The Boston Marathon Was My First Race — These Training Essentials Made All the Difference

Maurten Gel, 12-Pack ($45)

If you're training for Boston, it's worth noting that these are the same gels handed out on the course. I didn't actually start using gels until I began doing my (very long) runs — and I quickly felt how much they helped propel me forward. If you're unsure about gels, trust me: by marathon day, you'll want them. That's why it's smart to train with them ahead of time — so you know how they sit with your stomach before race day.