Not to be overlooked are all the little things that make a difference. You can find a wide variety of gels and bars, insoles, and sunglasses at Fleet Feet Sports Berkeley. You can also check out our huge selection of performance socks, browse through books and magazines or check out the latest heart rate monitor or GPS unit.

Encouraging the New Runner

If you are encouraging someone to start running this Summer, or to train for their first marathon or ultra, accessories make a great gift and incentive:

• Bodyglide – the #1 accessory item to reduce chafing and blisters, a must have.
• Foam rollers and massage balls – work out the inevitable aches and pains and recover faster.
• Books and training logs – offer motivation, training advice and accountability. Check out The Courage to Start by John Bingham, a great motivational read from the Runner's World columnist.
• Heart rate monitors – from basic to high-tech, a heart rate monitor is one of the best training tools you can use.
• Hydration pack – not everyone has water fountains available for training, so a waist pack for your favorite beverage is a key item for staying hydrated.