Beginner Running Essentials
Trust me when I SAY YOU NEED THIS!
To stay on track, you’ll need some staple running essentials as a beginner. The right gear will totally make all the difference in ensuring you have a comfortable run and focus on hitting your goals.
Personally, I didn’t think that running was an expensive sport. However for longevity you have to have the proper shoes so that you can protect your joints. As a chiropractor, I’m constantly analyzing my gait while walking and running. It’s recommended that you get shoe insoles or get fitted for orthotics. Luckily for me, I was able to get a free pair from my Chiropractic School before graduation. When I started running I had on my Nike training shoes. They were suitable for running but I noticed I was definitely working harder to keep pace. After going to one of the Atlanta Run Club events at Ponce City Market. Nike partnered with them to giveaway 10 pairs of the Nike Invincible Run 3. They were supposed to be a combination of both Hoka and Brooks running shoes. This was the new and improved version. Right now the men’s shoes are on sale. This is a little pro tip. Before buying the shoe online because it’s cheaper. Try the shoe on in the store then get the exact pair for at least 30% right now.
Those shoes are pretty expensive!
So, my biggest concern is storage while running. As a woman of many needs, running outdoors causes my sinuses to flare up. Therefore I’m forced to carry tissue with me or I will look like this. (insert snotty picture)
I also have my car keys, wallet, protection, and lip gloss. You never know what you may need in a run. So, I did my research. The highest quality running vest on the market is anything from Salomon. The average price ranges from $100-250. I’m currently going to wait on that investment. However, I have my eye on the Salomon Alpha skin. The hype surrounding Salomon is how form-fitting it is to your body. There is less bounce and the storage for a longer run is unmatched. You can even store your jacket. I currently use my Nike heritage fanny pack. The tighter it is on your waist the less bounce you feel. It can fit everything including a water bottle if you stuff it correctly.
You need to invest in an Apple Watch. I could recommend another fitness watch but I’m team Apple 100%. I currently own the Apple Watch SE. It helps me track my progress on my fitness journey.
I would also recommend downloading the Nike Run App. It is the perfect workout tracker that is filled with guided runs and training plans. This will help you run confidently. It’s also completely free. In the app, there is a 4-week “Get Started” Training Plan This training plan is best for beginners who want to start running, but any runner can benefit. Created and coached by Bennett, each week features approximately three runs. Throughout the plan, runs range from 5 to 42 minutes. You can always pair it with your Apple Watch. Which has the Nike App already built into the software.
I would recommend the shades if you have super watery eyes like I do. They can protect your eyes on those sunny runs. As well as It can help on those windy runs also. It also looks pretty cool while wearing them.
The recovery process may feel brutal but when you have the right tools it will make the pain a lot less. Using a foam roller after running can help alleviate muscle tightness and soreness. It can help improve your flexibility and prevent injuries. When you attempt to roll out your calves, quads, hamstrings, and IT bands don’t scream. I promise the pain is temporary. Doing this is particularly beneficial for runners to prevent injuries.
