Nothing like a serious challenge to kick off the year, at least that's what I thought when I registered for my first half-marathon (yikes!). With less than a month to go, here's the running gear that has been helping me get race ready:

The Phillips Wake Up Light
Getting out of bed at 6:30am is never nice but it is ten times worse when you know it will be dark out for at least another two hours. Thirty minutes before your actual wake up time, the clock slowly fills your room with light calibrated to mimic the sunrise—so much more peaceful than being ripped from sleep by a jarring alarm plus this light therapy will have you feeling ready and energized for the day. $119.99 at www.londondrugs.com

Lululemon Swiftly Tech Long Sleeve
I swear by this long-sleeved tee . Not only does it wick away any moisture but it somehow stays smelling fresh even after a sweat-filled interval training session. Great alone or as a base layer. $68 at www.lululemon.com

iPod Nike + GPS app
Since I am new to marathon training I wasn't so sure about committing to a super fancy (and seriously hard-core) GPS enabled watch. Instead I loaded the Nike+GPS app on my iPhone to track my time, distance and pace while running. Automatic syncing to www.nikerunning.com allows you to have a look at your runs online, breaks down your time per km and connects you with other runners. And, for those who enjoy a little competition, you can play tag with your friends. Simply challenge a friend to race (distance or time) and get your app in gear! $1.99 at www.itunes.com

The Sport i-20 Armpocket
I absolutely hate carrying anything in my hands while running. Lightweight and made from water-resistant fabric (essential in Vancouver!), the Sport i-20 Armpocket is big enough to carry my iPhone, keys and debit card when I'm out clocking some klicks. $29.95 at www.armpocket.com

Blue Monkey Pure Coconut Water
The idea of chugging a fluorescent-coloured drink after running isn't that appealing to me (pretty sure those colours aren't found in nature) but Blue Monkey's Pure Coconut Water sure is. High in natural minerals and electrolytes, this is great way to naturally hydrate your hardworking body and prepare it for another day of pounding the pavement. $2.19/520 ml can at Choices. —Kelsey Mulyk