What You Need to Know: Gear, Training Variations, Safety!

Alright, everyone, it’s time to get down to business! If you haven’t started to train for the Beast, now is the time to get serious. But first, what are you going to wear? As many ladies know, this is the first question that runs through my mind when there is an upcoming event, and the Beast on the Bay is no exception! What to wear when running an obstacle course is crucial for performance and enjoyment. Don’t sweat it (yet); I’ve got you covered with a list on the most important great when training and completing the Beast. 

#1 – Sweat Wicking: 

Your clothes are going to get wet! What will you be wearing?

     The number one piece of advice I’d give you is to make sure the clothes you wear are sweat wicking in order to get rid of as much moisture as possible. You will get wet during this race, so clothes that don’t get bogged down with water will prevent blisters and make for a more comfortable race. This doesn’t need to be expensive wear. Shop around – brands like C9 Champion from Target get the job done without breaking the bank!

 #2 – Compression and Protective

     Being that the Beast is an obstacle run, the challenging activities are going to ask a lot of you and your gear. Making sure it holds tight to your body not only makes running and jumping easier, but protects you from hard surfaces along the way! If you are planning on running the event in shorts, things like running compression socks help prevent shin splints and wear and tear on your legs.

#3 – The Right Shoes and Socks for the Job

Alicia will be trying the inov-8 race ultra. Do you have shoes ready?

     The Peninsula provides all sorts of terrain: sand, trails, pavement, and so much mud! The best footwear for the job needs to be a cross trainer. Shoes made for cement or road running are not going to cut it. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to choose the OCR shoes for you: https://obstaclecourse.training/the-ultimate-ocr-shoe-selection-guide/. I personally will be purchasing the inov-8 race ultra and testing it out!

I will update you on how the shoe performs in a later blog. Also, what goes on your foot first is just as important as the shoe! The socks you wear should be specific to running – they typically have an arch support and are made from a material that helps with moisture. Cotton may be the fabric of life, but not when you’re running through sludge!

#4 – Wear What You Know

     Since the race is in September, the weather at this point is a little up in the air. Wearing clothes you have trained in before will help you prevent time wasted on ill-fitting gear. Training in a variety of conditions not only get you ready for the race, but it teaches you what works in the heat, cold, and – dare I say – rain. You never know what the Beast will have in store for you, and the same goes for Erie’s weather. Start now trying out different brands and styles of clothing. Personally, I do not enjoy exercising in shorts and I learned from my first race that rubbed, raw thighs do not make for an enjoyable post-race work week!

The takeaway here is to make sure you train and race in clothes that make you comfortable, protect your body, and provide you with the stability necessary to defeat the Beast! Get to work on the right clothes because next week’s blog will be your first Beastly workout to get you physically ready for the Beast on the Bay!