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My MdS Pack List

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(Though most of this is in my book, by the time the book hits the market on April 1st it will be too late for most 2018 MdS runners, so I've put this up here. Note: This version was written before I was at the MdS. I was happy with just about all my choices. But I posted a YouTube video with tips after I came back, just search for my name in YouTube and you'll find it.) Coach Timon gave me a weight limit. My backpack, without the marathon kit which is supplied by the race organizers at check-in, should not weigh more than 6.5 kg. Planning my gear This is an unbelievable target when you consider what needs to be included in that number: sleeping bag, clothing, headlamp, camera, personal and safety items, oh, and food. For a week. Essentially everything that I will require to survive 7 days in the Sahara Desert needs to be carried on my back, except for water. You have to weigh the pros and cons. Do I really need that extra pair of shorts? A pillow? Mattress?...
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Six Ways to Battle the Blister! ...Plus lacing techniques

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These are my feet after the third day running through the 70C sand of the Moroccan Sahara Desert. Could the blisters have been avoided with proper foot care, shoes and socks? Probably not. But most of us don’t run regularly in such adverse conditions so there is a lot we can do to avoid a ‘worst case’ scenario. What actually causes blisters? Blisters on the feet are typically caused by friction between your skin and your sock. Running shoes that are ill-fitting, laces tied too tight, too loose or not optimally tied for your unique foot structure can cause blisters. Sharp seams in the shoes, wrinkled socks or ill-fitting insoles can also be the culprit. Then if the skin is irritated by rubbing for a long period of time, fluid will collect under the skin, forming a blister. Six basic precautions that should be taken to prevent foot blisters from forming while running: 1. Shoe Fit: As the saying goes… “If the shoe fits, wear it”. Proper shoe fit is critical. Since your feet ...
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Do you NEED to wear trail-running clothes for your off-road runs?

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Somewhere over Chamonix, France Of course not, you can certainly wear any old running gear for your trail runs, but clothing designed specifically for trail running may provide benefits you never knew you were missing. Specific design features, plus cuts and fabrics catered to trail running, can make your experience off-road more comfortable than ever. But first you need to consider what your needs are. Do you run where it is hot and humid? Then light, quick-drying mesh fabrics may be best. Are you out with a backpack for hours or days? Then multi-functional gear that packs down small would be a priority. Here’s some tips what to look for: Pockets – pockets are a trail-worthy upgrade that allow you to stow things with easy accessibility from snacks to sunscreen, lip balm and, of course, trash. A designated pocket for trash that can be emptied at the next aid station is a smart idea as dropping a gel packet on the trail is not only an environmental concern but it can also come alo...
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