used with a specific meaning. Please suggest anything you think ought to be included here, or offer better-formulated definitions.
'Shirtless running' (and 'Jogbraed running'): The practice of running or jogging without wearing an upper-body garment, with the exception of a jogbra in the case of female runners or joggers. Jogbraed runners are shirtless runners.
'Shirtless runner' (and 'Jogbraed runner'): One who runs shirtless at least semi-regularly where circumstances permit. Someone who is trying out shirtless running for just the first time or two, or does so very infrequently, would not typically be considered a 'true' shirtless runner.
'Converting': Opting to do one's runs barechested or jogbraed on a more or less regular basis. Also signifies a wish - perhaps still in the process of being translated into action - to join the community of shirtless runners. The process can be fraught for some, who may be weighed down by hang-ups, societal straightjacketing or other issues. One aim of this blog is to help runners through such difficulties.
'Converting fully': Choosing not to bring along a safety shirt on one's runs; one therefore begins the run already confidently barechested or jogbraed. Many converts do not even feel comfortable stripping to the waist until midway through a run, or at the very least will keep a safety shirt on hand.
'Convert': A runner who switches to shirtless running, having not previously embraced the practice, or done so only intermittently. Someone who has always regularly run shirtless would not be a convert. The owner of this blog is a convert of about 14 years' standing.
'Safety shirt': The upper-body garment that an otherwise shirtless individual keeps about his or her person, in case it is felt it is needed.
'Barechested': Condition of the upper torso of a male shirtless runner only. A female shirtless runner is not barechested.
'Jogbraed': Condition of the upper torso of a female shirtless runner ie clad in a jogbra or sports bra.
'Shirtless charge': A gratifying sensual buzz that many shirtless runners report, that may make them feel especially vigorous, alert and in touch with one's surroundings. May be a harmless domesticated variant of exhibitionism.
'The Big Cs': Comfort, camaraderie and convenience. Three big reasons to convert to shirtless running.
'Comfort': One key benefit of converting. One can, for instance, enjoy the 'shirtless charge' (see below) without a damp tank-top clinging to one throughout a run, while being cooled by the breeze or warmed by the sun.
'Camaraderie': The sense of solidarity with shirtless runners everywhere, who affirm a stripping-back to the essentials in responsible pursuit of healthful exercise. May, for instance, be detected - in the experience of the owner of this blog - when one shirtless runner quietly acknowledges another as they cross paths, though total strangers. One key reason to convert.
'Convenience': One key benefit of converting. For instance, one doesn't need to do quite as much laundry, worry about getting a even tan or even fuss much about one's running wardrobe.
