“Let’s Get Started”

So you want to run. Let’s get started. Running is such a great sport with so many benefits. It’s a great way to get in shape and stay healthy. It’s important to be in tune with your body and know your limitations to prevent any injury.

The most important part of running is your feet. You want very comfortable, happy feet. Please be good to your feet and invest in the proper running shoes. My favorite running shoes are Saucony. I have a wide foot and my feet are very happy running in them.

 I highly recommend Fleet Feet Sports Encino, previously known as Phidippides Sports Center in Encino, CA. The staff is very knowledgeable and will watch you walk or run to determine if your feet pronate. Socks are equally important. I have personally worn several kinds of socks but my favorite running socks are Balega Drynamix. It’s important to wash your socks before running in them to prevent blisters. Blisters might still occur but washing them before they are worn will help.

Depending on how often and how long you will run will determine how much money you want to invest in additional accessories and clothing. I use a few items that are very helpful to me when I run. I wear a water pack. I am able to drink water or Gatorade when I need to. There are several varieties of running packs to choose from. Some people prefer one bottle and other people prefer many small bottles. It’s best to experiment with what is most comfortable for you.

 Clothing can be an important investment. My favorite brand is Nike Dri-Fit. The sweat obsorbs in the clothes and not on your body. The clothes are made very well and last a very long time. Nike has their own website and store. Other stores also carry Nike in their inventory. If you don’t like Nike, there are many other brands to select from.

 It’s very important to protect your skin. I wear a running hat but it’s very important to apply sunscreen on all exposed areas of your skin and wear lightweight sunglasses.

There are many companies that offer sports clothing and accessories. It’s important to realize with any new sport or activity, there is a time and financial investment. I hope this won’t deter your decision to start running. The shoes and socks are the most important.

Take small steps to get started. Set personal goals for yourself as you add to your wardrobe and accessories. There are many items that do go on sale. That is a great time to invest in your purchases. I recently found a Nike Dri-Fit running shirt and shorts at Marshalls. They did not match but I didn’t care. I can match it with something I already had from a previous purchase.

I hope this information has been helpful and will get you started to your personal running journey.

Stay tuned for my next blog, “Fuel your Body”.