Coach Tip - Shoes and Hydration

This week’s coaching tip is about the most important gear you will own this training season.  YOUR SHOES and YOUR HYDRATION SYSTEM!

Shoes
There’s a lot of advice out there…here’s what really matters.

1. Whether you are a runner or a walker you need to purchase excellent running shoes
2. The best shoe for you cannot be decided on by its color or even brand.  It may sound silly, but we guarantee you that buying a shoe for looks is a common mistake that new runners and athletic walkers make.  We promise you, you will not care what color shoes  you are wearing at mile 13 and beyond at your event!
3. What works for your cousin Bill won’t necessarily work for you.  There are hundreds of Different types of shoes out there…because there are many different types of feet and running/walking styles.  Make sure you get what’s best for you even if your best friend insists that his shoes are the best!
4.  Forget about the “flash” and “gadgetry” in shoes.  Buy shoes based upon proven technology that is meant for longer distances, not because they are “cool”.
5. Go to a running store to get your shoes. (Walkers, this means you, too!)  Your “Friends of Team in Training” list has running shoe stores in your area that will not only help you to get the right kind of shoe for you, but will also give you a discount!  They all have trained staff that will talk to you about your needs, measure your feet, watch you walk or run and recommend the best shoes.  Most of them also have a policy which allows you to return shoes within a certain amount of time if they don’t work for you.

Hydration System
Carrying a hydration system (even if it is just a water bottle) is MANDATORY for Team in Training athletes!!!!
Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of safe and effective training.  Your coaches make every effort to provide you supplemental fluids, however we cannot guarantee that you will have fluids when you want and need them.
More and more trails will not allow us to leave fluids unattended and often we cannot man multiple water stops.  Additionally, coolers have been stolen, emptied or used by other athletes, leaving our athletes without hydration.

Click Here to Download a PDF on various Hydration Systems.