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The best part of running is that it doesn’t require a lot of stuff. The only equipment you really need are sneakers and even that’s negotiable: I’ve run races with guys who go totally barefoot! But like any hobby, there are always extra things that are helpful or just plain fun. So while none of these items are anything you have to have, I love reading about gear that works for different people and maybe you do too!
1 // A CHALLENGE
Last summer, I signed up for the Amerithon Challenge, a virtual fitness challenge which has you spanning the United States – 3,521 miles! You can choose your mode of travel (run, walk, swim, bike, a mix of all, etc.) and there is also the option to do the challenge as a team. I decided to go it alone, only tracking my running mileage. I’ve been chipping away little by little and it’s fun to color in the map as I go.
2 // RECORDING DATA
I’m very number-driven and I like to see my progress. I’ve tried a few different apps, but my favorite is still Runkeeper. I really like that I can sync my running watch to it so I have both indoor and outdoor runs all in one place. (Mark bought me a Garmin Forerunner 220 years ago and I don’t think they make them anymore, but this watch looks to be similar.)
3 // JOURNALING
I received this Believe training journal for Christmas and I love it for its simplicity. I write out my mileage and stats, but I also like to break down difficult workouts, note nagging pains and reflect on how I was feeling.
4 // FUNCTIONAL GEAR
The choices in this arena are vast – there are so many great companies with products perfect for runners! I’m pretty low maintenance and will run in just about anything, but my favorites to date are still my Athleta capris {similar} and my barefoot shoes. I’m also a big fan of compression calf sleeves when I start increasing my mileage for a race.
5 // FUN TANKS
Mark and the kids bought me three new tanks for Mother’s Day and I think they describe me to a T: “I’d Give Up Carbs, But I’m Not a Quitter”, “Will Run For Donuts”, and “Strong As a Mother”. They’re cotton and not the best choice for sweaty summer runs, but I wear them anyway because they’re awesome.
6 // ENTERTAINING PODCASTS
A 30-minute run is the perfect amount of time to listen to a podcast episode. I’ve been trying a bunch of new ones; there really is something for everyone!
7 // DELICIOUS POST-WORKOUT DRINKS & MEALS
My favorite post-run recovery drink is mixing a Nuun tablet with a scoop of collagen peptides. So refreshing! I also love the Run Fast, Eat Slow cookbook for healthy meal choices. Everything I’ve made so far has been delicious!
If you’re a runner, what’s your favorite gear? What piece of exercise equipment could you not live without?
I'm not a runner (and I'm in awe that you are) but I get the same rush from going for a walk, being out in nature. So my goal for the summer is to try and go for a walk each day. Here's hoping we can both squeeze in this time for our mama selves!!!
Love that goal! That little time for ourselves is so important – I truly think it makes us better mamas.