AMR Gears Up: Race Day Essentials: Triathlon
Welcome to a new series on Another Mother Runner: Race Day Essentials.
We’ve already covered favorite gear for the 5K/10K; half marathon; marathon; and the ultra.
Today, Jessica Scott, a newer triathlete from York, Pennsylvania who recently completed a sprint triathlon, lays out her gear for us.
“One of the biggest worries in tackling the triathlon is the gear,” she says, “If you’re a regular runner, you can get started training with only a few small additions to your usual favorite gear. It can take some trial and error to find what works best for you, but here are some of my race day favorites!”
SWIM TOP: LAND’S END HIGH NECK TANKINI TOP ($33.97; limited sizes available)
One of the most asked questions I had on my race report was – “Where did you get your tri kit?” Well, it’s not actually a “kit”! I found this Chlorine Resistant High Neck Tankini Top (limited sizes available currently) from Land’s End that was exactly what I needed! It was long enough that it didn’t ride up, and I wore it almost every single training swim and it didn’t fade or lose shape.
GOGGLES: SPEEDO VANQUISHER ($21.99)
I love my Speedo Vanquisher goggles so much! In fact, when I visited my parents over the summer, they tested them out and both ended up with a pair of their own! I chose the bright pink because – PINK! But also, I wanted the tinted goggles so it wasn’t too bright out in the sun. I love these goggles because they don’t fog up, they are nice and cushioned, and I never have to adjust them.
SHORTS: PEARL IZUMI SELECT PURSUIT TRI ($65; sizes S-XL)
I paired my tankini top with a pair of Pearl Izumi Select Pursuit Tri shorts (Sizes S-XL, $65) on race day. To avoid “swimming in a diaper” phenomenon, the tri short chamois is really small. (Read: not much in the way of padding.) So, for longer rides that didn’t follow a swim, I opted for Pearl Izumi Sugar Shorts (sizes XS-XXL, $60). I have 3 pairs of bike shorts from different places, and the Pearls are definitely my favorite!
SPORTS BRA: BROOKS JUNO (($65, Sizes 30C-40E)
Unlike the recent sharing of my BAMR friend, Pam, I was gifted with (too) much in the area of boobage. My go-to sports bra is the Brooks Juno. It’s about as cute as you can find in a D-DD range, dries quickly, and has adjustable straps. I wore it under my top for the swim and had no problems!
TANK TOP: HEART RUN ($12; limited sizes available)
I’m not quite comfortable enough with myself to run around in just a tankini top, so after the swim, I threw on my favorite running top from the Mother Runner store!
SHOES + SOCKS: NEW BALANCE 880 ($124.99; sizes 5-13) + BALEGA HIDDEN COMFORT ($13; sizes S-XL)
I love my New Balance 880 shoes! I haven’t stepped up to clip-in shoes for cycling yet, so I did the bike portion and the run in my running shoes. You can do a triathlon without the fancy bike shoes! I know women who have completed 70.3 without clipping in! My favorite socks are Balega Hidden Comfort socks. I have 16 pairs in different colors! They are super soft, don’t move around too much, and I don’t get blisters with them.
BIKE: DIAMONDBACK HYBRID
Think you need a fancy bike to complete a triathlon? YOU DON’T! There were lots of us cruising on hybrid bikes at my race! My husband completed his first triathlon on a 1993 Rockhopper Mountain Bike. If it has wheels – you can race a triathlon on it. I have upgraded my bike to a road bike, but I did all of my training and my race on the Diamondback (no longer available) from REI. Truth be told, I chose it based on its color.
BIKE HELMET: BONTRAGER SOLSTICE HELMET ($24.99)
The color is also what attracted me to my hot pink Bontrager Solstice helmet – though I also ended up finding this helmet to be a super comfy style! I later discovered it is actually a “mountain bike” helmet, but it’s worked great for me!
IMPORTANT EXTRAS
IMPORTANT EXTRAS- A visor (my favorite comes from the Mother Runner store) for the run. I can’t stand the feeling of sunglasses when I’m running, and my head sweats like crazy. This visor shields my eyes, soaks up sweat, and just makes me smile since it’s such a fun color!
- Sunglasses for the bike ride! These Goodr sunglasses are awesomely pink and called “Flamingos On a Booze Cruise” – how fun is that?!
- AfterShokz Trekz Air headphones for my training runs. They are so lightweight that I often forget I’m wearing them. Plus, since they use bone conduction technology rather than sitting in your ear, you can stay #safeasamotherrunner when you’re working out! Don’t wear them on race day – it’s just another piece of gear to fuss with, and besides most triathlons don’t allow headphones anyway!
A BAMR ATTITUDE
One non-traditional race essential is a mantra or a little bit of inspiration. For my recent sprint tri, I chose the AMR Mile Markings tattoos for my reminder! Sometimes I write something on my hand with a Sharpie, or maybe a list of people to think about and pray for on my arms during a longer race. I just like to have a little something that I can glance down at in those moments where I’m feeling a little weak or tired.
What triathlon gear do you love for your training + races?
Our Second Annual Motherlode of Miles: October 5-6, 2019
BEFORE YOU RUN, BE SURE TO PIN ON YOUR MOTHERLODE BIB.]
One mile run by one #motherrunner? As we can all attest, there’s inherent power and strength in that individual feat of running 5,280 feet.
What happens when you run more than one mile—and then we virtually collect all the miles?
We’ve been doing that our regular Sunday Pile of Miles on our Facebook page for years now, and the range of #motherrunners + miles that get piled on is always both awe-inspiring and motivating. “I’m relatively new to this. Ran my first 5K yesterday. 39:17. I’m pretty proud. 9 months ago, I could barely walk a mile,” writes Zara in this week’s post. (We’re proud of you too, Zara: Big congrats!)
Reality is always better—and, um, more real—than social media, though, so last year, we turned the fabulous virtual thing into our first Motherlode of Miles Weekend, a real-life, meet-your-tribe, get-in-some-miles-and-laughs event. Hundreds of you participated.
“Friends were made, coffee was had, mom talk was wonderful!” reported #motherrunner Kelsey, who hosted a run in the mitten state. “There may be more mom runs in Marquette Michigan …we are talking about doing it monthly,”
It was a such a fun weekend, we’ve been talking about the next Motherlode around these parts for months, and can’t wait to share the (new + improved!) details with you!
Our Second Annual Motherlode of Miles (#MOMweekend): October 5-6, 2019
ALL THE IMPORTANT DETAILS IN Q + A FORM:
I want to host a group run. How does that work?
Sweet! Here’s what you need to do: You pick the time, meeting place, and route, and share those details with us. (The signup sheet is also at the bottom of this post.) We need all group #MOMWeekend runs to be submitted and solidified by Wednesday, October 2.
I want to attend a group run. How does that work?
Check this page regularly, as we’ll update it with information with runs around the country. All you have to do is show up; no sign-up form required!
All group runs will be listed by October 2. Last year, we had 47 group runs—and this year, we’d love to have even more!
Is there any cost to participate?
Nope! But this year, since we’re hosting it in October, breast cancer awareness month, we are fundraising for the Donna Foundation, a non-profit that focuses on the helping financially with critical needs of families living with breast cancer. Donations of any size are welcome.
What’s your connection with the Donna Foundation?
Dimity+ Sarah love, love, love the vibe of women’s races, and have known for years about the Donna Marathon. (Our respective locations—Colorado and Oregon—however, made it tough to actually take part in person.) In addition, we have admired its founder, Donna Deegan, a three-time breast cancer survivor and all-out badass.
This year, when we decided to add a charity component to the Motherlode, we knew we wanted to help somehow with breast cancer. We—and you, we’re sure—have known too many women and families affected by breast cancer. (Not surprising, since one in eight women will have invasive breast cancer in her life.) Talk of biopsies and bilateral mastectomies, Herceptin and reconstruction pops up way too often on our social media channels, on our runs with friends, in our everyday conversations.
I am planning to run solo/run with a friend/enter a race that weekend. How can I participate?
You have three easy options:
- Pin our special Motherlode bib to your gear on October 5 or 6 and run your miles.
- Post your mileage—and ideally a picture—on the Facebook page when we call for the Motherlode Pile of Miles on both Saturday and Sunday, October 6-7. (Related: We’d love to see selfies, smiles, and miles on social media all weekend long. Hashtag it with #anothermotherrunner and #momweekend2019)
- Help us reach our Motherlode Move Forward Goal by donating to the Donna Foundation.
With logistics out of the way, we want to emphasize this: #MOMWeekend is for ALL runners and walkers, and was designed with community in mind.
You don’t have to be training for something; you don’t have to be fast or fit; or even classify yourself as a runner. You just need to want to have some forward motion, laughs, and connection with like-minded women on a weekend morrning.
Show up and you may find a new Best Running Friend–or some motivation that went MIA.
MOTHERLODE OF MILES GROUP RUNS:
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5
[BEFORE YOU RUN, BE SURE TO PIN ON YOUR MOTHERLODE BIB.]
CALIFORNIA
LONG BEACH
Meet: Portfolio Coffee House 2300 E 4th St, Long Beach, CA 90814 (Corner of 4th street and Junipero across from the Golden Burger)
Time: 9:00 am
Route: 2-3 mile easy run or run/walk
Post-run: We will enjoy a nice cup of coffee at Portfolio Coffee House.
#Motherrunner Host: Jenny Davies
PASADENA
Meet: 1000 Park Ave South Pasadena, Ca 91030 (The Pasadena Pacers meet here; you’ll see signs as well as lots of people in red Pacer shirts!)
Time: 6:45 am
Route: 8 miles
Post-run: As part of the Pacers marathon training, we’ll have post-run refreshments as well as a pancake contest that day!
#Motherrunner Host: Lynne Garcia
SAN DIEGO
Meet: Bonita Cove, 1100 West Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA 92109 (Parking lot is on Mission Bay Drive, across from the Bahia Hotel, turn west into Bonita Cove, park on the lot on the right/north side, meetup at the tables near the bathroom.)
Time: 8 am
Route: 5 miles (or less: easy to make it any mileage you’d like!) from Bonita Cove bathroom to Mission Beach Lifeguard Tower 18 and back (route)
#Motherrunner Host: Danielle Yee
COLORADO
GRAND JUNCTION
Meet: Junior Service League Park Redlands Pkwy, Grand Junction, CO 81507 (Meet at the white pavilion right past the Redlands riverboat access. There is a parking lot right there. I’ll be there with a Pink BAMR hat!)
Time: 7:30 am
Route: 2-mile loop or access to entire river trail for longer runs.
Post-run: We’ll head to the Starbucks right over the bridge after the run.
#Motherrunner Host: Abigail Mangum
CONNECTICUT
WEST HARTFORD
Meet: Elizabeth Park. Meet at the Pond House restaurant. Plenty of free parking available.
Time: 8:00 am
Route: 3-mile or 5-mile loop through pretty neighborhoods.
Post-run: Snacks and pictures in the gazebo!
#Motherrunner Host: Mary Eberhardt
GEORGIA
ROSWELL
Meet: 575 Riverside Road Roswell GA 30075 (Meet at the parking lot near the Riverside Park Sprayground)
Time: 7:30 am
Route: We’ll head out for 4 miles going from the park on the River trail toward Old Alabama, on toward Old Riverside Road. You can run up to a 10k.
Post run: We’ll do coffee and post-run snacks at the picnic tables near the Sprayground pavilion behind the restrooms.
#Motherrunner Host: Emily Smith
MICHIGAN
MARQUETTE
Meet: Marquette Commons,112 S 3rd St., Marquette, MI 49855. We will meet up/park by the bottom of the back stairs that head up to Washington street/Babycakes.
Time: 8:00 am
Route: Out and back to Lake Superior along the city bike path. Host is running 3; bike path loop is 7 if you’d like to run longer.
Post run coffee/pastries: At Babycakes Muffin Company (223 W Washington St).
#Motherrunner Host: Kelsey Holmberg
MINNESOTA
ST. PAUL
Meet: Coffee Bene: 53 Cleveland Avenue S., St Paul 55105 (there’s a meeting room to leave a layer if you’d like)
Time: 7:30 am
Route: 2-mile easy shake-out. (You can run longer if you’re not racing on Sunday!)
Post-run meetup: At Coffee Bene, where we’ll grab a latte and talk running + racing.
Also, check out all the other AMR events for Twin Cities Marathon weekend!
#Motherrunner Hosts: Dimity + Sarah
NEW YORK
PITTSFORD/ROCHESTER
Meet: Towpath Bike Shop, 3 Schoen Place Pittsford, NY 14534
Time: 7:30 am
Route: 4-mile run with option of 5+miles.
Post-run meetup: Finger Lakes Coffee Roasters (3349 Monroe Ave, Rochester, NY)
#Motherrunner Host: Monica Bays
PENNSYLVANIA
BETHEL PARK
Meet: 2374 Corrigan Drive; Southpark Township, PA 15129 (Parking lot next to the black and gold playground in south park, intersection of Corrigan Dr and Sesqui Dr)
Time: 8:00 am
Route: 3-4 miles (1.5-2 out and back along paved path on Corrigan Road)
Post-run meetup: Meet up at South Park shops Bruegger’s Bagels afterward (5213 Library Road Bethel Park, Pennsylvania 15102) around 9:00 am
#Motherrunner Host: Lauren Haramic
SOUTH CAROLINA
GREENVILLE
Meet: Spill the Beans, 531 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601 (Parking available along the streets)
Time: 8:00 am
Route: 3-4 miles towards and along Swamp Rabbit Trail; For those needing a longer run SRT goes 10+ miles up towards Travelers Rest
Post-run meetup: Post-run coffee and hang out at Spill the Beans; Lululemon across the street for retail therapy.
#Motherrunner Host: Rebecca Atkinson + Ashley Wynne
SOUTH DAKOTA
SIOUX FALLS
Meet: Queen City Bakery 324 E 8th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57103; parking is in the back of the building.
Time: 2:00 pm
Route: 4-mile loop on the bike trail with an option for 8+ miles
Post-run meetup: Coffee and treats at Queen City.
#Motherrunner Host: Amy Rans
TEXAS
SAN ANTONIO
Meet: By the B cycle rack in front of the Hotel Emma at The Pearl (136 E. Grayson St. San Antonio, TX 78215) There is parking in front of the hotel and a free parking garage to the side.
Time: 8:00 am
Route: We will run along the Riverwalk downtown to The Alamo and back (4 miles) Optional miles can be added on return with a run from The Pearl to the San Antonio Zoo (4 miles)
Post-run meetup: At the Farmer’s Market at The Pearl
#Motherrunner Host: Pat Brockman
WASHINGTON
VANCOUVER
Meet: Vancouver Landing Amphitheatre, 110 Columbia St, Vancouver, WA 98660 (Parking available at the Port of Vancouver (across the street from Warehouse 23)). Wear any BAMR or MRTT gear if you have it!
Time: 8:00 am
Route: Out and back 3-4 miles or option for longer loops (8-12 mile options)
#Motherrunner Host: KC Johnson
WYOMING
LANDER
Meet: Covenant Presbyterian Church, 875 Fremont St, Lander, WY 82520
Time: 8:30 am
Route: Approximately 4 miles. You can choose to do another loop if you would like.
#Motherrunner Host: Anne Even
MOTHERLODE OF MILES GROUP RUNS:
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6
[BEFORE YOU RUN, BE SURE TO PIN ON YOUR MOTHERLODE BIB.]
CALIFORNIA
CONCORD
Meet: Peet’s Coffee at Todos Santos Plaza, 2072 Salvio St, Concord, CA 94520. Two parking garages nearby on Salvio St, as well as parking on the square.
Time: 8:00 am
Route: 4 miles out and back from Peet’s to the Iron Horse Trail (all paved). Early option for 12-mile paved loop run (6 am meetup): about 9 min pace to make it back in time for 8 am meet up. (Marathon training!)
Post-run meetup: Peet’s Coffee. We can enjoy our drinks at the shop or in the park in the plaza, for a great post-run photo op!
#Motherrunner Host: Sara Martinez
CANADA
KINGSTON, ONTARIO
Meet: CIBC Run for the Cure at St. Lawrence College, Kingston, ON Canada (100 Portsmouth Ave, Kingston, ON K7L 5A6, Canada)
Meet at Team Tent (K.Lo’s Krew) at Start/Finish Line. Parking on-site.
Time: 10 am
Route: 5K and 1K routes: walk or run. Register online or on-site for the CIBC Run for the Cure (Kingston site) with my team, K.Lo’s Krew.
Also enjoy: Pre-race team photo + festivities, post-run awards + celebration!
#Motherrunner Host: Jodi Snowdon
DELAWARE
WILMINGTON
Meet: Starbucks on the Wilmington Riverfront, 329 Justison St, Wilmington DE 19801. This is on the Wilmington Riverfront, right off of I-95. There is street parking. Also there are two lots at Justison and Beech (two blocks further down on Justison – all free).
Time: 10:00 am
Route: We will run a 3-mile loop on the Wilmington Riverfront and Jack Markell Trail, to the DuPont Environmental Education Center. Anyone who wants to go further can continue along the trail for another 3+ miles and return, so there are options for up to 13 miles total. There is a water fountain at the DuPont Environmental Education Center and a bathroom at Starbucks.
Post-run meetup: Coffee/tea/snack after if people are interested!
#Motherrunner Host: Pamela Harris
GEORGIA
DECATUR
Meet: Kavarna, a coffee shop in Oakhurst Village: 707 East Lake Dr, Decatur, GA 30030
Time: 8:00 am
Route: 4-mile loop with an option for more.
Post-run meetup: At Kavarna for coffee and pastries!
#Motherrunner Host: Karen Antell
IDAHO
POCATELLO
Meet: Portneuf Wellness Complex, 2375 Olympus Dr, Pocatello ID 83201
Time: 8:00 am
Route: ~2 mile loop, Join for one loop or more! Run, jog or walk, stroller friendly. (Bring a cup of coffee if you want!)
#Motherrunner Host: Jenny Clough
MAINE
ELLSWORTH
Meet: Knowlton Park, 11 Shore Rd, Ellsworth, ME 04605 (Meet up near Parking lot A, near Giant Urn.)
Time: 8:00 am
Route: 3-4 mile out-and-back along Shore Road. Option for ~6-mile loop.
Post-run Meetup: At Flexit Cafe & Bakery.
#Motherrunner Host: Kathy Snow
MICHIGAN
HARRISON TOWNSHIP
Meet: L’anse Creuse High School, 38495 L’Anse Creuse Rd Harrison Township Michigan 48045 (Meet in main parking lot)
Time: 8:00 am
Route: 3.3-mile loop. Once we got the bike trail there are options to run longer. (First part of the run is on a non-paved road. Then it’s on a paved bike trail.)
#Motherrunner Host: Jill Maxey
NEBRASKA
OMAHA
Meet: Visitor Center,8901 S 154th St Omaha Nebraska 68138
Time: 7:00 am
Route: 7.1 miles or a shorter loop
#Motherrunner Host: Penny North
NEW HAMPSHIRE
EXETER
Meet: Exeter Band Stand, 10 Front St, Exeter, NH 03833
Time: 8:00 am
Route: 3-mile with option for more
Post-run: Coffee and conversation at D Squared Java, 155 Water Street.
#Motherrunner Host: Carrie Anne Becker
OREGON
PORTLAND
Meet: Starbucks 2730 SW Moody Ave., Portland, OR 97201; Schnitzer Parking Lot is located north on Moody, just past the Robertson Life Sciences Building (Starbucks is part of this building but faces the Tilikum Crossing Bridge). Parking in this lot is free on weekends.
Time: 7:30 am
Route: 3-mile riverfront loop with options up to 6-7 miles.
Post-run meetup: Starbuck’s on Tilikum, where we started.
#Motherrunner Host: Steffanie Seiler
PENNSYLVANIA
CARLISLE
Meet: Orange and South St. Carlisle PA 17013; next to the Dickinson trails. You can park along Orange St.
Time: 1;00 pm
Route: 3-4 miles
Post-run meetup: At Molly Pitcher Brewing Company 130 W High St. Carlisle PA
#Motherrunner Host: Sharon Parrish
WASHINGTON
SEATTLE
Meet: Zoka Coffee Roaster and Tea Co (University Location), 2901 NE Blakeley St, Seattle WA 98105. There is street parking near this coffee shop. Meet just outside the coffee shop, which is very close to the Burke-Gilman trail.
Time: 8:30 am
Route: 4 miles out and back on Burke-Gilman trail to the “wall of death” (where trail goes under Eastlake) and back.
Post-run meetup: Coffee/snacks/hangout afterward at Zoka!
#Motherrunner Host: Marian Blazes
WISCONSIN
MADISON
Meet: Olin Park, 1106 Olin-Turville Court, Madison WI 53715. Please park in the lot by the Turville Point Conservation Park at Olin Park.
Time: 7:30 am
Route: We will run 3 miles total, out and back along John Nolen Drive on the Capital City Trail.
Post-run meetup: We’ll head to Lakeside Coffee Shop (402 W Lakeside Street).
#Motherrunner Host: Shawnee Parens
MILWAUKEE
Meet: Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon 5K, 200 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee; Meet up in front of Summerfest main gate (where event parking is).
Time: 8:00 (race starts at 8:30)
Route: A 5k race
Post-run meetup: We can take post-race pics and hang if people are interested.
#Motherrunner Host: Kim Zabkowicz
Other questions?
Ask in the comments below, or email us and we’ll help you out!
Gifts for Your Best Running Friend (or You!)
Your best running friend (BRF): She got you fired up for those eight (8!!!) hill repeats on your training plan. She met you at the corner at 4:30 a.m. on.the.dot, when you had to run 16 miles before the mercury climbed above 90 degrees. She took your kids to the pool so you could take a nap after your 20-miler. In short, she’s your unsung hero.
That’s why, with fall race season staring us in the face, it’s time to give your BRF a gift that shows your gratitude. Your abiding, down-to-the-last-mile love for her.
Figuring she might have been your training partner for a fall marathon, we put together 26 gift suggestions, all from our friends at UncommonGoods, an online gift retailer that believes strongly in giving back to non-profits.
Etched Marathon Pint Glass, $18
Etched Marathon Pint GlassCheers: Raise a glass—one etched with a big-city marathon route on it—for your bestie! Choose from one of 18 races, including NYC, Marine Corps, and Twin Cities marathons. That craft IPA or hard cider will be that much more satisfying when it’s served with a reminder of 26.2 miles.
Wishbeads Intention Bracelet, $58
Wishbeads Intention BraceletGoals can be slippery things to keep a handle on, but these ingenious, lovely bracelets let her literally wear hers, written on a tiny slip of (included) paper and hidden within a secret compartment in the bracelet’s clasp. Available in a variety of stones, including agate and lapis lazuli.
Therapy Dough, $15
Therapy DoughWhether she’s antsy during taper-time or worried about a work project, this clever grown-up putty let’s her work out her agita. This colorful dough boasts the addition of essential oils so when she squeezes and squishes it, it releases stress and aroma. Choose from calming lavender, energy-boosting peppermint, or mood-improving orange.
The Path Necklace, $58
The Path NecklaceThe name of this necklace alone makes it perfect for a runner, not to mention its beauty and its unique elements. Green tourmaline fosters creativity, and smoky quartz calms. (Quell those taper jitters!) The silver bar represents the path she’s meant to take—hopefully with you by her side.
Mason Jar Indoor Herb Garden, $20
Mason Jar Indoor Herb GardenWith this mini-garden, growing tasty herbs for satisfying pasta dishes (carb-loading anyone?) or flavorful salads takes less effort than a cooldown: Inside each charming jar is a passive hydroponic system that brings nutrients and moisture to the plant. Like a good training plan, they take all the guesswork out of success!
Hair Tie Bracelet, $45
Hair Tie BraceletRunners and ponytails are a natural combo, so chances are good your BRF often has an elastic on her wrist. This sleek, slip-on bracelet gives it a brilliant, beautiful upgrade, with a channel that holds thick or thin hair bands in place, ensuring one is always, wait for it, at hand.
The Future Depends on What You Do Today Ring, $40
The Future Depends on What You Do Today RingOffer her encouragement with a twist: This adjustable sterling silver ring boasts a quote from Gandhi, but it could just as easily be a runner’s mantra. “The Future Depends on What You Do Today.” We can imagine a marathoner rubbing it in the final stretch as a tangible reminder of all the training miles she logged.
Birth Month Mini Dish, $44
Birth Month Mini DishThis pretty catch-all is perfect for holding her rings when she’s on runs…or perhaps change found while running. Each dish is handcrafted from stained glass to represent the color of traditional birthstones, then adorned with a row of beads and crystals threaded on copper wire. Pretty and practical!
Foam Roller Water Bottle, $35
Foam Roller Water Bottle,This bottle multi-tasks, well, like a mother: Not only does the insulated, 25-ounce bottle tote water (with Nuun in it, natch), but it also sports a textured, high-density foam sleeve. This transforms the bottle into a portable massage roller for all her overworked muscles. Oooh, and ahhh!
Long Distance Touch Bracelet Set, Set of 2, $98
Long Distance Touch Bracelet SetIf the gal you (virtually) put in miles “with” is miles away, these innovative bracelets can keep you feeling close. An app (and Bluetooth) connects the set, then a tap to your bracelet sends a signal to your BRF’s bracelet, which lights up and vibrates. Think how fun they’d be to wear in a race!
Live Well Earrings, $36
Live Well EarringsWith a name reminiscent of a runner’s credo, these beauties are a combination of a dangling sterling silver bar (a Maori symbol that represents strength and healing) and a square-cut garnet, a stone traditionally believed to balance energy and boost self-confidence. (Garnets #ForTheWin)
Orbit Eye Stones, $20
Orbit Eye StonesThese Finnish creations are a clever way to tell your BRF she’s your “rock.” (We had to.) Pre-chilled in the fridge or room temp, these stone disks provide relief when applied to tired eyes. A rock-solid at-home spa treatment she can sneak in while her toddler is napping (finally!) or after the fam has hit the hay.
Etched Skyline Wine Glasses, Set of 2, $45
Etched Skyline Wine GlassesToast the town—and each other—with these stemless goblets featuring one of nearly 30 cityscapes that wraps around the glass. The panorama can remind her of a girlfriends’ getaway you two took for a race. Cities include San Antonio, Portland, St. Louis, and Richmond.
Inner Strength Affirmation Stones, $15
Inner Strength Affirmation StonesGive her this trio of polished stones as a reminder of her grit and resolve: The carnelian, red jasper, and tiger’s eye were specifically chosen for their strength-giving properties (e.g. tiger’s eye is thought to help overcome fear and anxiety). They come with a card with a powerful affirmation message.
Overnight Foot Care Kit, $18
Overnight Foot Care KitThis kit includes a deliciously fragrant rosemary-mint cream for your BRF to massage into her feet at bedtime before slipping on the included super-soft socks. When she wakes up at o-dark-thirty to meet you for that 5-miler, she’ll pause briefly to appreciate how soft the skin on her feet feels thanks to you.
Birthstone Wishing Balls, $32
Birthstone Wishing BallsThese shimmering balls of hand-blown glass come with 52 tiny slips of paper, allowing the recipient to jot down a weekly message of hope or gratitude. Tucked in a small hole at the ball’s base, the messages become a permanent part of its beauty. Available in twelve vibrant hues that correspond to each month’s birthstone.
Drink More Water Bottle, $20
Drink More Water BottleWe all know it’s crucial for us active gals to stay well hydrated, and this glass-and-stainless-steel bottle will help your BRF in her quest to quaff frequently. Like a trusty running partner, this bottle offers motivational messages—in this case, as reminders to sip water throughout the day.
Night Runner Headlights, $60
Night Runner HeadlightsThese shoe-mounted, rechargeable lights will help keep her safe on those pre-dawn runs she so loyally joins you on. They are seriously a bright idea, lighting the road (or trail) ahead plus providing 270 degrees of visibility in front plus two rear-facing tail lights. She can see and be seen!
Thank You for Your Part in My Journey Necklace, $55
Thank You for Your Part in My Journey NecklaceThe symbolism in this gorgeous necklace—with its lapis lazuli stone; a sterling silver moon phase pendant; and a gold vermeil charm—combines to make a perfect way to express gratitude to someone who helped you along your way, whether to a starting line or through life’s challenges.
Compact Swivel Cheese Board with Knives, $42-$64
Compact Swivel Cheese BoardIf your BRF loves to host parties as much as she likes to run, this is the gift for her. This clever designs starts as a wedge (echoing the shape of cheese!), then fans out to a tiered serving board for cheeses and nibbles. The included serving flatware stows in a small drawer inside the board. (Like we said: clever.)
Plantable Mindfulness Cards, $10
Plantable Mindfulness CardsWe love the way these cards literally show that wishes, intentions, and goals (like running a marathon!) can take root and bloom: With annual and perennial wildflower seeds embedded in the paper, these hand-crafted cards are meant to be written on, planted, and watered. Watch them flourish!
Bathtime Essentials Wine Holder, $38
Bathtime Essentials Wine HolderThis ingenious wineglass holder was surely created by a mother, don’t you think? Accented with hand-picked beach stones, it suctions to the tub’s wall to give Pinot its own place. And to ensure no breaks during her break, it comes with a BPA-free plastic wineglass.
Tea Drop Sampler, $34
Tea Drop SamplerAfter a cold or wet run, these ingenious morsels—made of tea, sugar, and aromatic spices–let her quickly warm up from the inside out. The sampler set includes five tasty drops each of: citrus ginger, blueberry acai, rose earl grey, sweet peppermint, and matcha green tea.
Pedestal Jewelry Holder, $48
Pedestal Jewelry HolderHer race medals are most likely displayed with pride, but we bet her jewelry is a jumble. Help her tame the tangle with this hand-formed ceramic jewelry stand. It offers up to 40 holes for earrings and surface space for her favorite bracelets and baubles. (AMR co-founder Sarah is in love with hers!)
Birthstone Mineral Soaps, $20
Birthstone Mineral SoapsTurn her post-run shower into an aromatic escape (however brief!): Enriched with soothing vitamin E oil, each soap is inspired by the shade and shape of a gemstone and offers up a different fragrance, such as water lily and jasmine-scented “peridot,” red-roses-and-burgundy “ruby,” and lavender “amethyst.”
Handmade Wooden Foot Massager, $34
Handmade Wooden Foot MassagerWe know this to be true: Your BRF’s feet could use some TLC. This handmade wooden foot massager, with its 10 ridged, ribbed, and knobbed rollers, lets her effortlessly roll and relax all her foot muscles, tendons, and ligaments. (Here’s hoping she lets you borrow it occasionally!)
#380: “Work Play Love” Crossover with Lauren Fleshman + Jesse Thomas
Sarah goes it solo chatting with entrepreneur/writer/former pro runner Lauren Fleshman and her husband/pro triathlete/Picky Bars CEO Jesse Thomas—in front of an audience in beautiful Bend, Oregon. The married couple opens up about:
-how years (and years!) of being competitive athletes shaped them as parents and partners;
-how to be the best cheerleader for each other;
-how to hone your own writerly voice (and the parallels between running + writing);
-the truly challenging endurance “sport” of traveling with children;
-why their on-again, off-again pre-marriage relationship serves them well today.
And Lauren pulls back the curtain on her new writing routine—and the new book she’s working on!
By shopping our sponsors, you help AMR. Thanks to you—and them!
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Get the Flamingo Shave Set for just $16 with free shipping at shopflamingo.com/amr
AMR Gears Up: Race Day Essentials: Ultra
Welcome to a new series on Another Mother Runner: Race Day Essentials.
We’ve already covered favorite gear for the 5K/10K; half marathon; and marathon.
Up today? The Ultra.
When it comes to running a long, long way, Kat Schjei, a BAMRBassador and mother of three in Irvine, California, knows a thing or fifty. She has completed 15 ultras, including four 100 milers, and is currently training for the Black Canyon 100k in Arizona in February.
Check out the gear that takes her through miles and hours of training + racing.
SHOES + SOCKS: HOKA TORRENT ($120; sizes 5-11) + FEETURES ELITE ($15.99; sizes S-XL)
I love Hoka Torrent because they don’t have too much cushion so you can feel the terrain. Plus, they have great grippy lugs. My preferred socks are Feetures Elite (ultra light thickness). I have a tradition of buying a new pair to wear for every race.
TOP + SHORTS: BRIGHT + BUGS
TOP + SHORTS: BRIGHT + BUGSI’m a shorts girl, no matter the weather. And I LOVE bright color. These are an old pair of Lululemon shorts covered with bugs! Everyone that knows me knows that I #loveallthecreatures. I’m very self-conscious of my post-three-baby stomach skin and diastasis recti, so I insist on loose-fitting, flowy tanks. This one from Zyia Active is my favorite!
VARIOUS TOPS + LAYERS:
COLUMBIA ARCADIA SHELL ($59.99; sizes XS-XL) +
REI DOWN JACKET ($99.95; sizes XS-XL)
In ultras, you must be prepared for any weather conditions. I’ve run races in the mountains through 100 degree heat, hail storms, monsoons, and snow! I love my AMR long sleeve that has the best mantra, “My pace, my peace”. For rain, my go-to jacket is the Columbia Arcadia packable, breathable waterproof shell.
And for pre and post race warmth, this REI co-op puffy down jacket is the best. I always get severely chilled post-race, even in summer, so I need to be prepared.
ACCESSORIES: RUNNING 4 THOSE WHO CAN’T HAT ($29.95) + KNOCKAROUND SUNGLASSES ($10)+ BUFF ($20)
Are you even an ultra runner if you don’t wear a trucker hat?? I love my friend’s company, Running 4 Those Who Can’t…
You can’t ever find me without a bright colored pair of Knockaround sunglasses. (Bonus: they’re inexpensive so you can buy all the colors!)
A Buff is also essential for all types of weather. When it’s cold, I wear it over my ears and when it’s hot, I roll ice into a tube and wear it around my neck to keep me cool during hours on exposed California trails.
Mittens are a necessity too. Never gloves, always mittens. I have Reynaud’s phenomenon so my hands require mittens any time the temperature dips below 50 degrees.
PACK: SALOMON SKIN 5 PACK ($155)
A pack is a huge must in ultra running! I recently upgraded to this Salomon Skin 5 Women’s pack and I adore how it bungees to the body for no bounce and perfect fit around the “girls”. Plus, I can carry a 1.5L sleeve in the back for water and soft flasks in front pockets for Tailwind nutrition drink mix. Most ultras are “cupless” which totally rocks, so I have a few collapsible cups to fill up at aid stations along the way.
NUTRITION: SO.MANY.CALORIES!
Nutrition and getting in enough calories is vital in ultras. I actually learned from Coach Stephanie in the Train Like a Mother Ultra Programs to keep nutrition simple and consistent. I stick to mostly a GU every 45 minutes and add Spring Energy higher calorie gels and bars here and there.
I have found that it is easier to get calories in via liquid form when I hit that ultra nauseous mode and my go to is Tailwind Nutrition. Love their convenient stick packs for cramming into my “drop bags” which we get to leave at various designated aid stations along an ultra course.
Finally, I need minty gum to channel any nervous energy. A fresh mouth just makes me feel better after hours on the dirt trails.
GADGETS: COROS PACE GPS ($199.99) + NATHAN WAIST LIGHT ($39.99)
Ultras can get techy and I actually consider myself quite minimal in this department. My COROS Pace GPS watch is truly amazing. It has a battery life of over 24 hours, and all the other activity trackers and smart capability you might want. It easily uploads data to Strava to track my runs.
In ultra running, we often run in the dark so a headlamp is required. I’m a fan of Black Diamond lamps. I also have a newer Nathan waist light for more lumens. I keep an Anker charging pod in my drop bag in case my phone dies (duh, how else will I take pics?!) or if I’m running longer than 24 hours at a time.
LOTIONS + POTIONS, INCLUDING SUNBUM SUNSCREEN ($9.99) + RUNGOO ($17.99)
Last but certainly not least, here are some extra ultra essentials. SunBum sunscreen, Bigelow mentha lip gloss, Tiger Balm for sore muscles,Off Deep Woods to keep the mosquitos away (they can get super aggressive 50 miles off trail!), Squirrels Nut Butter anti-chafe rub, and my favorite, RunGoo, which is the best anti-blister and anti-chafe rub I’ve ever tried. (Seriously, this stuff is magical!)
Ultra runners, sound off: What gear do first-timers need?
AMR Gears Up: Race Day Essentials: Marathon
Welcome to a new series on Another Mother Runner: Race Day Essentials.
Over the course of the next two weeks, we’ll showcase favorite gear from a range of athletes for the 5K/10K; half marathon; marathon; ultra (50K/50 mile); sprint triathlon; and relay.
Tish Hamilton is currently training for her 56th marathon, so she knows a thing or two about important marathon gear. Here’s the stuff she won’t go 26.2 without:
TOP: NEW BALANCE 2018 NYC MARATHON HALF-ZIP ($30) and NON-NYC VERSION ($65)
TOP: NEW BALANCE 2018 NYC MARATHON HALF-ZIP ($30I didn’t buy marathon race gear in my early marathon days (1990s) because it was too extravagant for a recent college grad on a publishing salary, and the offerings were too seriously geeky anyway. These days race gear is still expensive, but it’s so sweetly stylin’ that I couldn’t resist at 2018 New York City marathon. This silky soft New Balance half-zip was perfect to wear for my following race, the slightly chilly 2019 Paris Marathon. Plus, vibrant contrast stripes made it super easy for my people to spot me in field of 50,000+ runners. (Non-NYC version here.)
[[GOING 26.2? TRAIN LIKE A MOTHER WITH OUR MARATHON TRAINING PROGRAMS.]]
PRE-RACE GEAR: NEW YORK CITY 1990 VINTAGE T-SHIRT ($20)
Over the years, I’ve lost many race Ts to Marie Kondo-esque fits of de-cluttering. Glad I still have this vintage cotton New York City marathon T to wear around the house in the weeks leading up to the race in November. Look closely, you can see the Twin Towers at the top. Sniff!
[[DON’T FORGET A THING: YOUR OWN MARATHON GEAR CHECKLIST.]]
POST-RACE GEAR: PATAGONIA DOWN SWEATER ($229)
Single most important piece of gear stuffed into post-race backpack: down jacket. If I don’t get warm as soon as I cross the finish line, my core temperature plummets, and my clammy sports bra sends me into a hypothermic fit that lasts until I get home to a long hot shower. Wriggling out of wet sports bra under big cotton T is also key.
ACCESSORIES: SMARTWOOL BEANIE ($21) AND LULULEMON CROSS-CHILL RUN GLOVES ($38)
I love this thin Smartwool beanie for any temp below 50 (it also fits well under bike helmet). It truly keeps you warm without overheating; bonus slots for sunglasses (if you wear them) and ponytail (if you have one). Kathrine Switzer herself—that’s right, the pioneer who snuck into the 1972 Boston Marathon—advised me to always wear gloves on race day: tuck them into your waistband when you warm up, put them back on when you get cold again, because you WILL get cold again, she said. Lululemon’s has a nice stripe of reflectivity for early morning training runs.
BONUS ACCESSORY: PARIS BACKPACK
BONUS ACCESSORY: PARIS BACKPACKYou’re never supposed to try anything new on race day. The Paris Marathon doesn’t serve sports drink on course. WHAT? Instead, they give you a hydration backpack as part of your race kit. On the morning of the marathon, as I was trying to stuff gloves, hat and Endurolytes into the side pockets of my shorts and figure out how to run carrying two bottles of sports drink, BF Rick said, “Why don’t you just run with this pack?” WHAT? As much as it pains me to say this, Rick was right. I ran with the backpack.
SHOES + SOCKS: NEW BALANCE 860V9 ($125) AND BALEGA HIDDEN CONTOUR RUNNING SOCK ($14)
Fresh running shoes at the beginning of a marathon training cycle are just downright motivating. I go to my local shoe shop—The Sneaker Factory—and geek out with the manager over lasts, midsoles and dual-density medial posts and usually buy two pair to last me through a year. I am brand agnostic—whatever fits my foot and feels good. Right now New Balance’s 860v9 suits me fine: cushy underfoot, with a touch of stability and a nice wide toe box for my bunions. (The new 860v10 is sleeker, less cushy.) If I were rich and unconscionable, I’d wear a brand new pair of Balega socks on every run.
SHORTS + SALT: LULULEMON FAST AND FREE 6” SHORT ($68) AND HAMMER NUTRITION ENDUROLYTES ($23)
How did we ever live without side pockets on shorts, capris, tights? For the phone (though I don’t take mine on race day), gloves, snacks, whatever. I splurged on Lululemon’s 6-inch length and high waistband to hold in the menopot. I bring enough Endurolytes (to replace electrolytes) in a baggie to take one every half-hour of the marathon.
SNACKS FOR THE BUS
Logistics for the New York City Marathon are epic: You get on a bus to the start around 7 for a race that doesn’t start until 11 (depending on your wave). That’s a lot of hours. My race morning nutrition looks like this: two cups of coffee, one or two small bagels with peanut (or cashew) butter, a clementine or two, and animal crackers. My DIY “sports drink” is honey green tea with a pinch of Himalayan salt. It sounds like a lot, but think about how much you usually eat by 3:00 without even running 26.2.
[[NEW ON-DEMAND PROGRAM: NUTRITION FOR RUNNING: HALF MARATHON + MARATHON]]
SPORTS BRA: TASC NOLA REVERSIBLE SPORTS BRA ($36)
I am extra-small on top, so support isn’t really my issue. This fun-patterned Tasc NOLA reversible sports bra made with bamboo (!) has seen me through many long runs, a few marathons, and one ultra without once chafing me anywhere. Plus, I can wriggle out of it post-race underneath a big cotton T. ‘Nuff said.
GPS: GARMIN FORERUNNER 235 ($250)
In November, the New York City Marathon will be my 56th marathon, and I only just got a Garmin this past March (the 235 Forerunner, to be precise). Talk about your lug-headed Luddite! Now, of course, I’m addicted to it all: the Resting Heart Rate, the number of steps, the pace, the “moving” pace, the totals, the alarm, max heart rate, calories burned, etc. etc. Which is kinda why I never wanted to get one in the first place.
[[OUI OUI: TISH RUNS THE PARIS MARATHON.]]
RETRO TUNES: THE iPOD
Remember iPods? If you still have one, hold it to admire how tiny and handy they were. Whether I listen to tunes during a marathon depends on how I’m feeling about training and Life. The lower and/or less fit I am, the more necessary the tunes become.
My playlist is full of angry Alanis Morissette and dreamy Eddie Vedder, but that may be a little too personal even for AMR. :) I try to wait until the last 10 miles or 10K and then crank up the sound to grind through the hardest parts. (I’m pretty sure there’s a Life metaphor in there somewhere.) It works!