As an individual starts spreading their wings when it comes to the sport of running, their needs evolve and with it the gear they require. This is why modular waist packs like the Maxpedition waist pouch or the Runlite hydration belt series are good gear choices if you see yourself continuing with the sport for years to come.

In the beginning running requires few items to start, a good pair of running shoes, apparel that keeps you cool and as dry as possible, good quality socks and a simple runners waist pouch to keep keys, some cash and liquid hydration. You don’t need a lot when you are a novice runner simply because your training sessions are not very long. Usually a beginner will run an hour per session several times a week. During this phase some runners don’t even bother with bringing their own drink but prefer to drink after the workout or at water fountains they may pass. Modular waist pack designs like the M1 and M2 starter models Maxpedition Waist Pouch are able to cater to these simple needs. For Amphipod the Runlite hydration belt or pack is a great basic waist pack for beginners.
 

Later as your running sessions lengthen and you start experimenting with the types of places you run in, you will start to need more equipment and in turn more space to stow them in. These modular system waist packs afford you the option of expanding their capacity by adding accessories to the main unit. For the Runlite hydration belt or packs you can odd docking stations where you can snap on extra flasks for added liquids on longer runs or snap pod modules to store energy bars, phones, keys and other personal effects. The Maxpedition Waist Pouch on the other hand with its “snap and anchor” system is able to support additional water bottle holders as well as pouches for more storage space.

A runners waist pack is a necessary part of a runner’s gear. Not only does it provide a place to store essential items like car keys, a mobile phone, cash and the all important hydrating drink but if needed it can also hold an additional source of carbohydrates for those long training sessions.

Keep in mind that even if you do plan to bring extra sources of carbs on your run it is still ideal to eat 2 to 3 hours prior to your exercise session. Accordingly, if you run just one or two hours your body burns 30 to 60 grams of carbohydrates per hour. However if you run longer, then the number of grams of carbs per hour jumps to 60 to 90 grams every hour after the first two. You can calculate your carb needs accordingly. So what are ones options when it comes to carbohydrates that can fuel your body on the run?
So aside from the energy drinks we are all so familiar with, one of the alternatives for your carbohydrate needs are energy gels. These packets generally contain 22 to 29 carbohydrate grams from several sources which usually contain electrolytes. Experts advise that these gels be used in tandem with water so as to speed up the release of energy into your system. Another option that you can place in your runners waist pack is the energy chew. Some who do not like the consistency of energy gels use energy chews instead as its texture is more like small bite size chocolate pieces or similar to soft candy. Each bite usually has around 5 grams. Since you know the carb content per bite it is very simple to tailor your carb intake as per your needs. One of the oldest and the most common source of carbs are energy bars. These are still small enough to fit your runners waist pack and with around 20 to 40 grams of carbohydrates and a good helping of protein it can certainly keep hunger at bay. 
 

Before you go ahead and reach for that energy drink to put it in your runners waist pack you should dig a little deeper to verify whether or not these “performance enhancing” ingredients really work. You are after all paying extra for their supposed benefits and it would be a shame if it turns out to be another marketing hype.

With all the advertised dietary supplements in today’s energy drinks and more introduced every month or so are these newly discovered ingredients really worth your time and money?

Our first performance enhancing ingredient is Guarana. It is increasingly found in energy drinks due to its claims of enhancing physical performance and alertness. How does it do this? It is a rich source of caffeine and the temporary buzz individuals get from drinking beverages with Guarana can get the similar benefits from drinking coffee or soda with caffeine so in my opinion nothing really new or healthful from that ingredient. Next on our list is vitamin B. Once again a selling point for the energy drinks in many a runners waist pack. This vitamin helps in converting food to energy hence the manufacturer’s claims of their drink being an energy booster. Medical studies however show that only a vitamin B deficient person will benefit from additional doses of vitamin B. Regular supplementation has not shown to affect performance according to the Physician and Sports medicine journal. Another well known ingredient that has found its way in many products from beverages to cosmetics is Ginseng. Specialists however point out that not all Ginseng is created equal and that only Panax Ginseng provides the majority of benefit commonly advertised like increased stamina, energy and alertness. Also energy drinks usually contain too small an amount of Ginseng to make a difference.

So remember although it is tempting to stash these so called performance enhancing products in our runners waist pack it is always best to research a bit before investing in a bottle.
 

If you are an avid runner and you train during daylight hours then you’ll most likely have a pair of sunglasses tucked in your waist pack or you are already wearing them. Protecting your eyes from the sun by wearing sunglasses is like wearing sunscreen for your skin. We wear sunscreen to shield our skin from UV damage which can lead to skin cancer and sunglasses are used to prevent injury to the retina, cornea and lens that can cause cataracts among others. Using sunglasses during your run can also make your session safer since vision becomes crisper providing better view and reducing eye fatigue. These are the basic functions of our sunglasses. So if all sunglasses should have these minimum features why should we spend more for other brands? Could it be that not all pairs are created equal?

Generally sports eyewear are priced in excess of a $100 each brand with its own variation of “the best lens” or design for the job. Many models that are found in different waist packs already have lenses that are polarized to cut against glare from bodies of water, sand or desert rock like the Attack model from Native eyewear ($140). Other brands like the Smith V-Ti at $159 market their eyewear with specialized interchangeable lenses for specific situations. If you find the idea of changing lenses too much work mid-run then the Julbo Instinct at $110 has photochromatic lenses that changes tints automatically depending on the amount of light. If $100 is a bit too much of a commitment for you budget wise the Envy photochromatic glasses from Tifosi is just $60. Aside from the lenses the different types of frame designs have varied functions like protecting from side light, preventing heat buildup, fogging and other innovations. It also doesn’t hurt if the sunglasses you tuck in your waist pack makes you look cooler.
 

Runners and exercisers carrying running workouts and exercises outdoors have a special need of a perfect kind of waist pack for them. Such a waist pack for runners must be spacious enough to let runners keep their necessary requirement items and basic accessories with them in it.

Such waist packs for runners are especially designed with a pocket for water bottle and some small pockets are there in the waist pouches to keep tissues, keys and cell phones in them. The fanny packs are another kind of bag which is especially designed to facilitate runners, exercisers, and travelers as well.

Runners can have running water belts to facilitate them with the ability to drink water during running. Such running packs are a great way to let runners control their thirst and keep themselves away from the sunstrokes during exercises and workouts.

Hydration waist pack is also a great option for runners to let themselves run and experience the perfect running exercises without facing any dehydration issues at all. Such a facility also gives rise to the use of running waist pack to let them run conveniently.

These kinds of bags are always helpful and perfect for runners. Runners as well as exercisers can carry the running bag and waist bag to let them run comfortably. The complete accessories of runners are important as they let them have a comfortable running and have a series of comfortable exercises as well.

Runners have a great urge to keep their body in shape and in its perfect from. The use of such running packs has made their task easier and this is why running outdoors is now a convenient task for runners.

Runners are able to carry their basic accessories with them. Such accessories make it far easier for them to have their water bottles in the running waist packs and other basic necessities with them as well. The use of such packs is a great sort of ease for runners. This is why runners always choose to have these running backpacks with them throughout their running and exercise time periods.

When it comes to running there is always so much speculation about the things we need to bring in our runners waist pack namely hydration or energy drinks, energy bars and even a trusty GPRS. What used to be a relatively simple concept has turned into an explosion of products that causes more confusion than clarity.

Take energy drinks or what others now call hydration boosters, before you only needed to secure a container of water in your runners waist pack, a few odds and ends and you are on your way. Now there is a confusing array of energy drinks that cater to not only the type of run but also personal tastes. As a rule of thumb you do not really need an energy drink if you are running for an hour or less, for longer runs however these hydration boosters offer additional electrolytes and carbohydrates to help keep your body running more efficiently.

A no frills product for hydration is the Gatorade G2. At around $2 for a 250ml bottle it is an effective drink that replenishes electrolytes and rehydrates with 115mg of sodium, 30 mg of potassium and 7g of carbohydrates. At only 30 calories per bottle it is best for training or exercise session of an hour or less. Another straightforward product but this time for moderate or intense exercise or running is the GU Electrolyte brew for $25. The blueberry pomegranate flavored energy drink packs 140 calories and makes 21 oz. that has 50mg of potassium, 640 mg of sodium and 34g of carbohydrates. If post exercise soreness is an issue for you then the Cytomax performance enhanced drink at $3 per 591 ml bottle is up your alley. It boast the ingredient Alpha-L-Polylactate that not only provides energy at an accelerated rate but buffers lactic acid in muscles which helps lessen post exercise soreness. So for the best energy drink to store in your runners waist pack determine your needs and research the product and don’t’ forget the all important taste test.

Yes it’s true; your body temperature does considerably increase when participating in a physical activity. This means that our comfort level is compromised as compared to when we started running or rather when we were preparing for our run. Little details like preparation and what we should include in our runners waist packs to what we wear may have seemed trivial then but when your temperature has increased to about 20F hotter and discomfort has set in these seemingly insignificant details can really affect your performance as well as your enjoyment of your run.

One of the small adjustments you can make is to prepare in advance. I myself store some plastic water bottles in the freezer so that it keeps cool longer during my run and is able to better refresh me and cool me down. If that plan does not work well with you then adding an insulated chill jacket to your runners waist pack for your liquid container will keep it cold longer. Sunglasses are also a good item to store in your waist pack should certain areas in your run have too much sunlight. Remember to buy a pair styled specifically for running so as to prevent it from bouncing during the activity. Although it could represent a slight investment in your running attire performance tee shirts does increase comfort when running. Most are lightweight and feel like silky soft cotton as opposed to some bulky “hi-tech” designs that can increase discomfort as your temperature goes up. Performance tees like Thriv are very comfortable and wears like any regular T-shirt only better with anti-odor features, UPF 50+ protection and it feels cooler during your run as compared to standard apparel. So keep from overheating with these simple tips and adjustments you can make.   
 

Some people who are unfamiliar with running might not see a waist pack as legitimate gear for a runner but for those who take this form of exercise seriously, we know the importance of a running waist pack.

A majority of people when they think of running equipment will start and end with a good pair of running shoes. I know this was my initial assumption before I started a walking then running program to manage my weight. After consulting with my friends and a trainer however I realized that a running waist pack is also something that I needed not only for practical purposes but also for optimum performance.  
 

For practicality’s sake when running or walking you have to keep your arms free. This assists you in walking or running through balance and smooth movement. Unfortunately there are personal items that you have to carry with you when running whether it’s on a road or trail. Items like a water bottle, keys, a mobile phone, money etc. add up and using a conventional bag is not a good idea as this will hinder the movement of your arms.  This is where a running waist pack comes in handy. Since it hangs around your waist your hands are spared and the arms can swing freely when running or walking.  As more and more people have taken to walking and running as a form of exercise or as a way of relaxing or communing with nature waist pack designs have become increasingly more in-tune with the specific needs of runners. There are many equipment companies that manufacture waist packs and they have thought of designs to help us on our “running or walking” ways. Some packs have hooks for attaching equipment, special water bottle holders for easier hydration, and zippered compartments for personal items like keys, money and mobile phones. So gear up for running and grab a running waist pack today.

I started running as a form of exercise more than two years ago and one of the things I never leave home without is my Maxpedition waist pouch. As a girl who loves buying bags one would think that I would probably have several waist pouches by now by different manufacturers and of different styles and materials. In truth, even though I am forever pushing my boundaries as a runner and have lengthened my training sessions and included different terrains and a variety of activities like day hiking my Maxpedition waist pouch has proudly seen me through many running adventures. 

This capability of the maxpedition gear to grow with you is possible because they designed their waist packs to be modular. This means that you can combine your base unit like the M1 with other bags or accessories via their “snap and anchor” modular expansion system. So for example you can combine your waist packs with bigger backpacks when going hiking or camping. If you are running short distances then the M1, 2 waist packs will do but for extended running sessions you may need to add accessories which can carry more water or energy drinks to avoid dehydration. Accessories like the hook and loop 1L water bottle holder or the 12” x 5” bottle holder that can hold 750 ml of your favorite hydration booster. If you plan on hiking in rough out of the way terrain you may need a first aid kit and once again the designers thought of that scenario with the FR-1 pouch. All types of Maxpedition waist pouch are made of sturdy material and will definitely outlast most if not all other brands, I’ve had mine for a couple of years and the ends have not even frayed yet. These packs not only grow with you function wise but due to it being what the manufacturer calls “Hard use gear” I’ll keep you company for many an adventure.
 

If you are not into running or walking as a form of exercise but you have a friend or loved one that is, trying to figure out gift ideas for runners can make one feel absolutely clueless. More often than not non-runners think that the only equipment needed for these fitness activities is a pair of running shoes, luckily although the sport itself does not require a lot of equipment there are a couple of select items that will definitely brighten any runner’s day.

Whether you are buying a gift for a novice or someone who has been training for years waist packs are a definite necessity for this sport. This is one of the gift ideas for runners that they’ll surely keep using. Waist packs are used for carrying personal items whilst leaving the arms free to move. Keys, money, water bottles and mobile phones are the usual contents of these bags. They also come in a variety of designs which may include compartments for different items, loops to attach things to and special holders for water bottles. If your friend is into walking then gifting him or her with a conventional waist pack with a water bottle will meet their needs. If however he or she is more into running then a specialized hydration waist pack might be better. These are waist packs with a built in reservoir for liquids and a drinking tube with a bite valve that provides convenient access without having to tilt one’s head.

Another option for gift ideas for runners is a pair of sunglasses. When choosing, look for one that is not only lightweight but has the non-fogging feature. A good fit is also essential so that it will not slide or bounce off should the runner speed up. Polarized lenses are also a nice add on as they lessen surface glare.
 

If you have set your fitness goals to include training for an endurance sport then a runners waist pack or fanny pack as others call it is a necessity piece of equipment for your list. The reason behind this is that it is very important to stay hydrated during an extended run or training session. Optimum hydration is a requirement if you want your muscles to work at their maximum performance levels. If you have your provisions in your waist pack this ensures that you will not become dehydrated and you will not only increase your endurance but it decreases the time you will need to recover as well.

Before you start running be sure you have a runners waist pack that is big enough for your needs, a container for your drink and an electrolyte supplement or water. Other runners also bring additional provisions like an energy bar with them. It is imperative that you bring enough water or liquids with you, 6 to 8 ounces per every twenty minutes you spend running is a good estimate for you not to become dehydrated. Another anti-dehydration tip is that if you are planning to run for more than one hour professionals recommend that instead of drinking just water, you use an electrolyte replacement drink instead. You may also use chewable electrolyte additives to your water. When you have everything you need fill your pack and tighten it securely to your waist. It should be snug enough so it does not bounce when you run. The waist pack should stay in place so as not to cause you pain if it keeps bouncing and hitting certain parts of your body, not to mention it will distract you from the proper pace you set for running. So go ahead and have a safe and enjoyable running session with planning and a runners waist pack.  
 

If you are into running whether as a sport or as a form of exercise then you know how important staying hydrated is. As you know when you engage in this activity you lose not just fluids but electrolytes and nutrients through your sweat as well. This makes proper hydration even more critical and the reason why it is vital that one has a hydration system incorporated in their runners gear. One cannot however definitively prescribe a one size fits all runners waist pack or bottle belt for everyone, each individual will have to decide on what hydration system works best for them depending on the sweat levels, body composition and how rigorous their training is.

Years ago it was burdensome to carry liquids while on the run. Now, there are so many hydration models of systems to choose from that you can tailor fit it to your needs. There are essentially four types of hydration systems; runners waist pack, bottle belts, hand-held bottles and backpacks specially designed as a liquid reservoir of sorts.

If you have not come across a handheld bottle hydration system it is unlike the traditional round bottles, it is ergonomically shaped and has foam strap handles for comfort. Although they are simple to refill and use some runners do not feel comfortable holding something while running or working out. A runners waist pack can have a reservoir with a drinking tube built in or provisions or slots for securing bottles. A system such as this keeps your hands free and even has room for a couple of essentials like keys, money and a mobile phone. Still others prefer bottle belts which according to users give you the option to carry different types of liquids and distribute them evenly on the belt via several bottles. Last but not least are backpacks. Although the weight could be an issue since they are usually two to four pounds it can carry considerably more liquid and would be ideal for long trail runs in mountains due to its additional storage area for extra clothes, energy gels, a first aid kit, maps and other needs.
 

As an avid runner I had heard about the Maxpedition waist pouch but dismissed the thought of going out of my way to look at one since I assumed it was just another run of the mill brand just like all the waist and fanny packs on the market. I later had my first encounter with these waist packs when I accompanied my neighbor on a day hiking trip with his friends

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In my arsenal I have several waist pouches a.k.a. waist packs, the reason for this is that I use one which suits my needs at that time. There will be days when I just need a very small pack because I’ll only be running for a short period of time and other days I would need a bigger pack for longer running sessions. One of the things I noticed about the Maxpedition waist pouch is its versatility. It can be used by a diverse group of people from extreme sportsmen to outdoor professionals, the military, first aid workers and hobbyists. Why can so many people use it for so many functions? It has an innovative modular system. This means that a basic waist pack can be built upon or added to with their snap and anchor technology should the owner need more space or change functions. Aside from adding accessories to the packs to increase space and functionality like the Velcro cell phone carriers, flashlight holders and the like  it can also be snapped together or merged with other bags or back packs for a more organized system. It is also unlike other waist pack brands solidly made with abrasion and water resistant nylon materials, bartacked and stress point double stitching for added strength. The design of the Maxpedition waist pouch is also ergonomic maximizing comfort and utility.
 

I’m sure that with all the buzz these products have created advertising wise your curiosity has probably been tweeked enough to try at least one brand of energy gel. However with the multitude of choices available is it really practical to try each one just to find out which you’d prefer to carry in your runners waist pack when training? With this article you won’t need to because we’ve compiled our favorites to save you time and money.

Gels are often used during prolonged running since for the first 60 minutes if you topped up before the session then your reserves will sustain you. Usually each individual energy gel packet provides you with a 30 minute energy source. You can therefore start using the gel after the first hour if you feel your body needs it and for most long time runners 30 minutes before the end of your run. That means around 2 or 3 energy gel packets is the ideal number to store in your runners waist pack. Keep in mind that if you take in an energy drink during your run you are also replenishing your energy via that route as well so the use of energy gels will need to be lessened. 
 

As for the brands Powerbar power gel is a favorite among runners because of the taste, the good sized portion and its 110 calorie content. Although it can be a bit thick you can drink water to help it go down better. If you like strawberry then Aptonia energy jelly is for you. At a quarter the price of other brands this contains 78 calories per 30g sachet plus a shot of vitamin B1. For lovers of the banana EAS Energy gel has a pretty good banana flavor variant and all the components of a good quality energy gel. There are two servings per pack hence the container is resealable and it contains Taurine which is good for your muscles and heart. So the choice of which energy gel to place in your runners waist pack is of course yours just remember that like all things use them in moderation.
 

Summer is here and with the sun shining we are all headed for the outdoors. Unfortunately this year with the extreme temperature we are experiencing, its best to be prepared by keeping your runners waist pack equipped and taking a couple of extra precautions so you can continue to enjoy running without the health risk.

Whether you run to keep fit, lose weight or for pleasure it is a sport that can certainly test your endurance, more so if you run in the heat of the day during summer. The following are simple tips to help keep you comfortable while running during these hot summer days.
 

First and foremost respect the heat. If possible run during the cooler portions of the day and use light and loose running gear. If time constraints will not permit this then choose a path that is shady and or out of the sun. Some runners don’t notice how serious the heat is affecting them until it is too late so it is best to take precautions.
 

Next, avoid dehydration by making sure you have enough liquids in your runners waist pack. Calculate how much fluids you need by being aware of your sweat rate and take in around 6 to 8 ounces of water or a sports drink every 2 hours or so.    
 

Never underestimate the value of correct fitting shoes and socks. Do ensure that when you buy shoes for running you take notice of your foot length, your pronation and the height of your foot arch. All these details must contribute to the comfort of your shoe and no factor must be compromised in lieu of the other. I know that most of us would say “this will do” meaning it does not fit great but it fits ok. If you will be running long distances more so when the payment is hot then in time the ok will start to feel excruciating. Another tip about shoes is since feet swell during running buy shoes after working out or in the afternoon. 
 

There are a number of ways one can hydrate but still run fast with waist packs, handhelds, hydration backpacks and hydration belts. Running is not only a sport but a passion for many individuals and because of this passion; runners are motivated to better their skills and their stamina daily. There are however precautions that runners need to be mindful of and proper hydration should always be one of the top items in their list. If one is a runner though, he or she would be hesitant to stop their running session just to go to a water fountain. This is why in order train continuously hydration gear is a must for every runner; he or she can run fast with waist packs, hydration belts or other equipment without stopping for a water break.

With the proper gear, energy drinks or water can easily be stored and accessed so that runners need not go out of their way or stop their training whenever they need to hydrate. A good example of hydration gear worth their salt is the waist pack. There are many different models in the market that not only carry a bottle of liquid for hydration but also has pockets or pouches for necessary items like keys, a wallet, an energy bar, identification and other knick knacks.  A hydration belt is also another hydration option. These are belts where you are able to holster usually from 2 to 4 bottles at a time. These make the bottles easy to access as they are just holstered to the belt and not inside a pouch that you need to open. Generally if these belts do have a pocket for essentials it is nowhere as big as a waist pack and can possibly contain a key and a few bills. Some use hydration packs that looks like a backpack and has a convenient drinking tube so that your drink is easy to get to. It is however a bulky an is ideal for longer running sessions. Handheld bottles are also preferred by other runners but that means your hands are not as free as some would like more so when you are running fast.  
 

If you have a friend or family member who is a running enthusiast you might think that there is only a limited number of things you can give them during special occasions like Christmas or Birthdays, this is not true at all because there are a variety of runners gear that would make excellent gifts. This article is dedicated to giving you a nudge in the right direction when thinking of using runners gear as gifts.

Aside from shoes and apparel a runners waist pack or hydration pack is one of the other things a runner will be hard pressed to go without. Whether you are running on trails or roads I don’t think you can count on there being a water fountain or convenience store when you need a drink. As a rule of thumb if your friend or family member favors short sessions a runners waist pack will do but if he or she trains longer than a larger hydration pack may be a better choice. Another great runners gear gift is a speed and distance monitor. It can be a bit pricey but it really is handy if one is into real time feedback. Some monitors can track your speed, distance, time and effort. These kinds of data are able to help you maximize your workout or limit it to safer levels as the case may be.  Shades are also great gift ideas for runners. For those who prefer day time running this is a necessity more than a luxury. Some shades are designed to prevent lens fogging while others have polarized lenses that adjust to varied lighting conditions another convenient feature of some shades are the nose and temple pads that prevent the pair from slipping off while running. So choose from these runners gear as gifts ideas and I’m sure you’ll wow them with your insight into their beloved sport.  
 

There are several reasons why a number of individuals choose to run at night, for some they prefer the cooler temperature and relatively calmer atmosphere. Others run at night because it is the only time available for them, but whatever the reason one must be properly geared up for safety reasons. Recent statistics show that about 78,000 people were injured and almost 3,000 runners and pedestrians were killed due to vehicular collisions in the U.S. last year. Out of these 81,000 accidents 64% occurred in the dark. These numbers show the importance of proper evening running gear in order to be able to run safely.

A reflective waist pack, shirt or jacket a couple of years ago might not have been worn by mainstream runners due to limited availability as well as choices. Now however more brands carry goods with reflective qualities so it is easier to combine these pieces with regular items for safety as well as comfort and fashion.
Basic runners night gear should include some reflective material or clothing for your body. Some people choose to wear reflective vests over their regular clothing like those manufactured by Brooks and Nathan companies. In fact the Nathan streak reflective vest boasts visibility up to 1,200 feet away. In recent years however fashion has caught up with this sport and brands like IllumiNITE, Saucony, Addidas and others have been manufacturing shirts, jogging pants and jackets that reflect light for safer night running. Not to be outdone several Runners waist pack models have also been manufacture with night running in mind like the Nathan reflective waist pack and Camelbak Delaney Race Hydration waist pack. Both have reflective material and or components for better visibility at night.
Another factor of night running is not only being seen but being able to see as well, this is why a headlamp is a must if you don’t feel like using a handheld flashlight the whole time you are running. Another type of night running accessory is the LED arm and ankle safety bands. They are lightweight and can make you visible up to 1,200 feet away. Reflective caps, head bands and hats also increase your visibility and safety. So whichever combination you choose remember to run safe.
 

Whenever you envision a runner does he or she come with a runners waist pack? If you are a beginner or even if you have been running regularly for some time you might still be disinclined to the thought of using a waist pack or as others call it a fanny pack with you. This would probably mean that you are hydrating before and after your running session. Although experts laud the benefits of this approach it is also important to hydrate during a strenuous activity such as running.

Dehydration is usually defined as excessive loss of body fluids and its symptoms include nausea, weakness, dizziness and thirst. If left untreated then more serious incidences of dehydration may lead to chills, cramps as well as disorientation. The challenge would be if you are already in the middle of your run when a situation such as this hits you. If you have not made it a habit to use a runners waist pack to not only store personal belongings but also extra drinks then a simple issue of mild dehydration could turn into a more serious matter. These situations are more risky during the summer months when water loss is greater and if you run in a little used trail where the possibility of someone assisting you should dizziness and disorientation strike are slim. Even if you should argue that you only run for a round 30 minutes or so situations could come about that may necessitate the need for a drink to avoid dehydration like an increase in temperature or the terrain becoming more challenging due a change in the weather. There are many designs of a runners waist pack which are comfortable and will be able to ensure that you not only carry drinks to prevent dehydration but store other items you may need as well.
 

Waist packs are used for a variety of situations, some use waist packs for running, short hikes, walking and even as a handy carry-all while travelling. Wherever you are, these practical pouches offer a hands free way of bringing along personal necessities.
 
Waist packs or fanny packs as some call them should rest comfortably on the lower back (hence the name fanny pack) and has straps that are fastened at the front. The strap should be fastened snugly so that excess movement is minimized when involved in an activity but not so tight that it hinders movement. Due to the fact that many companies manufacture waist packs there are literally dozens of these bags on the market and most can adequately carry out their function, waist packs for running however do have slightly different requirements. Running enthusiasts explain that their waist packs bounce or jiggle more because the activity they perform is more rigorous than walking, hiking or sightseeing. Also the pack may need extra room as they usually carry more than one small water bottle when they train. As a tip, seasoned runners recommend that waist packs for running needs to have wider straps so that it will sit more comfortably even with the added weight of the liquid. If the belt has a bit of stretch in it then it clings more to its proper position without restricting movement or breathing. Another feature to look for is if it is shaped ergonomically. Packs designed this way are able to fit the natural shape of the body better as you will be able to fasten it securely and easily above the hips. Other packs aside from the front straps also have side straps for an even more secure and stable placement. Lastly, if you run at night then a pack with reflective materials is a logical extra precaution to take.

As the weather heats up waist packs are definitely handy as you’ll need liquids to prevent dehydration. For runners however waist packs that allow you to run fast without the pack bouncing up and down possibly hurting you is always an advantage. In hot weather when you are running you will lose along with fluids nutrients and electrolytes. These losses will put you on the road to dehydration. As a rule of thumb every 20 minutes you need to drink four to five ounces of liquid. Since we are losing electrolytes as well as liquids if the running session will take more than an hour then sipping a sports drink is that contains electrolytes and carbohydrates is best.

So aside from not bouncing up and down waist packs that allow you to run fast should permit you to freely swing your arms when running. If you sip every 30 minutes or so grabbing a water bottle every couple of minutes would be distracting. This is why newer waist packs specially designed for runners and hikers to keep their arms free now have a drinking tube attached to a built in water reservoir in the pack. An example of this type of pack is the Camelbak’s Alterra Hydration waist pack. Another great design strategy that minimizes bouncing is an elastic belt like the one in Brooks Waterboy Aid Station. This allows the runner to keep the pack firmly nestled on the runners lower back without tightening it to the point of discomfort. The waist packs that allow you to run fast are also ergonomically designed as they are made to fit comfortable and naturally at the runner’s lower back. Other waist packs also have an extra layer of foam that is sewn in so that the weight of the liquid does not feel uncomfortable when carried.
 

As you load up your runners waist pack with essentials, a curious question may come to mind, which would be a better drink to bring, water or a sports drink? Our waist packs or fanny packs hold a variety of necessary items for us when we go running but one of the most important contents would be our drink containers. Why so? Drinks not only help our thirsty selves but our performance as well. So loading drinks into your runners waist pack is a must, the question we should be asking is not just what’s the best drink to bring rather it is what is the best to bring when.

So where does one begin answering this question considering the variety of drinks that line grocery shelves these days? Sports nutritionists stress a runners need to make intelligent decisions about their choices of beverage based on their personal needs.  So let us look at our simplest choice which is water. Aside from the fact that it is readily available and less expensive the fact that it is free of calories still makes it a popular choice for those who run for weight loss. So when is it optimal to drink water? If you are running for around 30 minutes or perhaps walking about 3 miles then water is fine. An individual has stored energy enough for a 30 minute run without needing to replace electrolytes or replenish energy reserves. Your performance because of this fact will not be hindered by just drinking plain water. Sports drinks like Gatorade on the other hand are best for activities that will last more than 30 minutes. Usually sports beverages have present 6% to 8% concentration of carbohydrates, this is for faster absorption so that the stream of energy the runner needs will not be interrupted and performance is at its peak. They also include potassium and sodium, these are electrolytes that are vital for the proper retention of fluids and are usually depleted when sweating. Follow these simple guides the next time you load your runners waist pack for better running performance.  
 

I love gear, and since I started running as a form of exercise I have always been on the lookout for the perfect runners waist pack. Whenever I gravitate toward the specialty shops for sporting and hiking equipment I always marvel at the number of brands and styles offered in the market. With the range of features available, buyers have the tendency to confuse which features are essential and which are just nice to have. It would be a shame that you purchased a runners waist pack based on a nice to have feature only to realize while running that you needed the essential feature more. This article identifies essential features you will need in a waist pack.

How much content can it hold?
The perfect size is always determined by the certain factors, mainly length of running session and the area where you will be training. If you will be exercising for an hour or less than a smaller waist pack will suffice as you will not need to bring too much liquid for hydration. Also shorter funs mean that the area you will be in running in will be nearer your car or close to your home or office. It will not be necessary to bring emergency supplies like additional clothing, food or a complete first aid kit. If your run will be for a couple of hours and in a remote location then you will have to utilize a larger pack that can contain more liquids, a first aid pack, a jacket, energy bars, additional clothing a cellular phone and perhaps a gps device.

How does it fit and is it comfortable?
Is it ergonomically designed so that the fit is more natural ergo more comfortable? Does it have padded waist belts that may increase comfort? Is the belt made of material that has a bit of stretch so that it can hug your hips or waist better without restricting movement? Fit the pack before buying it and place some objects in it to simulate real use.

Can I use it for running in the evenings?
A runners waist pack having reflective properties is a nice to have for morning runners but for evening training it is a wise safety precaution so if you run at night make sure you have this feature.
 

I love exercising outdoors like power walking, running and day hiking. The only hitch to this love of mine is that unlike in the confines of a gym you don’t have a locker or a water cooler nearby. In situations such as this gear like a Maxipedition waist pouch comes in handy.

You are probably wondering why I would push for using a Maxipedition waist pouch or as it is better known waist pack rather than a run of the mill one you can probably buy in any sports or outdoor supplies store. First of all I am speaking from experience; I’ve bought a lot of waist packs and have realized that it needs to be made from sturdy materials. If you are going to be carrying drinks and personal items while running or hiking through rugged terrain a simple nylon waist pack will start unraveling at the seams before you even get used to wearing it. Maxpedition gear is constructed for use in extreme conditions so it is made to last, in fact because of its sturdy construction it is used by the police, outdoor professionals and the military. Another noteworthy characteristic of a Maxipedition waist pouch a.k.a. waist pack is its modular capability. Even if you start out with the smallest waist pouch the M2 you can add to it as your needs change. Designed into this line is the snap and anchor expansion system, this means you can add accessories like the bottle holder or pouches and pockets should you need to bring more supplies depending on the activity or duration. As an example the M2 waist pack is only a little bigger than a camera case and can fit your mobile phone, keys, a flashlight and utility knife. Great for short 30 minute power walks, however if you plan a longer workout you’ll definitely need to drink while walking so instead of buying a bigger waist pack like the M4 you can opt to buy bottle holder accessory.