Training tools

For a long time, I cancelled my gym membership and got some of the best workouts of my life working out with the equipment listed below. A better workout for less money? Who wouldn’t want that. You really don’t need much and most of this equipment is totally portable. I keep most of it in the trunk of my car, so it’s always on hand.

Stop watch: This is essential if you are going to train for speed or to increase your endurance. There are some watches out there that will do everything but run the race for you. These are too confusing for me and I spend more time figuring them out when I could be running. I choose really cheap watches so that if I lose it or it breaks (one or the other always happens to me, particularly with a child) I won’t mind investing in a new one. I also look for models with few buttons. I just want it to start and stop and light up in dark conditions. This will mean that you have to do math to figure out your per-mile pace. I’ve found Target’s selection to be great and the right price, about $10. 

Mat: I keep a basic yoga mat in my trunk so that I can do core and floor stretches after a run. Go to TJ Maxx, Marshalls or Ross where they sell for $10 to $15 cheaper than a sporting good store. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Medicine ball: To intensify my core and leg workouts, I use a medicine ball. They come in 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 lb varieties. If you belong to a gym and are looking to intensify your workouts, try the various weights out. Most people who are ready for a ball start with a 4 pounder. They are expensive, though, about $25 from a sporting goods store, so think about getting them on Craigslist or Play It Again Sports in San Jose. Do not buy them online. They are expensive to ship. 

 Belt: I am the least limber person on the planet, so I use a belt to deepen my stretches. I think mine is about 100 years old and belonged to my dad.