My Third Marathon + My Running Must-Haves
At the end of last month, I ran my third marathon. Three marathons! In three years! It’s kind of hard to believe, but I guess it’s just kind of a thing I do now.
I always like to recap these big milestones here on the blog, partially because y’all often ask about it, and partially just for my own memory! I love being able to look back at previous posts about trips, accomplishments, and big life changes. So today, I’m sharing a quick recap of my third marathon, along with all of my favorite running gear. Because any runner (or exerciser, really) knows that having the right gear makes a huge difference.
My Third Marathon {The Texas Triple 2024}
Over Memorial Day Weekend, I ran in day one of the Texas Triple marathon in Dallas. I ran this race last year as well, and I loved it so much that I decided it needs to be a tradition. It’s a very small race, which I wasn’t sure about at first. But honestly? It’s perfect for me! It’s very casual and low-pressure, everyone who runs it is so nice, and it’s just so fun. I thought I would hate that the entire marathon is laps around a 3-ish mile lake, but there’s something so zen about running a loop on repeat. It’s so much more enjoyable than I thought it would be.
I found that with this marathon, I had far less nerves heading into it than I have in the past. I always get a ton of anxiety before I run any race, but I felt so calm this time around! The weather was beautiful and overcast (thank goodness), and I felt great for about 80% of the run. In my experience, the last 20% of a marathon feels like actual torture no matter what you do. It’s just science.
My only actual complaint about this race was that they were doing construction at the park where it was happening, so there was a detour. As a result, the course ended up being about a full mile longer than it needed to be. And let me tell you, when you hit 26.2 miles on your watch and then realize you’re nowhere near the finish line, it’s not fun. I wanted to cry. I might have actually cried a little. But, I survived it! I walked much of the last mile (because I just could not run anymore), but I finished it!
As of today, I haven’t decided if I’ll be doing another marathon or not. Every time I finish I swear it’s my last one! But for now, I’m just gonna enjoy the fact that I can call myself a three-time marathoner. It feels good!
I often get questions about the running gear I reach for most often. So before I wrap this up, I’m sharing some of my favorites!
My Must-Have Running Gear
- These muscle tanks are my go to for every single run during the warmer months. They’re loose and comfy, they keep me cool, and they’re so cute! I have a set of 5 and it’s almost the only thing I’ll wear in the spring and summer.
- I just recently got this belt and water bottles set after getting tired of constantly cleaning the bladder on my running vest. It stays in place great, and it’s comfortable. I still don’t love running with anything attached to me, but it gets the job done!
- I don’t even know how many pairs of these biker shorts with pockets I have at this point. It’s a lot. And I keep buying more! I wear them for every single run, and also for regular life, too. I can’t rave about them enough. They stay in place, don’t ride up, are comfortable, and are a great quality.
- The Brooks Ghost running shoes are my go-to for all of my long runs, and they have been for years. I love them and trust them, and my feet never hurt after a long run. These are the one shoe I’ve consistently re-purchased when they wear out!
- I always drink a big glass of water with some Liquid IV on longer run days. I notice a difference in how I feel the next day if I’m consistent with this. It keeps me hydrated and feeling good, and it tastes great, too.
- I really love this running light for runs when it’s still dark out. It is really lightweight and comfortable, doesn’t feel intrusive, and ensures cars can see me!
- When it’s too cool for my biker shorts, I reach for these capri-length leggings. I’ve had them for years and wear them around the house a lot, too. I also have the ankle-length version for colder runs!
- You’ve heard me talk about my favorite running socks a lot. I’m passionate about good running socks. because I learned the hard way what can happen if you don’t take it seriously. So many lost toenails! These are the most affordable running socks I’ve found and they do a great job.
- I think these are the best protein bars I’ve found – and I’ve tried a lot. I always do my long runs with a protein bar in my belt, and I have one of these after my run most other days. They’ve got a good amount of protein, they’re really low on sugar, and they taste great.
- If I’m running more than 10 miles or so, I always carry some Honey Stinger Energy Chews. I’m pretty picky about running snacks and can’t stand gels. I like the Honey Stinger waffles too, but they get so crumbly in my belt! These are perfect – they taste good and give a good burst of energy. They’re like a little treat that I dole out to myself at regular intervals to stay motivated!
- Another shoe I’ve been really happy with is my Altra running shoes. They’re comfy and durable, and are another brand that I’d happily re-purchase.
- After using the same sports bras for probably a decade, I recently upgrade to this set of sports bras and I’m loving it! They’re cute and comfy and hold up great on long runs.
- I’m obsessed with my Garmin Venu smart watch and I won’t run without it. It’s got a really simple interface (which I appreciate, I do not need my watch to do all sorts of crazy stuff), it holds a charge for a nice, long time, and it’s comfortable. I know many serious runners who had an Apple Watch and switched to a Garmin for their running!
- And finally, this reflective vest is another great option if you need something to stay visible and don’t want to wear a light. It’s really lightweight and comfortable, and you’ll forget you’re even wearing it!
related posts
You May Also Love…
- How I trained for my first marathon
- A recap of my running journey
- Here’s a peek at some of my running faves from a few years back (spoiler: many are still the same!)