1*Buy two pairs of good running shoes to alternate between them. Shoes wear out and after a few hundred kilometres they lack the support your feet require. Owning two pairs means you can alternate and have them last longer. There’s no need to spend a fortune on a pair either, most of the cheaper running shoes I’ve purchased have served me better than the more expensive ones. The important factor is to find a pair of running shoes that match your foot and running style.
2*Running outfit that consists of shorts, top and jumper. Running in your tracksuit is fine if you’re going for a quick twenty minute jog. If you’re a serious runner you want to invest in the right running clothes which will make running more comfortable, they will also prevent unnecessary chafing and rashes, and they will keep you dry.
3*A heart rate monitor is not mandatory but it can help you get a better workout. Working with a heart rate monitor gives you a better idea of your intensity and can help you improve your fitness and speed. During a long race it can also help keep your pace so that you don’t tire out too earlier or go too slow.
4*Sunglasses are a must all year round especially if you live in really sunny areas. Living on the Gold Coast, Australia I find myself never leaving the house without sunglasses. They become a necessity and if you want to protect your eyes and prevent wrinkles it’s worth investing in a pair. No need to spend hundreds on a designer pair though, just makes sure there’s enough UV protection and that they’re comfortable to run in, you don’t want to end up with a rash behind your ears, believe me.
5*IPOD/MP3 to keep you company on those long runs that can sometimes get lonely and tedious. Listening to your favourite music during a run can make your runs easier and more enjoyable if you’re the type of person who gets bored quickly.
6*A training diary can help you keep on track with your running. It will show you how many kilometres you’re running each week and how your body reacts to the training. Noting down your training runs will not only help you prepare for races but it will also keep a record of all your training so that you know what works and what doesn’t. A training diary can be a one dollar notepad from the supermarket and a pencil. No need for anything fancy, unless that’s what you want of course.
7*Gym membership/treadmills can come in handy especially when it’s cold or wet outside and the last thing you want to do is head outdoors for a run. A gym membership gives you a chance to train with other people, use their cardio machines and include some weight training during the week which will benefit your running power and prevent overuse injuries. A treadmill at home can save you time and allow you to go for a run when the weather is not friendly or if you want to fit in watching NCIS or keep an eye on your kids as they play with their Lego blocks. Now there are no excuses for not fitting in a workout.
8*A yummy breakfast once you get home from an earlier morning workout – poached eggs on toast with avocado, tomato and mushroom work perfectly for me, I might even add a slice of gorgonzola cheese on top too. Find something that works for you, tastes good and feels like a healthy reward afterwards. It gives you something to look forward to when you can’t get motivated.
9*Time out is as important as going out for a runner. If you don’t allow at least one day of rest you risk an injury and being unable to run for weeks. Sure pros might train seven days a week but if running is not your career there’s no need to go overboard. If you feel like you have to do some form of exercise every day of the week try some cross training like yoga, cycling or going for a swim
What makes your run/workout easier to get through?
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8*A yummy breakfast once you get home from an earlier morning workout – poached eggs on toast with avocado, tomato and mushroom work perfectly for me, I might even add a slice of gorgonzola cheese on top too. Find something that works for you, tastes good and feels like a healthy reward afterwards. It gives you something to look forward to when you can’t get motivated.
Great brekkie photo, so Australian! And yes to the not having to spend a fortune on shoes. I use Asics – much less expensive than Nike etc but so much better for my battered feet and knees. No diary but maybe that should be added. I find having a walking or swimming or something else day to break it up helps as much as a total rest day too.
I wish I had a heart rate monitor– that would be brilliant! But I agree 1000% with your tips!
@ Niamh Griffin – Asics are great and yeah the price tag is definitely more attractive.
@ Su – thanks Su 🙂