Happy National Running Day!! Now that I am in the thick of marathon training, people often ask me about the ‘accessories’ and additionals you need in order to train and run a marathon. Since this is my third go at Chicago, I have a few things that are tried and true, and a few things that I have added to the mix this year. In no particular order, here’s my list of marathon training accessories…
10 Marathon Training Accessories I Couldn’t Do Without:
Secret Active - Any old deodorant will not do when you are running miles and miles every week. For my running intensive day, I switch from my normal swipe-on Secret to Secret Active Invisible Spray in Fresh scent. This antiperspirant is designed to work harder the more I sweat. It manages to trap odor, lock it away and replace it with a refreshing scent. I’ve used it on my last couple intense runs and will be using it going forward on any day that an intense sweat session is in the plans.
SpiBelt - For years I used to strap my phone to my arm and run. But as phones got bigger, I noticed my form was trying to compensate for that added bulk and I would often tense my arm and neck. Forget that! The SpiBelt easily carries my phone, car keys, ID and anything else I might need, while not weighing me down. Plus, the endurance belt has loops for gel packs - perfect for those long training runs.
Compression Socks - This is a new one for me. To be honest, I didn’t understand how a pair of socks could make my run better. I don’t tend to have leg pain and I like my socks to be as minimal as possible. But every now and then I pull these babies on and my legs just seem to glide on the pavement. I can’t explain it but compression socks are awesome.
MapMy Run - This app is my favorite for tracking my miles and my time. Press Begin Workout and it will immediately begin keeping track of your distance and your speed. You can set it to tell you every mile the total distance and the time it took you to run that last mile. I use it to make sure I’m keeping on pace and getting those all important negative splits!
Matrix TF30 Treadmill - While the weather is nice and outdoor runs are calling my name, I do my speed work on the treadmill from Johnson Fitness & Wellness at home. More on that in a post next month, but the reason I’m using the treadmill for speed work is because it is easier to track my exact speed as opposed to running outside and needing to guess my 30-second sprint pace.
Smoovall - This is glide for the modern guy/gal. Yes, glide - that substance you apply to places that rub in order to prevent blisters, bleeding, and other uncomfortable injuries - is a MUST! This spray on version is easier and less messy to apply and it works really well.
Aaptiv - Hands-down my favorite training app! I’ve bragged about this a million times, if you follow me on Instagram. But seriously, between the variety of trainers, the variety of available runs, and the specific marathon training program, Aaptiv has it all to get me ready to own Chicago in October. I love how the trainers are constantly reminding us of the basics, to make sure our form is perfect in order to run economically.
Foam Roller - Your legs will thank you - trust me!! This little baby is a must after a long run or on days when you wake up and your legs are tight. A few, usually painful, rolls on the foam roller and you’ll be feeling better and speeding along your recovery between runs.
Otium Wireless Headphones - Long gone are the days of cords, which easily get tangled and always seem to be in the way. This pair of inexpensive wireless headphones from Otium are the best I’ve tried so far. The sound is amazing, plus, they stay in my ear the entire time with no adjusting required. The over the ear clip ensures that you’re good to go for the whole run. I’ll be running the marathon with these.
Sports Sunscreen - There is nothing worse than sunscreen-covered sweat dripping in your eyes. If you’ve ever had that happen you know the uncomfortable burning you are left with for a long time after. Sports sunscreen is the answer to that. It doesn’t melt off like a lot of the other sunscreens out there, so you aren’t in danger of a sudden blinding moment as you run and sweat.
This is a sponsored post. I’ve received free product and/or money for this post. All opinions are my own. Click here for more info on Secret Active: http://bit.ly/katysa.
