I have discussed the recommended running gear in my previous blog posts (part 1 and part 2). In this post I’ll express my thoughts about further equipment that could be useful for a recreational runner:
Tech
In addition to the GPS watch there are plenty of wearable tech available nowadays. Because I don’t have any experiences of smart
Runteq Zoi is a product intended for analysing and improving the running technique. I have presented the device in multiple blog posts, e.g. https://www.feetunyrhinen.de/2016/06/05/zoirun/ and https://www.feetunyrhinen.de/2016/06/10/zoirun-metrics/ so please have a look at those if you’re interested in the device. After the initial excitement it happened what I feared: the biggest drawback of the gadget is that it basically requires that you carry your mobile on you during the workout. Personally I don’t want to carry anything if not absolutely needed which is why I now use the device regularly, but only pretty rarely (once per month or so). It’s a pity, but also this way I can draw some benefit from the device and its analysis.
Nowadays there are new products introduced all the time in the area of smart clothing. I still haven’t had an opportunity to try out smart running pants, like e.g. https://www.liveathos.com/products/mens-lower-body-kit-v2 due to the considerably high price. I’m not certain if I could get any great added value for my training.
We have an WI-FI capable smart scale since a year and half, a Fitbit Aria. It is really nice that it uploads your weight (and BMI as well as the fat percentage) automatically to the Fitbit online platform. This way one may keep track on the development of the weight more easily. I use the scale pretty infrequently – I should use it regularly but normally I forget to use it first thing in the morning, and later it just does not make much sense. I try to keep this in my mind. Anyway, I can recommend the scale to anyone interested in weight tracking.
More traditional gear
Most runners aiming at a marathon want to carry something on them during the run to feel more secure, i.e. sports drinks, energy gels or bars etc. I have had many kinds of belts, but after having participated at over 20 marathons, I don’t want to carry anything extra on me if not absolutely necessary. Due to this I normally carry a belt for energy gels, but nothing for the drinks. Usually the drinks provided by the organiser will do, if it’s not unusually warm weather.