Must-have 1: responsible shoes
It may sound cliché, but good shoes are still the basis of every healthy runner. If you run a lot of kilometers in preparation for the marathon, your shoes must provide optimal cushioning and stability. So keep in mind that your training shoes need to be replaced after 800 to 1000 km. If you are unsure whether the shoes are still good, come to us to have your shoes checked. It is also advisable to use at least 2 pairs of shoes and alternate them if you run a lot of kilometers. These can be 2 pairs of training shoes, but you could also opt for a lighter and faster shoe as a 2nd pair. Tip: Try a shoe with a (carbon) plate in the forefoot at your RunX store for a faster gait.
Must-have 2: running socks
An often underestimated item in the wardrobe of runners is the running sock. Nevertheless, we count it among the 10 must-haves for marathon preparation and the marathon itself. And for good reason. A good running sock offers extra comfort in the shoe. Choose a running sock that is seamless, has the right size and a fit tailored to your foot type. Thicker parts under the heel and the forefoot offer extra cushioning and ensure better moisture regulation. Good socks give less chance of blisters or friction. So make sure you have several pairs of running socks in your drawer. Tip: try a slightly thinner sock for competitions.
Must-have 3: running underwear and clothing
Sports underwear is an important layer of clothing during training but also during the competition. You wear underwear that fits close to the skin. It ensures optimal moisture transport and regulation of your body heat. In addition, you have less chance of chafing or irritation. For the upper body, choose a singlet, T-shirt or a long-sleeved shirt. For the lower body, choose briefs or boxer shorts. For women, a well-supporting sports bra is essential. Tip: wear an underwear shirt/singlet under your T-shirt/singlet during the marathon.
Must-have 4: sports nutrition
When running longer distances, sports nutrition is an absolute must. The better you replenish your energy supply during training or competition, the longer you can maintain a good pace. In addition, you will also recover faster. Visit one of our stores and we will advise you on sports nutrition during training and the marathon itself. Tip: Practice with sports nutrition and drinks during training. Do not experiment on the day of the competition itself.
Must-have 5: compression stockings
A marathon is an extreme effort. You could use some support for that. With compression stockings or tubes you have less chance of injuries to your calves, shins and Achilles tendons. In addition, the stockings ensure better blood circulation and better removal of waste products in your muscles. In addition to the importance of drinking and replenishing your energy supply during the marathon, wearing compression stockings has proven benefits. Compression stockings/tubes are recommended not only during competitions, but also during interval training and long endurance runs. The stockings and tubes come in different sizes, so it is important to have them measured properly.
Must-have 6: a nice playlist
The long endurance runs for a marathon can sometimes be a bit boring. Music while running can be a welcome distraction and support. We recommend using headphones from Shokz. In addition to good sound quality and great wearing comfort, you can also hear ambient sounds. This is safer, especially when running in the city.
Must-have 7: drinking systems and Flipbelt
To be able to take drinks and gels with you during your endurance runs or in the competition, we have various options at RunX. You can go to us for flipbelts, bottle belts and drinking backpacks.
Must-have 8: care products
Prevention is better than cure. Make sure you take the necessary precautions to prevent blisters and chafing. Make sure you have blister plasters and anti-chafing products to protect your skin. We are happy to advise you.
Must-have 9: race number magnets or race number band
You don't want holes from safety pins in your nice shirt or jacket. For this reason, use race number magnets or a race number band. We also have race number bands in which you can take sports gels.
Must-have 10: sports watch / GPS watch
A marathon preparation and ultimately a good result during the marathon is not possible without a careful build-up. Of course, a training schedule is important with a variation of endurance runs, block training, interval training and a responsible build-up of the training load and kilometers. But how do you know if you are doing well? In order to be able to do your training efficiently and to be able to monitor the load, a heart rate monitor/GPS watch is an excellent tool.
