What to get a runner for the New Year – 2023: coaching tips and specific items

Running Community Coach

Athletes are usually people who know what they want. So the first tip is to ask directly. The second is to make it a point to combine surprise and freedom of choice. The option of “useful little things”, which will never be superfluous, is also there. Let’s break it down in order.

It seems to me that nowadays the best gift is a certificate to a sports store. Perhaps the advice is banal, but this way you will be sure that your runner will choose what he needs. The item will actually work and bring pleasure.

But how to present it is a matter of creativity. You can come up with a beautiful decoration or give it together with something tasty and useful.

I also advise you to give goals and emotions. If you know that your runner has long wanted to take part in any start, give him a slot (participation in the race). Firstly, it will be a great motivation for him, because with a clear goal, it is much easier for us to train regularly. Secondly, you will give him unforgettable emotions, which will definitely be remembered for a lifetime.

Another option is to give the runner a training package with a professional coach, who will help to make a training plan, set the right technique, tips on how to recover between runs, nutrition and much more.

+ 10 ideas for professional and amateur

Conventionally, let’s divide our gifts into motivational and practical. In the first case it can be, for example, books about running. Also here we’ll include anything that inspires you to accomplish things. Especially if we are talking about serious plans. In this case, a person can be pleased and a calendar of upcoming races, and a special “medallion”, where you can later collect the results of participation in them. They can be universal or thematic – with running symbols.

If your runner is an amateur, he does not need systems for organizing medals. Bet on equipment and gadgets. A professional will be happy with all this too, but he or she may be more picky when it comes to technology and brands. This is where the tried-and-true option of asking a direct question comes in handy.

Among the practical little things to consider:

• a soft water bottle;
• a smartphone case for the arm;
• a belt pouch;
• a backpack-jacket (but this purchase will not be budget-friendly);
• insulated sports gloves (for winter running);
• neck buff;
• thermal underwear and/or thermal socks.