Whether you are just starting to run or you are a seasoned marathoner, if you are serious about running there are essentials you should have besides just a good pair of running shoes. These things will not only enhance your performance and your mentality, but it'll change running for you entirely, for the better.
1. A RoadID
While running, the last thing most of us think about is carrying a form of ID with you. That's why they've made a unique form of an ID as a bracelet or even to go on your shoe. The importance of this goes without saying, especially if you run on your own. They even have cool bands or additions made to fit your Fitbit!
2. Compression Sleeves
These... now these changed my life. My legs have never felt better after a long run either running with them on or used for recovery. They help to reduce swelling and for those chilly runs they provide warmth!
3. The Stick
Roll out your muscles from anywhere... literally. With "The Stick" it's easy to bring along with you for a long car ride or even to work! This saved me while I was training for a marathon!
4. Balega Socks
Not only are these socks comfortable and cool looking but they help prevent those awful blisters! I now own too many pairs to count!
5. GPS Watch
If you are already a runner, you know very well that you can't live without your GPS watch. If you are just starting to get into running - it's worth the investment! There are so many out there but my personal favorite is the Garmin Forerunner 235. It tracks running, biking, your heart rate and maximal oxygen consumption!
6. A Strava Account
Last summer a friend introduced me to an app called Strava. Let me tell you - it is addicting! You can track your runs and rides and follow your friends! After every run I can't wait to upload my activity to see how I did compared to my other runs or if I beat my time or one of my friends on a certain route. This app has pushed me to challenge myself, especially on my usual running routes. Join today, you won't regret it! www.strava.com
7. Foam Roller
This falls right with the stick. If you don't own one - invest... now!
8. Body Glide
I can't imagine that chafing is anyone's favorite thing to experience. Roll on some body glide in those easily chaffed areas before a run to avoid it! It will make showering much more comfortable after those long runs!
9. FlipBelt
I used to religiously run with an armband until my parents got me a FlipBelt. Game-changer! I can fit my phone in there and you can hardly notice that it's around my waist. On my long runs, I was able to fit all of my fuel and my keys too!
10. Sunglasses
I never ran with sunglasses. I always suffered through squinting or wearing a hat. I felt like sunglasses would be a burden. But- once I got into long distance, it was hard to even wear a hat on those hot and humid summer days. I bought a pair of oakleys and with the grip on the side - sometimes I forgot I was wearing them! It protects your eyes from not just the sun, but the wind and anything that may be in the air. I'm sure I'm not the only one who's had a bug fly into their eye!
11. nuun Electrolyte Tabs
On my long runs, I started to get frustrated having to run back to my car for Gatorade. Now - I throw a few of these tabs in a small bag in my FlipBelt and when I need my electrolytes I have them right there with me! My personal favorite is the fruit punch. Tip* if you break it in half, they fit easily into any water bottle and they dissolve quicker!
12. Honey Stinger
I've been using Honey Stinger products for a few years now. Not only is it an all natural way to fuel but they have organic and gluten free options. The waffles make a great snack after a run or even just as a healthy alternative throughout the day. I also - couldn't have gotten through my marathon training without their energy gels. Knowing I needed to start training with them to get the proper fuel, I had never tried gels before and was worried how my stomach would handle it so I tried their Vanilla flavor. It was easy to digest and tasted good too!
13. A Plan
Whether you are training for a 5K or a full marathon - having a plan will keep you on your toes. It'll help you stay consistent with knowing how many miles to run each week. I found that having a plan kept me disciplined. I follow Hal Higdon's training plans - and had such great success during my marathon training because of it!
14. Confidence
Having confidence in yourself and in your running is SO important. I cannot stress this enough. There were several times that I doubted myself and if I could run a new distance or even run a mileage I was familiar with and because of my lack of confidence, my run sucked. But- the days I went out and said I CAN, I was successful and ended my run with an even bigger smile on my face! Say YOU CAN and watch... YOU WILL.
15. A Savings Account
I have to laugh at this one but this is so true. I had no idea when I signed up for my first marathon well, I should say developed a passion for running, how much of an expensive hobby it was. Everything listed above plus cool running gear, race entry fees, books, food (because you'll always be hungry), new shoes every few months, gas to get to races, etc. The list goes on. If you are a serious runner, add a line for running into your budget! It's an expensive hobby, but you can't put a price on feelings and experiences you have because of it!
