There’s a meme circulating saying that in your early 30s you’re either planning a wedding or training for a marathon. I’m doing the latter. With the marathon just three weeks away, I’ve been avoiding my friends’ training regimens in lieu of playing tennis, attending HIIT classes, and doing hot yoga. I’m still running, but only about 10 miles a week instead of the 40 miles I had anticipated. Well, good thing I still have some time.
Despite my unconventional training, I’ve found a few products that have been incredibly helpful. Below are some of my favorite training essentials under $50. These are affiliate links, so by purchasing through these links, you’re supporting Unpublished Alpha.
nutrition
Yes, you’ve probably heard about it from The Modern Wisdom Podcast, Tim Ferris show, etc. This drink mix keeps me hydrated before and after big cardio workouts. Raspberry, Watermelon, and Citrus are my top flavors. It’s a cleaner product than Liquid IV.
Honey Stinger Energy Gel (fruit punch)
This gel provides great energy during workouts. I take one every 30-45 minutes depending on the intensity.
A quick, easily digestible snack when I’m not in the mood for a gel (Assuming you don’t have a peanut allergy.)
I prefer the ones with 20mg of caffeine for an extra boost during long runs.
25g of protein per serving with 0g of added sugar, 0 artificial flavors and sweeteners. For those who prefer pea protein, which is can be easier on the stomach, I like Momentous Protein.
Runner’s high in a bottle! Take one or two during a race (or long training run) for a clean, natural energy source with no caffeine or sugar. In ketosis, your body burns fat for energy, producing ketones. Ketone-IQ provides these ketones directly, offering the benefits of ketosis—sustained energy and mental clarity—without needing a strict low-carb diet.
This is less than $5/serving, but you will definitely be spending more than $50 if you buy a pack.
gear
Essential for preventing chafing on long runs.
High-quality running socks are almost as important as shoes. Take them seriously. Balega ankle socks are a close second favorite.
Good ol’ mid-calf athletic socks, cheaper than the Feetures.
Easier to carry and store than a hat. Potentially more fashionable as well depending on your flow.
Polarized retro glasses that are ~85% less than a fairly comparable $195 Oakley Sutros. Great for running, cycling, and volleyball.
TRIWONDER Hydration Pack Backpack
This running backpack comes with two 8oz bottles. The only downside is the limited space for a phone in the front pocket, but it has pockets for easily accessible gels.
recovery
At $21 this is a lot for a piece of plastic, but is well worth it. A few minutes a day releases sore psoas muscles from sitting and inactivity
Icy Hot Max Strength Lidocaine Pain Relief Patch
Provides extra relief after a workout.
Recommended by Dustin Moskovitz on the Tim Ferriss podcast, this funny-looking tool is great and easy to use. Friends might make fun of you until they try it themselves.
My favorite way to stretch my IT bands.
Perfect for adding resistance to stair workouts or stretching during a Zoom call.
Easiest way to ice post-run.
Helps pre- and post-workout and is a mainstay on my desk chair. It has 6 settings of heat, but the hottest is really where it’s at.
Key to rolling out the feet or the back.
free tools
A 10-minute breathing routine that helps to invigorate the body and mind.
SIU (Suck It Up) Pills
David Goggins’ metaphorical pill for cultivating mental fortitude. By imaginarily ingesting these “pills,” one makes a conscious choice to confront and overcome pain, discomfort, and adversity rather than succumbing to them. This psychological technique serves as a powerful reminder of one’s inner strength and ability to persevere.
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