Modern Conveniences in a Marathon

Not much has changed in the sport of running except all of the gear.  Over the weekend I ran a half marathon and thought it would be a good idea to blog about the differences between the past and the present.  This year I decided to run with minimal gear but still all new products that would make for a good example.
Think about how these products have changed this sport and how they have changed yours.  I started thinking about what gear I would carry.  I narrowed it down to 4 GU and Clif shots, Clif margarita blocks, runners towel, runners belt, 8 oz water bottle with electrolytes, id card, $10, windproof earmuffs, runners gloves, iPhone, wireless headphones, sunglasses, and a knee strap.  Can any of this stuff make me run faster? Well, yes.  My runners application tells me my current pace and where I need to be to achieve my time.  The energy shots give me the much needed energy boost that my body craves during the race.  The water with the electrolytes do the same thing.  Everything else is cosmetic besides the knee strap.
Think about the difference between the shoes I wear and the shoes from the past.  My shoes are Reebok Real-flex's.  73 individual impact ready cushions that help propel me forward with every step I take. No, not your typical Chuck Taylor's. These shoes are far more advanced and have the greatest scientific minds trying to improve them daily.  Hard and steep competition for anyone looking to design  a new shoe.

Have we advanced as a runners? Well, yes, absolutely.  We are faster than ever, and turning in better times than ever in all types of races.  Gone are the days of the traditional marathons.  Now, individuals aim for larger achievements such as ultras and 50K's.  Running and races are more popular than ever.  A night run in my state sold out at something like 8000 participants that actually ran to an open bar party that was a few miles away.
The popularity of running will not end soon.  The trend is strong and more and more people are joining the ranks of the runner. Some really cool races are Tough Mudder, Spartan, Zombie Run, and Electric Run.  These runs sell out quick and have huge lines of customers trying to get in and race.  They have themed races all over the country.  Just do a quick Google search and see what's in your area.