Equipment and Training Matter
One thing I’ve learned both personally and professionally is this; whatever you do, if you want to do it to the best of your ability, it helps to have the right equipment and the right training. Sure, there’s always an exception to the rule, but generally the right tools and training make your job easier and safer.
Take the sport of running. What started as power walking for a bit of exercise three years ago, has now turned into one of my greatest passions. Although I’m not a fast runner, I do enjoy participating in various types of races ranging from 5k, 10k, 5 & 10 milers, halves and I’ve even done a couple of full marathons.
Preparation is Essential
To do my best, the races require preparation including ongoing training as well as investing in the right gear.
The “right gear” includes shoes, socks, clothing, protective lighting, running apps, and if I so desire, a good headset and my favorite music on Pandora.
Here’s just some of what I use and recommend. Check out a post I did on gear every runner can use.
Sure, there are a few things I can do without but what I can’t do without can literally save my life.
Little did I realize when I got involved in running how important the right coaches and training classes would. The first year, I hired someone who got me on track. She was perfect for my first year. Since that time, I’ve read dozens of books, scoured blogs, talked to other runners and dug deep into whatever I can get my hands on to increase my knowledge base.
Training is Ongoing
Knowing I need to continually improve and stay the course, I recently registered for a training program focused on preparation for the Eugene Marathon in May, 2017. It is offered from Run Hub Northwest. http://runhubnw.com/
What struck my interest in Run Hub was when I received a gift certificate for Christmas for a new pair of running shoes. From what people were saying, Run Hub in Eugene has a very welcoming environment regardless of the skill level of the runner.
I liked this in that there is one store in Eugene that caters to the more elite runners and their staff has been known to “tolerate” those of us who are not, and never will be, elite runners. It’s actually very uncomfortable to go into the store due to the attitude. I’ve talked to other non-elite runners who have had the same experience.
Not willing to let this dissuade me, I have continued doing my own thing with running.
Although I’ve participated twice in the Eugene full marathon (26.2 miles), this year, I signed up for the half. My goal is to finish the half with no injuries and increase my time in order to hit my personal best.
To do this, I know how beneficial it is to have the right equipment and the right training. After researching my options, I didn’t hesitate to register for the program offered by Run Hub.
My decision was made easy when I did my online research followed by a call to their store. Dustin was more than helpful in answering my questions while assuring me my goals were realistic. When I told him my time and speed goals he felt confident I would achieve my outcome AND enjoy their program.
“You don’t need a coach,” a friend of mine said hen I told her I had signed up for the program. “You run all the time. You know what you’re doing,” she assured me.
“Actually, there’s a lot I don’t know and that’s why I’m doing this. If I want to get beyond where I’m currently at, I’m sure the Run Hub training with be instrumental in this,” I immediately responded.
What blew me away was what is included in the package I invested in. I got a heck of a lot more value than the $129 I invested.
- Individualized Training Plan
- Weekly Team E-Newsletter
- Supported Weekly Workout – Tues night 5:45 p.m.
- Supported Weekly Long Run – Saturday morning 8:30 a.m.
- Discount/Coupon for Gear
- Educational Speakers
- Pass to Recharge (1)
- Foam Rolling/Mobility Classes (5)
- Discount Code for Race Registration
- Team Tech T-Shirt provided by New Balance
- Team Socks provided by Balega
- Nutrition Sampler provided Generation UCAN
A Loyal Customer Is Born
As soon as I got off the phone with Dustin, I registered. That evening I headed into the store to get my new running shoes. I was immediately welcomed by Kirsten who took a real interest in my needs.
A young man heard me talking to Kirsten and asked, “Are you Kathleen Gage?” I smiled and nodded.
“I talked to you earlier today. We’re glad you’re here.”
Wow! I felt really special. I was so surprised with the personalized attention I received from several Run Hub team members. A very different experience than the other running store in town.
They really made me feel welcome and showed how much they value me as a person and a new customer.
What I’m most excited is knowing I can ask for advice and won’t be made to feel like a bozo because I’m not an elite runner.
Not once was I made to feel like I didn’t belong in their store. And best of all, I now feel like I have a community of people I can share a common passion with.
Regardless of what your passion is, it helps to get the support you need. Not only the support of the right training, but also the right gear. It will make your experience more pleasant and safer. When you have these two elements working in your favor, it just makes things a lot more fun.
If you’re in the Eugene area, you enjoy running and have thought of participating in the Eugene marathon, why not check out the Run Hub community. You’ll be glad you did.
Be sure to join the Passion For Thriving Facebook Group for Women of a Certain Age Who Live Living with Vibrancy and Passion.
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