The Three Tech Gadgets That Will Get You Through Your First Marathon
With many amazing advancements in sport technology, runners today are often struggling to find a balance between the freedom of traditional running without technology and the edge that technology can give a runner. If you are gearing up for your first marathon, you may be thinking about investing in some new technology as a treat to get you through those long runs. Before you bust out your wallet for fancy gadgets that will end up collecting dust in your closet, read about these three pieces of technology that you actually need.
A Safe Way To Listen To Music
Even if you are the type of person that enjoys listening to the sound of your feet hitting pavement on short runs, once you start the longer runs necessary to complete a marathon, you will likely long for some tunes. Music can help you keep a steady pace, increase your motivation, decrease your overall time, and help you push through the more difficult sections of your run. In fact, 75% of runners prefer to use music when they run.
However, the wrong music device can be a distraction that actually makes running dangerous by shutting you off from the sounds of the world around you. The best device is a mp3 player with simple, large controls that you can adjust without stopping to look at them, and a set of bluetooth ear buds. The wireless buds will keep you from getting tangled or frustrated by a cord constantly hanging down. They will also allow you to zip your mp3 player in a pocket so it wont fall out while you run. You should set the volume low enough for you to hear traffic, barking dogs, or any other warning signs of danger around you.
A Way To Measure Distance and Time
Occasionally, you will want to go out on timed runs and leave your pacer at home. However, most of your marathon training will involve learning to adjust your pace as you add miles onto your run. For this, you will need a device that gives you an accurate measure of your distance and pace.
GPS devices can be great, but they are expensive and they do not always work if you are running in heavily wooded areas. On the other end of the spectrum are pedometers, which simply count your steps and calculate your mileage based on your preset stride. Although cheap, these only give you a rough estimate.
The best device for marathon runners is between the GPS and pedometer. Select a foot pod that has a gyroscope and take it to the track to help it learn your various strides. Once it is giving you consistent results, you can take it out on the streets or trail.
Something to Light Your Self And Your Path
Depending on your pace, you may find that some of your runs take four or five hours. This is a large chunk of the day, so there will probably be times when you need to run early in the morning or late at night. If you do, make sure that you wear reflective clothing and some form of light to make yourself and your path visible. A headlamp is a good choice, but if you want your head free for your headphones, then you may choose lights that strap onto your fists or waist.
There are many other devices you may use besides these three devices. Heart rate monitors can urge you to push harder and fix pacing issues. Smartphones have countless apps for running. However, with your long runs you will want to leave as much at home as possible, and concentrate on carrying fuel and water, not unnecessary technology.
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