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From Fellrnr.com, Running tips
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* '''Socks'''. While socks are unexciting, they make a good fallback. Buy the type of socks your runner normally wears, as a different sock can change the way their shoes fit. If you runner is not using good socks, then consider giving them a modern technical sock. See [[Blister Prevention and Socks]].
* '''Safety Vest'''. If your runner is likely to be running after dark, then the Amphipod Xinglet will keep them visible. It's reasonably comfortable and highly visible from all directions. <jfs id="B004DKSJAG" n="" nonl="t"/>
* '''Buff'''. A Buff is a cylinder of fabric that can be used as a neck warmer, hat, and many other combinations. <jfs id="B00UZI3ELE" n="" nonl="t"/>
* '''Offer to crew'''. A different gift is to offer to crew your runner through a race or training run. Crewing an ultra is a big undertaking, so don't make this offer lightly. Another option is to offer to drive so the runner can do a long point to point run.
* '''RunScribe'''. I'm impressed with [[RunScribe]]'s ability to measure all sorts of useful data about a runner's form. $240 for a pair of [[Footpod]]s from [http://runscribe.com/ http://runscribe.com].
* '''Hydration'''. Check out my reviews of the [[Best Hydration Systems]] for options to keep your runner hydrated.
* '''Coaching'''. The advice and support of a professional coach can make a huge difference to a runner. You can find in person or online coaching, and both can work well. The in person training can vary from a low cost running program, such as the [http://www.runforyou.com/ Run For You] coaching offered by my local store, to more expensive one-on-one coaching. Online coaching can provide various levels of support, from customized training plans to intensive one-on-one support. Check out my friend Shannon McGinn's [http://shannon-creatingmomentum.blogspot.com/p/running-coach-based-in-woodbridge-nj.html Creating Momentum coaching service]. She is an accomplished ultrarunner and a certified coach.
=Books=
* '''Born to Run'''. The recent bestseller 'Born to Run' is well written and entertaining, as well as thought provoking. <jfs id="0307279189" n="" nonl="t"/>.
* '''The Terrible and Wonderful Reasons Why I Run Long Distances'''. This is a comic book on running by The Oatmeal, and it's a great read. Of course, humor is a personal thing, so check out [http://theoatmeal.com/comics/running the online comic] to get a taste of the book. <jfs id="1449459951" n="" nonl="t"/>.
* '''Once A Runner''', by John L. Parker. Often considered the best book on running, and a worthy read. <jfs id="1416597891" n="" nonl="t"/>. There's also the sequels "Again to Carthage" (<jfs id="1439192480" n="" nonl="t"/>), and "Racing the Rain" (<jfs id="1476769869" n="" nonl="t"/>).
* '''Running on Empty''', by Marshall Ulrich. An ultrarunning classic by one of the greatest ultrarunners. <jfs id="1583334904" n="" nonl="t"/>.
* '''Eat and Run''', by Scott Jerek. This is part autobiography and part recipe book from the elite ultrarunner Scott Jurek. I found it fascinating to read about Scott's life, and [[Why Run Ultras| why he runs ultras]]. While Scott includes several bits of ultrarunning advice, it's mostly his life story.<jfs id="0547569653" n="" nonl="t"/>.
* '''GPS Watch'''. I recommend the Garmin 310XT for any runner, but there are cheaper options and smaller options, so read [[Best Running Watch| Best Running Watch]] before buying.
* '''Compression Sleeves'''. These sleeves are all the rage, and for [[Why compression clothes| a good reason]]. They make a nice gift, but they have to be sized correctly, especially the calf circumference, which makes it tricky for them to be a surprise gift. Of the many calf sleeves on the market, I'd recommend the 2XU Sleeves. <jfs id="B00591U8J8" n="" nonl="t"/>.
* '''Pedicure'''. Running can be tough on the feet, so a pedicure can help restore them. (A Pedicure before a race can help prevent blisters by making sure the toe nails are trimmed and rounded.)
* '''Race Entry'''. Races can be pricy, so buying your runner a race entry is a nice gift, but make sure it's a race they want to do!
