Difference between revisions of "Gifts for Runners"

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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]].
 
* '''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"/>
 
* '''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.  
 
* '''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].  
 
* '''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.  
 
* '''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=
 
=Books=
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* '''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"/>.
 
* '''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"/>.
 
* '''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"/>.
+
* '''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"/>.
 
* '''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"/>.
 
* '''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"/>.
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* '''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.  
 
* '''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"/>.
 
* '''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!
 
* '''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!

Revision as of 08:19, 15 November 2015

GiftImage.jpg

If you're looking for the perfect gift for a runner, here is my list of ideas.

  • The Stick. No runner should be without The Stick. This is the best Massage device I've found and a key way of staying injury free. I use mine every day as a core part of my training. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • Foam Roller. If your runner already has The Sick, then the Foam Roller is the other great tool for keeping their legs working. Get a good quality version that will last; I'd recommend Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • Massage. While I use the Stick and Foam Roller on a daily basis, they're not as good as a human massage therapist, so give a gift certificate for a massage. A good therapist can work wonders, but make sure you get recommendations from experienced runners. You need a therapist who is used to working with athletes and who has a good reputation. For instance, I go to Nicole at University Neuromuscular Massage in Charlotte, who prepares me for races and helps me recover. If you're in Moore County, NC, you have Denise Martin, who is extremely experienced with runners as she volunteers at many local ultramarathons.
  • Halo Hat. This is by far the best running hat I've found, and I wear mine for every run, regardless of the weather. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • Foot rubz. While it's not as critical as The Stick or a Foam Roller, massaging your feet with this little ball feels great and is only Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • Gloves. I've come to love gloves that have a finger cover to make them 'convertible mittens', as they work in a wider range of temperatures. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • Sugoi Helium Jacket. This jacket weighs less than 3oz, is windproof, water resistant and is my favorite. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon! and the Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • 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. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!
  • Buff. A Buff is a cylinder of fabric that can be used as a neck warmer, hat, and many other combinations. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!
  • 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 Footpods from 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 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 Creating Momentum coaching service. She is an accomplished ultrarunner and a certified coach.

1 Books

My book suggestions focus more on entertainment than technical running advice.

  • Born to Run. The recent bestseller 'Born to Run' is well written and entertaining, as well as thought provoking. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • 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 the online comic to get a taste of the book. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • Once A Runner, by John L. Parker. Often considered the best book on running, and a worthy read. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!. There's also the sequels "Again to Carthage" (Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!), and "Racing the Rain" (Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!).
  • Running on Empty, by Marshall Ulrich. An ultrarunning classic by one of the greatest ultrarunners. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • 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 he runs ultras. While Scott includes several bits of ultrarunning advice, it's mostly his life story.Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • Feet in the Clouds, by Richard Askwith. A book more about British fell running, but still worth the time. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • Bowerman and the Men of Oregon, by Kenny Moore. The story of the Oregon coach and founder of Nike. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • The Silence of Great Distance, by Frank Murphy. The story of competitive women's endurance running. It's hard to believe how difficult it was for women to compete in the not so distant past. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • Ultramarathon Man, by Dean Karnazes. Dean seems to be loved and hated by an equal number of people, but I enjoyed this book. I think it's the best thing he's written by far.Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • What I Talk About When I Talk About Running, by Haruki Murakami. A somewhat rambling tale of running which many people love. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • Running Through the Wall. Each chapter is by a different author, so it's a collection of individual runners experiences in ultrarunning. Not a huge source of information, but an entertaining read in places. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • The Old Man and the Sea. This may seem like an odd entry in the list of running books running, but I believe that "The Old Man and The Sea" provides greater inspiration and insight into the ultrarunning psyche than most books dedicated to the topic. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.

2 Other ideas

These are great gifts, but I'd suggest you ask your runner to find out what they'd like.

  • ID Bracelet. Hopefully they'll never need an ID bracelet, but it's an important safety measure just in case. There are a number of options available, such as Road ID for $20. However, if they have any medical conditions, I'd recommend going with MedicAlert.
  • Music. Small MP3 players like the SanDisk Clip Zip is cheap and ideal for running. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • Headphones. For better sound quality, the most important factor is the headphones, so give a pair of Koss SportaPro. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • Running light. You need to talk to your runner about their preferences for running lights. Have a read of my running light guide for more details.
  • GPS Watch. I recommend the Garmin 310XT for any runner, but there are cheaper options and smaller options, so read Best Running Watch before buying.
  • Compression Sleeves. These sleeves are all the rage, and for 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. Error: Could not parse data from Amazon!.
  • 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!