Running – Getting Started

Published April 28, 2012 at 1:50 pm

Now that you have decided to start running, set some personal goals, and even sign up to a race, perhaps the Mississauga Marathon coming up next weekend, as suggested in my last article Start at the Finish – Have a Race Date, you are ready to start running.

But before heading out onto the streets, you will need your basic running necessities. Let’s briefly discuss the tools of the trade.

Footwear
Shoes. I know, you are saying – “D’Uh, of course running shoes”. But yes, running shoes must be suggested, and not taken lightly. Be sure to have a set of running shoes that you feel comfortable in, that are light, and breathable. I would recommend going to a store which specializes in running, to get yourself fitted to proper shoes. At a running specific store, it is a high probability that the sales rep, is a runner themselves. They will size you, check your foot shape, and let you try on a number of shoes. Be sure to try them all on, take a quick jog in the store, and remember how it feels compared to the next one.

Clothing
While you are at the running specific store, I would recommend picking up, NON-cotton clothing… shirts, shorts, and socks. Cotton is great for everyday use, but terrible for sports. Cotton holds in the water (sweat) close to the body, which can be very uncomfortable. Companies like Nike and Under Armour is a great start. At this point, running is looking very expensive. You do not necessarily have to go out and purchase name brands… as long as the clothes are made of polyester or anything other than cotton… you are set.

Water
Hydration is very important. Make sure you have water with you at all times. There are sports bottles, hydration belts, hydration back-packs, and etc. You will just want to make sure you have water with you at all times.

Miscellaneous
Some other things that you may want to have on your run: