Running Accessories | Running Gear

What Running Gear Do I Need?

Looking for running accessories to make your running more efficient, effective, fun or safe? Need or want more than just a pair of running shorts and running shoes?

The Running Advisor is THE site to point you in the right direction to meet your running accessory needs!

In this section, we'll cover tons of top notch running accessories.

Topics to be highlighted include:

• Heart Rate Monitors (HRMs)
• Running Sport Watches
• Running Sunglasses
• Jogging Strollers and
• Additional Running Accessories...

Heart Rate Monitors

Heart Rate Monitors (HRMs) are a great tool for runners to:

• Measure the effectiveness of a workout
• Ensure they aren't overexerting themselves
• Stay in their target range of performance
• Directly access their heart rate even in the middle of a workout

Heart Rate Monitors usually attach to your chest while continuously measuring your heart rate during workouts. Data is relayed to a receiver (wrist-watch style monitor) and typically provides feedback (beeping) when you go outside your targeted heart rate zone.

Click here for a great selection of:

• Heart Rate Monitors for Runners or here for
• Reviews of Top Heart Rate Monitors and Running Watches for Runners!

Running Sports Watches

Few running accessories matter more to a runner (outside of shoes, shorts and a singlet), than their sports watch. Ever notice at the beginning of a race or a training run all the people who are holding their wrist? They mostlikely aren't checking their pulse.

They are getting ready to time themselves!

Today's digitally enhanced watches are amazing in the functions they offer. And the price ranges can be pretty amazing also! The features that most runners are usually concerned with are a stopwatch, lap/split-time recorderand a countdown timer. Additional standard features are an alarm and water-resistance.

For those with a larger running accessory budget and a desire for additional features, consider a speedometer. Speedometers use a motion sensor and computer chip that automatically measures the length of each stride and calculates your speed, pace, distance and calorie burn. A wireless link then sends the data to the watch, where it is stored and displayed. With the purchase of a chest strap, a premium speedometer will offer heart rate monitoring. A watch, speedometer, and heart rate monitor....the ultimate all-in-one.

Click here to check out the latest:

• Men's and Women's Running Watches or here for
• Reviews of Top Rated Running Watches!.

Sunglasses for Runners

Sunglasses are a running accessory that is crucial to protecting your eyes from the sun's dangerous ultraviolet (UV) rays. Extended UV exposure can cause retinal and corneal problems, detract from being able to see at night(night vision), and lead to eyestrain and headaches from prolonged squinting.

Look for sport sunglasses with the maximum UV protection, have a wraparound style to ensure maximum UV blockage and won't slip, bounce or fall off your face while running. Make sure to shop around before buying. Runningsunglasses don't have to be expensive to be effective.

Click Here to check out a great selection of Running Sunglasses!

Jogging Strollers

Stuck babysitting and still want to run? Jogging strollers are the running accessory answer for you!

Jogging strollers are a great way to get a run in while spending time with your infant or toddler. Most strollers are three-wheeled carts that are lightweight but sturdy, come with a fold-up frame and have multiple safety features.

Best of brand features include:

• Large, durable wheels. 16-20 inches in diameter
• 5-point harness (goes over the shoulders, legs and crotch)
• Adjustable handle bars
• Retractable hood
• Removable padded seats
• Washable seating fabric
• Storage bins
• Recline (so the infant can sleep)

Click here to check out a great selection of top rated Jogging Strollers for Runners

Additional Running Accessories....

Additional running accessories along with a brief description are listed below:

• FuelBelt - a belt that holds 4-8 7oz. bottles. Great for hydration!
• Race Number Belt - race number buttons to belt instead of pinning to your shirt
• Running Waistpacks - used to carry gear and/or MP3 player, CD player, Walkman, etc.
• Training Log - log your runs as a source of motivation. Also used to review prior training to explain an injury or a particular good race!
• Runner Identification (RoadID) - a reflective, waterproof, emergency/medical ID tag. The tag that attaches to a runner's shoe includes space for the runner's name, brief medical history, and emergency contact information.
• Athletic Bags - used to carry shoes, clothing, running accessories, etc.
• Reflective Running Gear - a must for early morning, late afternoon and nighttime running
• Pace Bands - will guide you to even mile splits during the marathon. By running evenly you will avoid the common mistake of going out too fast, burning up energy stores too quickly, and ultimately hitting the Wall well before the finish line.
• The Stick - Roller Massager - great device used to reduce muscle soreness, stiffness and pain
• Lace Locks - lace locks to never tie your shoes again
• Stretching Devices - used to stretch arches, Achilles, calves and hamstrings
• Power Lung - a compact, hand-held inhaler used to increase oxygen capacity and allows you to run farther, faster
• Seat Shield - used to cover your car seat after a hot, sweaty run instead of an old towel. SeatShield is waterproof, washable, lightweight, odorless, and simple to use
• Aquaphor Healing Ointment
- Aquaphor has a large range of uses including: blister prevention, treatment for existing blisters, basically anyplace where skin on skin contact might occur. Helps stop chafing and dryness. Can be used on lips and cuticles. Also, women runners use it underneath their sports bra where rubbing often occurs.
• Hand Band - The Armband you wear on your hand! Allows you to carry your iPhone/iTouch and various MP3 players in the palm of your hand while you run. Keep your eyes on the road, not your arm!
• Walking, Jogging, Running Spray - Pepper sprays for walkers, joggers, and runners. Protect yourself from people or animals with malicious intent.

Conclusion

Wow! I bet you didn't know there were so many running accessories out there. Or then again, maybe you did.

Wasn't running supposed to be a simple, low cost and low frills activity? It definitely can be. The trick is to decide what works for you.

My advice is:

1. Don't go buy everything all at once!
2. Do your research before spending your money.
3. Ask other runners what running accessories they use and recommend. Most runners are happy to share their experiences with other runners.

One method many runners use to add running accessories is to reward themselves with a new item after they have reached a running goal.

Listed below is my Top Recommendation for Running Accessories:

1. Amazon.com
   The largest selection of running accessories anywhere! Fantastic prices and Free shipping in certain cases.

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Additional Running Gear Articles/Resources:

Dog Running Gear: Equip Your Dog
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Nike+iPod Sport Kit

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