Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Some of my Favorite Running Things


I haven't blogged in a while. There are other demands these days, kids' school this, work stuff that, oh yeah and workout, your basic life minutia (love that word by the way, very fitting). So in talking to some fellow runners/bloggers they had talked about a favorite things blog so I'm flat stealing it. Thanks Lee and Isis, their blog can be found at The Running Couple
Let me start by saying running is a very personal experience and you may think that some of this stuff absolutely sucks, and that's OK. But I have found these things helpful in my running journey. Now that the Julie Andrews song has faded out your head a bit here goes. And these are in order of importance:

1. Body Glide. This stuff is a miracle in a looks like deodorant package. Nothing compares to what you get dollar for dollar from this 2oz container to anything else in running. Bloody nipples - gone! Embarrassing chaffing - gone! Hot spots on your feet - gone! I'm sure this stuff can't be good for you, but it sure works.

2. Brooks Ghost 2's. This is basically about what works on your feet properly. For me it's the Ghost 2. These shoes have made training an absolute pleasure.

3. iPod. Fill in your favorite MP3 player. For me it is about the music when I ran. I used to run without it, but now it seems like a virtual impossibility.

4. Tights. My wife busts my chops about liking running in tights, and yes it jeopardizes the man card, but I like it. Maybe it goes back to being a Batman fanatic as a youth, but Adam West wishes he had my legs!!

5. Amphipod Hydration Belt. I didn't really like running with something on my waist and I still don't like tying a long sleeve top around my waist, but this little baby provides instant hydration of my choice. It comes in very handy since I get fairly ill from both Gatorade and Powerade. This belt doesn't move around and is very versatile with regard to size flexibility and bottle configuration.

6. Heart Rate Monitor. I'm a Polar fan. I have used both, but like the Polar better. It seems more accurate to both distance and BPM (and yes I have worn them both simultaneously) An HRM to me is an invaluable tool to improving.

7. Clif Blocks. I was having all kinds of trouble with on the run nutrition until I tried these. 3 every 45 minutes. ACES!!

8. Advocare Post Recovery Shake. I'm lactose intolerant and chocolate milk shreds me. This product has been awesome in both reducing that, "I can eat the side boards off a manure truck" hunger I get after a longer run, and reducing the little aches and pains that are often attributed to a 10+ mile run.

That's it boys and girls. Remember your mileage may vary, figuratively and literally. Run Happy!!
 
Add to Technorati Favorites