Ok so I’m not massively experienced in this field like some but I have been running for a little while and entered the field from a very unhealthy state (see blog). I was the sort of person who would get out of sport whenever possible and until a couple of years ago running was not something that fit into any part of my life.

I can offer limited help and advice for all newbie runners, what ideas I have picked up, tech I have used etc. These worked for me but may not help you at all, that said I have been asked similar questions again an again so thought I would note them down.

Kitting yourself out

If you are seriously considering taking up running in any serious way getting the right kit is a must. It doesn’t always come cheap but if you calculate how much time you spend in the item vs the cost it prob won’t seem too bad.

What you should buy…

Clothing

Trainers: your trainers will be one of the few items you use during every run, unlike a t shirt or shorts you won’t change these depending on what colour mood you are in on that day. Invest wisely on a pair of trainers, if you are going to run for more than 2 or so hours a week I would highly recommend finding an INDEPENDENT running shop (eg. sweatshop) which offers gait analysis. These guys will recommend a pair of shoes which will work with your running stride and should reduce future impact risks. I suggest an independent shop as if you go to somewhere like Nike they will only sell you their own product which may not be suitable. With these trainers, forget brands you may know there is a chance you will be sold a pair of shoes by a manufacturer you have never heard of…

Socks: a good pair of running socks also essential ones that absorb sweat. I have used Sky Run Socks by X-Socks and had no issues again not cheap at about £10 a pair however these should reduce blister problems and athletes foot when combined with a good pair of trainers…

Other clothing: this is up to the runner, over time you will find what is comfortable. If you are a blokeand running in the cold winter don’t be embarrassed to wear leggings keeping your muscles warm will only help you in the long term, also, wear gloves, its common sense really. Cotton is probably not advisable, perhaps look at dri-fit or clothing that is built with sports in mind…

Running Aids

Vaseline/BodyGlide: Whilst chafing may seem a comical issue to discuss and chuckle about in the pub with your mates, not until you experience it will you want to do something about it. Key areas of chafing are the nipples, where your tshirt rubs as it moves and between your legs. In order to combat this chafing, which can lead to bleeding and incredible pain both during and after your run invest in some Vaseline or bodyglide. Apply to the sensitive areas, and if you suffer from blisters then consider applying on your feet too, Vaseline is a lot more liquidy and slightly harder and greasier to apply however I think it probably does roughly the same…

Part two to follow shortly where I will discuss stretches, key ways to work your muscles and also running with technology…