Slow Marathon Runner Essentials
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Obviously when you are just getting your toes wet in the running world gear is the last thing on your mind (more like not dying right?). But, when it comes to marathon running, gear is a crucial element of ensuring a successful experience, especially if you’re new to starting a marathon or identifying as a slow runner. If you are like me and started seeing more and more running videos on social media, then you are definitely also getting all the ads. “This gel will make all your runs feel easy” “This wrist band will increase your pace by a minute.” The point of this blog is that I am pretty frugal individual and hate getting pulled into all the claims only to find out it doesn’t work. So, I took the work out of it, and below are items that I found made the whole experience easier and more exciting.
1. Quality Running Shoes
I will be honest, when I first started trying to run again, I strapped on my 2-year-old tennis shoes and hit the sidewalk. Let me just say, my pride took a hit and so did my knees. It took weeks before they would stop swelling by the end of the day. I was only running a mile or two at that time as well. Like I mentioned, I tend to be a frugal person but if there was one thing I could recommend you go invest in before you even start your training for your marathon it would be shoes. Look for shoes suited to your running style, providing adequate cushioning and support. Even better visit a store like fleet feet to get an idea of how your feet support your weight and what might help! The right pair will keep your feet happy, whether you’re racing or enjoying slow marathon running. Now, you do not need to go drop $200 on a pair of shoes but sometimes the splurge can make a world of difference. Below are three of my favorites for a range of budgets!
2. Music
Will your everyday airpods work? yes. There are some things to consider though as you get deeper in your marathon training. I would enourage you to look into some headphones that are hard to lose, waterproof (ever sweated through a pair of headphones before?), and open concept so you can hear what is going on around you. I researched headphones for days and kept coming back to the same wonderful pair so that is all I am going to suggest here. I know they are a splurge but they really are that great.
- Unparalleled Audio – Dual drivers combine the clear highs of Bone Conduction Tech with the deep bass of Air Conduction T…
- Open-Ear Awareness – SHOKZ’s signature open-ear design helps you power through your workouts while keeping you safely aw…
- Secure and Stable Fit – The weight-optimized design of this unibody frame with ergonomic ear hooks integrates a Ni-Ti al…
3. Hydration Gear
Now let me say that hydration is going to depend heavily on where, when, and how far you are running. I started my slow runner training at the beginning of a Texas summer. I quickly learned that I needed both water and electrolytes for anything over 3 miles. Hydration can actually make or break your marathon performance so don’t overlook it, especially if you’re running it slow. With that said, I don’t think you need a full blow water pack, especially for an established marathon. There will be aid stations along the way and who wants extra weight! For the most part I just carry a hand strap bottle with me on my runs, I love the one listed below. My dream is to get the vest though since it can carry my fuel, phone, and water without adding inconvenience. Do consider that these water bottles, like all, get worn out over time, washes, and the elements. The $15 one might last you just as long as the $30 so do not over think it if it does the job.
What I do think is worth the proper splurge though is electrolytes, you want to find a brand that isn’t just putting sodium and sugar in their mixes. You need real minerals like potassium, quality sodium, and calcium to actually benefit your body. My favorite is the LMNT brand listed below. I will say it tastes a little salty but I like that!
- LOW-PROFILE ERGONOMIC DESIGN: Designed and engineered by runners for runners – the Hydraform Handheld runners water bott…
- 12 OZ. HYDRAFORM BOTTLE: The 12 oz. Hydraform Handheld water bottle minimizes slosh and is 100% leakproof and BPA-free. …
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN FOR COMFORT: The Hydraform Handheld’s shape promotes a natural hand position, reducing cramping and ten…
- THE BEST ELECTROLYTE DRINK MIX EVER: LMNT is a tasty electrolyte drink mix with everything you need and nothing you don’…
- MORE SALT, NOT LESS: A growing body of research reveals that optimal health outcomes occur at sodium levels 2-3x governm…
- OUR FORMULATION: Each stick pack contains 1000 mg sodium, 200 mg potassium, 60 mg magnesium — a truly meaningful serving…
4. Energy & Fuel
When I started running I got slammed with ads for caffeine gels, carb gels, even thc gels. Now do I think they can be helpful? Sure! Do I think the fancy stuff is needed? No. Personally, I don’t have the income to down $5 gels every run so let me tell you what I have found. Gummy Worms, haha I know, candy really? But yes! They are a quick sugar and carb boost and super tasty. I only take them if I am running 4+ miles and I normally eat my first at mile 3 and then 1 every 2 miles after that. There isn’t a science to it but that is what works for me. Best part? I can get a whole bag for less than $5 and it lasts me a week or two.
5. GPS Watch or Fitness Tracker
It is extremely hard to train for a marathon if you don’t know how far you have run. Apple watches can track your runs but specialized GPS watches or fitness tracker helps you monitor your distance, pace, and overall health metrics, making it invaluable for your marathon training. This technology can assist both slow runners and seasoned pros in achieving their race goals. Having something that tracks heartrate zones has been the most important part for me. Personally, I am an apple girl but I have considered the two watches below as a future upgrade.
