Gifts for keeping the runners in your life warm and plugged in

With gyms closed during the pandemic, many took up running to relieve stress, get outdoors and fill up free time.

Here’s some gear to help new runners — as well as more seasoned ones — get the most out of their miles.

Runners need to fuel their bodies right to run their best race. “Running on Veggies” (Rodale) by Adidas nutrition coach and holistic health coach Lottie Bildirici dishes up more than 100 mostly plant-based recipes to maximize workouts and enhance nutrition to perform at peak levels. $22.99.

Winter runs are wet and chilly for many. CRAFT Sportswear’s long sleeve Active Extreme X Baselayer jersey keeps runners warm and dry, thanks to COOLMAX Air Technology and ergonomic, waffle-knitted design. $80.

For runners who like to move with music, nothing is more irritating than getting tangled up in earphone wires. MIFA’s wireless Bluetooth earbuds fit snugly inside the ears, offering great sound at the touch of a button. You get five hours of playing time on a single charge. $34.99.

Bundle up all you want, but if your neck and chin are exposed in cold conditions, you’re gonna feel it. Chase away those unwanted breezes with Smartwool’s 100 percent Merino wool neck gaiter. Its interlock knit provides maximum warmth with complete breathability, making it an essential winter accessory. $40.

Let’s face it: Most runners love metrics. Garmin’s Forerunner 645 Music GPS running watch measures everything from cadence, stride length and ground contact time to vertical oscillation. It also features Garmin Pay for contactless purchases and 500 songs’ worth of music storage. $450 at Pro Bike + Run locations in Robinson, North Park, Bethel Park and Monroeville.

Sure, you can carry your cellphone on a training run, but wouldn’t you rather clip it into your clothes? The Koala Clip hooks snugly onto your sports bar or waistband, freeing up your hands. It includes a pocket for cash or a credit card. $28.99 at Koalaclip.com.

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A general rule to follow when exercising in the cold is to work your way slowly into the exercises. Also, start with lower loads or intensity. (Dreamstime/TNS)
https://www.limaohio.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/54/2021/12/web1_LIFE-HEALTH-WINTER-EXERCISE-DMT-2-.jpgA general rule to follow when exercising in the cold is to work your way slowly into the exercises. Also, start with lower loads or intensity. (Dreamstime/TNS)

By Gretchen McKay

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette