Sunday Smorgasbord--Workout Essentials for Running

Hey Teacher Friends!

This post is totally un-teacher related so if you are looking for a great classroom tip then you may want to stop reading.  ;)  I've seen a ton of teachers on Instagram posting about their summer fitness.  I'm no expert (that would make me sound like a huge jerk know-it-all), but I've always loved to exercise and I think I've tried most classes out there.  From Zumba (I have no rhythm and just stand in the back confused) to fancy schmancy spinning at SoulCycle (LOVE) and everything in between......I love to work out.

I wanted to share my top favorites for running (yoga will be a separate post).  I promise not everything will be super pricey either.  What teacher wants to spend their paycheck on $$$ workout gear?!  Case in point-I ran the NYC Marathon in Sauconys from Rack Room.  Swear!

So, here we go--my favorite running essentials!  

1.  The first item is the Nike Tempo Shorts.  I probably have them in every color.  They are Dri-Fit so they keep you cool, the waistband is comfortable, and they don't ride up.  I've tried Lulu Lemon, New Balance, Target, and Under Armour (skirts and shorts).  The Nike shorts are my personal favorite.  I love the hidden pocket for keys and your iPod can easily clip on the skinny waistband.  You can't beat the price either, not bad for $25ish.

2.  My second must have is the Lululemon Pace Tight.  These babies are MAGICAL.  They are designed to keep you cool during winter runs, so you really want to wear these when you are running in weather under 55 degrees.  The material is breathable, comfortable, and lightweight.  There are two pockets to use for keys or gels, and they have a hidden back zipper.  I promise you--if you are getting into running and can spend a little more then THIS IS THE PANT.  I've tried countless brands....do yourself a favor and splurge/ask for a gift card/put it on your Christmas list.  THESE TIGHTS ROCK!  PS-These are made for running, not bending over!  We all remember the indecent exposure issue Lulu had last winter!

3.  Let's face it, we are getting old.  Anyone else out there want to cry watching This is 40?  Ugh.  My third must have can help with that.  It's cheaper than a $350 X-ray from one of your student's fathers (trust me on this one).  Joint Repair pills.  Yes, girls.  It works.  You can buy any brand you prefer, just look at the main ingredients.  I happen to love the Trader Joes Joint Support with MSM, Glucosamine, and Chondriotin.  Taking one a day (keeps the $ doctor away) and will keep your joints flexible and happy.  Have angry knees?  Aches and pains after a run?  So did I.  Try these, you won't regret it!

4.  I'd be a real loser if I didn't mention shoes.  I highly recommend getting a professional fitting.  You know the kind---you run on a treadmill and the pushy salesman professional tells you the best match for the shape and function of your foot.  I have run in Brooks, Mizuno, Nike, and New Balance.  Very expensive to very expensive.  For me, the Saucony Cohesion 4 were my favorite and they just happen to be sold at Rack Room for under $50.  So sometimes the most expensive is not the best.  It doesn't always buy you extra protection, mileage, and comfort. You just have to see what works for you and getting a professional opinion is worth it.

5.  My final must have is another pricey item ($150), but absolutely life changing.  It's the Garmin Forerunner 110 GPS Enabled Sport Watch.  When I started running in 2008, my first 10K clocked in around 1:06.  By the fall of 2011 (I was training for the NYC Marathon), my 10K time had dropped to under 49 minutes.  Yes, I put in the hard work and dedication, but as far as speed goes I give all the credit to the Garmin.  Depending on the model, this watch can track your pace, mileage, heart rate, and caloric effort.  The 110 doesn't have all the bells and whistles, it just told me how far and how fast I was going.  If you are training for a race, having accurate workout data (just like teaching!) is an absolute must.  Call me crazy-but my Garmin became my training buddy, my diary, and my savior on long runs when I just wanted to quit!

If you are a runner or just love to run casually, I hope I helped you out with some tips.  Did I miss anything?  Tell me what your running must haves are and, as always, thanks for reading!

I linked up with Michelle from Fabulous in First because this was definitely a random Sunday Smorgasbord kind of post!  Check out what everyone has been up to this weekend!  Thanks, Michelle!