I’ve been running for over a year now, and in the grander scheme of things, that’s not too long, but because there are runners in my RWFL club that haven’t been running for as long as I have, I know they’d appreciate my little list of things I take when I run, or use for running.
1. Good shoes. I cannot stress the importance of a good pair of shoes! I’ve just had to buy a new pair of Asics Kayano’s from the Sweatshop because my older ones had collapsed after only 6 months and many km’s, and I’ve hurt my knee and calf muscles! And don’t just buy any old pair of takkies… have them properly fitted at a specialist running shop, or else, again, you’ll get injuries.
2. Seamless socks. I find the only socks that don’t give me blisters are the Falke running socks, and I prefer the thicker type of sock. I’ve also started using the compression socks, although I find them quite hot in this weather, but they really work wonders for my dodge calf muscles.
3. Running watch. Apparently this isn’t a necessity, but I’m a sucker for stats, so it’s an essential for me. I need to know how far I’ve gone, how long it’s taken me, and what my average pace is. For that reason, I bought a GPS watch instead of just a watch with a heart rate monitor. My TomTom Runner connects to my watch after my run and uploads my data automatically to Strava and Runkeeper (where I monitor my progress)
4. Running belt. I use this on a long run or a race to carry my car keys, phone (to Instagram along the way of course), drivers license (if I’m running on my own just in case I have an accident), approx R30 for a drink or snacks on a long run, a few tissues (for my nose and yucky portaloos at races), and lip balm. Yes it’s a lot. Sometimes I split the stuff between the running belt and the various pockets that I make sure my running tights have.
5. Visor. I’ve discovered the genius that is visors, instead of normal caps. In summer they’re essential as they allow the heat to escape from your head unlike normal caps. They also keep the rain out of your eyes! I like the ones that are made from climate fabric so they dry fast.
6. Face sunscreen. Proper stuff this. I’m on a course of Roaccutane right now, so I don’t leave the house without this on my face. The Photoderm Spot SPF50 cream is ideal for me, because it’s made for people that tend to get pigmentation marks or spots. It doesn’t run into my eyes at all when I sweat, so it’s working well!
7. Body sunscreen. This was recommended by my dermatologist for long runs. Even though the Daylong sunscream it’s only SPF30, it’s absolutely brilliant and does not come off for hours or in water, even with me “glowing”. It’s apparently used quite successfully by triathletes. It can also be used on your face.
8. Water bottle. For some reason I didn’t add this to my photo. I cannot run for longer than 4km in summer without water. I have this awesome RWFL water bottle that has a hole in it so it’s not too big to carry in my hands.
I find in winter I use other things like headlamps etc… I’ll do another list in a few months!
**edited to add after Tanya commented on Twitter reminding me of the glaringly obvious omission.
9. Running bra. Forgot this off the list, and clearly no image! LOL! IÂ have really small boobs, but I do still struggle to find good running bras that are comfy, and wick away moisture properly. My favourites are the Nike Pro Bra and the Woolies Seemless padded sports bra (and I remove the pad… that’s a stupid idea for sweaty sports)
This is a great list!
I have a pedometer/music player, my running shoes (they’re about 10 years old now but I really only started wearing them when I started running just over a year ago) which will need replacing soon, two pairs of long running pants – one with and one without a small zip pocket at the back – and two yoga vests. I don’t actually have boobs at all, so I haven’t bothered with a running bra at all. And I found out this morning that D has just bought me a running belt – something I’ve had on my wishlist for some time now!
I usually run before sunrise in the mornings, so I don’t use sunscreen unless I’m running a race, which will usually start once the sun’s already up. When I do use it, I use Kiehl’s Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50+ because it’s what I have. But I’m also keen to try Dermalogica’s Solar Defense Booster SPF 50, which you add to your moisturiser or the Protection 50 Sport. I love their stuff!
I usually run between 8 and 12km around my neighbourhood and leave my water bottle at home in my garage, so I can grab it on my way in after my run. I hate having to carry things while I’m running! This is a problem I have yet to find a solution for when I’m training for longer races. Fortunately, longer the races themselves have refreshment stations, which eliminate that problem on the day…
I’m learning to run without music since listening devices are prohibited. I need to have my phone with me for safety and also to track my pace and distance, face cap, good running shoes (I learnt the importance of a good shoe the hard way sadly) and if it is a hot day water
My list is very similar, except the water. I never carry any for less than 10 km and for anything over that I wear a hydration pack. I started training with it for the longer trail runs to get used to it and now it is a habit. I love it.
I battled for years to find a good running bra – I now use the Triumph Seamless Sports bra for vigorous sports and love it – I came home after my first long run in it and threw out all my others! I now have 6.
I also cover myself in sunscreen and wear arm warmers or sleeves, even in summer. I find the white ones help with heat and I actually am cooler wearing them and they protect from sun burn.
I love to see other peoples lists….