What stuff do I need to go running?

[MilksAreUs]

I'm deciding to up my health a bit, and start to go running... I need some advice on what I need (shoes, drink bottles etc) and if you guys could help me, that'd be great!

[Plegar]

The beauty about running is that you need so little. The most important bit of equipment you need is a quality pair of running shoes – not tennis shoes, football shoes or even Converse (I’ve heard it all). I would recommend getting your first pair from a specialised running shop where the staff can help you determine which pair you need based on your goals and ability. I shall presume you’re male therefore you don’t need a sports bra. A digital sports watch is also helpful, although don’t splash out just yet – get a cheap one for now until you’re ready to step your training up a notch. As you advance, it may be good to check out heart rate monitors (I have one, it’s superb). Socks at first can be simple, just buy some normal sports socks – don’t invest in the sweat absorbing socks just yet.


For now, simply invest in a good quality pair of running shoes and get out there! Depending on your fitness level, you may be sore at first (most are) but stick with it. Are you going to follow a programme?

[Yawn]

legs

HAHAHAHA

oh

[FlyingJesus]

You can technically run in any shoes unless you're not good in heels but as Plegar said it is best to invest in some decent running shoes because they'll give you the proper support and stop you from damaging your knees and ankles which often seems to happen - this is especially true if you're just running around the streets as obviously concrete isn't as forgiving as grass or proper track ground. Other than that get yourself a neon pink tracksuit and sexy sweatbands for your wrist and forehead just so you look the part and you're good to go

[Cerys]

You don't really need much tbh.
As said above, just a pair of decent running shoes will do.

You don't need to buy any special outfit for it, just something you feel confortable in. And even just a cheap drinks bottle will do, it doesn't have to be anything special!!

Hope you have fun :)

[Zak]

Recent running shoes. I wrecked my knees running on hard surfaces for a lot (so I believe) I used to be county champion believe it or not. It didn't last long as I was beaten at our next meet. :(

My girlfriend told me about this glucose satchet thing that gives you energy that would probably help and a bottle of water obviously.

[orientalframe?]

yeah, as said above some decent running shoes are a definite. regarding a bottle, i would recommend something like this (doesn't have to be exactly this but a bottle with some form of handle - http://www.sportsdirect.com/karrimor-run-bottle-764060) as it's so much easier to carry whilst on the go and for me personally it makes a massive difference. clothing wise it doesn't really matter as long as you're comfortable but if you want to take it a step further, (just realised you're male but it could still apply) you could invest in some running leggings :P

just curious if you are going to follow a programme? :)

[Red]

Good shoes! I have nike free runs and they are so comfy and light on your feet. People in a sports shop will be able to advise you though. I bought this cheap belt so I could put my phone in it. You can get ones which hold a water bottle too. If you have an iphone/android you should download runkeeper. It tracks your route, pace, distances, etc.

[Yupt]

Other than the running shoes i'd suggest looking at getting a pair or two of lycra shorts to wear under your actual running shorts, boxers can get sweaty and uncomfortable in a certain region...

Sounds silly I know, but I do highly recommend it!

[MilksAreUs]

Thanks guys! I'll be sure to put all of your suggestions into thought :D

[AlexJRiley]

I spent £40 on my running shoes, and got a pair of jogging bottoms (because it was cold when I started running) other than that, nothing. Would recommend some form of music though as it gets very boring.

[-:Undertaker:-]

I took it up in winter and literally wore along these lines (not the exact products but same in colour, item/style) -

http://www.sportsdirect.com/everlast-jog-ii-mens-running-shoes-128040?colcode=12804041
http://www.sportsdirect.com/donnay-running-tights-mens-459046
http://www.sportsdirect.com/karrimor-sleeveless-running-tshirt-mens-451924
http://www.sportsdirect.com/karrimor-hi-viz-run-jacket-mens-452295

+ iPod. :)

[myles]

it doesnt take an idiot to figure that one out

Edited by Matts (Forum Super Moderator): Please don't post pointlessly.

[MilksAreUs]

What sort of program should I follow?

[Red]

What sort of program should I follow?

if your not used to running, you could try couch to 5k (c25k). You can get apps for it which tell you when to walk and run etc

[MilksAreUs]

if your not used to running, you could try couch to 5k (c25k). You can get apps for it which tell you when to walk and run etc

Great, thanks alot :D

[Daltron]

Good shoes! I have nike free runs and they are so comfy and light on your feet.

I wear free runs too when I run and they are fab! I recommend them :d

[MilksAreUs]

I wear free runs too when I run and they are fab! I recommend them :d

I don't really want to be spending £80 on shoes, maybe a cheaper alternative?

[Daltron]

I don't really want to be spending £80 on shoes, maybe a cheaper alternative?

I think Nike Dual Fusion are a little cheaper but good! Otherwise I am not sure >.<

[Red]

The joys of having small feet so u can get the junior version for half the price hehe

[Plegar]

What sort of program should I follow?

If you’re new to running then I’d suggest the Couch-To-5K Running Plan (http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml). It’s a nine week programme which will transform you from a couch potato to an active runner able to run 5K (3.1 miles) within 30 minutes. After the nine weeks I can assure you that you will have fallen in love with the mental and physical benefits of running which may encourage you to begin other activities (swimming, squash etc). This (https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/interval-timer-seconds-by/id475816966?mt=8) is a good interval timer app, although I believe Couch-To-5K now have their own as well.

As for your first pair of running shoes, Sports Direct seem to have a big sale on at the moment so I've had a brief (and I mean very brief) look for shoes in the region of £30 - £50. At the price Sports Direct are offering, this (http://www.sportsdirect.com/new-balance-m770-v2-mens-running-shoes-212158) shoe would be very good for your first pair. The normal retail price is around £60 - £70, Sports Direct is currently offering it for £28.50.

If you think you may lose focus at some point then you may find it helpful to create a thread on here to keep a running log – I’m sure the mods won’t mind and it may encourage other members to start their own Couch-To-5K quest. Don’t underestimate the power of encouragement.

[JACKTARD]

Earphones and suitable clothes are all you need really. If you stick with it then buy some more specialised stuff.

[lucaskf390]

Buy a pair of sneakers (Nike, Adidas, Asics, ...).
Short and Shirt = Your choice. P.S No cotton, takes too much time to dry. I would use Dry-Fit.
Drinking depends on how much are you running. Short Distances = Water / Long Distances = Gatorade/Powerade or other.

--

[Plegar]

If you opt for Nike running shoes, be careful. Sure they've made some outstanding shoes but they've also produced a lot of garbage which can be blamed for many injuries. As the OP has stated he doesn't want to spend big money just yet (understandable) then I think it's best if he avoids Nike for now as the good shoes cost upwards of £90.

[MilksAreUs]

If you think you may lose focus at some point then you may find it helpful to create a thread on here to keep a running log – I’m sure the mods won’t mind and it may encourage other members to start their own Couch-To-5K quest. Don’t underestimate the power of encouragement.
Good idea, thanks for the app's aswell!