Running is a great way to stay fit and enjoy the outdoors. But, whether you want to go for a leisurely jog or run a marathon, you’ll need the right gear.
There are several things to consider before hitting the sidewalk. For example, you’ll want to choose comfortable and breathable clothes.
Also, you’ll want to pick out shoes that provide support and protection. And finally, you’ll want to pack a water bottle and some snacks.
When it comes to clothing, the keyword is “performance.” Many runners prefer technical fabrics like Lycra and spandex because they move with your body better than cotton and help keep you cool.
Performance shirts can also have an added benefit: If you get sweaty during exercise, they wick away moisture, making you feel cooler.
A good pair of running shorts will be form fitting and loose enough to allow movement while keeping you warm in cold weather. Shirts typically come in three styles: athletic (loose), short sleeves, and long sleeves.
Running tights or leggings are designed to protect you from chafing on your legs. They’re made of nylon or a similar fabric called microfiber, which lets sweat evaporate without clinging to your skin.
In addition, most contain pockets for storing small items such as keys or money.
Socks are essential too. When choosing socks, look for ones that stretch comfortably yet give your feet good support.
Also, look for anti-chafing material at the top of the sock, so it won’t rub against your shin bones.
Shoes are another area where there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. What works well for one runner may not work best for another. So the first step is finding a shoe you like.
Then research whether the shoe has been tested by a biomechanist. This kind of testing determines how much support the shoe provides and how quickly the shoe absorbs shock.
Athletic shoes are designed to cushion the impact of hard surfaces, but they can lack stability. Instead, try investing in stable shoes if you tend to fall over while running.
There are shoes that mimic barefoot running, providing more traction and improved stability.
If you suffer from foot injuries, you might consider buying special inserts to correct any problems. You can find these inserts at specialty stores, which offer custom insoles.
Finally, don’t forget to include a water bottle in your kit. It doesn’t matter if you’re jogging along or training for a marathon – never leave home without H2O.
Running Gear Buying Guide
To buy all these pieces, you’ll probably need a little extra spending money. But if you plan ahead, you’ll save time when you shop. Here are a few tips to make shopping for running gear easier.
Look At Your Closet First
Before heading off to a store, take inventory of what you already own. Do you have anything that could serve as running gear?
Is there anything that would complement your existing wardrobe? Once you know what you have, you can narrow your search to specific items.
Go To Specialty Stores
There are specialty shops devoted to sportswear and equipment. These stores carry only brands that focus on quality products, are socially responsible, and use environmentally friendly materials.
Shop Online
Some online retailers specialize in running gear. For example, check out Running Warehouse or Runner’s World. Both websites offer competitive prices and customer service before, during, and after your purchase.
Shop In Person
If you live near a sporting goods store, this is a great place to start. A sports retail store offers expert advice on gear, and you can see firsthand whether the product feels right.
Ask For Advice
Ask friends who run about their favorite brands and shops. Or ask other runners you know about their experiences. It’s always worth asking questions.
Use Coupons
Sign up for email newsletters from companies that sell running apparel, and you may receive coupons sent directly to your inbox. Not only does this save you time, but it saves you money.
Check Sales
When stores want to get rid of old stock, they will discount it. Shop sales for discounted running gear.
Also, look for clearance sales (where clothing goes for 50 percent off) and outlet stores (where you can find clothing for 10 percent off).
Have Fun!
Shopping should be fun – so do some comparison shopping and enjoy yourself! Remember that the best part of shopping is finding something that makes you feel good.
Running Tips
To Run Successfully, You Must Train Properly
The following tips will help you prepare for your first run or improve your current routine.
Stick With A Regular Schedule
Be sure to follow a consistent program and stick to it. Overdoing it with too many miles or too much intensity won’t benefit your body and may hurt your chances of success.
Get Plenty Of Rest
Make sleep a priority; seven to eight hours per night is ideal. Sore muscles and joints recover faster when rested.
Stay Hydrated
Proper water intake ensures adequate fluid levels in your blood and helps prevent cramps. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise.
Eat Small Meals Throughout The Day
Don’t skip breakfast. Eating every three to four hours keeps your energy level high and prevents hunger pangs.
Don’t Overdo It
Don’t push through a workout or race too hard. Instead, ease into your training gradually. Start slow with low mileage runs and build up from there until you reach your goal race pace.
Drink More Than Sweat
Drinking extra fluids during long workouts protects against dehydration. For example, add a little salt to your post-workout drink to stimulate circulation and reduce muscle stiffness.
Add Variety
Try interval training: alternating between intense intervals and easy jogging. Alternate a longer distance with a shorter one. Mix up terrain as well. Walk hills with short bursts of speed.
Run at different rates, lengths, and inclines. This gives your muscles new challenges. You’ll also burn calories while keeping your heart pumping.
Keep Track Of Your Progress
Write down how far you ran each week, how fast you went, and any injuries you sustained. Then compare these numbers to previous weeks.
Your records will keep you motivated, and you’ll have an indication of where you need to strengthen your weaknesses.
The Best Running Gear
When choosing the best running gear, consider what type of runner you are. For example, do you prefer shorts and a singlet?
Are you looking to dress casually or make a fashion statement? Read this discussion and review sections carefully to help pick the best running gear.
Shorts
A pair of running shorts provide comfort and support. They’re great for cross-training and recovery because they allow air to circulate freely.
Shorts come in various styles, such as loose cotton, tight cotton, Lycra, and mesh. Look for ones made of stretchy material with reinforced knees and legs. These provide better stability and fit.
Tights
Tights offer another option for comfortable running. Most tights are made of nylon and Lycra (a brand name for polyester/spandex fibers), which provide lightweight support and breathability.
Look for those that wick moisture away from your skin and contain pockets to store things like keys, money, etc.
Socks
Selecting socks depends on your preference and personal style. Some runners swear by thick woolen socks, while others prefer thin cotton ones.
The most important thing is that your feet feel comfortable. Buy a few pairs of socks, so you can try them out before buying a complete set.
Running Shoes
Your choice of shoes should depend on your budget, shoe size, and whether you plan to run barefoot or not. If you prefer to run barefooted, look for a good quality pair of minimalist shoes.
Minimalist shoes are designed to mimic barefoot running. Many people find that wearing minimalist shoes improves their form and helps prevent injury.
If you want to buy a traditional running shoe, choose an appropriately fitting model. A snugly fitting shoe will give you greater control over your foot movement.
Avoid shoes that pinch your toes. Also, avoid shoes that cause blisters or chaffing.
If you plan to wear regular sneakers, select a model with a firm heel counter and a flexible sole. Heel counters raise the back of the heel slightly above the rest of the shoe.
This allows the foot to move naturally during running without putting pressure on the Achilles tendon. In addition, flexible soles enable your foot to roll smoothly under your body.
Conclusion
The best running gear will help you achieve your goals. Choose from different types of clothing, including shorts, tights, socks, and shoes.
Select the correct combination based on your needs and preferences. You may also wish to consult a professional trainer who can advise you on the best equipment for your fitness level.
For the first year, I wallowed in my feelings and gained 50 pounds as a result. The next year, with the help of a professional or two, I began working on myself and seeing changes.
Surprisingly enough, I found running to be my main source of comfort in such a trying time. I began running once a day for five minutes, working up to 10, then 20, 30, 40 - until I was running for an hour each morning.
Running started my day off right and on the days where I ran, I found that I was more likely to excel in work and have a better day mentally.
So, that is why I have created Run In The Sun. I want to make your running journey as easy as possible so that you can feel these benefits too. I promise you, it will be so worth it!
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