Running Gear |

Runners. We are an unusual breed. We like things a certain way and we need things to be in a certain order.

Over the years of running I have found what I need to run to get the best performance each time.

Hydration is pretty important for me when I am out on a long run. I find I get more thirsty than hungry and I find I do loads better when I am well hydrated! Over the years I have used handheld water bottles, straps for my waist, and placing water bottles on the route before I go and run. All of this stopped once I found the Nathan Minimalist Racing Pack.

This pack does it all, it has a 1.5 liter pack for water plus some extra storage on the back, the front of the vest has a few pockets to store gels, cameras, phones, Ipods, etc. It has reflective strips on the front and back and has two straps for the front of the chest and is super lightweight. I can put this pack on and not feel a thing! If you are in the market for a vest, this is one I highly recommend!

Walking to the waiting area! Getting Excited!

B and I both have one!

The Stick

This is a must. After a run I need to roll out my legs and arms to get the lactic acid moving and allow for better recovery. Typically, I will use the stick over my muscles, get a hot shower, then roll again. I feel this really helps with soreness and next day recovery. The price is a little steep, but the stick really does work wonders on your muscles!

Mizuno Wave Riders

These have been my shoes sense I was a freshmen in college. I use to know NOTHING about shoes, and my mom would just go to the store, pick out a shoe that was pretty and buy it for me! I was not picky at all and most of the time every shoe was perfect. Once I started to get more serious about running I realized I was a neutral runner and I needed a neutral shoe.

Lo and behold, my mom had bought a neutral for me, the Wave Riders! If you are a neutral runner I highly suggest trying the Riders, it is a little bit lighter, allows for a a great heal to toe transition and really “supports” the neutral runner. I have about 9 pairs in my closet right now, I use them for long runs, short runs, speed, hills, everything! Love my Riders!!

Fuel

I use a few different fuels, it depends on what I am feeling, a gel or a shot bloks. I love using the gels for my shorter long runs (13-16 miles), easy to just rip it off and slurp. If I am going for a 20+ I typically bring both, the shot I like to place in my jaw and suck on it throughout the run, replacing after the shot has dissolved. Typically I use Cliff Bar and Powerbar. I love the kona punch and the cherry flavors.

Bra

The best bra I find for running is the Old Navy Padded Sports Bra. I am small chested and I don’t need a bra that is $$$ to help with support and cause less pain when running. I understand most women need more support but if you are like me, this bra is a great one to try!

I love the hole in the back. It allows for breathing!

GPS Watch

When I go out for any type of run, I need to take my Garmin Forerunner 310XT. I have a super Type A personality, I need to know the pace, time, distance, etc. I’m obsessed with numbers and stats! I love my Garmin, yes it is pretty pricey, but I really get so much out of the watch. It is waterproof and sweat proof. I am can wear it on my bike, or remove the strap and attach it to my bike, run up to 20 hours with out charging, it also has multi-sport function which allows for easy transition when doing a brick workout and, after my workout I just have to slide past my computer and it will automatically update! I love my Garmin, and it is a MUST when exercising.