So, you want to get into running











 


How do I even start? 

Running is an activity that causes a lot of physical stress on the body. Figuring out why you want to start running is a great start from wanting to be more active, to health reasons, or for your mental, or maybe even training for a 5k, 10k, half marathon to even a full marathon. Whenever you figure this out that's' when all the fun stuff could happen.

Proper Gear

Running gear is super crucial. Not having proper running gear could lead to minor and major injuries. Could be as small as chaffing to as big as shin splints or maybe even a broken metatarsal bone on your foot. Also, comfort is another big factor, you don't want to be uncomfortable while running as you are already putting your body through tremendous stress. 

Shorts 

Finding out what running shorts work is important for the comfort aspect of running. You have 7-, 5-, and 3-inch shorts from the knee are the main three types of running shorts as well as spandex. Running in each of these have a different feel on your thighs and search around to see which material of short works the best for your personal needs.

Shirts

There are many t-shirt models that people like to wear from standard tees to tanks. The material of the t shirt is crucial as a cotton t shirt may feel super uncomfortable as it doesn't hold sweat that good and may cause chaffing in certain areas. Of course, tanks may be better for hot summer days while long sleeves may be better for those cold winter days.  

Socks

Of course, running is a sport that requires your entire body but one part of the body that is under the most stress is your feet. Keeping your feet comfortable is super important. Balega and Features socks are on the top of the game as far as running socks. Finding the thickness of the sock is super important as maybe you like super thick socks to make the fit snugger or maybe you like super thin songs so your feet could breathe.

Running shoes

The infamous running shoe. Many people have different opinions on running shoes from the most minimalist of cushion to the highest cushion imaginable on shoe. Finding out what shoe works for you is key, your feet and the way you walk is completely different from every person on the planet. Going to a running shoe store like Fleet Feet that does consulting on your feet would be the best way to go as they will take 3D models of your feet to make sure you get the right size, width and cushion for your feet. Some major brands of running shoes are Brooks, Hoka and New Balance. 

Hydration and Diet

Running causes, you to sweat excessively, especially in this Texas heat where its 100 degrees every day. Making sure you drink lots of water is essential as you don't want to get dehydrated when you are running. Having a proper diet is also crucial as you would want to eat more carbs as you may be burning a lot more calories than you are used too. Make sure you don't eat a big meal the night before or before you run as this may cause you to have stomach issues when you run. I recommend eating a light meal 2-4 hours before you run as you give time for your body to digest the food. 

What next? 

After you get all the proper gear and figuring out why you want to run than you can get into the specific training regiments. Running for health or to be active would most likely be at a lower intensity of training while training for a 5k to 10k will be more moderate to high intensity depending how fast you want to finish while training for a Half Marathon to Full Marathon will be at a higher intensity because of how much miles you want to run. 

Conclusion

Even though running may be an exercise that will get you extremely tired, have fun with it. Find reasons to get back out there and run those miles from running with friends or running in new cities. Get the new gear and find out the why you want to run. So, get out there run that mile, go sign up for that race you've been wanting to run. Go challenge yourself. 


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