Motivation is on the rise! As is my distance, yet unfortunately, I cannot say the same for my speed. I’m still lagging, and quite disappointed about my lack of “oomph” (for lack of a better term) throughout my runs. Today, however, helped to increase my personal motivation meter.
The first day of March brought with it sunshine, warmer temperatures and a burst of springtime pep. I had a fantastic 45 minute run and felt great afterwards. I’ve switched over to my Mom’s prescribed training schedule, which focuses more heavily on spinning and weights, as opposed to strictly running.
With today’s newfound enthusiasm, I dragged my Dad into the Running Room for a proper analysis of what I will call, “the water bottle situation.” Here’s a little secret that I’m not too proud of: I’ve ran and trained for two half-marathons without purchasing a proper way to stay hydrated. Of course I have my water bottle while at the gym, or before and after my runs, but nothing for the entirety of a long, outdoor run. I’ve come to the realization that this is simply, unhealthy.
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| The Fuel Belt. |
Ready to change this fact, I asked the knowledgeable Running Room Sales Associate for the low-down on water bottle selection. Her recommendation? The fuel-belt. Basically, it’s a Velcro belt with mini water bottles spread evenly across your waistline. Even distribution of the bottles is supposed to alleviate any discomfort, and, according to the Sales Associate, you barely even know you are wearing it!
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| The Fanny Pack. |
Now, I have to be honest: it reminds me of a fanny pack. And, if there is one fashion faux pas that I cannot stand--it is a fanny pack. Images of a loud-printed canvas frontal pack trekking around amusement parks and carnivals, in the heat of summer, enter my mind. I realize that this is an unfair generalization and comparison, but I can’t help it: the fuel belt screams “FANNY PACK” in my mind.
I choose to keep this comparison to myself, as the Sales Associate continues. She proceeds to show me a full-size water bottle holder. Still a belt with a bottle, but it looks more like a regular belt with a water bottle secured on the small of your back. I try it on and immediately can tell that I will not be comfortable with a water bottle hanging off my back as I run. My only other option is a hand-held water bottle holder. I rule this option out, as I already carry my iPod, and that is just plenty.
So, as unfortunate as it is…it looks as if the fanny pack’s sister, the fuel belt, is the route to go. However, I guarantee that I will retract my words of disdain for the fuel belt once I see the benefits of proper hydration.
Happy Running!
