by Cain Leathers
There are plenty of products nowadays, from waistband bags to over–the–shoulder packs, to help you carry along your nutrition while you are running. But sometimes during our runs, and especially in a race when every extra bit of weight counts, we find ourselves searching for creative ways to carry our nutrition without having to carry additional baggage (literally).
Here are 5 creative ways to help you store Gels while you run using the basic items that you already bring with you:
1. IN THE POCKET
Gels fit into nearly any pocket, this is pretty obvious. But did you know that the Gels can even be squeezed into the “key pocket” that comes with most bottoms? Just bend it, fold it, and store it until it’s time to use it. Elastic is your friend, so try to use pockets that are located near the waist band or lower back to keep your Gel packets from bouncing too much.
Don’t have pockets? Not a problem! Your waistband is the perfect place to store your Gels. To keep jostling and slippage at a minimum try storing them on the outsides of your hips or near your lower back.
2. PIN IT
Got some extra pins leftover from a recent race? Use a safety pin to attach your Gels to the inside of your waistband.
3. THE “HANDS ON” APPROACH
You can always just hold your Gels. The packets fit perfectly in the palm of your hand. If you want to give your hand a break, grab a rubber band or hair–tie to help keep the Gel in place.
4. HATS OFF TO YOU
Try using your hat for additional Gel storage. A little bit of duct tape can secure your gel on the hat’s brim, or if your hat has a little extra space (like a trucker hat), you can just put a loose Gel in there before putting the hat on your head.
5. BOTTLE IT UP
Screw the top tab of your Gel under the bottlecap. When it’s time to fuel, just rip the Gel off and enjoy!
Philadelphia Runner has a great assortment of Gels online, as well as other nutrition and hydration options. Continue your visit with us, or stop in to one of our 4 locations below.
PR Center City: 1711 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
PR University City: 3621 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
PR Manayunk: 4358 Main Street, Philadelphia, PA
PR Glen Mills: 505 Glen Eagle Square, Glen Mills, PA