Running accessories
Linz91741
Posts: 14 Member
Completed a couch to 5k program and want to continue running. I use My phone to track My distance and pace through My Samsung health app. My phone is an awkward running partner, plus I need to carry water because I get thirsty a lot. Sometimes I run with the dog too.
What products do you use to make your runs easier? I am thinking of getting a Samsung watch to replace my phone, maybe an arm band for music?
What products do you use to make your runs easier? I am thinking of getting a Samsung watch to replace my phone, maybe an arm band for music?
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Replies
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i have a garmin 225 and this running belt for long runs when i need water.
https://fitletic.com/product/hd008-16oz-hydration-belt/
i always buy running leggings/shorts with a zip pocket for phone/keys/gels.2 -
Definitely get some kind of wearable, it’s a lot less faff than a phone and will also give you more insight into your runs.
I use a Garmin FR220 but the Vivoactive 3 is on my Christmas list (other devices are available and I’d recommend a lot of research first).
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I wear a Flipbelt. https://flipbelt.com/ Lies flat around your waist, you can fit your phone, house key, some tissues. Not bulky.9
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For mid distances (up to 10 miles)
4-pocket cycling shirt (one of the pockets with zipper for key and phone). The pockets take a small water bottle and some gel.
For longer distances:
Camelbak with 2 liter water-tank.
Always on my arm when running: A decent sports watch (currently TomTom Spark Cardio).1 -
I've used running belts in the past to carry water, keys, phone, etc, and had always resisted the idea of wearing a running vest. This year, I decided to try wearing a vest to carry more fluids, fuel and gear while training for a first marathon. I bought the Ultimate Direction TO 3.0 race vest and love it. Its very light, comes with two 14oz soft water bottles and has room for all your stuff - gels, meds, phone, TP, keys, etcetera. A bit pricey, but it has been worth every penny to me.
I also wear a garmin 920 watch for speed, distance, HR, etc.
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I wear a Flipbelt. https://flipbelt.com/ Lies flat around your waist, you can fit your phone, house key, some tissues. Not bulky.
My daughter and I both wear fitbelts when we run. It fits snug enough that my phone, water, and keys dont move around when I run. I also wear my Garmin watch. If you listen to music a decent pair of wireless headphones are nice.2 -
I don't take/carry anything unless I absolutely have to. And in many cases, if I have to, I just won't run. I hate extra stuff. I don't carry a phone, a car key, nothing. I have a garmin watch to record my workouts, but that's the only "accessory".
Personally, I'd get a smartwatch/wearable/whatever you prefer, then think about ways to cut back on what you have to carry. Not everyone can/will, but it's easy to get carried away with all the crap running shops make you think you need.3 -
Depending on the length of your runs, you might want to try running without carrying water. It makes things much easier from a logistics perspective (water isn't exactly light or compact) and chances are that you might actually be hurting your running performance by drinking too much water along the way. Many runners (myself included) don't bother with water mid-run unless we'll be going for an hour or more.
It's not critical but is something to consider. If you ever start running for race times/performance, then you'll definitely want to revisit your hydration needs.
Key running accessories for me are a true run tracking watch (the ability to review stats around cadence, pace, HR, etc. help tremendously), an armband for my phone (I actually don't mind carrying it in my hand most of the time but the band is a lifesaver for longer runs), wireless headphones, and a good stockpile of shorter and longer podcasts. I generally run with a bare minimum.
Another option for water...if you do an out and back or repeat laps of a track or route, just leave your water bottle somewhere along the way. Nobody will mess with it and you can grab a drink as you pass by.3 -
Depending on the length of your runs, you might want to try running without carrying water. It makes things much easier from a logistics perspective (water isn't exactly light or compact) and chances are that you might actually be hurting your running performance by drinking too much water along the way. Many runners (myself included) don't bother with water mid-run unless we'll be going for an hour or more.
It's not critical but is something to consider. If you ever start running for race times/performance, then you'll definitely want to revisit your hydration needs.
Key running accessories for me are a true run tracking watch (the ability to review stats around cadence, pace, HR, etc. help tremendously), an armband for my phone (I actually don't mind carrying it in my hand most of the time but the band is a lifesaver for longer runs), wireless headphones, and a good stockpile of shorter and longer podcasts. I generally run with a bare minimum.
Another option for water...if you do and out and back or repeat laps of a track or route, just leave your water bottle somewhere along the way. Nobody will mess with it and you can grab a drink as you pass by.
i hate carrying anything, i only bought the belt because i felt like water would probably help on my long runs!1 -
I use this model. It's pretty advanced.
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I have the TomTom Spark 3 Cardio + Music...I don't use the Music feature, but it allows you to download music onto the watch and connect to blue tooth headphones. I put my key in my sports bra and carry my phone in my right hand. I drink plenty of water throughout the day, so I don't carry water on my runs. If you need to carry things, make the dog useful...he/she can wear a hiking pack and carry your phone, keys, water, etc...2
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Another runner here who uses the Flipbelt. It comfortably holds my keys, phone, Gu packs, ID, and even a small water bottle (they're made specifically for the Flipbelt). They're amazing and they hold up really well. I've been using mine and washing it regularly for over a year (I line dry it) and it is still like new.2
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I also have a Flipbelt. I put my keys and phone in it, and it holds water and gels on long runs. If you listen to music on your runs, I recommend Bluetooth headphones as well.1
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One note. Make sure you read reviews of the watch and/or demo a model outdoors if you want to use it as your music device. I tried using my Apple watch for music instead of my phone and it was pretty much unusable once I stepped outside. It constantly dropped connection with my BT headphones because of the distance from the headphone antennae and the fact BT signals do not transmit that well through human bodies and sweat.
It wasn't a big deal inside because the headphones could pick up the signal as it bounced off walls, etc. but the watch didn't work as a BT broadcasting device all that well outside. No such issues with my phone.0 -
I don't take/carry anything unless I absolutely have to. And in many cases, if I have to, I just won't run. I hate extra stuff. I don't carry a phone, a car key, nothing. I have a garmin watch to record my workouts, but that's the only "accessory".
Personally, I'd get a smartwatch/wearable/whatever you prefer, then think about ways to cut back on what you have to carry. Not everyone can/will, but it's easy to get carried away with all the crap running shops make you think you need.
Yes I totally agree, especially after dealing with the annoyance of juggling multiple things.0 -
TavistockToad wrote: »Depending on the length of your runs, you might want to try running without carrying water. It makes things much easier from a logistics perspective (water isn't exactly light or compact) and chances are that you might actually be hurting your running performance by drinking too much water along the way. Many runners (myself included) don't bother with water mid-run unless we'll be going for an hour or more.
It's not critical but is something to consider. If you ever start running for race times/performance, then you'll definitely want to revisit your hydration needs.
Key running accessories for me are a true run tracking watch (the ability to review stats around cadence, pace, HR, etc. help tremendously), an armband for my phone (I actually don't mind carrying it in my hand most of the time but the band is a lifesaver for longer runs), wireless headphones, and a good stockpile of shorter and longer podcasts. I generally run with a bare minimum.
Another option for water...if you do and out and back or repeat laps of a track or route, just leave your water bottle somewhere along the way. Nobody will mess with it and you can grab a drink as you pass by.
i hate carrying anything, i only bought the belt because i felt like water would probably help on my long runs!
Sometimes I wonder if I'm experiencing a hydration issue because i get seriously parched by a half mile! Thanks for the feedback. I often run laps around my neighborhood, I could totally leave a water bottle somewhere :-)0 -
What do you mean by parched? If your mouth is just dry, try a piece of gum or something similar.0
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TavistockToad wrote: »Depending on the length of your runs, you might want to try running without carrying water. It makes things much easier from a logistics perspective (water isn't exactly light or compact) and chances are that you might actually be hurting your running performance by drinking too much water along the way. Many runners (myself included) don't bother with water mid-run unless we'll be going for an hour or more.
It's not critical but is something to consider. If you ever start running for race times/performance, then you'll definitely want to revisit your hydration needs.
Key running accessories for me are a true run tracking watch (the ability to review stats around cadence, pace, HR, etc. help tremendously), an armband for my phone (I actually don't mind carrying it in my hand most of the time but the band is a lifesaver for longer runs), wireless headphones, and a good stockpile of shorter and longer podcasts. I generally run with a bare minimum.
Another option for water...if you do and out and back or repeat laps of a track or route, just leave your water bottle somewhere along the way. Nobody will mess with it and you can grab a drink as you pass by.
i hate carrying anything, i only bought the belt because i felt like water would probably help on my long runs!
Sometimes I wonder if I'm experiencing a hydration issue because i get seriously parched by a half mile! Thanks for the feedback. I often run laps around my neighborhood, I could totally leave a water bottle somewhere :-)
How much do you drink in a normal day. It's doubtful that running half a mile is actually dehydrating you.0 -
TavistockToad wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »Depending on the length of your runs, you might want to try running without carrying water. It makes things much easier from a logistics perspective (water isn't exactly light or compact) and chances are that you might actually be hurting your running performance by drinking too much water along the way. Many runners (myself included) don't bother with water mid-run unless we'll be going for an hour or more.
It's not critical but is something to consider. If you ever start running for race times/performance, then you'll definitely want to revisit your hydration needs.
Key running accessories for me are a true run tracking watch (the ability to review stats around cadence, pace, HR, etc. help tremendously), an armband for my phone (I actually don't mind carrying it in my hand most of the time but the band is a lifesaver for longer runs), wireless headphones, and a good stockpile of shorter and longer podcasts. I generally run with a bare minimum.
Another option for water...if you do and out and back or repeat laps of a track or route, just leave your water bottle somewhere along the way. Nobody will mess with it and you can grab a drink as you pass by.
i hate carrying anything, i only bought the belt because i felt like water would probably help on my long runs!
Sometimes I wonder if I'm experiencing a hydration issue because i get seriously parched by a half mile! Thanks for the feedback. I often run laps around my neighborhood, I could totally leave a water bottle somewhere :-)
How much do you drink in a normal day. It's doubtful that running half a mile is actually dehydrating you.
This. It's either all in your head (your mouth gets dry from breathing hard and your brain equates it with thirst), or you're not adequately hydrating throughout the day.
Next time you run, try not to take a drink of water unless you absolutely have to have it. Make sure you drink enough water throughout the day before you go out if you run in the afternoon/evening. If you run fasted in the morning, drink at least a couple of cups before going out.
I'm guessing you'll find that you don't actually need the water during your run and that running is so much better with less to carry.0 -
My Fenix watch. Love that the same thing that acts as a motivated running partner also tells me my skiing speed, power output on the bike, and how many reps I've done. Also nice to see my pace without using my hands.1
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Yeah, I have a knock off of the flip belt. So much nicer than carrying my phone.0
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I carry an iPhone 7 Plus in an Otterbox Defender case (BIG). I ordered a running belt off Amazon which happened to be one of the few belts that can hold a phone this size. I love it. I also wear a Garmin Forerunner. Can't get rid of either! The phone holds my C25K app as well as my Spotify. The Garmin watch lets me track my pulse and times my speed during my runs. Haven't yet figured out how to carry water but now that the temps are cooling off I feel I can do without it.0
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I use different accessories, depending on the situation:
Hydration and carrying stuff (key, etc.):
Shorter runs, or longer runs where I know there are places to re-fill water: Nathan water bottle with pouch and hand strap
Longer runs where there is no fuel: I use an Osprey hydration pack made for cyclists. The cyclist pack bounces less than those made for runners (those cyclists get all the good stuff...).
Music:
Armband to carry phone.
Bluetooth earbuds for shorter runs (2.5 hrs. max) and wired earbuds for longer runs (because of battery life).
Watch / tracker:
Garmin Fenix 3 HR - you may not need something as expensive, but I love this tracker. I switched from Fitbit after I realized the Fitbit battery wasn't going to cut it for longer runs.
If I might be out at night / after dark:
Headlamp, handheld runner flashlight (it has a blinking red light on the back and a hand strap), blinking clip-on lights, reflective hat, shirt with reflective material, and reflective vest.
If I'm going to be out during daylight, I usually have a hat. Always wear sunscreen - don't forget suncreen lip balm. My glasses darken automatically when it is bright, but you may want sunglasses.
Make sure the shoes fit right for you, and don't wear cotton. Some of us use Body Glide in some areas. If it is really hot, I also use talcum powder. I also always carry a hankerchief to wipe away sweat.0 -
I inherited my husbands Forerunner when he upgraded - a way to see if I wanted one. I have my own vivosmart too. After all I have two wrists
Other than that I have a running belt (flip belt knock off)which carries my phone if my husband is not at home just in case I get injured. If he is home I don't carry it. I usually wear a cap to keep my hair in some shape and soak up my sweat.
I don't use any music for running as I prefer to hear nature, birds and things outside.
Not carrying water until I hit the 10K (7K currently) I make sure I am hydrated before I leave and have a jug ready when I come home.0 -
I wear a RoadID and a Garmin watch and stick my key in a pocket or in a pouch that attaches to my shoelaces. For shorter runs I don't bother with water and I plan my long runs so I pass my house half way round and stash a water bottle under the hedge. I never carry a phone or any music so don't need to bother with armbands or headphones.
For races, I have a spibelt which has toggles to attach my number and I can put a couple of energy beans in the pouch just in case. If it's 10k or shorter, I don't bother carrying water and will use the water stations if I feel I need it. For races longer than 10k I will attach a small water bottle to my Spibelt. I once ran a half marathon in warm weather and passed a couple of water stations without taking a drink, only to get the station where I was planning to grab a drink to find they'd run out of water. Not fun.0 -
I received a running belt as a gift. I has a pocket for my phone and keys. It's a like a smallish fanny pack. It also came with two small water bottles and pockets to hold them. As I usually don't run more than 5k or so, I don't carry water with me. I didn't think I would like the belt, but I don't even notice it when I'm running.
It's like this one - https://www.amazon.com/Running-Hydration-Belt-Fit-Factor/dp/B01GG0ZCM8/ref=sr_1_30?ie=UTF8&qid=1507659007&sr=8-30&keywords=running+belt0 -
I wear a Garmin Forerunner watch and carry an ipod in my shorts pocket if I want music. If I'm going to be out for more than an hour, I carry water - either a 20 oz soda bottle or a 32 oz. Gatorade bottle - in a fanny pack. Less than an hour I don't bother with water unless it's really hot. I carry dog spray in the fanny pack as well, since there are a lot of loose dogs at the farms around here. I've only been bitten once, but it was enough to make me cautious on my longer runs. If I'm doing a short group run I skip the water and fanny pack and just keep keys and headlamp either in my pocket or in a Spibelt.0
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I'm low-tech and run with a cheap timex, a lumbar pack, and sometimes a water bottle with a hand strap, but a good HRM/GPS watch coudl be helpful. I like the lumbar pack to an arm band personally, but that's a matter of preference and I see a lot of runners with arm bands. You could find a hip/waist/lumbar pack that has space for a phone AND holds your water (look at the options offered by Nathan). There are also running tights that have pockets on the lumbar area but I don't recommend those for electronics because they will get damp from sweat. I also had a friend who used to tie her key onto her laces and carry a poland spring bottle she'd just keep refilling; you can get as low-tech as you want.0
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I know a lady who's apartment is set up so that when a visitor buzzes in, it goes to her phone. So when she runs, she brings the phone and leaves the key behind (one less thing to lose) then buzzes herself in when she's done.0
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Depending on the length of your runs, you might want to try running without carrying water. It makes things much easier from a logistics perspective (water isn't exactly light or compact) and chances are that you might actually be hurting your running performance by drinking too much water along the way. Many runners (myself included) don't bother with water mid-run unless we'll be going for an hour or more.
It's not critical but is something to consider. If you ever start running for race times/performance, then you'll definitely want to revisit your hydration needs.
Key running accessories for me are a true run tracking watch (the ability to review stats around cadence, pace, HR, etc. help tremendously), an armband for my phone (I actually don't mind carrying it in my hand most of the time but the band is a lifesaver for longer runs), wireless headphones, and a good stockpile of shorter and longer podcasts. I generally run with a bare minimum.
Another option for water...if you do an out and back or repeat laps of a track or route, just leave your water bottle somewhere along the way. Nobody will mess with it and you can grab a drink as you pass by.
This is me totally! My friend and I used to drive to our half way point and put our drinks in the bushes and then they were always waiting for us. Plus it gave us something to look forward too.0
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