Mom of 4 Shares 10 Must Have Items for Beginner Runners – Chron.com
I did not start running in high school. I did not pick up 5k or marathon race fever in my 20’s or early 30’s. I am definitely late to the game when it comes to running but if anything, I’ve learned later is better than never.
I was a mom of four who at 37 taught herself how to swim while pregnant with baby #3 and at 40 completed her first triathlon less than a year after having baby #4. Now, I am 45 and gearing up for my third half Ironman triathlon distance (70.3 miles) with hopes of completing a full Ironman (140.6) in the next year or two.
If I have learned anything about running this last decade or so, it is that besides having the will and desire, the right gear will keep you running longer. Here’s a list of items that are essential to any runner, whether you’re starting off on your running journey or even as a long-term running athlete.
Let’s start from the bottom…
-
Photo: Sun & Ski Sports
Image 1 of 1
1. Shoes! – I cannot stress enough how important it is to go get the right shoes for your feet and your running gait. Running in shoes that do not provide the proper support can put you at risk for injury. I suggest the first order of business is to check out the Sun & Ski Sports Run Lookbook where you can personally select the right shoe for you with just a few clicks. I have worn Asics for years, you can’t go wrong with Asics GT-1000 8 Running Shoes for Men & Women. They feature FLYTEFOAM®Propel technology for a remarkably lightweight quality that will make you feel as light as a feather.
2. If you’re not hitting the road or the pavement, trail running is a great way to pick up on miles while enjoying the outdoors. You will definitely need a shoe with proper ankle stability for the uneven terrain. I personally enjoin the trails at the Ant Hills near Memorial Park or the trails by Buffalo Bayou at Terry Hershey Park. You will be in good hands with Merrell Bare Access XTR Trail Running Shoes for Men & Women. This trail runner features 0 heel-to-toe offset, a moderate amount of shock-absorbing foam and a sticky Vibram® outsole that enhances ground connection and agility for fast runs on light to moderate trails.
3. Cushioned performance socks go hand in hand with your shoes and are often overlooked. Performance socks are usually made of materials other than cotton which absorb moisture and cause blistering. They also provide comfort to help cushion high impact areas like the Feetures Elite Light Cushion Running Socks. They feature Wick® fibers that wick moisture to keep feet cool and dry as well as The Perfect Toe®, a no irritating toe seam.
4. Recovery slides are becoming more and more popular for runners. Running comes with pain sometimes, unfortunately, like sore leg muscles, tired knees, and feet. Slides are great especially after those long runs to give your tired feet a nice break. They provide your legs with support and induce a sense of relaxation to help the speed of recovery. I am personally in the market for these and have my eye on the Hoka One One Recovery Slides for Men & Women. The Dual-layer construction incorporates a soft top layer and a resilient midsole/outsole for durability and stability.
5. Let’s talk about clothes, shall we? Here in Houston (and most of South Texas), it is hot and humid most of the year. Wearing fabrics that wick the sweat off your skin is essential to keep from chafing. Moisture-wicking running shorts, sports bras, and tops are a must and when the colder months finally roll through, it’s also important to bundle up in layers. It is important to layer with longer sleeves, leggings, and jackets but especially to bring a warm hat to cover your head and ears and gloves for your fingers. There are tons of options when looking at The North Face Ambition Athletic Line For Men & Women (shorts, light jackets, tights, tanks, long sleeve shirts). North Face has a long reputation of providing great quality outdoor wear.
6. Fitness watch or tracker – When I started, I just ran out the door and when I got home, my curiosity peaked. How far did I actually go?! I had to get in my car to clock the mileage! It is much easier to carry a watch that will track your distance for you! There are a dozen of options that can track your pace, your heart rate and even give you a GPS coordinate of your route. I have had several iterations of the Garmin Forerunner 35 Watch. The Garmin Forerunner 35 Watch is slim and lightweight – perfect for daily runs, training, and racing and features built-in wrist-based heart rate as well as GPS that tracks your distance, pace, intervals and more.
7. Hydration and Nutrition are very important especially if you are looking to be out running longer than 30 minutes. If you don’t plan ahead and know of water stops along your route, carrying it with you is smart. A hydration belt with a built-in water bottle or one with a zippered compartment to hold nutrition or electrolytes is very useful like the Salomon Pulse Handheld Running Wrap or Salomon Agile 250 Running Belt.
8. Sun protection – Even on cloudy days, you are susceptible to sunburns and sun damage. Sunscreen is a must on EVERY run. Wearing sunglasses and a hat or visor and are essential for skin and eye protection as well.
9. Recovery Tools/Foam Rollers – Foam rollers are designed to break up knots and increase mobility by helping you to manage tight muscles. Massaging the muscles increases blood flow and oxygen to the tissue and aids in the natural healing process together with regular stretching, rolling your legs after every run helps prevent muscle injury, lengthens muscles and increases flexibility. – Trigger Point Core 18″ Foam Roller.
10. Running with your phone is not only essential for safety, but it can also sync up with running apps or pair with wireless earphones to listen to music. Some running belts are big enough to carry a phone (like the one listed above) but some runners prefer to using an armband. Nathan Sonicmount Armband.
Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting out to conquer your first 5k, rest assured that you will find all you need to get you going at Sun & Ski Sports. Visit their Run Lookbook, live chat with an expert about everything from buying the right skis to bike sizing, and be on the lookout for official coupon codes and discounts. They’ll have you covered from head to toe.
Valerie Villarreal is a wife, mom a four, blogger, entrepreneur with both a jewelry and fitness business and enjoys influencing and motivating others to live a healthy, fit and clean life style. She is currently a month out of her next 70.3 Ironman triathlon race, you can follow her training journey on Instagram through her account @fullhouseofroyas