Running Gift Ideas
We are fast approaching the end of the year, meaning it’s almost time where many exchange gifts. In lieu of this, I have jotted down some of my favourite running gifts and gadgets, should you have a runner in your life that you need gift inspiration for. From stocking fillers to main gifts, my suggestions are below (UAE links included!):
Watch
From pacing, to tracking, to built in workouts, watches are obviously incredibly handy! It took me until 2018 to actually get one though. How did I survive before? Not sure! I have been running with the Garmin Venu since 2020, and enjoy its simplicity and high resolution screen.
Heart Rate Monitor
Turns out that the built in HRMs are not as accurate we would ideally like in watches just yet. Therefore, if you are running to HR, I highly recommend a chest HR strap. Personally, I have found that the Wahoo Tickr does not chafe, nor does it break the bank. Due to bluetooth, it also seamlessly connects with any brand watch.
Chafe stick
Speaking of chafing. An anti-chafe stick can soon become a runners best friend. Highly recommend Jadole Naturals.
Hydration Pack
I have been through a couple of these. Fit is super important here. If I am on a shorter run, or running somewhere that I know I have water access to re-fill, I use the Naked Vest or Band. Should I be out for a bit longer and need to carry 1.5l, I use the Aonjie Backpack and bladder.
Running Fuel
Yep, we need this for those long runs! From gels to chews, I have tried a few different methods. My current “go-tos” are the SIS Gels and the Cliff Block Chews. If you are training in Dubai, then obviously electrolytes are also super importantly. For before or after running, I recommend Sunshine Nutrition or Precision Hydration, and for during, Salt Stick are very handy!
Pre-hab/Rehab
Like most, I have picked up a fair few running injuries along the way. In my opinion, the best way to combat these is to not let your pre-hab slip! From foam rolling to banded work, it’s pretty important, and often overlooked by many. Some of my favourites items are below.
Shoes
Obviously this is incredibly personlised! What works for one, does not necessarily work for the other. Personally I am training and racing a lot in Puma’s at the moment. The two that I am most commonly in are:
Race Day and Track: Deviate Nitro Elite 2
Easy or Long Runs: Velocity Nitro 2
Sunglasses
Certainly a must in Dubai. Goodr are both affordable and durable. They are designed with runners in mind, so have a non-bounce/non-slip feature to them. Very useful for when you pop them on your head mid run.
Books
I have upped my reading game a lot this year. Some great running related books are:
The Comeback Quotient - Matt Fitzgerald
What I talk about when I talk about running - Haruki Murakami
The Lost Art of Running - Shane Benzie
Actual Running
Think outside the box here, this could be race entry or some coaching. Gifting someone a race might mean a holiday for you! Yes, I plan holidays around my racing calendar. Or perhaps there is something locally that you would love to run with a friend. Shouting them an entry could mean you have training buddy for the upcoming few weeks!
The next International race I will be going to is Milan Marathon, you’re welcome to come along!
At InnerFight Endurance, I coach clients 1:1 towards their goals, as well as head up Ladies Run Club.
Hopefully the above has given you some inspiration this festive season.
All recommendations have been based on my own opinions, and no products or brands have sponsored this article.
