Last minute marathon checklist
Photo credit: Photo by Kristy May | Brady Crain demonstrates the jumping portion of the "Single Leg Jump" at Chelsea Piers.
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The 37th annual New York City Marathon is upon us, and it¹s time to run through your last-minute checklist to make sure you have what you need for a successful race. Mindy Solkin, the owner of the Upper West Side¹s Running Center, makes a few recommendations.
Running shoes "Don¹t wear new shoes the day of the race," advises Solkin. She also recommends running the marathon with shoes that have no more than 100 miles on them. Coach Mindy recommends: The right running shoe is different for every person, so take the time to find the right fit.ClothingRunning garments should all be made of a treated polyester material to "wick" sweat away from your body and out to the fabric, where it evaporates faster. "Never wear cotton," Solkin warns. "Cotton creates blisters that are formed from heat." Coach Mindy recommends: Sugoi's running line, Nike Dri-FIT Energy gels "Any time you¹re running more than one hour, you need a sports drink," says Solkin. She recommends PowerBar gels, which "assimilate into your muscles quicker." According to Solkin, PowerBar gel is only offered at Mile 18 during the marathon, so runners should carry extra gels.
Coach Mindy recommends: PowerBar Gel, Honey Stinger Energy Gel Balms Long disance running can create chaffing. To avoid abrasions, runners use balms. Apply the balm to the underarm area, as well as the inner-thigh and groin area. For men, there are NipGuards, self-adhesive cups worn over the nipple to prevent chaffing.Coach Mindy recommends: Mueller Runners Lube, BodyGlide, NipGuards
MP3 players ""That¹s a coach Mindy no-no," says Solkin. "Headphones are not permitted in my training sessions, because runners should tune into their bodies, not out." Besides, an MP3 player is just one additional bit of weight to carry with you for 26.2 miles. "Anyone who wears headphones is missing out on the atmosphere, the sounds of the crowd and the euphoria of the marathon," Solkin says.
Coach Mindy recommends: Instead of music, write your name on a strip of fabric and attach it to your running outfit. You¹ll hear the crowd screaming your name and cheering you on the entire race.
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