My Essential Running Gear For Better Performance
Running Shoes
A specific pair of running shoes is essential for every runner, you definitely don’t want to run in gym shoes. They should be comfortable, fit well and support your feet properly when running. If you have knee pain or sore feet after running, your shoes might be the cause. I like to change my running shoes every 300 miles to prevent injuries and keep my feet striking midfoot. There are multiple brands out there, but Saucony are by far the best running shoes I’ve owned.
[amazon box=”B097C9JWWJ” Title=”Best Male Running Shoes Saucony Endorphin Speed.” description=”These running shoes are the most comfortable I’ve ever run on. I never get knee pain, and my feet never hurt even after long runs. They are more expensive than different brands, but you will keep them for years. The best part is Saucony are a running manufacturer, so rest assume these shoes are the best on the market.”]
[amazon box=”B097C77YY1″ Title=”Best Female Running Shoes Saucony Ride.” description=”My Wife absolutely loves these Saucony Ride 15 because they have all the same features as the male running shoe. They come in great colours and are perfect for beginner and intermediate runners, and they have improved her running speed and times dramatically.”]
Watch With GPS
If you’re looking to improve your running times and distances, then purchasing a watch to calculate and save all your running history is essential. Garmin are the absolute best at GPS tracking for runners, cyclist or anyone that does outdoor sports. They are expensive, but any Garmin watch is worth the investment. I currently own the Garmin Fenix 7, but I have had the Garmin Forerunner 45 for 2 years, and it worked perfectly for every run.
[amazon box=”B09QGX3QXB” Title=”Best Fitness Watch with GPS.” description=”The Garmin Fenix 7 Pro has unbelievable data and running analytics which is great if you’re a numbers person. It has a full GPS system and doesn’t need your phone to connect to GPS. The best part of the Garmin is the incredible battery life which gives you around 20 days between charges. You can run on GPS constant for up to 54 hours, great for endurance runs or multiple days of running.”]
Gel with Fast-Acting Carbohydrates & Electrolytes
Fueling your runs is just as important as eating the right food post-workout. If you are running for 30 minutes or longer, you need to take energy gels with you. I like to consume one gel before my run and then one gel every 4 miles or 30 minutes, whichever comes first. If you have been running and suddenly you don’t have any energy, its because your glycogen stores are depleted. Unfortunately, your run will be over very quickly. Always take a few spare gels with you in times of crisis.
[amazon box=”B01AH3NHYK” Title=”My Favourite Electrolyte & Energy Gel” description=”The biggest misconception with runners is we need water to improve our performance. But too much water dilutes our natural electrolytes and salts, making us fatigued quicker. These energy gels contain real food, so they are perfect for your stomach and don’t irritate it. You need to consume gels every 30 minutes during your run and water. “]
Anti Chafe Solution
There is nothing worst or more irritating than your legs, arms or other areas of your body chafing. If you sweat a lot or run in warm climates, you might need to take an anti-chafing cream. It will create a barrier between your skin and your clothing, limiting and even eliminating chafing. One of the biggest problems for runners is chafing, especially around the thighs and upper legs. Apply chafing cream before you run, and add extra when you feel your skin getting sore, and it will solve the issue.
[amazon box=”B07KCKW6PT” Title=”Anti Chafing Solution” description=”Say goodbye to chafing in those irritating areas. Squirrels deliver the best anti-chafing, and it smells incredible. Its made from all-natural ingredients, including coconut, cocoa butter and beeswax. It’s very discreet as it comes in a stick that you roll onto your skin, similar to deodorant.”]
Handheld Water Bottle
Better performance when running means you need to fuel the body with water, electrolytes and salts regularly. A hand water bottle is an essential kit for a run that is going to last 30 minutes or more. I hate running with extra bags or jackets just to put my gear and keys in. This water bottle is excellent because it has room for additional items like your gels and phone, and it has 15 fluid ounces of space for your drinking water.
[amazon box=”B01NCNUJEU” Title=”Nathan Handheld Water Bottle” description=”Carrying water is essential when running, and it couldn’t be easier with this handheld water bottle. It stays firmly on your hand because it comes with a handle attached to the water bottle. Even if you move your hand a lot, the water bottle won’t slip. It comes with a zip compartment for your energy gels or money and a case for your mobile phone.”]
