Gearing up for First Time Runners

Thinking of what to wear for you runs is actually simple.  Even thought a lot of brands and gears are available in the market, the beauty of running is in its simplicity.

There’s not much to buy since you may already own them. What I love about running is that you don’t need any expensive gears or equipment to buy. All you really need is to remember the three S – Shoes, Shirt, and Short.  But as you progress, you may gain some preference on the add-ons.  But to start running, it’s just simple. 

Shoes

Running shoes is the only most important piece of equipment you need for now. You can dig out your old rubber shoes from your closet and start to run.  While it is ok to use an old rubber shoe for starters, make sure that they are still in good form, and you will use it for short runs only.  An old shoe can be a cause of injuries.

But if you don’t have one yet, you can go to a running-specialty store where you can look for a well-cushioned pair of running shoes that fit well and match your foot type and running style.

It’s not necessary to pay for the most expensive pair of shoes in the store but it’s a smart idea to invest in a good pair of running shoes that will help prevent injuries and bring you comfort while running.

My first shoe was not even a running specialty shoe but a cross trainer.  I know some who started with basketball shoes or badminton shoes.  They are ok but consider getting a real running shoes.

Shirt and Short

Now that your feet are properly attired, the next things to consider are the shirts and the shorts. It’s not a big problem, though. You already have them inside your closet. Any t-shirt and short will do as long as you feel comfortable running with them. For the ladies out there, you should make sure you’re wearing a good sports bra that fits properly while running.

Any cotton shirt and shorts is ok to start.  But there are disadvantages like it absorbs to much sweat and it heats up the body too fast making the run a bit uncomfortable.  If you have budget, consider getting a techinal sport shirt and shorts. They are lighter, dries up faster, and helps manage sweat and body heat.

Shorts vs Pants

For running, preferably use shorts.  They are lighter and keeps your legs cooler.  Body movement is also more fluid with shorts.

But if you are still shy to use shorts, jogging pants will do.  I used jogging pants in my first runs.

Now that you have the basics, here are some gears that can help you in your runs.  They are not required but they do provide some benefits.  Research well before getting one and consider them as an investment for your running career.

Gear Up From Head to Toe

Once you start getting more serious about running, you may consider investing in some running gears or gadgets. Well, they don’t need to be too fancy and expensive. Look out for something that suits your running style. What I will discuss further are some suggestions that might be useful for a newbie like you.

Watch or Timer

A watch will be very important for training.  It helps you track your improvements and helps you stick to a training plan.  A digital wristwatch with a chronograph is enough.  Other features like a GPS or heart rate monitor are nice to have.  But for beginners, a simple timer will do.

Head Gears

Get a nice cap, a visor or a pair of sunglasses. They not only protect your eyes and skin from the glare of the sun, they can also improve your posture while running. How’s that? When the sun is shining brightly, you tend to tilt your head to avoid the direct glare of the sun and that creates strain in the neck and the upper back. But looking down at the ground may leave you feeling down. So, when you have those protective gears, you keep your chin up.

Shirt Options

Now, you may decide to change your clothing style depending on the temperature outside. You can opt for singlet or sleeveless tops during warm weather and long sleeves tops during colder season.

Tights

Tights come in various styles and sizes and can be worn during warm or cold weather conditions. Shorter ones are usually made with light materials to be worn during warm weather conditions. Capri or full length tights, usually made of thicker materials, can be worn during colder season but they can also provide protection from sun light. Likewise, include jogging pants or stretch pants in your options. Shorts can also vary. You may go with fitted or baggy ones.

Music Players

For music lovers, you can enjoy your favorite beat while on the road… running, that is. What with the birth of MP3 players, iPod Mini, Nano, or Shuffle, there are wide varieties to choose from. You can even use your cellular phone’s music player. Armband Velcro can be your best partner in running as it holds your music player.

Packs and belts

Running is done mostly outdoor and you wanted your hands to be free. You shouldn’t carry anything, not even water bottle. How about your car keys, hanky, money or medications that you wanted to bring with you? This is where running waist packs come in handy. These are useful when your shorts or pants don’t have pockets and they can hold a lot but still won’t be too bulky.

GPS

With all the technology and innovation nowadays, from muscle massagers to fitness monitors and everything else in between, running can be more exciting. I, myself, have tried the Garmin Forerunner watch to track my speed and distance. Read more about my Garmin here.

Identification

What’s more? In case of emergency, it’s helpful to have a running identification or road ID. It’s a bracelet tag that contains your personal information – name, address, or contact numbers – or you can have it customized.

Whew! The list of running accessories goes on and on. You bet there are more accessories that I need to know, too.

Isn’t running supposed to be a low-cost and simple activity? Yes it is! You don’t have to buy everything at once. Ask from your fellow runners for suggestions and recommendations. Do your research first before you spend your hard-earned money. From run-walk-run pace to a 5K marathon, you’ll surely be able to find out more about the equipment and accessories that can enhance your running style.

Always visit takbo.ph for more featured gears and accessories.