The first local in our blog series is our very own Carter Gronseth. I remember the very first time Carter came into the store. Carter is easy to remember because she commands a room. She has the type of personality that just oozes calm-cool confidence. I think this is part of what makes Carter an amazing nurse at Avera. That and her huge heart and compassion for others. Thank you Carter for being an incredible friend, co-worker, support staff, contributor and all around 605 Running Community champion. Let's hear from Carter in her own words.

When did you start running? I started running in junior high track.

Who inspired you to start running? Thankfully, my sister-in-law Melissa inspired me to start running longer distances “for fun” when I was a junior in high school. My first half marathon was alongside Melissa and my mom. I told myself I would never run again. A few weeks later, there I was still running. I started to work at 605 Running Company as a “fun job” three years ago. This continues to ignite my love for running and I have met the best of friends at the store. I have learned a ridiculous amount about running shoes and gear, let me know if you ever have any questions! 

Where do you like to run? I enjoy running roads around Sioux Falls, the bike trails, and occasionally Good Earth or Great Bear trails.

What is your ideal running day? My ideal running day is 50 degrees, no wind, and a rising sun. I rarely run in the evenings, mornings are my thing. If there is a lot of wind or frigid temperatures, I am the first person to hop on the treadmill. I have an odd love for that machine. I also love solo runs, however there is nothing better than a group run with good conversations. The miles seem to fly by! 

Tell us about a setback you've faced as a runner? I had an overuse knee injury a few years ago where I had to stop running for two months. I did not cope well. Thankfully I have been able to avoid that since then with strength work.

What is your favorite post run meal? My favorite post-run meal is a good cup of coffee and brunch.

Tell us what keeps you motivated? Throughout the years, I have faced barriers keeping myself interested in running. When it becomes a chore, I have learned to switch things up with either running with different people, in a new area, or biking. Furry friends always add some excitement to the mix as well. Bella the yellow lab is my dedicated early morning running buddy.

What advice would you give a new runner? Advice I would give to a new runner is to start slow. It takes time and consistency to build endurance. Don’t give up! If you ever need a running buddy, let me know!

​Why do you keep running? The reason that keeps me coming back to running is the high it gives me. It is my therapy. When I have a bad day, I know I can run out all my frustrations and tears. When I have a good day, I can celebrate with a run. Most every race has a “runner's high” moment during it for me. The first 605 Half Marathon in 2018 (now called the Skedaddle) was 13.1 miles of feeling phenomenal, rare but perfect race day! My favorite “runner’s high” was a simple, solo run on the bike trails. It was a spring morning with a beautiful sunrise. The miles felt easy, fast and light. It was the beginning of COVID with so many unknowns. It became evident to me that the outdoors and running will always be a consistent love I can lean on.

At 605 Running Company we LOVE running. For us it isn’t just a fling or a means to an end. No running has found its way into our DNA. We use the word “just” in sentences with the phrase “five miles” often. Our team is very passionate about what we do and we truly feel that running is for everyone. With all of that being said we understand not everyone shares our enthusiasm (yet – I can be optimistic). Even if running is totally not your thing, we still feel like there is a place for you in our shop. We believe in building a happy and healthy community. For us running is a significant part of our lifestyle, but it isn’t everything. We all started somewhere. This month we will be doing a blog series on local runners. How they got started, what motivates them and who inspires them. I know that there is a segment of our population reading this post that is thinking about starting running or adjusting their wellness regimen. We want to be a place that encourages you to be your very best. I hope you enjoy this blog series. Happy New Year!
​
-GREG KOCH
605 Running Company
Co-Owner/General Manager/Event Director 

​If any of you are at all like me, you looked at your calendar today and said, “Oh no, Christmas is FRIDAY!?!?” You then immediately started going down your mental list of loved ones that you have yet to shop for and began panicking about what in the heck you are going to get for them. Online shopping is out of the question due to the current disaster that is the USPS, and you’d really like to do something more unique than a generic Visa gift card...so where does that leave you.
           
Chances are, if you are reading this blog, you are a runner, know a runner, and need to shop for a runner. Thankfully, Sioux Falls is lucky enough to have 605 Running Company to bail us procrastinators out and supply us with a huge selection of options from sunglasses to nutrition to accessories, and of course, shoes.
           
In an attempt to make things a little easier for you on your final scramble to finish up last-minute gift-grabbing, I have complied a list a some products carried by 605 Running Company that are sure to make life easier, more enjoyable, safer, and even fun for that special someone that can’t resist lacing up every day and hitting the pavement (or the treadmill).

2.) Now if you any of you know me at all, you know that I am stickler for SAFETY when it comes to running. From visibility to self-defense products, you can never be too safe when you’re out on the road, especially with the increased hours of darkness. My personal favorite product carried by the shop is the Noxgear Tracer 360 LED vest. In addition to color-changing LED lights, this vest also has a neon-yellow reflective waist belt, making it nearly impossible to be missed when you’re out logging those pre-dawn or after-dusk miles. 

3.) Referencing the above commentary, self-defense tools are a must, especially for my fellow female athletes. The Mace Emergency Whistle is a simple, portable, and inexpensive option for an excellent stocking-stuffer that will give you added protection. 

4.) Hydration is extremely important for those longer runs and can be a component of training that is neglected in the winter since it’s not as warm. Providing your beloved runner with the Nathan SpeedShot Plus Insulated handheld water bottle would be a great subtle reminder that they still need to pay attention to their hydration status, even in the winter!

5.) If you’re looking to spend a little more on someone special, you can never go wrong with a GPS watch, and the shop carries a variety of models that can meet the running needs of most anyone. Our knowledgeable staff are more than happy to help you decide between Garmin or Coros and can go over the features of each make and model to ensure your runner will get all the data they need. 

6.) When it comes to self-care, I’m not too bad at doing the physical work, but I am definitely lacking when it comes to the recovery and self-care. I personally love the Green Flame Eucalyptus bath salts. A hot bath with some Epsom salts is sure to soothe those aching muscles after a long run in the cold. 

7.) Socks. I mean, there’s really not much more to say here. Every runner needs and loves a great pair of socks.

8.) And lastly, gift cards. I know the point of curating this list of my personal favorites was to try and avoid the impersonality of a gift card, however, runners can be picky and you may still feel like you just don’t know their preferences. Thankfully, the shop can bail you out with a gift card that you can customize the amount. That way, you can ensure that the runner in your life gets exactly what they are needing and looking for. Plus 2020 has brought a significant upgrade to our gift card game. Now you can purchase in-store or online, and our gift cards can more importantly be redeemed in both places too!

​There you have it. My list of personal favorites carried by a local small business committed to enhancing and supporting the community of runners in the 605. You may still feel like the items on the list still just don’t quite meet the needs of your runner. Luckily, there is so much more that can be found by just wandering around the shop, or you can always ask our great staff for assistance in finding that perfect gift, from headbands to gloves to nutrition to backpacks to apparel and even medal displays, I guarantee you will find something that is perfect for the person you’re shopping for. 605 Running Company is committed to the health and safety of our community, staff, and patrons, so you can feel confident that your shopping experience will be a safe one. Come on down and finish up with those last-minute gifts! And have a great, healthy, happy holiday season.