Gear You Need for Marathon Training: A Refreshingly Honest Guide

1. Running Shoes: The Love-Hate Relationship

Let’s start with the obvious: shoes. You’ll be spending a LOT of time in these bad boys, so don’t skimp. Visit a running store and get fitted to find out what appropriate support, cushioning, and stability you need to prevent injuries and enhance performance. Also, you may wanna consider having more than one pair of running shoes in your rotation (as you will learn the runs you do have different purposes.) Fortunately for you, we’re here to help sort through the confusion. We review shoes about every other week on our YouTube channel. So if you’re overwhelmed by choices, drop by, check out our reviews, and if you have a specific request, send us a message—we’d love to help! Oh, and as much as I’d love to dive into the topic of sports bras, I’ll save that for another day. It’s a whole world of its own!

2. Moisture-Wicking Everything

Say goodbye to cotton and hello to tech fabrics. Marathon training involves enough sweat to fill a kiddie pool, and moisture-wicking gear is your new best friend. This includes socks, shirts, shorts, and even underwear (don’t overlook this one!). You want to stay dry and avoid chafing. And speaking of chafing…

3. Anti-Chafing Cream: The Unsung Hero

First of all, what is chafing? Chafing is skin irritation caused by friction. It can occur when your skin rubs against clothing or other surfaces during activity. And let’s be real: marathon training can rub you the wrong way—literally. If you’re thinking, “I’ve never had a problem with chafing,” wait until you’re on a 16-mile run with skin that feels like it’s been set on fire. Chafing is most common in areas where skin tends to rub together, such as the inner thighs, armpits, and nipples.

How do you avoid it, you ask? Invest in anti-chafing balm, lotion, or stick form! In addition to wearing moisture-wicking clothing, you can also prevent chafing by applying anti-chafing cream or balm to your skin before you run. This stuff is a lifesaver.

4. A Trusty GPS Watch

If you’re serious about marathon training, tracking your runs is essential. Whether it’s nailing your pace, staying on track with your mileage goals, or simply geeking out over data (we’ve all been there), a GPS watch is a must. We’ve been using Garmin since its very first models, and the brand’s reliability has made us loyal fans. But whether you choose Garmin or another brand, having a reliable GPS watch allows you to focus on your training instead of guessing your progress. Plus, if you’re a numbers nerd, you’ll love pouring over your splits and elevation gain stats post-run! And Strava? We’ll save talking about this app for another time!

5. Hydration (Because No One Likes Being a Dehydrated Zombie)

There are three types of runners: those who are cool with handheld water bottles, those who would rather wear a hydration vest, and then there’s the third type—the crafty runner who maps out their route based on where they can grab a snack and use Apple Pay! Regardless of which camp you fall into, make sure your fuel plan is locked in well before race day. Trust me, your digestive system will thank you.

6. Running Belt, Shorts with Pockets, or Vest for Your Snacks (Yes, Snacks)

Carrying fuel (gels, chews, bars) during long runs is essential. You’ll need a running belt, a vest with handy little pockets, or shorts with pockets that keep your snacks within reach. Bonus points if your belt doesn’t bounce like a trampoline while you run. Pockets keep your essentials accessible without resorting to stuffing things down your sports bra or awkwardly clutching them in your hands. Trust me, finding the perfect fuel carrier is like finding the perfect pair of jeans—once you have it, you’ll never look back

7. Headgear: Hats, Visors, Buffs, and Sunglasses

Training often means hours spent outdoors. Whether you’re battling the blazing sun, wind, or surprise rain showers, proper headgear is crucial. A lightweight hat or visor can save you from sunburn, while a buff can keep your neck warm or serve as a sweatband. Sunglasses are optional, but they do help you look cool while you grimace through the tough miles.

8. Foam Roller and Massage Tools: For Those “I Can’t Move” Moments

Training for a marathon isn’t just about running—it’s also about recovering. Enter the foam roller and massage tools. Your muscles will thank you if you roll them out regularly, especially as you rack up more miles. Foam rolling can be painful, but it’s a game-changer when it comes to recovery. We’re big fans of Chirp, a brand that offers foam rollers with innovative designs that really dig into those sore spots. It’s the next best thing to getting a deep tissue massage, minus the appointment and the awkward small talk. Make foam rolling part of your routine, and your legs will feel fresher for your next run. You will curse them at first, but soon enough, rolling out your quads will become part of your routine.

9. Motivation Playlist (and the Right Headphones)

Okay, this isn’t technically gear, but it’s essential. Create a playlist that pumps you up—think “Eye of the Tiger” meets your favorite guilty pleasure jams. Get yourself some comfy, sweat-resistant headphones that won’t fall out every 10 steps. The right song at the right moment can make all the difference when you’re questioning why you ever signed up for this madness.

10. Your Running Squad (or Your Solo Zen)

While not exactly gear, your support system is key to surviving marathon training. Whether it’s a running group that meets at the crack of dawn or just a friend who’s always up for a chat after a long run, having people who get it is crucial. If you’re more of a lone wolf, embrace that solitude—it’s your time to reflect, recharge, and maybe talk to yourself a little (no judgment).

In Conclusion: Gear is Great, But Grit is Better

Yes, all this gear will help, but what really gets you through marathon training is grit. That said, a good pair of shoes, some anti-chafing cream, and a killer playlist definitely don’t hurt. Now get out there and start training—you’ve got a marathon to conquer!

Watch A Shoe-Review

If you want to see some of the newest shoes reviewed, head over to my YouTube video where you can decide what shoe suits. you best. Watch it here.

Your Daily Dose Of Usain⚡️

Words To Run By 🏃‍♀️🏃🏽‍♂️

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