CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – First of all, I am not a professional runner, a certified personal trainer, coach or doctor. I’m a guy who started running about four years ago because I was tired of being overweight and out of shape.

Since that first, very slow mile, I have run just about every race distance from a 5k to a 100 miler.  I love running and I hope some of my experiences and trial and error will help motivate you to get started.

It can be a little overwhelming when you make up your mind to start running.  You may wonder, “What do I really need?” and “What is a waste of money?”  Running can be as cheap or as expensive as you want to make it.  These are some things that I think are worth the money.

 

  • A good pair of shoes – This is the most important thing. You are going to be putting strain on your body and a good pair of shoes can spare you a lot of pain. It is worth it to go to a specialty running store like The Runner’s Hub here in town and have someone who knows what they are talking about fit you with the perfect pair of shoes for your stride.  Buying shoes from someone that doesn’t know the difference between under pronation and over pronation will cost your body in the long run.  Don’t be afraid to spend $100 or more on a good pair of shoes.  Your knees are worth it.

 

  • A pair of running shorts. Yeah, I know what you are saying, especially if you are a guy.  “I don’t want to wear short shorts.”  They make running shorts now that are a more modest length.  Running in boxers and basketball shorts is good for a ten minute jog, but legit running shorts are designed for the activity so you won’t chafe and you won’t overheat.  You can find a good pair of running shorts for less than $30.

 

  • A good pair of socks. Sock technology has come a long way since the days of those knee high white cotton socks with the stripes on the top.  A good pair of socks like Swiftwick or Smartwool will help keep your feet from getting blisters.  I really like the brand Injinji, a sock with individual toes like a glove for your feet.  They feel a little weird at first but I have yet to get a blister in them.  Take care of your feet.

 

  • A goal. What would you like to accomplish with your running?  Whether you want to finish a 5k or lose some weight, it is important to set a goal.  I recommend looking for a 5k race two or three months out from the day you start running and signing up immediately.  Having that race to train for and having already paid the money will keep you motivated.

 

That’s about all you really need to get started, so go get fitted for a good pair of shoes order a pair of shorts and socks on Amazon and get ready to hit the road or trail.  Next week I will take you to some of my favorite places to run in Clarksville.