April from Run the Great Wide Somewhere, Erika from MCM Mama Runs, and Patty from No-Guilt Life. This week's topic is Running Hacks.
I don't consider myself a good "hacker" but I have found shortcuts that have helped my runs. Here are my Top 5!
1. Laying out your stuff the night before
And that means everything! The night before a race and also before training (it gives me practice!) everything: all my clothes, electronics and all of my pre race food. It speeds things up in the morning and allows me to get out pretty quickly. I also pack my checked bag that I'm bringing to ensure I have everything I need.
2. Flip Belt
This is a miracle invention. It is a piece of fabric that you can stuff everything in and flip over to make sure nothing escapes. It can hold my phone, spray, combo Chapstick and sunscreen, fuel and still have room for more stuff.
3. Compression Gear
I have been wearing socks during recovery for over a year now and it has helped. After having calf tightness issues while training for Dopey, I decided to give wearing compression gear during races a try and I'm now a convert! I have been racing in compression socks since the end of March and have seen such a difference in my recovery. I'm pretty much not sore at all after races which is a godsend! I swear to another pair of socks after and my compression leggings. (If you're looking for leggings, these are great. I just ordered 4 more pairs as they are on clearance).
4. Music
I have separate playlists for different distances-5k, 10k, half and full and usually update them once a month with a new song or a new order. It prevents me from having to create a separate list and allows me to always be ready to go! Every list ends with the same song progression to help me push myself towards the end.
I also have an audiobook for longer runs as it forces me to slow down and take my time.
5. Planning
Planning is crucial to the whole experience. I have a notebook that I use to plan out my race prep. Every detail is there-where and what I will eat, times I will go to sleep, wake up, where to park, where to go, etc. it helps me get on task and not be late.
After the race, I also go back and write notes for next time and helpful hints as well.
How about for you? What are some of your best running hacks?