The Gear I’m Running Chicago Marathon With
Updated: Oct. 09, 2018
Just the essentials.
They say all you need to be a runner is a pair of running shoes–which is true–but in training for Chicago Marathon I found I needed a few more essential items. Here’s what I’ve been training with.
Sports Bra
Not-so-fun fact: On one of my first long runs I experienced some uncomfortable chaffing under my breasts. (Pregnancy definitely changes your body.) I had been running in a Nike Classic sports bra which usually works well for me, but didn’t necessarily do the trick for 20K+. Shortly after that run I switched to the Nike Flyknit Fe/Nom Bra and haven’t had an issue with boob chaffing since. The woven Flyknit material really conforms to and around the breasts so I didn’t have skin on skin rubbing. TMI?
Running Shoes
I previously wrote about the Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo that I’ve been wearing for my speed work but I also wanted to highlight the new Nike Zoom Fly Flyknit, a super lightweight shoe built for speed.
Running Stroller
While I’m not running with the Bugaboo Runner on race day, it’s been a big help during my training. I found it difficult to find the time for 3-4 solo runs each week. This way, I could bring my daughter along for at least one of my shorter runs.
Race Fuel
After speaking with Tara Postnikoff, a nutritionist, runner, and founder of HEAL, I started bringing GU Energy Gels along on my longer runs. For any distance longer than 10K, I like to bring a bit of fuel and plenty of hydration. For race day, I’ll consume a GU Energy Gel every 30 to 45 minutes throughout my run.
Race Hydration
For hydration, Tara recommends 500 mL of fluid per hour of running. I wear a running belt with two water bottles for my longer runs. I’ll add a Nuun Hydration tab to one of the water bottles which ensures I’m also getting some electrolytes and sodium to make up for what I’m sweating out.
Watch
Lastly, I recently upgraded to the new Apple Watch Series 4 and I’ve been using it to track my runs and monitor stats like distance, pace, heart rate, and more. Check out my full review for more details!
Curious about why I’m running a marathon? Check out my first journal entry for details.
