The Essentials: 5 Items I Won't Run Without
While there are many items in my arsenal, these are the 5 that won't be left behind. Some are cheap; some are not. I've listed them in descending order, so the first one (Number 5) is very important, but each one is gradually more important up to, and including, Number 1. By clicking on, and ordering through, the provided links, you'll help to support BigGuyTri and all of our endeavors. THANK YOU!
5. Wide Wristbands (various)
If you are like me, you prefer to run without a hat or visor, unless it's getting cold outside. However, you probably also hate sweat running down your forehead and into your eyes. I had tried out lots of headbands (and actually found one by Runner's World that wasn't too bad), but they were always just too hot on my head by mile 2. All of that was water under the bridge once I watched a little interview with Cincinnati Reds Manager Dusty Baker about why he wears the wide wristbands on his arms. His reason, he said, is that you can use them like permanently attached towels to wipe sweat from your head and brow. Genius. I usually wear one on my right arm and it seems to do just fine. During cold-weather races, I'll probably wear one on each to double as warmers.
4. Oakley Flak Jacket XLJ Sunglasses
I've worn prescription glasses and sunglasses for years. I've never been a big fan of the clip-on sunglasses, but I can't go without some kind of sun-protection...my eyes are just too sensitive. I decided that I'd like to be able to wear regular sunglasses that are designed for active use and that have interchangeable lenses so I can wear them at night when cycling (using clear lenses). I tried on many, many styles before slipping on a pair of Flak Jackets. They are fantastic! Very comfortable, very stylish, and the XLJ lenses have just a little more lense coverage to make this great all-around sunglasses.
I was able to get a deal from eBay for a pair that looks much like the Cincinnati Reds model. However, the prices at endless.com (linked at right) are very good.
I was able to get a deal from eBay for a pair that looks much like the Cincinnati Reds model. However, the prices at endless.com (linked at right) are very good.
3. Nathan QuickDraw Water Bottle
This one is so useful because of it's simplicity. These bottles all hold 20 ounces of water, have a pocket for your keys/gels/money, and (most importantly) have a comfortable hand strap that allows for easy use while running or walking. I also use it when I go to the gym; the key pocket is helpful there, as well.
2. Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Watch
This, along with the Oakley Flak Jackets, is obviously one of the more expensive toys on my running "Bat Belt." It's a great deal at Amazon (links to the right), saving you $120+ from other local and national running stores.
This GPS watch is fantastic. It allows you to see in real-time your pace, distance traveled, estimated calories burned, average lap speed, and much, much more. The added benefit of the 305 over the 205 is the available Heart Rate Monitor. It's not the only wireless add-on, either. You can get a cadence sensor for your bike or a foot pod to estimate distance traveled on a treadmill.
The biggest benefit is the data tracking. You can store and review all of your past data using the included Training Center software, with or without a website like www.mapmyrun.com.
This GPS watch is fantastic. It allows you to see in real-time your pace, distance traveled, estimated calories burned, average lap speed, and much, much more. The added benefit of the 305 over the 205 is the available Heart Rate Monitor. It's not the only wireless add-on, either. You can get a cadence sensor for your bike or a foot pod to estimate distance traveled on a treadmill.
The biggest benefit is the data tracking. You can store and review all of your past data using the included Training Center software, with or without a website like www.mapmyrun.com.
1. Road ID - A must-have for all athletes
I can't say enough about how important ready, easy-to-find identification is for anyone who exercises/trains outside of their house. Available in several styles and information versions, the Road ID has two functions: (1) provide first-responders with the information necessary to help you in the event of an emergency, and (2) allow your loved ones to be contacted in the event of an accident or health emergency.
When you can't speak, Road ID speaks for you. If you still aren't convinced, read these true and unsolicited stories from real Road ID users: Road ID Testimonials.
Personally, I have the Wrist ID Sport with a couple spare wristbands. I also bought an Ankle ID for when I'm cycling. The warrantied, stainless steel ID tag can be moved from one to the other quite easily. My wife's not one of novelties, and she got one as well. We're going to order one for our 5 year old son to wear to places like the zoo and museum, as well.
They're very affordable. I highly, highly, highly recommend that you order one today. You won't regret it. However, how much would you regret it if you WERE in an accident and didn't have one.
When you can't speak, Road ID speaks for you. If you still aren't convinced, read these true and unsolicited stories from real Road ID users: Road ID Testimonials.
Personally, I have the Wrist ID Sport with a couple spare wristbands. I also bought an Ankle ID for when I'm cycling. The warrantied, stainless steel ID tag can be moved from one to the other quite easily. My wife's not one of novelties, and she got one as well. We're going to order one for our 5 year old son to wear to places like the zoo and museum, as well.
They're very affordable. I highly, highly, highly recommend that you order one today. You won't regret it. However, how much would you regret it if you WERE in an accident and didn't have one.
Please click the link above to visit the website and store. By doing so, you help to support BigGuyTri and all of our endeavors. Thank you!
Clydesdale/Athena Athlete Gear Reviews
There are lots of websites that offer gear reviews for swimming, biking, running, triathlon, and other endurance equipment. However, there isn't one place that consolidates the reviews of gear that is either designed for or used by Clydesdale/Athena athletes. Initially, this will be my reviews of gear I've used, but i welcome anyone to submit their own reviews.
I also encourage manufacturers and stores to consider loaning/donating gear for review. I won't keep it for myself. Well...not all of it. I'll have contests and give-aways for the equipment after it's tested. It's a win-win for you!
The first items reviewed will be: Champion C9 Running Shorts and Singlets from Target, RoadID Wrist ID, and Garmin Forerunner 205/305 including Heart Rate Monitor.
I also encourage manufacturers and stores to consider loaning/donating gear for review. I won't keep it for myself. Well...not all of it. I'll have contests and give-aways for the equipment after it's tested. It's a win-win for you!
The first items reviewed will be: Champion C9 Running Shorts and Singlets from Target, RoadID Wrist ID, and Garmin Forerunner 205/305 including Heart Rate Monitor.