Runner Insight

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I know it’s hard to pick out gifts for people that are interested in things that you don’t have the first insight about, but that’s why I’m here: to help you with that issue. I am going to guide you through potential gift ideas, and help you with, at the very least, the runners on your gift list. Some of these ideas you will see have universal appeal to anyone who is active: walking, bicycling, running, working out, playing sports, etc.  As I have been running for over 15 years, it’s safe to say that during that time I have used most (but not quite all) of these gift ideas that I have compiled into a list for you. 

To make it easier for you to pick out just the right gift or gifts, in my free eBook “Gifts For Runners – More Than 50 Unique and Creative Gifts For the Runner in Your Life” (Fill in the webform just below or click here to get your own free copy) I have listed the items in different categories.

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To follow up the blog post from about ten days ago on the Top 5 Gifts For Runners, today I’ve included the easy and inexpensive Ten Appreciated Stocking Stuffer/Gift Basket Gifts For Runners. . .

The links are active, and they should all be formatted to open in a new window. So you can click on them to see pictures or get more information or order online and not lose your place on this page. 

If you’re actively searching for gifts because this is a gift-giving season, why not stuff a stocking or a pumpkin or an Easter basket for your runner too?  Imagine their delightful surprise when they suddenly find a stocking or basket filled with all sorts of running goodies.

• ¨ Running socks – The double layered ones by WrightSock that they sell online and at the running store are great, and are specifically designed to help alleviate the problem of blisters.

• ¨ Chap Stick/Lip Balm – Obviously these come in all kinds of flavors, and have SPF (sun protection factor) in a lot of them too, which is nice to protect your runner’s exposed lips from the drying and burning rays of the sun, as well as from the cold, winter winds.

• ¨ Gels/Goos and Power Bars – Sporting goods stores will carry all the different energy gels and goos and power bars. If you don’t know what makes them special, and how they function, I’ll give you a little insight here. Athletes are burning calories (energy) at a very high rate when they are working out or practicing or playing. The energy bars and gels are a way for your athlete to get a quick shot of energy that is easily accessible for the body to use immediately, part way through a run or game or set or match.

• ¨ Energy Beans/Honey Beads – Again, another way to get a quick boost of energy is from these specially formulated jelly beans or honey beads.

• ¨ Bath salts – This one and the next will provide your athlete’s aching body, joints and muscles with well-deserved relief after a grueling run or workout.

• ¨ Massage oils – Ditto.

• ¨ Pocket Warmers – These hand warmers are great for athletes out in cold or chilly weather.

• ¨ Stretch Gloves – The stretchy knit one-size-fits-all gloves are very inexpensive, but great to keep the chill off. And once my hands are warmed up, the gloves are not too bulky to stick in my pocket, or tuck into the waist band of my shorts or running tights.

• ¨ BodyGlide – BodyGlide is an anti-chafing glide-on substance that comes in a stick, like deodorant. A lot of athletes, especially runners will have spots on their body that are more susceptible to chafing due to the continuous repetitive movements, mile after mile.

• ¨ After Bite – This is an easy-to-carry anti-itch stick for mosquito and bug bites.

These small gifts are great as filler in a stocking or gift basket, and most of them are usually fairly inexpensive, too. So you can really stuff it full for very little cost, and your favorite runner will appreciate your thoughtfulness.

How ’bout it? 

-Vision Runner

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Or… 

My Obsession with Running Clothes

I absolutely love living in Montana.  One of the best things about being here is the change of seasons.  As summer gives way to fall, I just love the vibrant gold and red leaves against the deep blue sky. Well I used to anyway, and to some extent I can still see that, or at least my memory sight does. It’s not only the subdued lighting and dynamic colors that I love, but the air feels different. It has a crisp, fresh feel to it…sweater weather. 

It also smells different. With a hint of wood smoke and apples, it brings back sweet memories of raking the yard to jump in the leaves, school days, and the anticipation of Halloween.  

As much as I love the change of seasons, I must admit, my running always suffers a bit. The problem lies with my running apparel.  Okay I know it sounds silly, but it’s all about transitioning.  One day I’m wearing my shorts and a tank top, and then, poof, the next day I’m not sure what to wear. My routine is disrupted.  I usually lay out what I will wear for my run the next day as I’m getting ready for bed. This preparation the night before nearly always ensures that I will actually get my butt out of bed to run.

I have a large selection of running shorts and shirts to choose from. Oops, did I say “large” selection? Perhaps the fact that I own over 50 running tops and probably a slightly smaller quantity of running shorts and tights, qualifies me for the “extra-extra-large” category regarding my selection and variety of running clothes.  Magnificent Abundance – Gotta love that.

A Rainbow In My Closet

I do have a rainbow in my closet. It’s this need to be color coordinated; I don’t know where that stems from. Okay, yes I do. I get it from my mother, who has to be matched and coordinated right down to her shoe laces.  But besides my color coordination fixation, having a wide selection of colors to choose from is the way I keep myself energized and excited to get up and run. The concept of a new pair of running shorts or shirt can keep me going for a week. Sometimes months, if I really like them. 

Yes, you could say it is an obsession of sorts. My friends and family used to give me a hard time about how much running apparel I had, wondering why I needed more. Once I explained that new running clothes keep me motivated, I don’t get nearly as much grief about it. So the downside of my treasure trove of choices is that I have a harder time deciding what to wear. Not truly a downside, but a consideration, nonetheless.

Eventually I get the hang of the transition from summer to the fall season, and how to dress for it.  More layering is required.  I don’t like to be too hot while running, but it’s better to be able to take something off than to get too cold. Getting chilled causes problems like injuries or illness, not to mention, having to cut my run short due to inadequate forethought and preparation. 

Now, after writing this blog post, I’m thinking it’s time for a trip to my favorite local running store for some socks or a new running top maybe? I’m going to need to transition to long sleeves here soon. Or maybe a lightweight jacket? I’m thinking a new one in red would be a good choice.  

How ‘bout it?

Vision Runner

Popularity: 1% [?]