Total Fitness Running Belt Review

Though I haven't been doing much running lately, when I DO run, I usually take the puppy, which means I definitely won't have free hands while I'm on the road!  I've had a couple fitness belts over the past couple years but I'm always looking for the right combination of fit, ease of use, and security.  I had the opportunity to try a Total Fitness Gear running belt this month, which offered a clip-release alternative to the pull-on running belt I've been using.

Disclaimer: I received this product at no cost in exchange for my review.  All opinions expressed herein are my own.

When I opened the package and saw a safety clip and an elastic band, I was a little excited - my previous running belt had to be slipped over your feet or your head, making it difficult to take on or off, and didn't have as much elasticity for adjusting over layers of clothing. Unfortunately, when I actually put the Total Fitness Gear belt on and went for a run, I found it completely unusable. The ONLY positive I can cite about this belt is that safety clip!

First, the pouch is difficult to unzip even while standing still, and almost impossible to access while running (and completely impossible when I tried with my gloves on), which means I wouldn't be able to grab my phone quickly in an emergency.  Second, the elastic is adjustable, but only to a point - and that point isn't small enough for my body.  I'm a little thin but I'm far from a stick; I have a very typical runner's build.  Did the people who designed this belt ever see a runner's body?  Forget having to worry about whether it'll stretch over layers, this belt can't get tight enough to fit me at all!  And finally, because I couldn't get it to fit my waist, my phone and keys spent my whole run bouncing every which way.   I had this belt alternatively up my shirt and sliding down my legs.  I had to cut my run VERY short because it was agony to have this thing bouncing all over the place, and there's no chance I'll be wearing it again.

My other gear is WAY better, clearly.  Best gloves ever.

This was an incredible disappointment.  I'll be sticking with my FlipBelt for now, even though I sometimes hate having to pull it over my legs to get it on - at least it stays in place and is easily accessible mid-run!  If you're looking for a running belt, I definitely do NOT recommend the TFG belt, stick with something a little more usable and better fitting.

What's your favorite piece of running gear?  Do you have a go-to running belt?  Do you run with water/use a hydration belt instead?