I've gotten this question from several friends and classmates who are interested in running long distances races.
Disclaimer: I am no where near competitive nor am I a running guru, just the thought of it kind of makes me chuckle.
However, I do know from previous experience what works best for me. I created a short list of my run essentials. What you will notice is that I didn't list a Garmin or GPS-type of watch. I've been thinking about getting one for quite some time and I think I'll be getting my boyfriend's old one when he gets a new one. I have heard that these watches are great, and I used my boyfriend's during the Disney Princess in February and I loved it. I just rather spend the $200 on more Lululemon running stuff or a pair of gorgeous Stuart Weitzman's (4 inch heel and above please).
1. Great running sneakers- A pair of great, not good, running sneakers is of the utmost importance. Don't just go to your local Marshall's and pick up the cheapest pair of running sneakers. I would strongly recommend going to a run-specific store that actually "fits" you. My personal favorite is Runner's High in Miami, FL. I got my first pair of running sneakers there. I was fitted by one of their specialists and I eventually selected the Brooks Adrenaline sneaker. You want to look for a store that has a treadmill and a video camera, where they'll put you to run on the treadmill and video tape you as you run. This is so you can see your stride in different types of sneakers and which sneaker provides the best support. It is also recommended that you get new sneakers every 500 miles. Depending on your weight and height, it may be recommended that you get new sneakers every 300 - 400 miles.
2. Road ID- My Road ID may be one of the best presents I've received. It sounds corny but I love my Road ID and it makes me feel safe when I run. Prior to getting my Road ID, I would go out for long runs without any type of identification and sometimes without my cell phone. Looking back, if something would have happened to me, the likelihood of identifying me would have been slim. I got my Road ID about a year ago from my boyfriend as one of my Christmas gifts. (Side note: My boyfriend is an excellent gift giver. He is extremely thoughtful and pays close attention to detail) Any time I go out for a run outdoors I wear my Road ID. I have a pink wrist ID. There are different models available and for those that don't want to wear anything else on their wrist, they even have a Road ID that can be attached to your sneaker. If there is anything you purchase besides a great pair of sneakers, I would purchase a Road ID.
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| My Road ID before my Thursday Run |
3. I Pod: This really changes from runner to runner. There are some runners who love running with music and others who refuse to do so. I'm one of those who needs music to run. I've been running to the same play list for quite sometime. If it's not broken, why fix it?
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| My Dinosaur |
4. Good (functional) running clothes: As with the I Pod situation, the "run while looking cute" option differs from person to person. Personally, I don't like looking like prom-princess while working out, but I do like to make sure that if I run into someone important, such as a professor, at the gym, that I don't look like a hot mess. In other words, I like to match, I do wear running skirts when the weather permits, and I spend way too much money on Lululemon products. When it comes to picking clothes for running, you want to make sure that its comfortable and doesn't cause chafing (enemy number 2, enemy number 1 is injuries). Just because its cute doesn't mean that its functional. Furthermore, just because its inexpensive doesn't mean that it isn't awesome. I buy all of my sports bras at Target and Wal-mart. Target and Wal-mart carry champion's line of sports bra, which I think are the most supportive and the best for my body type. One of my biggest pet peeves is a lack of "support" while running. I like absolute no movement from the "co-stars" during my runs and workouts. As far as tights (with light compression), my current favorite are my Lululemon Inspire Crops. As far as tops, I prefer running in long sleeve tops or tank tops. I have a huge problem with short sleeve shirts and chafing. When I find a good short sleeve top, I'll let you know.
5. Hydration- When running outdoors you'll need some type of portable water supply. Some people love fuel belts, others carry a water bottle. I still haven't found one that I love and if you have any suggestions, I would love them. I found one online that I may be considering, even though its a bit pricey (probably because of the lululemon symbol)> Amphipod Hand Held. It even has a pocket for an ID or a credit card.
6. Race/ Fuel Belt- Some people eat during longer runs and in order to hold their gels or "nutritional items" they use a fuel or race belt. I can't eat during longer runs, so i usually use my race belt to hold my cell phone and chapstick. I also like my race belt for races, so i don't have to poke holes in my shirt and I attach my bib on the belt using the bungee cord option. I really like Spi Belts and bought the Red/White polka dot one at the Disney Princess Expo in February.
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| My Spit Belt |
This is a perfect post for a new runner like me, thanks! (CUTE belt, I need to get one!)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Mindy. I wore the belt with my red and white polka dot skirt from Running Skirts. It was a very Minnie inspired outfit :)
ReplyDeleteAnais!!! I just found this blog. I have a Garmin and LOVE it. It helps when running with my dog because I often have to switch up my running routes because he can't be around other dogs. also helps with running downtown.
ReplyDeleteYour belt is so cute! When I use my Spi belt (I switched to iFitness) it is black with a 13.1 on it.
ReplyDeleteI cannot function without my Garmin. And I feel so much safer with a Road ID on. I have done some iPod free runs - but usually only one or two miles. But really, for me, my iPod is a must have!
**I can't believe Disney is coming up so soon!