The Must-Have Gear of a Champion

10/26/2022

BY MARTINE LEVEILLEE

So many people pick up running as a sport because of the simplicity of it. All we need is a pair of shoes and a good attitude, right?

But what else do we need to be a great runner, an elite athlete? The closet of a runner should be small, but what essentials should it have?

1. The right pair of shoes is a must! Shoes are the MOST important tool for any type of training. They need to fit you well, even if you are in a constant state of growth... the shoe must fit! You should never have pain from your shoes. This is where most of the running budget should be spent. BUT what else do we need?
2. Good running socks that will not roll down or get bunched up and they should give you some support.
3. Shorts and shirts should be light fabric and fit you well. Remember, whatever is heavy or baggy could slow you down.
4. YOUR WATER BOTTLE- personalize it with stickers to make it fun and easy to find.
5. Running light/reflective gear. When running at dawn or dusk, a headlamp or other light can help you see and be seen! This is especially important to have for XC practice.
6. A GPS watch. OKAY... THIS is a big item. As you grow into an elite runner, tracking your time and distance will become an essential tool in your training. These watches ARE expensive and not necessarily a must until you reach the gray or black group. Consider asking for a watch as a holiday or birthday gift.

Does owning all the fancy gear and having the best, most expensive shoes make you win all your races? NO! Many champions, including the fastest marathoner in the world, Eliup Kipchoge, started running with only an old pair of shoes. What truly makes a champion is having a love for running, following your coaches’ training and DOING YOUR BEST! The gear is just a nice addition.

Have a great week, Hawks!