One thing I know for sure-we runners do love our gear and gadgets! But did you know that there are some gifts which are super appropriate as we get older? Here’s my picks and I’ll tell you why…

(I’m not providing links to the items; prices vary constantly and I’d rather you found a bargain so it’s best you pop a search into google).

Cushioned Socks

A few months ago I decided to book a podiatry session for a bit of foot pampering. I’d glanced down one day and was shocked to see my own feet looking like a couple of old potatoes, streaked dirty brown and studded with ingrained grit.

As I told the podiatrist that I was a runner, I realised that it was the first time I’d ever actually said that to anyone.

‘Well then, it’s really important to look after your feet,’ she said.

Was I being scolded?

I was preparing to leave when she said something that had never crossed my mind. She flicked her eyes over my face.

‘Remember, your feet age just like your face does. Thinner skin, looser muscles and less padding.’

I wanted to hide under a towel.

‘So, as you’re running, buy good socks. Cushioned ones.’

And that’s how I ended up spending thirty quid on a couple of pairs of socks.

I bought Balega Hidden Comfort socks and I love them.

Running Belt with Water Bottles

Making sure you drink enough water is more important now than ever before. We experience a decreased thirst sensation as we get older and our kidneys aren’t able to conserve body water as well. Add into that the hot flushes and night sweats of menopause and it’s easier to become dehydrated. I’ve started to take water with me on every run now, even a short 5K.

I can highly recommend this Nathan Trail Mix Plus Running Belt-it’s super easy to access your drink and it doesn’t jiggle up and down as you run.

Bio Oil

You will really notice the difference if you regularly rub oil all over your skin at home. It will really help your older, drier skin and help prevent night time itching through flakiness and dryness.

I use Bio Oil and I find it really helps with the dryness and gives my skin a soft glow. It’s a little greasy when it first goes on but that soon diminishes and leaves you with beautfully moisturised skin. It has a gentle scent. Two or three times after my post run shower I apply this oil head to toe.

On the subject of dryness a deeply conditioning hair treatment makes a fabulous gift. As the grey starts to come through our hair dries out and can be quite unmanageable if you run wearing a cap like I do. This one comes recommended by several running friends:

Kerastase Nutritive Hair Mask

Muscle Roller Stick

Muscles easily get tight now and connective tissue loses its elasticity so this Stick is definitely on my Christmas List!

Muscle roller sticks are rods that you use to roll out tense muscles. They’re similar to the larger foam rollers but with a stick you use your hands to apply the pressure whereas in a foam rolling session you use your bodyweight.

There’s a great explanation of the stick here.

Now a couple of books to help us BELIEVE!

Endure: Mind, Body and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance

In this book the author argues that a key element in endurance is how the brain responds to distress signals―whether heat, or cold, or muscles screaming with lactic acid―and reveals that we can train to improve our brain response.

He shows how anyone can utilize these tactics to bolster their own performance – and get the most out of their bodies.

How Bad Do You Want It?: Mastering the Psychology of Mind Over Muscle

This book explores some of the most extraordinary moments from the history of endurance sports and shows how mental strength allows some athletes to perform at a level way beyond their physical limits – to will their body to do what was previously thought biologically impossible. It reveals habits and tactics you can use to cultivate your own mental strength.

Smartwool Merino Beanie

As we age, our bodies heating and cooling systems are not as efficient due to decreased circulation and sweat rate. Keep warm and keep cool! I’ve chosen this beanie as I have other Smartwool products I love. Lovely and soft and warm and never itchy.

My last two suggestions are for vouchers for Yoga or Massage treatments. Either buy a voucher for a one off session or if you want to spend a bit more, then a course.

If you can, indulge in an oil-based massage a couple of times a month. It provides stress relief and a deeply satisfying treatment to your muscles and encourages blood flow.

Yoga helps runners with both strength and flexibility in crucial areas and we all know how important this becomes as we get older.

All that remains now is for you to draw up your list and leave it somewhere where Santa will find it…

JOIN HERE: Running Like a Wrinkly on Facebook.