Gear Archives

Marathon Pre-Race Checklist

February 17, 2026January 31, 2026

If you are preparing for your next marathon (Or your first ever!!!!), it may be a little daunting to remember what items you need to have for race day. It (no joke) can literally be the difference between a successful race or a run to forget. To help you get ready for the race, Team RunRun coach Chris Poole has made his Marathon Pre-Race Checklist that he shares with all his runners. This is the checklist of essential items to have ready to go so that you can have a successful race, make it out with a smile on your face, and run a brand new PR! He even links a couple of his favorite key items he uses!

Marathon Pre-Race Checklist: Morning of the Race

✅ Running Shoes: These should be the shoes that you have been training in for the entire training block! Whether it is a trusty pair of trainers, or your favorite pair of carbon plated racers, make sure that you have those ready to go! Don’t wear a brand new pair of shoes for race day. Make sure at the very least, you have a few runs in them prior to race day. Wearing brand new shoes on race day can potentially lead you to injuries.

✅ Race Bib/Safety chips: I always prefer to get my race bib and safety pins out and affixed to my racing top the night before the big day. Unless you’re planning on securing the race bib to your skin (Like this guy!), make sure you pin your race bib to your race top the night before!

✅ Running Top: I highly recommend any dri fit/moisture wicking top that is breathable and will help with wicking sweat. I always run in a sleeveless singlet, but any sleeve length of a racing top will do! I do not recommend any cotton material, as they will get heavy and retain sweat.

✅ Running Bottom: Opt for tights, shorts, or running pants that you find comfortable. Moisture wicking/dri fit clothes will serve you best! Bike Shorts or half tights/full tights are best suited for minimizing chafing.

✅ Running socks: Nothing I love more than a fresh pair of running socks before a marathon! Proper socks will help prevent blisters and feet discomfort, which can be quite troublesome in the latter parts of the race. Personally, I always have a fresh pair of these Blister Resist socks from Balega ready to go with my racing gear.

✅ Hydration/Fuel/electrolytes/ gels: This is by far one of the most important things to have ready to go. Lay out your gels and any other fuel/electrolytes next to your race gear. Make sure you have had some practice with your gels and other fuel prior to race day. The last thing you will want is to have GI discomfort due to not taking the right fuel for you. Make sure you have your water bottles (if you carry a belt or hand held) ready with your hydration of choice. I take it a step even further to pre-sort them to specific groups.

Most races will have hydration/fuel stations every 2-3 miles, so make sure to study what they will have on the course. If they have items that you regularly use , feel free to not pack those items with you for the race and pick them up at the aid stations. Otherwise, make sure you have what you need beforehand!

✅ Running Belt/pack: If you run with one, I would put it right next to your fuel and hydration before going to bed! Make sure you do a couple test runs prior to the race with your gear to test for any bouncing or potential discomfort. Make sure that it has enough space for you to store what you may need and want to carry.

✅ Hairband: You will get sweaty, make sure your hair is out of your hair if you need the help!

✅ Nip guards: This applies mainly to the male runners, but 26.2 miles will cause a lot of friction between your top and chest. Things can get bloody! Band aids will be the easiest item to buy for nip protection, but there are lightweight guards made specifically for exercise that are pretty neat and handy! These ones that I use are barely noticeable when I run!

A key item on your marathon pre-race checklist: nipple covers! — Don’t leave home without these!

✅ Vaseline: If you chafe in certain areas, make sure to lube up and get things ready to go to prevent the uncomfortable chafing!

✅ Smart watch/Phone (Make sure it is completely charged): I don’t run with a phone, but have a Garmin ForeRunner that I record all of my runs and races with and track my pace and distance on. I have forgotten to charge my watch before a few runs and have had the battery run out before I finish said runs. Luckily, I never have had it happen during a race, but I never put it to chance and make sure to put it on the charger the night before so that it is ready to go with a full charge!

Marathon pre-race checklist: have your watch charged and set to the data visuals that will help you run your best race! — Bonus points for a cute dog on your watch face 🙂

✅ Pre Race breakfast ready: Don’t wait until the morning to figure it out. Get everything prior to the race day! Don’t do anything different. Eat the foods you usually eat for breakfast before a run. Your body is used to routine, and will look to that before the race!

Marathon Pre-Race Checklist: Weather Dependent Items

✅ Rain Poncho or trash bag: I would recommend that if it is going to rain prior to or during the race, buy a cheap poncho or trash bag to wear at the start. You can then remove it when you want to in the race.

✅ Running jacket: If it is chilly, it might be good to have a breathable running jacket to have while you run. I do tend to get warm very quickly when running , so I would recommend only if you prefer to have that added warmth throughout the race!

✅ Sunglasses: If it is sunny, wear a pair of sunglasses! This will help to prevent squinting and make sure you are able to focus on the path ahead and not the sunlight in your eyes.

✅ Hat/Visor/Headband: If it is super sunny with no tree cover outside, a simple hat or visor can help keep you cool by keeping your face covered, sweat out of your eyes, and the sun off of your face!

✅ Running gloves: If it is chilly or freezing, gloves are absolutely a must have! Your hands can get cold very quickly, and can make it hard to take your gels or grab hydration from aid stations. A simple $1 pair of gloves will suffice and help you in the long run!

Post Race

✅ Recovery slides: Most recovery slides feel like cushions and pillows, and help provide relief from your feet and pressure relief on your joints. You will thank yourself for packing a pair!

✅ Change of clothes: Your clothes will stink! Changing clothes will not only help you smell better, feel refreshed, it also helps you decompress after the hard day!

✅ Wet wipes/Deodorant: If you don’t have access to a shower, wet wipes will do a great job of helping you feel refreshed and clean after you finish.

✅ Foam Roller: Even though you are done with quite possibly the hardest run ever, it is still important to take recovery measures if something feels off! If anything is bugging you like a strain or a sore muscle area, rolling out the affected area can help work those kinks out, and help aid in the recovery process.

✅ Money/card/drivers license: Time to party! If you haven’t picked up any race merch, now is the time! Make sure you have your license too, as often races will have beer/alcohol refreshments post race (If you are over 21). You just finished a marathon, now it is time to celebrate!

Chris is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about him or to work with him, check out his coach profile.

Norda Shoe Comparison

January 29, 2026January 26, 2026

by: TRR Coach Dandelion Dilluvio-Scott

Team RunRun Coach Dandelion tested and now shares her Norda shoe comparison. Dandelion is a coach, an adventurer, a gear expert, and an all around outdoor enthusiast – Enjoy!

Name of Gear:

Norda 001, 002 & 005

Where to Buy:

Nordarun.com, runningwarehouse.com & REI.com

Norda Shoe Comparison: 001, 002, and 005 — Left to Right: 001, 002 and 005

Best Use: What did you use this piece of gear of most? Roads, track, trails, long runs, post-run, workouts only, racing only?

Norda	001	002	005
Lugs	5mm	5mm	4mm
Stack	Heel 26mm Forefoot 21mm	Heel 19mm Forefoot 15mm	Heel 28.5mm Forefoot 21.5mm
Drop	5mm	4mm	7.0mm
Upper	Seamless Dyneema	Seamless Dyneema	Open weave Bio-Dyneema
Outsole	Vibram Litebase Megagrip Soleplate	Vibram Litebase Megagrip Soleplate	Vibram Megagrip Elite Soleplate
Weight (US 8W)	232g	219g	177g
Price	$285 USD	$295 USD	$325 USD
Intended Use	All-round ultra/trail running workhorse shoe	Ultra/trail Running shoe designed for especially technical, scrambly terrain	Ultra lite, race day, trail super shoe for ultra and sub-ultra distances

The Norda Shoe Comparison: 001, 002, 005

Norda 001: The 001 (recently replaced by the 001A) is the shoe I reach for when I will be traveling long distance on varied terrain. I have used this shoe in the desert many times and it performs well, but it really shines in alpine settings. The high cushion prevents fatigue over long distances in the mountains on both smooth and technical trails. If the adventure happens to take me off the beaten path and into the high country, I trust the soles to adhere to rocks of all kinds, edge on technical scrambles and secure me to low angle snow slopes if needed. Beyond being an all-round adventure shoe, the 001 is also an excellent race option. I wore two pairs of 001’s during Hardrock 100 in July 2025. Having a highly durable shoe that would hold up through the rugged terrain of the San Juans while remaining comfortable over the extended distance was my highest priority and the 001 checked every box.

Norda 002: The 001 performs well on scramble missions, but the 002 truly excels on rocky, technical terrain. With a lower stack height, the 002 provides better ground “feel” which allows the athlete to mauver with confidence through granite, limestone and sandstone even in slick conditions. I reach for the 002 when I am going on a short scramble adventure (less than 50K) or longer trips that are mostly off trail in rocky, alpine environments. It is important to note that the 002 is compatible with micro-spikes, but they will not work with traditional strap on crampons. A bit surprising for a shoe meant to tackle more remote environments.

Norda 005:

This shoe is incredibly light! When I first tried them on, I was blown away by the hardly-there feather weight. The lugs are not particularly aggressive, but the shoe somehow still performs well on techy, rock covered trails and butter-smooth single track alike. I have experienced no issues with construction or durability. However, the midsole foam has been noted to become compressed and a bit hard underfoot on outings exceeding 50 miles depending on the weight of the user. To stay on the safe side, I have not utilized the 005 for runs beyond the 50-mile distance because of this reported tendency. It is an outstanding trail “super shoe” option for races. I love using it during the back half of a 100 miler when I really appreciate something light on my tired feet.

The treads. Norda Shoe Comparison: 001, 002, 005 — Left to Right: 001, 002 and 005

Additional Sizing Comments:

The website suggests going a half size up from your typical running shoe and I agree with this recommendation. I typically wear size 8.5W and ordered size 9W. This was absolutely the right decision. The 9W fits like an 8.5W. Nordas are made accommodate a wide foot.

Comparison to Past Models:

The 002 and 005 Norda have not upgraded any of their models aside from the available colorways. Recently the 001 was promoted to the 001A which has an upgraded midsole.

Comparison to Other Brands:

Nordas fall into the high-end material & craftmanship running shoe category. In doing a Norda shoe comparison, the most comparable brand would be Speedland. Both shoes are highly durable and created with true artistry and attention to detail. Speedland’s main differences include a Michelin outsole, ripstop mesh upper, BOA fit system, cuttable lugs, water drain and a removeable outsole. I have put many miles on my Speedland GS shoes and love the ride especially on slickrock and desert terrain. However, I believe the Nordas are superior in highly technical and rocky mountain environments especially where edging is required. I also prefer simple laces while scrambling over rocks and alpine landscapes over the BOA system. Though the BOA is excellent in a race scenario I worry that off-trail I could bang the mechanism against a rock and damage it leaving me with a shoe that cannot be tightened. Finally, Dyneema seems to better shed mud than the ripstop mesh of the Speedlands.

Norda shoes: 001, 002, and 005 — Left to Right: 001, 002 and 005

Durability:

Overall, all the shoe models are extremely durable. I have put over 300 miles on each model and they are still in working order with plenty of life left. My two sets of my 001s showed minimal lug wear even after traveling over highly technical terrain featuring lots of scree, talus and boulders in Hardrock 100 and the Wind River Range. However, my 002 upper collar experienced wear and holes after about 150 miles (see picture) which I found disappointing as they are the scramble specific model. So far, my 002s have not been compromised by this blemish though.

Changes for the next model:

I’d like to see some more durability added to the shoe collar of the 002. This shoe is meant to be used in highly technical/rocky terrain and I expected a bit more abrasion resistance.

The True Test If your friend were looking for a piece of gear in this category, would you recommend they buy it and/or would you give this as a gift to that friend because you like it so much? Would there be something else you recommend they get instead because this gear doesn’t fit their needs?

After doing this Norda shoe comparison, I think these are near perfect mountain running shoes and I highly recommend them for trail runners; especially folks who regularly take on gnarly alpine routes.

Dandelion Dilluvio-Scott is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about her or to work with her, check out her coach profile.

Winter Training: How to Stay Motivated and Prepared

December 6, 2025

For runners in the northern hemisphere, winter training brings its own challenges: decreased sunlight, cold, as well as the misery of getting on the treadmill “dread mill”, to name a few. Read on for some tips and techniques to rekindle your motivation to keep going or get back on the bus!

*A running group training together in winter.*

Motivation Tips for Winter Training:

1. Find a run group to join for winter training.

A running group can not only increase safety with the shorter, darker winter days, but knowing others are waiting to run with you holds you accountable. Your group run offers you consistent motivation as you work towards your goals alongside other runners. They also offer additional benefits: reducing stress and improving mental health.

Having a target goal on the calendar can help you stay focused and committed to winter training, even in the cold.

3. Participating in a winter challenge.

Reach out to your local run club or start a challenge for yourself with some running friends. Setting smaller weekly challenges can make training for an upcoming race or maintaining fitness during the winter months more attainable. A small celebration at the end of the challenge, or even weekly, is a great reward and a good reason to get together with fellow runners.

Preparation Tips for Winter Training:

One easy way to make winter running miserable is to be ill prepared. Instead, before heading outdoors for your winter training run, double check you are ready.

A runner dressed for well for winter running in cold and snowy conditions.

Start slowly. If you aren’t used to winter running, starting with shorter exposures can help you become more comfortable with the different environments.
Double check the forecast. You don’t want any surprise changes in the forecast while you are out.
Share your plans. Decide a running route and let someone know. Above all, safety first!
Choose the time of day. Sunlight is limited, and daylight disappears fast, so make sure to have a headlamp and reflective gear if you are going to be out in the dark.
Dress appropriately. Choose clothing and shoes for the outdoors. Making sure you have appropriate layers of clothing – including base layers, hat, gloves – as well as shoes with good traction, will help make your running more enjoyable.
Most importantly, enjoy the fresh air!

Check out “Winter Running Tips and Tricks” for more specific information from a variety of TRR coaches.

Rebecca Holso is a coach with Team RunRun based in Rapid City, SD. She specializes in road races, helping athletes balance a busy life while working toward their personal goals.

Rethinking Women’s Sportswear

September 22, 2025

The Link Between Fit, Feel, and Faster Running

How well does your sportswear fit? Is it optimized for running economy, efficiency, and performance like the shoes you carefully researched and tested? No? I didn’t think so.

*A group of female runners at the track.*

When we think about performance in sport, our minds usually go straight to training, nutrition, or the latest piece of high-tech equipment. But one piece of the puzzle rarely gets the same attention — and it should. That piece is what women and girls wear to compete.

For decades, women’s sportswear was an afterthought: a smaller, pinker version of men’s gear. Yet the fit, feel, and design of apparel play a direct role in how athletes perform. Well-designed clothing supports the body’s mechanics, reduces distractions, and boosts confidence. In contrast, poorly designed gear can do the opposite.

Even the biggest brands are waking up to this. In June 2025, the world watched Breaking4, Nike’s high-profile attempt to help Faith Kipyegon become the first woman to break the four-minute mile. Nike poured resources into every detail: pacing formations, weather conditions, super spikes — even Kipyegon’s clothing. The message was clear: marginal gains matter, and apparel is part of the equation.

This isn’t just about elites, though. Girls lining up at their first 5K, college athletes grinding through practice, and women at every level deserve sportswear designed for their bodies and their needs. It’s time to rethink women’s sportswear.

How the Right Fit Impacts the Body

It’s easy to dismiss fit as “just comfort.” But science shows it’s much more. A 2024 study led by Kipp and et al., titled Sports Bra Restriction on Respiratory Mechanics during Exercise, found that the tightness of a sports bra’s underband can actually compromise breathing.

*Two different sports bra types and their features.*

Nine highly trained female runners performed hard running sessions wearing loose, self-selected, and tight-fitting sports bras. The tighter bras increased the work of breathing, changed breathing patterns (more rapid breaths, smaller tidal volumes), and even raised oxygen cost during steady-state running.

Loosening the underband reduced the energy cost of breathing and allowed deeper, more efficient breaths — essentially improving running economy.

A 2025 follow-up study echoed these findings: women experienced less respiratory muscle fatigue, better ventilation coordination, and lower perceived breathlessness in looser underbands during high-intensity running.

Bottom line: a “supportive” sports bra that feels restrictive may actually be draining your performance.

How the Right Fit Impacts the Mind

Clothing affects not only how our bodies move, but how our minds focus. Research published in Psychonomic Bulletin & Review shows that tight and revealing athletic clothing can shift women’s attention toward their bodies and away from the task at hand.

In that study, women wearing tight and revealing clothes moved more slowly and less consistently on a motor performance task than those in loose, concealing clothes. The researchers suggest that “body monitoring” — being hyper-aware of how you look — diverts mental energy from performance.

This dynamic is especially relevant in sport, where women and girls are often aware of being watched and judged on appearance. Gear that feels comfortable and unobtrusive lets athletes focus on the movement, the skill, the game — not on self-consciousness.

How Paradis Sport are rethinking women's sportwear, starting with performance underwear. — *How Paradis Sport are rethinking women’s sportwear, starting with performance underwear.*

Why the First Layer Counts

Sports bras usually get the spotlight, but the first layer matters too. Poorly designed underwear can chafe, shift, and distract — especially during high-impact movement.

A brand that’s doing it right here, rethinking women’s sportswear from the ground up, is Paradis Sport. Founded by and for women, Paradis Sport spent three years and 17 prototypes testing with 37 elite and professional athletes to create performance underwear that stays put, resists chafing, and feels invisible. No itchy tags. No harsh chemicals. And absolutely no distractions.

Elite runners and TRR coaches, Ruby Wyles and Hillary Allen, are singing Paradis’ praises. After years of trying brands that fell short — most designed by men or as an afterthought in a big product line — I (Ruby) finally found Paradis Sport. Their underwear performed so well during my runs and races that I barely noticed it was there. That’s the point.

This post is not sponsored by Paradis Sport, but TRR members can save 20% with the code listed on the TRR Community Discounts page.

Time to Raise the Standard

The science is clear: the right apparel can improve breathing efficiency, movement economy, focus, and confidence. However, the wrong apparel can quietly sabotage all of it.

From sports bras that support respiration to underwear that actually stays in place, brands have a chance — and a responsibility — to design gear for women’s bodies, not just shrink down men’s.

Nike’s Breaking4 project showed the world that every detail counts. For millions of women and girls, the right sportwear might not be a marginal gain at all — it might be transformative.

Nike design team custom fitting apparel for Faith Kipyegon's Breaking 4. PC: Nike — Nike design team custom fitting apparel for Faith Kipyegon’s *Breaking 4*. PC: Nike

Your Move

As athletes, coaches, parents, and consumers, we can push for change. Support brands that are rethinking women’s sportswear and prioritizing their needs. Share feedback. Celebrate companies leading the way.

Because when apparel fits right, women can focus on what matters: breaking barriers, reaching goals, and enjoying the sports they love.

Ruby Wyles is a coach with Team RunRun based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She is most fulfilled by helping athletes overcome limiting beliefs with joy. Ruby is also a proud science nerd, and advocate for athletes’ mental and physical health.

UltrAspire Legacy 3.0 Race Vest Review

August 29, 2025

For durable, comfortable way to carry what you need for trail adventures, the UltrAspire Legacy 3.0 Race Vest could be the perfect answer!

Gear Category: Hydration (Vests/Belts/Bottles)

Name of Gear: UltrAspire Legacy 3.0 Race Vest

Typical Price: $120

Where to Buy: Running Warehouse or directly from UltrAspire

*TRR Coach Dandelion Dilluvio-Scott trail running with her UltrAspire Legacy 3.0 Race Vest.*

Best Use:

The UltrAspire Legacy 3.0 Race Vest is a great option for road and trail runs of any length. However, I think it really shines in 50+ mile ultra distance events and big adventure days in the mountains. Abundant storage space (10 liters) in both the main compartment and variety of easily accessible pockets make is possible to carry ample fuel, layers and safety gear needed for lengthy remote endeavors. If water is scarce on the route, the vest can accommodate a 2-liter bladder in addition to four bottles in front and two bottles in the back side pockets. With so many storage accommodation options, you can easily customize and configure the vest to best suite your personal needs.

Personal Experiences:

The Legacy 3.0 is my go-to vest for unsupported fast and light missions in the deep alpine. I can always fit everything I need (plus a few extras for safety) in this vest. For example, I venture into grizzly country often and the back side pockets happen to fit my bear spray perfectly. I also love that this vest not only features a traditional shock cord attachment for poles, but an ice axe carry attachment as well. This makes the Legacy 3.0 an ideal companion during early season alpine runs when steep snow travel is likely, or if my chosen route happens to cross a glacier or snowfield.

In the isolated and unforgiving terrain I often adventure in, my fitness and gear is frequently my only lifeline. My vest must, therefore, be as rugged as the landscape I traverse. No matter what the distance or how treacherous the terrain, I feel confident that the Legacy 3.0 will survive the journey with it’s robust build. Rewind to an early season adventure last summer, I returned with my shirt and jacket torn but my vest was completely unscathed. When I travel with the Legacy 3.0, I can focus on my footing and surroundings instead of on shielding my vest (and gear within). For me, these qualities make this vest the ideal choice for big adventures in backcountry.

*Behind view of the UltrAspire Legacy 3.0 Race Vest.*

Sizing:

One size fits most– and they mean it!

Additional Sizing Comments:

As a smaller female, I’m typically hesitant to purchase “one size fits all”. Many products of “one size” will, at worse, fit too loose and, at best, fit awkwardly. Impressively, this is not true of the Legacy 3.0 Race Vest. On me, it fits like it was made specially for my smaller frame. On the other hand, my husband, who is much larger than me, remarks that this same vest fits him like a glove too! It’s truly amazing the wide range of sizes this one vest can accommodate!

Comparison to Previous Models:

The UltrAspire Legacy 3.0 Race Vest has an updated wrap around for improved fit. The reservoir compartment now boasts the insulated UltrAcool sleeve to keep water cold during warm outings. Finally, the upgraded fabrics have durability, breathability, and comfort in mind. More durable, dual adjustable shoulder straps allow for you to run with heavier loads without the vest bouncing.

Comparison to Other Brands:

The Black Diamond Distance 8 is a similar sized adventure vest with durable material. However, I have found their product lacking in pockets and the fabric more abrasive. Salomon carries several vests similar in size too. Unfortunately, Salomon textiles, in my experience, don’t seem to stand the test of time, and the chafing can be unreal. Finally, both of these alternates are not one size fits most.

Durability:

*Front view of the UltrAspire Legacy 3.0 Race Vest.*

This vest has been with me on 300+ miles of adventures. Some of these outings were traditional trail runs, but most were big mountain outings. The vest scrapped up against rocks while scrambling, and was subjected to thick foliage while bushwhacking. It also carried my ice axe. Safe to say, I’ve put the UltrAspire Legacy 3.0 Race Vest to the test and it’s still like new, without even the slightest hint of fabric deterioration or a single tear.

Changes for the Next Model:

I’d like more color options (currently only available in black).

Yes, I think the UltrAspire Legacy 3.0 Race Vest is an outstanding adventure and race vest that would be a wonderful addition to any athlete’s quiver, especially if they are rough on their gear in the mountains. This is also a handy vest in a household where a vest is shared between several athletes since this one size really does fit most!

Keeping it Honest – Did You Get This Gear for Free?

Full disclosure, I am sponsored by UltrAspire, but used their products well before I had a relationship with the brand. I do not get anything from the company for leaving a positive review. I received this vest for free as a prototype before it was released.

For more vest reviews, check out Salomon Adv Skin 12 Set Hydration Vest Review

Dandelion Dilluvio-Scott is a multisport outdoor athlete, ultra-runner and certified coach. She is passionate about collaborating with driven athletes who love to explore, train and play outside.

ActivityTracker App Review

August 11, 2025

How the ActivityTracker app can help runners stay consistent and connected to their goals.

*ActivityTracker app screen on an Apple Watch.*

We are surrounded by distractions in our day-to-day life that can push fitness goals to the wayside: that’s where the ActivityTracker app comes in! Your personal accountability partner in your pocket, ActivityTracker helps you stay consistent and progressing towards your goals. Here’s how:

1. Real-Time Feedback

ActivityTracker uses your phone or Apple Watch to monitor your steps, distance, active minutes, and heart rate. The real-time feedback from the app can be particularly useful for those just starting out to understand their movement habits. Similarly for coaches, the app allows them to see a wide variety of their athletes’ metrics.

2. Visualizing Progress

Let’s be honest, tracking your progress over time can be motivating. Daily and weekly charts, monthly mileage goals, and habit streaks make fitness more tangible and rewarding. The ActivityTracker app is very user friendly, with a clean interface that makes tracking activities a breeze–even for those who are not very tech savvy!

3. Goal Setting and Accountability

You can set a variety of daily and weekly goals: steps, calorie targets, distance covered, and more. ActivityTracker also offers reminders to help you stay active. Personally, I think this feature is awesome–especially for those who are tied to a desk for work–prompting you to get up and move in order to stay on track with your goals.

*Screenshots from the ActivityTracker app.*

4. Workout Tracking

As the name “activity tracker” implies, you’re able to log your walks, runs, hikes, and bike rides with ease. The app seamlessly integrates with Apple Health and Apple Watch, as well as providing its own in-app tracking feature to collect workout data and log your fitness.

5. Injury Prevention Through ActivityTracker Trends

One of the most beneficial parts of the ActivityTracker app is the ability to see your trend data. By evaluating your workout history and trends, you can get a look at whether you might be under or overtraining. For example, you might notice a link between days you strength train and days you don’t hit your step count or distance goals. Or perhaps you see that after a rest day, your daily step count is through the roof!

Not only do you see activity patterns for the past few days and weeks, the app gives you trends over months and years! If you develop an injury, you can easily look back through your workouts and activity trends for the past weeks and months prior, allowing you to identify potential contributing factors. This may include jumps in weekly mileage or step count, additional training sessions, intensity increases, and more.

In addition, the historical trend data is also great for those who want to see their progress, providing a visual representation of where you started and how far you’ve come.

ActivityTracker App: Final Thoughts

To summarize, the ActivityTracker app isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present. It helps you stay engaged and motivated with your goals, and build momentum one day at a time. Whether you’re a casual walker or an avid runner, using the activity tracker could be the smartest way to stay in motion and keep the motivation to continue chasing big goals!

Compatible with both Apple and Android devices, you can check out the app here.

Jake Eckberg is a coach with Team RunRun based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He helps runners of all levels train for distances from the 5K to ultra marathon distances, through the pillars of consistency, growth, mental toughness, injury prevention, and recovery.

On Cloudsurfer 2 Shoe Review

May 16, 2025

Instagram advert for On's #SoftWins campaign featuring Elmo and the Cloudsurfer 2. PC: Instagram @on — *Instagram advert for On’s #SoftWins campaign featuring Elmo and the Cloudsurfer 2. PC: Instagram @on*

Well, well, well, I finally got to try a pair of On running shoes: the On Cloudsurfer 2. After seeing the On logo everywhere–in the mall, on various roads and running paths, on Rich Roll’s t-shirt–I finally got to see (well, feel) what all the Swiss fuss is about.

The On Cloudsurfer 2 is the main protagonist in On’s new #SoftWins campaign. This updated Cloudsurfer model has had a starring role in TV commercials alongside Roger Federer, Yared Neguse and Elmo. While I was under no impression that the On Cloudsurfer 2 would give me the footspeed of Yared or the hand-eye coordination of Federer, I was hoping the shoes would impart some Elmo-like whimsy into my daily runs.

On Cloudsurfer 2: A Brief Overview

The premium every day trainer in the On lineup, the Cloudsurfer 2 is a cushioned, neutral shoe designed with the everyday runner in mind. It’s $160 price tag places the Cloudsurfer 2 in the upper tier of the daily trainers, but a notch or two below other superfoam competitors. The midsole, made of On’s proprietary Helion superfoam, together with the computer-optimized outsole create a smooth, cushioned ride.

Did the On Cloudsurfer 2 deliver any of that long sought after running-whimsy? It’s time to find out!

Upper

On first impression, the On Cloudsurfer 2’s upper looks and feels heavy. While not overdone with overlays and plasticy patchwork, the mesh upper materials feel thick to the touch. However, once on the foot, the stretch of the mesh does a good job of forming to your foot shape, without feeling constricting. Breathability? Dialed for warm weather running. The upper has kept my feet from getting too warm on the run, although I also wear ultrathin lightweight socks with the Cloudsurfer. Better safe than overly sweaty feet!

*Kyle Fulmer modeling the On Cloudsurfer 2.*

Midsole

I had heard that previous On models were a bit stiff and rigid underfoot. With the new #softwins campaign, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. In my opinion, this midsole is neither overly stiff, nor overly soft. I have grown a bit annoyed with the uber-softness of the Hoka Clifton 9s, and so the responsive, but not overly “soft” transition of the On Cloudsurfer 2 was a welcome relief. Their signature CloudTec Phase cushioning, while not super obvious, allows for a smooth rocker like flow, while maintaining the advertised neutral ground feel.

Outsole

Side profile of the On Cloudsurfer 2, showcasing the outsole’s CloudTec system and upper design. PC: On website

After 50 miles, I am starting to see some very slight wear on the back of the sole. I am a heel striker, who tries his darndest to be a midfoot striker …one of these days! The rest of the outsole looks great. Word of warning, the CloudTec system does pick up rocks and debris if you’re jogging on gravel paths and trails (see picture to the right). It is definitely a road shoe, not an “all-rounder”. I usually mix in some dirt running on almost every outing, so I have to pay attention to not picking up any unwanted stones on the go.

Fit

True to size. I wear a US Men’s size 12.5, and the fit is spot on.

Weight

Weighing in at 314g for my US Men’s size 12.5, the On Cloudsurfer 2’s do not feel heavy. While they would not be my go-to for hard workout days, they are just fine for my daily miles, alongside random strides and intervals from time to time.

Weight comparison with my other daily trainers in the shoe cubby: (Again, for a US Men’s size 12.5)

On Cloudsurfer 2 – 314 grams
Hoka Clifton 9 – 294 grams
Nike Pegasus 40 – 341 grams (!!)

On Cloudsurfer 2: Overall Thoughts

In summary, I think On is very close to making a very fine daily trainer with the Cloudsurfer 2! With a minor tweak to the upper (thinner mesh materials), this shoe would be a standout. My usual barometer for shoe durability is upwards of 350-500 miles, and I hope this shoe can take me there. For daily running, I am more often than not gravitating to the On Cloudsurfer 2 over the other trainers listed above. Next up, I’ll look to try some of their trail offerings, since I saw some of those on the trail yesterday!

For more nitty gritty details and shoe technology, take a look here.

Kyle Fulmer is a coach with Team RunRun and our social media manager extraordinaire. He is an experienced trail and ultra coach and athlete based in Boulder, Colorado.

Should You Be Consuming Media While Running?

March 27, 2025

The curious case of the dead headphones and missing running mojo.

As a knowledge worker, I’m behind a computer screen consuming media for most of the day. It’s constant stimulation: DMs, email, meetings, phone calls, etc. Going out to run in the morning or at lunch is my way to free the body and the mind. I’m suddenly out of the chair, away from the dings and beeps, running free down the trails with time as the only constraint.

When running started to suck

I love this free feeling. It’s what drew me to running many years ago. A couple months ago, though, I found that feeling wasn’t there during the run, and I didn’t feel rejuvenated or empowered afterwards either. I couldn’t figure out why. Instead, I felt mentally exhausted, and it kept piling on day after day. The joy was disappearing. What was happening?

*Runner adjusting their headphones pre-run.*

The case of the dead headphones and missing mojo

Deep in a training block, taking a long retreat to reevaluate my perspective and purpose wasn’t really an option. Instead, I just kept trucking along like a rusty old robot in desperate need of something to light my soul. Then one day, I went to grab my headphones and realized I forgot to charge them. No big deal. I enjoy running without them, so I just decided to go.

The accidental solve

Arriving home an hour later, I could not tell you where I went or what I thought about. My mind was blank for the entire hour. I just settled into the grooves on the trail, went where my feet wanted to go, and came home with that old spark of freedom and clarity I used to have. Whoa! What happened? Was it the trail? Was it my energy that day? Some superfood or special supplement I had unknowingly taken?

Then it hit me. I had been using my runs to consume things, media to be specific, trying to “maximize my time”, caught in the productivity trap. Audiobooks, podcasts, phone calls, music. My mind was getting that dopamine stimulation all day long at work and now my runs, which had previously been a break, were part of the stimulation tornado too. I’d been sucked in.

Reclaiming running free

Realizing this, I started leaving the headphones at home, any expectations alongside them. I didn’t have anything planned to think about. I just ran and let my mind do whatever it wanted to do. Daydream? Sure. Brainstorm about work? Sure. Nothing? Sure. My runs were once again my mind’s playground, and I felt energized and free.

Media while running: In or out? Or can a happy balance be found?

I’ve always been someone who takes big pendulum shifts of change in my life. That cheesy pizza last night upset my stomach, so today I’m cutting out dairy completely. Terrible choice by the way, pizza is magical for runners, dairy too. I’ve come a long way in realizing that I need gradual change not drastic change. This experience also fell into that category.

It was drastic at first. No media while running. But now, I’m in a much better place. I still don’t do podcasts or audiobooks, but I did reintroduce music. Anything that enhances, not detracts, from the running experience is what I’m looking for. Cue Bertha by the Grateful Dead for an easy trail run. I’m looking for a way to escape the noise, the stimulation, and business of modern life. I’m looking for the pure form of something, something that connects me to nature, to myself, and makes me feel whole afterwards. If music enhances that, then plug me in.

*Runner logging some miles without consuming media.*

How to reevaluate your own media while running relationship

As a coach and runner, I’m always looking to fulfill mind, body, and spirit: the holistic running experience. I want to set myself and my athletes up for long-term success and enjoyment in the sport. As I look back at this experience with media while running, I realize that sometimes you just need to reevaluate what you’re doing and why. I don’t want to lose the joy and freedom I find in running. When that joy and freedom disappeared, it was a big red flag for me. Both my performance and my mental health suffered. If you’re feeling this way, take account of how you’re treating your mind during runs. Are you giving it the space it needs? Are the things you’re doing during your runs serving you or hindering you?

For me, I needed to reclaim that calming space that running gives me. I’m a more free and peaceful version of myself on and off the trail by giving my brain some time to just be, without the headphones. If you’re the opposite and find that consuming media truly adds to your running and life, great, keep going! Figuring out how you want to feel before, during, and after running can start with you asking yourself “what’s here for me today?”. Or, as in my case, with forgetting to charge your headphones and involuntarily reclaiming the calm, peace, and simplicity of a daily run and realizing what you’ve been missing all along.

Ryan Williams is a parent, proud dog dad, athlete and coach who believes running is a metaphor for life. He specializes in forming positive bonds with runners of all ages, distances, and abilities from couch-to-5k to ultramarathon.

Museum of Distance Running (MODR) Clothing Brand

March 2, 2025

The story of how one Team RunRunner, Jared Younger, is merging his love for running and fashion, with self-expression and creativity.

The first thing that probably springs to mind when you think of running gear is high-performance clothing, clothing designed for functionality rather than fashion. Jared Younger, founder of Museum of Distance Running (MODR), wasn’t satisfied. At the heart of MODR is a passion for self-expression and freedom, on the run and beyond. MODR is about more than fancy fabrics and stylish designs; it’s about using running gear to showcase one’s unique style. Jared has produced something genuinely original by fusing his personal passion for running, fashion, and art.

A t-shirt from Museum of Distance Running's first product release in 2024, known as "Exhibit 001". — *A t-shirt from Museum of Distance Running’s first product release in 2024, known as “Exhibit 001”.*

MODR: Solving the Problem with Most Running Brands

The story of Museum of Distance Running begins with Jared’s personal running experience. Coming from a background in design, especially apparel and fashion, Jared was always aware of the power of self-expression through what you wear. But as he began his running journey, he quickly realized that most running brands didn’t speak to his personal taste. “The running gear available at the time was mostly performance-driven. You’d put on your Asics or Nikes, then change into ‘real’ clothes afterward. I didn’t feel natural wearing the ‘running uniform,’” he explains.

Determined to solve this issue for himself, he started experimenting with running in vintage tees, soft 50/50 blends, and retro mesh hats. Eventually, the gear he wore for runs became the gear he wore when he wasn’t running—at coffee shops, or just hanging out. And that’s how MODR was born. “I pulled in my fashion and design references, creating pieces I wanted to wear,” Jared says. He wasn’t afraid for MODR to stand out, in fact, he welcomed the brand feeling “ left of center from mainstream running apparel”.

The name “Museum of Distance Running (MODR)” was born during Jared’s trip to Sweden visiting the Moderna Museet with his girlfriend in 2023. One painting in particular had “this infinite, cyclical quality that felt very reminiscent of life and my relationship to running” Jared recalls. “And that got the ball rolling in terms of using art references to make a [clothing] brand that lives in the world of design and art” in collaboration with what he felt was lacking in the running apparel space.

MODR Exhibit 003 hoodie (front) — MODR Exhibit 003 hoodie (reverse)

Fusing Running with Business and Creativity

Unsurprisingly, running and MODR are inexplicably intertwined, both being vehicles for freedom and self-expression. For Jared, “Running gives me space, and it frees me up, which is exactly what I want MODR to do. Like running, MODR has a casual tone that gives you space to lean into who you really are.”

The act of simply putting one foot in front of another offers him mental space to let his ideas flow freely, which often leads to new inspiration for his work. “Sometimes, that leads to ideas that go straight into the projects I’m working on. Other times, it’s just a way to clear my mind and let my thoughts wander.”

Early Wins and 1st Birthday Celebrations

As MODR celebrates its 1st birthday, Jared reflects on the brand’s high points so far and its immediate impact. “We launched in March 2024 with a collaboration with The Speed Project. The hats and shirts we did for them sold out in a day,” Jared recalls. “Nobody had even heard of us before, so that was extremely unexpected and exciting.”

*This staging accessory shows how every aspect of MODR is intentional and well-thought through.*

But even beyond the early success, Jared is simply grateful for the opportunity to create something that resonates with people, while staying completely true to himself. “I feel lucky that I get to do this,” he says. “When someone connects with what we’re doing, it’s such a rewarding feeling.”

The Difficulties of Establishing a Brand on Your Own

It’s never simple to build a brand, especially without a team or financial backing, but Jared is far from naive to the challenge. Jared and his business partner, Lucie Beatrix, are Museum of Distance Running, crafting the brand from scratch alongside their regular day jobs. “It’s a passion project for sure,” Jared acknowledges. “We aren’t in this to try to sell anybody anything. We don’t do marketing, which is convenient because we don’t even know how. But we are trying to create a world and perspective and find the people that relate to it.”

The focus on quality over quantity and staying true to their core values shines. Jared shares, “we’ve turned down a few collaboration opportunities because we are still building our world. We are looking for something that can stand on its own before trying to muddle our messaging.”

As idealistic as that sounds, the difficulties are real for these two young, emerging entrepreneurs. From clothing and web design, to managing taxes and accounting, the pair wear many hats. But Jared wouldn’t want it any other way. “Not having a boss and instead getting to build your own vision is a privilege. And when we see success, it makes it that much sweeter. Every person that wears MODR is greatly appreciated. We ship the orders out ourselves. We see your names, and we write notes to all our customers. The small scale makes everything very personal.”

Why Museum of Distance Running is Not a Performance Gear Brand

Establishing a running apparel brand isn’t an original idea; as running has exploded since the pandemic, many startups and indie brands have flocked to the space, hoping to capitalize on the growing trend. What sets MODR apart and, I believe, gives them staying power, is the depth of their vision and values. They’re not trying to sell to everyone or compete with the giants like Nike, and MODR proudly is not a performance brand.

Here’s Jared again: “Right now, with this running boom we have, we see a lot of emphasis on performance. We have amateurs training like pros. The science on nutrition, training methods, shoes, etc is readily accessible to all. We love this stuff, too. But we appreciate that running is also an expressive act. It’s performance art as much as performance. It’s a raw, gritty, and bold experience. So MODR is more interested in expressing that individuality and offering the freedom to do running your way, with a sense of personal style at the same time.”

Jared works to “create pieces that extend this perspective off the roads, letting you express this side of yourself whether you are running or going to a coffee shop. There are a ton of brands doing performance gear really well. And we cheer them on. But adding to that category isn’t what we are interested in. We are looking for a lifestyle expression.”

Team RunRun and the MODR Experience

Jared highlights how “the Team RunRun newsletter is filled with inspiring personal stories. All of us are doing this for our own reasons, and each person does running their own way. There are no rules to this. So those stories give me optimism that people are being intentional about how they are existing in the world, with goals and purpose. And I hope that everyone is doing it their way, embracing their uniqueness.” It is this spirit of running, the individual experiences each of us bond over, that MODR looks to embody in every piece they produce.

MODR's Exhibit 003 long sleeve tee — *MODR’s Exhibit 003 long sleeve tee*

When it comes down to it, Jared’s goal for MODR is simple: he wants people to feel confident, free, and excited when they wear the brand. Jared hopes MODR inspires others “to go against the grain and encourage them to find ways to express themselves.”

Upcoming Releases and Connecting with Museum of Distance Running

Extending the museum metaphor further, every collection release is an “exhibit”. Museum of Distance Running’s Exhibit 004 is in the works, alongside another special project that Jared is extremely excited about. Each exhibit is completely original with limited quantities, with sales run entirely through their website. Once it’s gone, it’s gone. No restocks. (Though hopefully the next exhibit is on the horizon!) There are still a few pieces from Exhibit 003 available here. Jared is kindly offering the Team RunRun community 10% off with code “TRR10”.

To ensure you don’t miss the release of Exhibit 004, and to get early access to new drops, consider subscribing to their email list on their website. And of course, give them a follow on Instagram @museumofdistancerunning to see MODR’s latest releases and more unique content.

by Ruby Wyles

This article is not sponsored by Museum of Distance Running (MODR) or compensated in any way by the brand. Instead, we wanted to share how one Team RunRunner, Jared Younger, is merging his love for running and fashion, with self-expression and creativity. He invites you to do the same.

The Gamification of Fitness: Can Wii Play Too?

February 18, 2025

The gamification of fitness is a trend that has been gaining popularity over the past couple decades with fitness video games and virtual leaderboards. More recently, we’ve seen the marriage of fitness games with VR technology, but it goes as far back as the Nintendo Wii’s Wii Fit and Wii Sports series. Likewise, the PlayStation and Xbox consoles of the era also had their own fitness series’, and newer models have continued to follow suit. But do these have a place in a fitness regimen? The answer might surprise you as we’ll seek to explain in the following article.

The gamification of fitness using virtual reality (VR) technology. PC: Victor Bordera/Stocksy — *The gamification of fitness using virtual reality (VR) technology.*
*PC: Victor Bordera/Stocksy*

For the Fun of the Games

For the average person, the gamification of fitness can be a powerful motivator and used to make exercise fun. If fitness isn’t enjoyable, people are far less likely to start or stick with it in the long term. People far and wide also love good healthy competition, whether online with players around the globe or with family and friends in the living room sitting next to them.

Woman doing the popular fitness game of "Wii Fit". PC: Emmanuel Dunand — *Woman doing the popular fitness game of “Wii Fit”.*
*PC: Emmanuel Dunand*

Popular fitness platforms like Peloton even have leaderboards affiliated with all their classes. Peloton have developed their own “video game mode” of riding called LaneBreak, where riders’ workouts are scored and ranked. Before starting, riders also get to choose between five difficulty levels, adding another common video game element to the experience. As explained on the Peloton Support site “along the track, you will encounter various objects, called Moments. Moments are based on the workout goals and intensity of the song and require different cadence/resistance or speed/incline values. Score points by hitting target metrics while in the Moment”. If Peloton had a crossover episode with Guitar Hero, that’s a fairly spot on assessment of LaneBreak, although you aren’t expected to press down on the pedals to the exact beat of the music for the entirety of a song.

Wii Would Like to Play!

On the classic Wii Fit, common key health metrics are also taken into account such as BMI. Believe it or not, actual research studies were conducted on the use of Wii Fit and similar fitness games. These exercise modalities showed merits in clinical settings and places such as nursing homes, where participation allows those unable to perform daily rigorous activity to still increase heart rate and improve overall health.

In a study of 30 individuals with multiple sclerosis, Wii Fit demonstrated benefits over a 7-week period. They each completed the same Wii Fit program consisting of yoga, balance, strength and aerobic training, 3 times per week. According to this 2011 article, researchers reported that “all physical assessment scores moved in a positive direction at 7 weeks, providing some indication that overall fitness levels improved” (Plow & Finlayson, 2011). Wii Fit received praise for it’s accessibility, meeting participants where they were at, no matter their functionality levels. In addition, it helped promote weight loss and weight loss self-monitoring while improving strength and balance through core stability training.

Do Fitness Games Have a Place in Athletes’ Training?

While it by no means should be a cornerstone of your fitness program, the gamification of fitness can be a useful tool for those looking for a little extra motivation (something that can be hard to come by in the winter months) or for a little variety in cross training. No matter how hard you Wii Fit, it can’t replace the specificity of training. As runners, the general principle is if you want to improve at running, you’ll need to run more. For many, having a race on the calendar provides plenty of motivation. However, if wanting to climb up a few more spots on the leaderboard, improve that high score or health metric motivates you to train consistently, use them!

TLDR: The Gamification of Fitness

Especially for newer runners or athletes, gamifying fitness can give purpose to the training and allow you to recognize the progress that you’re making. In essence, it can provide a gateway to fitness for the beginner. Whether it’s as that beginner runner’s first step, or as means to improve quality of life and health in clinical settings, these tools have a place in the world of fitness and are here to stay.

References

Peloton Support. (Retrieved 2025, February 10). Peloton Lanebreak. https://support.onepeloton.com/s/article/4428892792596-Peloton-Lanebreak?language=en_US

Plow, M., & Finlayson, M. (2011). Potential benefits of nintendo wii fit among people with multiple sclerosis: a longitudinal pilot study. International Journal of MS Care, 13(1), 21–30. https://doi.org/10.7224/1537-2073-13.1.21

Brian Comer is a coach with Team RunRun based out of Portland, Oregon. His goal is to help you grow as a runner and a person through consistent training.