To runners, gear may not seem that important. The only thing you really need when you go for a run is a good pair of shoes, right? But those of you who train for many hours on end, it's important to think about taking some extra items with you when you go for your run.
We've interviewed a number of trail and ultra marathon runners on the blog and podcast lately, and it's made me think about some extra safety precautions that need to be taken by those who are running outside for multiple hours at a time. In this blog post, I share some essential items for those runners. Be sure to read the entire post to find out how you can win a Road ID!
Sunscreen
It's extremely important to protect your skin while out on a run. You may think you don't need to apply sunscreen, but if you're running outside for hours, it is a necessity. The last thing you want after a nice long run is peeling, painful skin due to a sunburn. Even if you've made it unscathed by the sun to date, consider the long-term effects that sun damage will have on your skin and start lathering!
The best kind of sunscreen to use on a run is a sweat-proof type that is meant for sports. I recommend Banana Boat's handheld sport sunblock. This is a nice travel size that you can take with you out on the trails. Raw Elements Sunscreen is another brand that has many travel and compact sizes. This sunscreen is environmentally friendly and small enough to carry in your running shorts.
Cell Phone
Many runners don't like to carry their cell phones with them on a run. But if you're out running for more than an hour, it's a good idea to bring one with you. You could end up lost or too tired to make it to the end of your run. You also may need to report an accident, which could make your cell phone a life saver.
Although it may give you a bit of extra weight on your run, the cell phone is worth it in case of an emergency.
Water
When exploring a new trail or route, you may not know where to find water along the way. It's best to carry your own just in case. There are lots of products for runners that allow you to carry water with you on the go.
I own a FuelBelt that wraps around my waist and holds three water bottles. FuelBelts have come a long way since I purchased mine three years ago. At the time, I felt it was a bit clunky, but there are many new options on their website today.
I have seen many people on the trail that have used a Nathan thermal water bottle. These look convenient because they have a pouch can hold keys or your cell phone, and the water bottle holds nicely in your hand.
Identification
Don't get stuck on the trails without identification. If you were to get in an accident, identification gives emergency responders the information they need to treat you and a way to contact your family quickly.
In our interview with ultramarathon runner Dean Karnazes, he recommends a Road ID.
There are other identification options as well such as the Nathan VITAband and GO Sport ID. Take the time to see which one is best for you.
We have three RoadID gift cards, courtesy of Road ID. For the chance to win one of the Road ID's, please comment on this blog post with your own tips for staying safe while out for a long run.
Note: The deadline to submit a comment for the chance to win a Road ID, is Monday 08/20/12 at 12:00 PM CST
Self-Defense Products
If you listened to our podcast a few weeks ago with a young woman who was chased by a man while out running you'll understand why these items made the list. Whether you're running in the early morning or at night, especially if you're alone, carry a bottle of mace with you. And it may not be other people you have to protect yourself from. Depending on where you live, you may encounter an angry bear or other wild animal.
Do you have any of your own safety precautions that should be taken while out on a long run? Share them in a comment below, for a chance to win a Road ID!
If you're a regular runner, you can never have too much running gear. Check out our running store to stock up on your running wardrobe.
