The Reasons Why Athletes Are Using Running Bands

Athletes take their sports accessories seriously; from their sports equipment down to their last item of clothing. Everything is meticulously planned to avoid unexpected surprises in the middle of a competition. Part of this planning process also involves considering what to carry with them during the competitive event. Most athletes wouldn’t go anywhere without their cell phone. However, as phones get bigger, running with one strapped to your arm is becoming less pleasant.
What’s the alternative? Increasingly, athletes are using a running band to carry their essential items.

What are the benefits of a running band?

• More comfort
• Better space
• Easier to hydrate
• Phone access

1. Comfort
   A running band that sits on your hips allows you to exercise hands-free, and has been ergonomically designed for comfort. By that, we mean the belt should be lightweight, not bounce, and not cause chafing. Choosing a Neoprene fabric allows sweat to be drawn away from the body, and provides water protection for your essential items. Also, at the end of a long, hot, and sweaty event, you can simply throw the band into your washing machine.
2. Space
   You never know what weather or circumstances you are going to face during the event. Being prepared is important for ensuring a good run or a successful race. Here is a checklist of items you might want to consider putting in your running band:
   • ID
   • Cash
   • Credit cards
   • Keys
   • Cellphone
   • Sunblock
   • Sunglasses
   • Protection gels
   • Energy supplements such as energy gels or protein bars
   • Band-aids
   • Gauze
   • Tissues
   • Inhaler
   • Earphones
3. Hydration
   Serious athletes need to consider their fluid intake before, during, and after a long event. According to familydoctor.org, “Water regulates your body temperature and lubricates your joints. It also helps transport nutrients to give you energy and keep you healthy. If you’re not properly hydrated, your body can’t perform at its highest level. You may experience fatigue, muscle cramps, dizziness, or more serious symptoms.”  Athletes that take part in cross-country running, cycling, or skiing may not have frequent water stops at their disposal. To keep up with hydration and prevent dehydration, running belts that can also accommodate a runner’s water bottle are the ideal solution.
4. Phone access
   As smartphones have developed, they have become more and more a part of our daily routines, including our workout routines. There are now thousands of apps made just for the purpose of improving your workout or health. Some are even directly connected with fitness professionals such as trainers or nutritionists who can advise you along the course of your exercise journey.While you can definitely download one app for each of your workout needs, there are also plenty of multifunctional apps that can track progress, suggest variations on workout routines, provide motivation, and even give you extra energy with the right music. PCmag.com recommends Spotfiy as a great choice for this because for premium members, the app will find songs that match their running pace, so you never have to worry about a lull in your playlist ever again.

Whichever cell phone holder you pick for running or other fitness activities, make sure the workout belt for your phone is big enough to accommodate your plus-sized cell phone and provides sufficient protection for any trips and tumbles. Be sure it can hold whatever you need, but make sure it will not impede your workout.