Guest Post: 5 Things Every Runner Should Have

Another great guest post from Dave. If you've recently gotten into running & you're starting to really get serious - these are some great things to consider looking into. While every runner is different, we can all benefit from some relatively simple tips! 

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I am currently looking at my Facebook news feed.  Looking through a couple days’ worth of posts by friends, I am noticing a trend.  People are starting to run!  Whether it is a “Couch to 5K” program, a training regimen for a race, or just to get in shape, people are running.  Why?  I would like to think they see runners like me, Kelli, or a friend and get excited when they see us having so much fun!  Another possibility is that new runners see how much you can improve your overall health by taking a run a couple times a week.  Or perhaps, they get dragged into it via peer pressure of a runner friend.  The reasons, while numerous, are not what I am going to talk about today.

All the time new runners come up to me and ask, “Dave, what type of equipment do I need for running?”  While it is obvious you really don’t need any equipment whatsoever to run, there are 5 items that I highly suggest every runner (beginner to advanced) have.  These items, while optional, have helped me immensely in my training, and have allowed me to become the runner I am today.

Running Shoes:  This seems obvious right?  While this may seem like a jest toyour intelligence, this is always the first item I recommend.  Running shoes are designed for one reason and one reason only: running.  I am not going to go into the complexities of running mechanics and how your shoes should fit; however, I will say that everyone runs differently.  Depending on how you run, you will be fit into a shoe that is conducive to your personal comfort, height, weight, gait, and experience.  I highly recommend going to a LRS (Local Running Store) to be fit for running shoes.  They are experts in gait analysis (how you run) and they will be able to determine what type of shoe is right for you.  The right shoe will ensure that you will run comfortable and injury free; running in the wrong shoes can hurt you!!!  So run (or drive) to your LRS and get fit, I promise you will not be disappointed.  Side note: Most of these stores are focused on the runner, not on their bottom line.  They will usually let you return/ swap out shoes if you do not like them; plus, you get to support local business, win/win!

GPS Watch:  If you don’t have one, you are already behind.  I know, I know I know, GPS Apps are on smart phones now.  The issue with this is plain and simple: looking at your IPhone strapped to your arm is immensely harder than looking at a watch.  This does not allow the runner to accurately pace themselves.  Unless you do all your running on a track or map out your run every time, it is hard to see how far/fast you are going.  I know, I know, I know, they are expensive!  I had to deal with this problem too!  However, with new technology comes a cheaper price.  Instead of paying a hefty rate, one can buy a GPS watch under $100.  Although they may not have the all the “bells and whistles” that the top-notch ones have, they give you the basic stats of distance running: how long, fast, and far you are running.  I don’t mean to take away emphasis of good old fashioned “feeling”, but the technology exists, I suggest using it!

Running Socks:  Another item that I have found makes all the difference is running socks.  While you may not want to spend $10 a pair like me, there is one factor that the savvy shopper should be aware of when buying socks for running,  It is no cotton whatsoever.  Cotton does not wick away sweat and when wet socks chafe against feet, they cause blisters.  Blisters suck.  So, no cotton, ok?   Pick synthetic fabrics that wick away sweat; dry feet=happy feet.  

Proper Running Attire:  Same as the socks.  Go for sweat wicking polyester fabrics rather than soggy cotton threads.  Running clothing should fit properly too!  Skip the baggy shorts and shirts for athletic fitting garbs.  Not saying you should wear super short shorts, but wear something that will give you freedom of movement while keeping you cool and dry.  From my experience, I tend to spend the extra money on running clothing, but anything athletic and synthetic should do!

Good Form:  Good running form (in my opinion) is the most important item you can have.  There are multitudes of form techniques out there and if you are just starting out (or looking to improve); I always recommend improving your technique.  There are great books that guide even the newest of runners in proper form and technique.  Speaking from experience, I increased my speed, recovery time, and decreased my injury rate from buying a $15 book and taking heed of its sage wisdom.   Good form running consists of a midfoot strike as opposed to a heel striking motion.  Do yourself a favor, go on YouTube and watch some videos of elite Kenyan marathoners.  You will see that they have all the aspects of good form running.  Check out Chi Running, Natural Running Center, Pose Method, Newton Running, or any other natural/midfoot running book/site.  It has taken me to new heights and I have a feeling it will help you too!  Let’s just say, if it is good enough for the Kenyans, it is good enough for all of us!

I hope this helps! If you have any questions, concerns, or need a little helpful “brand” advice.  Email me at Thatnavysailor@gmail.com.  

Keep Running,

Kelli & Dave