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As a long time runner, I know you don’t need very much to go out on a run. A pair of shoes and some workout clothes and anyone could be a runner.
I ran for years like this. There was a little improvement but I couldn’t really track it at all. I was also experiencing soreness and some small injuries.
It was these products that have helped me to become a better runner. I have been able to get faster and beat my personal records. They have motivated and helped me take running to a new level.
1. GPS Watch
This was the first tool I used that put a scale on my running career. A GPS watch helped me track my mileage, my times, and my performance.
I was able to run for distance rather than time on a regular stop watch. It also showed me how fast I ran that distance in. I could see my average mile time and how fast I ran each individual mile.
GPS watches range in ability but many of the newer ones can also track your heart rate, cadence, calories lost, and can let you compete with friends when running up hills.
I just bought this Garmin Forerunner 235 for my husband and he absolute loves it. I ran with it a couple times. It is easy to use and has great features!
2. A Running Journal
After getting my watch I started keeping a log of my runs. I could see my progress on paper, and not just my races, which was incredibly helpful. I could also calculate how many miles I was running in a week, so I could make healthy decisions when raising my mileage. It is also fun to compare past runs, work outs, and races. A runner is a creature of habit so keeping a log won’t be as hard as you think.
Many people use different kinds of journals for their running log. Many popular ones are bullet journals for the creative ones. Although there are a lot of different styles you can buy that are already organized.
3. A Flip Belt
I love my flip belt. In high school and college, I never felt the need to own something like this, but as I am running by myself and running longer distances I don’t leave the house without it.
It doesn’t move when I run and holds everything I need it to. I carry my phone, keys, flip belt water bottle, energy tablets, and wipes (In case of bathroom emergency).
If you like to listen to music, podcasts, or an audio book the flip belt is a great option for carrying your phone. I even wear mine when I am in the gym doing my strength training specifically to hold my phone and listen to music while I lift weights.
Other devices to carry water, phones and such could include a vest, an arm sleeve, fanny pack, or backpack.
4. Rollers
In high school, we never stretched or rolled. It wasn’t until sophomore year of college that I realized how much of a difference it could make for my legs.
For every sore muscle in my leg, I was able to roll and massage the sore spot. This is crucial for avoiding injuries and for having better runs in the days to come.
I like a big thick foam roller for my thighs, back, and calves. A stick roller helps to roll out specific spots that are sore or bothering me. I also use a ball to roll out my feet.
5. A Good Pair of Running Shoes
When I was inexperienced, I ran in what ever shoe was cheapest. This usually meant I was running in flats for long distance running. Not good. Running in shoes that offer maximum support is crucial.
I look for a shoe that has a thicker sole, arch support, and is recommended by or worn by experienced runners. A running shoe should only be run in for 500 miles. I usually stick to this or less if I feel that they may be feeling worn or are bothering me and could potentially cause an injury.
My favorite brands of running shoes are Brooks, Asics, and Saucony.
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- How to Shop at Goodwill like a Pro
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