Favorite Things

Just lace up those running shoes and go, right?  Yes, but I prefer to have some of the things below with me when I run.  These are a few of my favorite things…

1.  Brooks Adrenaline GTS:  I’ve been wearing these shoes now for almost 10 years.  I’m an overpronater (ankle rolls inward when I run) with no arch so these shoes control my feet and provide great support.  Here’s a great video on Runner’s World describing overpronation, underpronation, and normal pronation.

2.  Lululemon Willpower Shorts:  These shorts are amazing!  So amazing that I need to have multiple pairs in the exact same color!  They sit low, are the perfect length, not too baggy or tight in the thighs, and the waistband doesn’t pinch.

3.  Nike Tempo Track Shorts:  They come in a zillion colors, what’s not to like?

4.  Lululemon Wunder Under Crops:  I wear these crops for everything:  running, yoga, laying around the house, etc.   The fit is perfect and they are so comfortable.

5.  Lululemon Cool Racerback Tank:   I’m very picky when it comes to tanks.  I can’t wear ones with the built-in bra because my torso is so long and the top ends at my belly button.  These tanks don’t have a built-in bra and they are longer than your normal tank.  Win-win for me and my long torso!

6.  Lululemon Run Alpine Pullover:  Wow is all I have to say!  I bought this recently and it was worth the money!  I call it a “little slice of heaven” for when you are running outside in the freezing temps.  You can wear it alone or layer it with a tank top or thin, long-sleeve, dry-fit shirt.  You can zip the collar all the way up for added warmth too.  Lots of pockets, thumb holes, oh my!  I could go on and on…

7.  Garmin Forerunner 305:  I got this for Christmas in 2009 and it has really changed how I train.  I love being able to see my pace at all times.  It keeps me from going out too fast on easy runs (and races) and also tells me when I need to kick it up a notch.  I prefer this model even though it looks like I’m wearing a small computer on my wrist.  I can easily see the screen and change screens while running.

8.  Clif Shot Bloks:  I’ve been using Shot Bloks for the past few years since my stomach decided it could not handle GU anymore.  They remind me of Swedish Fish and I have been known to snack on them when I’m not running (don’t judge until you try them!).  I generally go with the Black Cherry flavor although Strawberry and Mountain Berry are good too.  Here’s my trick for making Shot Bloks more portable when you run:  there are 6 pieces per pack and I eat 3 pieces every 4 miles during long runs.  While still in the wrapper, separate the Shot Blok in half (3 pieces on each side) and cut down the middle with scissors.  You now have a single serving and it’s easier to carry and eat while running!

9.  White Chocolate Wonderful Peanut Butter:  I know it’s odd to include PB on this list but trust me, this stuff does not disappoint!  Whether it’s on a bagel, wheat bread, etc., most runners include PB in their pre-run/race meal.  Did you ever get nauseous at the thought of eating another PB sandwich before your long run?!  Swap your old PB with White Chocolate Wonderful and I promise you’ll look forward to that next PB sandwich.  I know it sounds like I get paid to endorse this stuff (I don’t), but this PB is addictive.  I could eat an entire jar myself in a week.  Easily.

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