My 10 Running Essentials | Gear, tips and hacks

Check out the run organisers here: www.limitlesstrails.co.uk/
And all my kit is on my website below 👍
For details of the gear I use, races I'm in, or to contact me:
💻 www.marklewis.co.uk
Follow me and Nixon the dog here:
🎥 kzbin.info/door/6dr...
📖 / marklewisyou...​
📸 INSTAGRAM MARK (me): / marklewispics​
🐶 INSTAGRAM NIXON (the dog): / nixonruns​
#trailrun #runningkit #marklewis

[@MarkLewisfitness]

An amazing day running in Wales. Crushing miles and getting crushed back 😂

[@oltee8196]

Hello Mark. Been watching your videos for the past month now. My partner is doing active April for charity through work. She couldn’t be fussed to do the first run this morning so I took her Fitbit and got it started with my first 5k after not running for best part of a year. If it wasn’t for stumbling across your helpful and humorous self, the fit bit would still be still be on 0.

[@matthewcarpenter6241]

‘I’d certainly avoid taking him to a Chris Rock standup’ absolutely got me, as a long time subscriber I’m gonna go out on a limb and call this the best one liner yet 👏

[@MrPhillian]

There was a few great ones in this I thought.

[@DotPoms]

I lol’d. Well played Mark 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@cejay67]

Nixon had a good one too!

[@liamreeves9923]

Legit just logged onto to my phone to leave this exact comment. Properly got me.

[@WillKlein]

I see I’m not the only one that can recognize what a comedic genius this man is. It’s sprinkled everywhere. I love it.

[@Cathy_MidwestHome_Hens]

I’m most impressed by Nixon’s ability to run 20 miles!! 😳

[@liammcleod159]

Same. Didn't know dogs, especially of his size had that type of endurance. Always assumed they would bog out after like 10-15 kms.

[@b19931228]

I always assume he's just slightly above average in his ability to run long distance.

[@jimjamthebananaman1]

I love the Chris rock joke regarding Nixon’s hair cut - best one I’ve ever so far 🤣

[@m.saadsiddiqui389]

fitness channel paired with this level of humor is rare. Always entertaining and informative! 👌

[@adamtssn]

I've been watching a ton of your videos over the past couple of datys after one came up in my recommended, and today after 2+ years of not exercising properly, I went out and did 2.7km running and walking in around 20 minutes. I have a lot more to work on, but it felt good to actually be doing something about the state of myself. Thanks for the motivation!

[@Dardvis]

I've been watching your videos since the "How fast was Kipchoge running?" popped up on my yt home page. I'm half your age, dreaming of running a 100k someday, but struggling with shin splints at the moment. I ran my first 25k the same day you did the race in Wales. Your content is wholesome and I wanted to say thank you. I'm happy you're around 💪

[@DaftDude]

Maybe try looking into shoe replacement. I used to have shin splints until I changed to a midfoot strike shoe. I'm a Skechers Mstrike fan myself.

[@lrdefender1690]

I also recommend looking into different shoes. I ended up running a 100k in a pair of Altra Torin 4.5 Plushes. Now all I’ll run or walk in are at least zero drop shoes if not Altras

[@him050]

Love your point about finish lines. Someone once was said to me, “do you not feel bad sprinting past a bunch of people with like 100 metres to go?” Nope, not at all. I’m much like you, when I see a finish line I will sprint at it with everything I have, no questions asked!

[@kieranbutler7927]

As always Mark, top notch quality content. FYI I ran my fastest park run this morning at 20:58 and I’m determined to get it under 20 mins this year because of you. Thanks for everything

[@RobBZwift]

Nixon hair cut - Chris Rock had me laughing out loud! great work enjoying all the content!

[@kenlennon]

Great vlogs. Always entertaining. Thanks for the information and encouragement.

[@mattmecham]

Great video. I’m really enjoying this mix of tips and insight into your history and current training

[@Hutepilo]

Great video once again, keep it up.

[@MichaelFollan]

Great video, well done to you and of course Nixon. Enjoy your videos, thank you.

[@dockenn1000]

Another great video. Motivational as always. Inspired me to run with my greyhound. Turns out she walks at the same speed I run. Lay down at 2k and refused to cooperate anymore.

[@MikeT808]

Who lay down? You or the dog? 😂

[@DYK3RZ]

I bought the soloman vest on your advice mate, love it! im upto 16 mile run now, took your advice on running slower and longer and the results are amazing!

[@finn_english]

Motivating as usual!! Also appreciated the recovery point, having finished my first half marathon on Sunday and feeling a bit lost about exactly how to recover. Loved the jokes especially the stand up one haha!

[@garethneller8239]

Another great video! You have a lot to answer for: combination of my mini midlife crisis (40 in a couple of months and the wrong side of 100kg) and some added motivation and ideas from your channel has seen me lose 10kg in 10 weeks! I had been jogging a bit before but you convinced me to start park run, I can now run 10-15 km pretty happily. Got a hilly 7.5km booked and a 10k trail, and got my eyes on a half marathon in October... so yeah, thanks for that😁 I do have a bit of garmin envy though, bought the 645 very cheap and to be fair it does what I need but kinda wish I'd gone for the fenix 6 now. Also, Nixon does not strike me as a "little booty" kinda guy🤣

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Ha! If you are doing 10-15 K then a 7.5 and 10 K trail will be perfect distance. And no, Nixon would savage anyone putting boots on him 😂

[@retrospectologyrunner]

Thank you this was super entertaining and informative. Your dog is a champ 🥇🦮🥇.

[@knaussgy]

Cracking video, just found the channel and loving the content 👍

[@mijzzzz]

great no-nonsense down to earth advice. good tip about the lunch box prepared for after the event.TY

[@LukaszGagala]

I absolutely love your videos, not only for the fitness content, but even more so for the information-density and the humor you give while speaking. The gear you presented and how you organized it for the race pretty much opened my eyes to what is crucial, especially during longer distances. You smashed it!

[@StallionMJ]

Loving your content Mark, really got me inspired to start my trail running journey. In my early 40s, and can just run 5k, despite with a few aches and pains.. Cant wait to start crushing it and making more distance.

[@DeanPattrick]

Great video with some superb tips. I'm going to look into gators as I have a 55Km trail run coming up. Use of body glide / lubricant cannot be understated.! The Chris Rock joke was a cracker.! 😜🤣

[@MarkLewisfitness]

I figured after this week, a social media influencer keeping it subtle on the rock/smith story would be a nice change 😂

[@wildoz8745]

My number 1 is shit tickets, TP, dunny roll, toilet paper! I don’t know what it is about the great outdoors but without fail I’ll be scrambling off trail to use the outdoor bathroom. Oh and I use baby wipes, wet wipes whatever you call them, I’ll also take a spare zip lock bag to dispose of used sheets so I don’t leave a trace 😉

[@oliverc1293]

Really helpful, Mark - thanks. I'm running a 22km on Monday, which I know isn't huge but it's long for me! I'll take some of these tips with me.

[@lindenwalker3809]

Enjoyed that video, also love the Nixon view and how at the finish when you lay down he was like he'd mooched round the block 🤣

[@jasonbrown128]

Hey Mark, just wanted to say thank you, having watched your channel have been challenged and inspired to do more and push myself just that little bit! Have just completed my first ever parkrun and being in my mid 30's and haven't really run since I was 16 your channel has really had a positive impact on my life so thank you 😀

[@victorlourenco_]

2:31 your humor will always get me gasping, I love it

[@GogglesTyresandTrainers]

Great tips Mark, these videos really do make me want to do some races with my dogs

[@yncr18]

The easy-to-grab joke had me rolling laughing! Thank you for the amazing high-quality content!

[@stefankleynhans4838]

Your motivation and dedication is addictive. I started running again at the start of the year.. Did my first 10km a week ago and my first sub 30min 5km 2 days ago. All because of your videos. FYI I'm a larger runner as well @ 94kg so take in a lot of what you say. Keep it up!

[@amjid300]

Totally with you on the sprinting to the finish line. 100%

[@NCmtnborn76]

Proud to be a patron! Thanks for sharing your fitness tips, gear info, humor and merry adventures. My best to Nixon.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Support is massively appreciated 👍🏼

[@gmanp3028]

Another great video 👍

[@vengermanu9375]

Great video as ever Mark 👍

[@_Doodle-bob]

Love the trail running videos! If you ever want to do a destination event you should check out the Skyline marathon in Ogden Utah. Keep it up.

[@jstavr]

Excellent and informative video, Mark. I started running way back in 2011. Initially, to increase my fitness and to help with my mental health. Running has been immensely beneficial. As a 50-year-old, I feel I'm in a good place, both mentally and physically. I mainly run on the roads, have participated in various Parkruns and have ran The Great North Run several times and a few other events I have greatly enjoyed. Last year I entered and ran my first ultramarathon, and it was tremendous. So, as a result, I'm in training for the same event - UltraNorth. Also, I find your videos and content are of outstanding quality and chockfull of practical advice. Plus, I enjoy your humour. Thanks in heaps, Mark. 🙌

[@gazdarwin6266]

Gday Mark, from Darwin Australia, loving the channel and your progression in training, good on you. Took your advise and have ordered Altra Running shoes and read the Book Born to Run. Keep up great content, 2 x Thumbs up👍👍

[@jasonwilson7674]

Good tips, glad I watched this 👍🏻👍🏻

[@Jake-gq7ci]

Wonderful content Mark: Found your channel few days back and have been hooked ever since: Googled and registered for Parkrun and did my first 1 yesterday morning to begin my own journey - some of your motivations really spoke to me, so on went the old trainers, barcode printed, and dragged my 39y old chonky frame round...only just.😆.. next 1 will be better. Your channel is an inspiration. Very much appreciated.👌 Subbed and now to view all the older vids, while i'm temp.disabled on the sofa with weapons-grade leg DOMS after Saturday!😆. Hurt so good tho. Cheers.👌

[@richardshaw7182]

Saw you on the start line and I've thought all week 'where do I know him from ?' ...now I know 😂😂 great effort mate ,it was a perfect day for it 👍👍👍

[@cejay67]

Loved this video. I just completed an 80km Trail Race in Noosa, QLD on the weekend and whilst not massively experienced, seconded most of the points you made. The vest is critical. I've got both the Salomon 10 Sense Pro and the 5 ADV. The 5 is comfy over short distances but causes chafing over anything more than a couple of hours where the Sense Pro you barely feel you're wearing it. Gators are a godsend! Next race is a 50 km event in the UK in May in the Chilterns, first overseas race for me, so new challenges to tackle.

[@Zane_Zaminsky]

Nixon = super aerodynamic! 👍👏

[@Pannemat]

Amazing scenery. I've been missing out on a mountain hike (or hilly, even) for way too long. Thanks for filming.

[@nzmarty]

Great video mate some awesome advice. The nutrition stuff especially. Nixon has valid opinions btw. Cheers :)

[@kennymacm3031]

Good stuff again, my Jack Russell is now too old for running but good to see a little dog enjoying itself so much

[@jeremygreenwood2668]

Great Content, so much valuable info, cheers, you've inspired me to do the Beast of Llangattock 10 miler hosted by Limitless Trails, I run my regular Parkrun and a few local 10k's but Ive never travelled anywhere to somewhere spectacular to run a trail - really looking forward to it - would never have happened without your video. 👍🏻

[@SBeer87]

Massively appreciate the update on thoughts re Fenix 6 vs 7… I’m really enjoying your old watch. 👍

[@crackerbarreIkid55]

Congrats on 300k subs!

[@stephenlyster633]

Hey mark i just want to say ive been absolutely binging your videos lately, Im a bit like you in that i do both weights and running and it really gets to me that both sports really limit my ability to progress in the other. Some of the things youve said about have really resonated with me and its also just nice to see someone doing both weights and running like me as its quite a niche combo. I also just want to say your progress is absolutely inspiring and the quality of your videos is amazing, just thought I would pass this on as youve really struck a chord with me

[@buffaloj0e]

If you want more weights and running look up Holly Martin another great channel that combines the 2.

[@lyuklike8767]

ive been struggling to run 5-7k in almost a year. After discovering your channel, was able to do 12k for the first time since I started running. Thank you for your content.

[@ellenwood696]

Mark we love your videos. Nixon is a legend. We look forward to seeing you both again soon. Ps pics will be ready soon 👏😄

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Thanks Ellen - Brilliant day as always 👍🏼

[@runhammondrun2516]

Great video and love the tip about clipping the handle of your gopro around your vest.

[@stoggs85]

Another entertaining video. I'm no runner but ride/race xc mtb in a aging category and last week I had my worst ever race result. 2nd to last, I was guttered and exhausted, usually come in the top 20 and sometimes better. Anyway some things you said in this video have got me reflecting about my performance and how I should not be to hard on myself and try to enjoy the racing for what it is . Look forward to your next video 👍

[@PataPoufFrance]

Excellent video Mark, cheers from France ! PS : absolutely enjoy your humor 😁

[@michaelmccrossan7655]

Very comprehensive video. Helped alot ❤️

[@garyweiss1876]

Nice job Mark and congrats to Nixon on his fine run while towing you around the mountains. Champ! Mark it would be interesting to hear how you are liking your Oura ring as you've been using it for some time now. Thanks again for the videos.

[@patbriggsmbr]

Well done to you both. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@markmorales4800]

I just subscribed to your channel. It is absolutely brilliant and inspiring! Thank you

[@cpruns4501]

That was the best perfectly timed pause I have ever seen in a video LOLOLLOL. That had to take you a few takes to get just right:) Well done.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Nailed it first time, this ain't my first rodeo 😂

[@michelleharnett1351]

Love my Salomon vest (5 L) for up to 50 km. As a woman running usually in tights - chafing has never been a problem but I tend to do longer distances in shirts with sleeves.

[@jeffreyjefferson536]

I'm so glad I found this channel! The sports and motivational content is absolutely top notch. And the humor is getting better and better in the newer videos as well :D Also: Nixon FTW! Secret star of the show. I'm down to 100 kg, from 146 last May. Did my first 10 km run 2 weeks ago, and 2 more since! The one today I blame on you, Mr. Lewis! Thank you.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

I'll have you know the humour has always been above average 😂

[@dradilashraf]

@@MarkLewisfitness Above Average™️ 😂

[@jackbuckley89]

Great video as ever mate

[@StevenKW]

Comedy gold. I usually laugh out loud and learn something.

[@jotatsu]

As a long time cyclist, you live and learn. Took me 6 years or so to find the perfect water bottle for me (right capacity, right valve, shape) and have been using it for 12 years or so now. Btw if you have cramps check water and electrolytes, if that doesn't work a little of taurine did it for me.

[@Luminc]

Don't leave us hanging, which bottle?

[@drguzziv7173]

Thanks Mark! Great insides, I’ll enjoy my 6X as long as it lasts 😉

[@lukeauty4784]

Looks awesome!

[@mattie_world]

That super subtle Chris rock line, amazing. It’s like you used to do stand up.. love your content, glad I subscribed. Very inspirational, thank you

[@garytyerman1321]

My new favourite KZbin channel.

[@marekjustus]

Those intros are pure gold!

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Once I get the intro done-the rest just flows 😁

[@lukeyd34]

When I notice that you have 80 thousand followers and there are people out there with so little content with millions I realise the world is indeed mad. I love your videos. Informative, entertaining and inspiring. So much so that it’s made me enter the Birmingham HYROX in October. Superb.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

I tried to ignore the fact there are 14-year-olds with an iPhone and a PlayStation with 5 million more subscribers than me 😂 on the plus side, I climbed a tree when I was 14 and most youngsters don’t know what a tree is nowadays 😂

[@tobyedmonds72]

Nixon jokes win the day every time 🤣

[@IainThacker]

Fantastic looking event! The magnesium tip is something I discovered once running got to 4 days a week - constant night cramps until starting taking it!

[@expatadventureturkey9324]

Great content, I’ll try out the tip on caring the Go Pro 🤙🏽 maintain the humor adds to the enjoyment.

[@davidpatrick677]

RE finish line, AGREE , I remember the hastings half about 6 years ago was on about 1h50m but when I saw that finish line I was flying. Must have covered that last 400M in about 90 seconds. Also got a mention on the MC. Great channel Mark.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

No better way to perk up the MC when the winners have long gone than to attack the last 200m like your life depends on it😁

[@Cinestesic]

That finish line sprinting is something i can relate very well! My last trail runing i was completly detsroyed 200m from the finish line, cramps on my calves, and i wasn't really not in the mood to sprint, but a heard someone behind me starting to sprint and i was like ''Nah, you wanna outrun me? i'ma make you work for it!''. He didn't managed to pass me and i felt good, cramping but good. I know if i had been outrun so close to the end i would've been pissed as hell!

[@Matto_Harvo]

Current favourite channel

[@bdbuilds9828]

Solid guy and solid channel.

[@acm5633]

Thank you Mr L for the quality videos / kit advice. As a bigger guy with SideShow Bob feet, Altra (Lone Peak 6) are a game changer...

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Nice choice!

[@thomasJF85]

It's a finish line, if i see one i'm sprinting. Damn straight! New life goal.. mountain run with a dog!

[@delpeters6638]

Mark, another great video. I’ve run a few ultras over the past years, any newcomers to running would do well to listen to your advice, spot on! Oh and sorry for pressing the dislike button by mistake😀 I’ve changed it now. Derren

[@philhough3596]

The biscuits… you crack me up. 🤣

[@djpower5]

"I see a finish line, so I'm sprinting for it" Words I 1000% agree with, what's the point of the finish line otherwise?! Great advice here Mark, it's comforting sometimes to hear the same advice as I already go with, because I know I'm not doing anything loopy! (But probably wouldn't care if I was anyway!) 👍

[@4578simonhi]

Cracking vlog, cheers Mark. Funny as fuck and very entertaining, would love to get a Nixon !!!

[@EdManners]

Nice Vid, great advice on how to fuel before and especially after, when I tend to gorge on anything that is available after an endurance event. Will plan now! (Hopefully). 🙏 Will make a checklist from this Vid. Thanks Mark. Everything except the dog, even though the kids are after one for so long, should I cave in??.

[@benpember5117]

Good video Mark. I thought I saw you in the Video for the same race by Flora Beverly. Scenery is great

[@MarkLewisfitness]

The place is stunning

[@conorfenton-garvey6614]

Great videos! Loved your cycling one. Keen to see you on an Assault/Air Bike to see your 5k time. My PB is a measly 7:30 - the lactic acid is just too much!

[@eddolous]

Just great content

[@markneal2214]

Thanks for all your content discovered your channel at the start of the year after having not run for 4 years and guess what half marathon this Sunday!! Thanks again from a fellow 6'6" 220lb 40 something year old dad.

[@obskure_ie]

How did the half go for you?

[@markneal2214]

@@obskure_ie really well 2h 7m. Far exceeded my expectations!! My goal was sub 2h 30.

[@Mr4xl]

I always look forward to Nixon's opinion. . . He is very wise. . . . .

[@him050]

That was so cute when you picked Nixon straight up by the harness! Ref. Prarkrun and waist leads, I bet it’s only because of the start when it’s massively congested. But why they’re an issue when the pack has spread is beyond me!

[@annvirco7308]

I was watching flora Beverley's vlog of this race yesterday and saw a high speed enthusiastic Nixon in front of flora at the start (and you of course 😂),that race looked awesome and flora also bigged up the organisers and Said how good their races are.

[@PataPoufFrance]

Saw it too, i now have to come back to it to check 😁

[@mikeward391]

I was just coming back to say that! - You can see Flora at 1:01 in Mark’s vlog (no 601) - what a stunning course!

[@adampickett1634]

Mark smashing it as always! Great information and you've solved my decision with a running vest. Solomon adv 12 it is 🙌🏻 . I think they've just brought the 2022 edition out as there's 2 styles??

[@jeremychivers2593]

Great video as always, interesting approach to post race eating, I’m definitely a way everything on site kind of person and still being 24% body fat and carrying to much fat is something I need to stop. I’ll be implementing this planned post race eating next time, which so happens to be a LimitlessTrails events.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

I used to binge post race - now I'm ok as I know in my head everything I need I have.

[@theaveragecyclist5259]

I find a small pair of tweezers essential for the first aid kit. I was constantly getting splinters off stys plus good for grit out of cuts or if something gets into the dogs paw, although that's rare.

[@FlavorLab]

I love your content! Do you have road specific shoes from Altra? I am trying to transition to zero drop/ barefoot but am mostly doing road running. Keep up the great videos!

[@ThompsonAndSon]

"There is no better sign that you are cracking on in life than somebody else saying 'what if...'" :) My new favourite quote

[@mtwillard29]

Love the Chris Rock comment about Nixon's haircut

[@mattwood2062]

Nice hair joke - love it