A Runner's Mind
Need help in finding that perfect running gift or stocking stuffer for your friend or loved one?
Look no further as here are some gift ideas to inspire every runner to help along in their running journey.
In 1967, Kathrine Switzer was the first woman to officially register and run the Boston Marathon. She recently celebrated the first anniversary of her online Marathon Woman shop - www.shop.marathonwoman. com. She offers some wonderful Santa ideas.
For someone who is new to running or needs inspiration, Switzer says her own book - Marathon Woman is perfect, but should be accompanied by a "fearless" shoe charm which can get you through some dark cold nights of running.
"For the absolute beginner, like right off the couch, the book on running and walking for women over 40 has got thousands and thousands of women started, regardless of their age," she said. "It's even used for kids' training! (Laughing) For those under 40, just skip the chapter on menopause!
"The bracelets and the shoe charms are super for this as they are very inexpensive, and yet they carry a big message."
For the runner who has everything, Switzer suggested: "I'd get the signed hard cover of Marathon Woman, as it is now a collector's item (out of print in hard cover, now printing in soft cover) and also I'd get the signed '26.2 marathon stories.'
"This is a beautiful book, one to dream over, think about running Paris or Rome or Antarctica. It's is also historically accurate, and highly motivational."
You can also purchase a Marathon Woman mug.
"I'll tell you how I love that mug," Switzer added. "I do my coffee in it the morning when I need a kick in the butt, I say,'okay Kathrine you've got a big day ahead girl, so go get'em and show that you are a Marathon Woman!'"
I also spoke recently, to Mathieu Giguere at the New Balance Concept Store He suggested, the national best seller book,"Born to Run" by Chris McDougall. More on this great read can be found at www.chrismcdougall.com.
A few of his other suggestions include: for a cold day a pair of yaktrax pro shoes - ideal for running, jogging or walking on ice; a GPS watch, for speed, distance cadence and to map your run; socks made of merinos wool, head bands and convertible gloves."
Giguere also stressed the importance of visibility, especially in the dark winter months. He suggests Reflector bands LEDs. They are small and light product to wear with extra visibility!
These are some running gifts that are sure to help with training.
Christine Blanchette is an established runner and writer who competed in the Boston Marathon and other high profile events For more visit her blog at www.christineblanchette.wordpress. com.
