Disclosure: I was provided a Hydration Belt and Compression Sleeves for this post.
I am not a runner.
Yes, you read that right… as I write about a race and running essentials. Not being a runner, is why I chose to make it my New Years Resolution to run (at least) once a month. Which shouldn’t be that hard in Colorado, with all the sunshine we get…or at least used to get. I started off great, ran 3 times in January, 2 times in February, 1 time in March… and then April got the best of me.
I made this my goal because I don’t like running, but I soooo badly want to. And even though I failed in April, I am not letting that be an excuse for quitting for the rest of the year. I am determined to (somewhat) like running! One mile at a time.
That being said, my husband has become quite the runner since moving into our new neighborhood. It helps that our new ‘hood came with a marathoner and a couple ultra marathoners. His main running neighbor (and friend) pushes his limits, motivates him and runs with him in the early, early mornings. They frequently find themselves running at 4 am in the middle of winter.
I am so proud of his dedication to his new healthy hobby. So when he signed up for the Bolder Boulder race, I did too. Just not as a runner. I signed up as an individual volunteer. And here is why…
So, I don’t like running, remember? But I know all about the runner’s high. I’ve heard all about races being these super fun, exciting, endorphin-filled events. And since I was not ready to run in one, what better way to be involved and experience it than being a volunteer? I could give back AND see what all the hype is about!
I was also hoping that being there would get me pumped about doing a race in the future… or at least get me on track for finishing my New Years Resolution for this year.
As a Bolder Boulder volunteer, my job was to be a part of the organization of the different start time – or “waves”. I held a rope and a sign with the start times. I also answered a lot of runner’s questions. It was an easy task, but very needed to keep the 52,000+ runners in order!
Volunteering for the Bolder Boulder was a fun and unique experience. I will say, the communication leading up to the event was a little disorganized… We all showed up and hadn’t a clue about what we were doing! Not to mention we showed up early just to sit around for 15 minutes… Then to top it off, we had more runners than ever, and less volunteers than ever… not good!
(Side note: I also just got finished reading an article about how Bolder Boulder didn’t have enough swag bags for all the runners at the end of the race. One Bolder Boulder leader was quoted as saying that it was due to the fact the volunteers gave out additional bags early on. WELL this really peeves me! Don’t blame the volunteers! They don’t even get paid! Who trains them? Ugh, makes me so mad! What a rude and easy target to blame!) Anyway…
(If you aren’t familiar with the Bolder Boulder race, find out all the deets on Bolder Boulder here)
5 Essentials for Runners
1. A Good Attitude
I know, this is not an physical item… but I am serious! This is the most important thing! Just because you are an endorphin-filled-runner doesn’t mean you are a nice person. In fact, I met a bunch of grouchy, complaining runners at Bolder Boulder. There was nothing to complain about! It was a gorgeous day, you are surrounded by amazing people and scenery, and you are alive! You have the ability to participate. You are healthy! There is so much to be thankful for, especially on race days.
Runner or not, never forget to be thankful.
2. Wrist Watch
Having a watch is handy for being able to time your run, meeting fellow runners at a certain time, for when you set a time to meet in a location and quit frankly so you know what time it is! Watches come in all shapes and sizes, and there are some really great ones out there that track all sorts of performance activity.
3. Hydration Running Belt
Hydration is key, especially on long runs! Most races have water stations, but if not – get yourself a Hydration Belt for Running. They are great for training. This Runners Belt includes 2 BPA-free water bottles, secure smartphone storage pocket and an adjustable waist strap.
4. Calf Compression Sleeves
Calf compression sleeves (or compression socks) help prevent shin splints, calf cramps and relieves leg pain. Check out these highly rated Physiofinity Calf Compression Sleeves. I’ve see plenty of runners using these!
5. Shoes, Clothes, Everything Else
Yes, I lumped these all together. Why? Because there is no way you would ever forget your shoes or clothes for a run. I feel like you’ve got that covered. But in case you didn’t, it’s still on the list.
Did you run the Bolder Boulder?
Did you volunteer for the Bolder Boulder?
What are your running essentials?