What I Can't Run Without!

I just got in from a great training run- 3 miles around the campus of Shippensburg University. Today I ran with a new gadget- an ipod shuffle (a birthday gift from my awesome bff Kelly)! I know I'm probably a million years behind everyone else but before today I always ran with my phone or an ipod touch- both of which are somewhat bulky and have become increasingly cumbersome to run with. All I had today was this tiny little ipod- it was glorious!

While I was enjoying this newfound feeling of freedom during my run, it got me thinking about all the other things I need/love/have-to-have while running. Here's my list of "musts" for any run:

• Brooks Adrenaline running shoes- a great stability shoe in fabulous colors.
• Enell sports bras- a MUST for high impact exercise. They just started selling new colors- my "orchid" one is being delivered this week!
• Capris- I love the Champion series from Target.
• Race shirt- it's incredibly motivating wearing previous race shirts to train in.
• Body Glide- this stuff changed my life. True story.
• Balega socks- breathable and supportive.
• Music- favorite songs to run to include "Gold" by Britt Nicole, and "Shut up and let me go" by the Ting Tings.
• Sweaty Bands- perfect for thick or layered hair and they have HUNDREDS of designs to choose from.
• Map My Run- the app is the next best thing if you can't afford a fancy GPS watch. It's also great to see how many miles you've logged, calories burned, etc. I ran over 40 miles in July!
• Shot Bloks- I use these on 5+ mile runs. Favorite flavors are tropical punch and cran-razz. The margarita is kind of gross but has a high salt content which is great for long distances.
• Awesome running partners- I like to think I have some of the BEST running partners out there- Matthew, Kelly, and Morgan- you all are rock stars! :-)

And finally, the most important thing you need for a run- no matter the distance- is a positive attitude. It's no secret, most people have a love-hate relationship with running. There are days where I feel strong and powerful and unstoppable. Then there are days where I struggle, whine, and claw my way to finish a run. And it's those days that my "running mantras" kick in to high gear. The next time you find yourself struggling with a run, try repeating some of these:

• I am stronger than this challenge. This challenge is making me stronger.
• There will come a day when I can no longer do this. Today is not that day.
• Dead last finish is greater than did not finish which trumps did not start.
• You don't have to go fast, you just have to go.

That's all for now! Check back this weekend for my review of the inaugural Charles Street 12 (8/10/13).

Tonight's motivation- Disney Half shirt and Princess Half Bondi band.