What Women Need To Start Running

One of the most appealing things about running is that it’s so easy to get started…and relatively inexpensive. With money so tight right now, there’s no gym membership required, no fancy equipment to purchase. Basically, you just walk out your front door and go!

Nonetheless, there are a couple of basic things a woman needs to start her running program:

Running Shoes

New runners often ask if they can wear an old pair of cross-trainers or walking shoes just to get started running. Emphatically, the answer is “no.” To run, you need well-cushioned, supportive shoes designed specifically for the sport.  Why?  Running puts enormous stress on your muscular-skeletal system – not to mention your feet. It is extremely important to wear a decent pair of shoes to avoid injury and excessive soreness (which will stop your training in nothing flat).

No need to fret however. You don’t have to spend a gazillion dollars on shoes. Right now, the state of the economy means that many retailers are offering extraordinary deals on shoes both on and off line. Full retail, a new pair of running shoes starts at about $65.00.  Right now you can probably pick up a decent pair for 10-15% less. I do advise however, that you at least visit a store and find your proper model and fit before purchasing shoes online.

Know this about running shoes:

·       You normally you go up half a size from your street shoe size to your running shoe size.

·       Your running style will in many ways dictate the shoe you buy (not your affinity for a certain brand). Visit a running store that specializes in fitting shoes where they will do an analysis of your running style and help you select the proper model.

To extend the life of your shoes, NEVER wash them in a machine and NEVER dry them out in front of heat.

Expect to replace your running shoes approx every 300 miles. You can use the Traxee Shoe Log in combination with the training log (Traxlog) to track the mileage on your shoes.
 

Running Bra

This is the second beginner’s essential. A comfortable, supportive running bra is essential to maintaining both comfort and breast health when doing high impact exercise. Small-breasted women get away a little cheaper here as there are bras of simpler construction available that will do nicely. Fuller-figured women need to pay lots of attention to proper support. Choosing the right sports bra can make running a lot easier on you and a heck of a lot more comfortable. Make sure that the bra you choose is rated for high impact exercise. Small-breasted women can expect to pay between $10 - $28 for a good bra; larger breasted women $30 - $50.

Remember, running bras have a lifespan  as well – about 70 washings – before they should be retired. You can extend the life of your bras by hand washing, using a detergent specifically designed for sports clothing  and hanging bras dry.

That’s it! Just 2 pieces of equipment coming in at around $100 to improve your fitness and overall health, lose weight, and improve your lifestyle!

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