Absolutely Necessary Running Gear (and some just for fun)

Running is one of the least expensive hobbies out there. All you really need are a few choice items and you are good to go. In this hub I'm going to lay out for you the items that you need to be a successful beginning runner and then some items that you may enjoy having to enhance your experience.

You will absolutely need:

1. Good running shoes. Finding good running shoes is a process. In fact, it's one that I am still figuring out. I've gone through a few pairs, and so far my favorites that I have had have been Asics brand. However, everyone should shop around and try out different brands to find out what works for them. One of the easiest ways to find perfect shoes is to go to a running store (not just a shoe store) with employees that are themselves runners and have them check your form and pick out models for you. These types of stores usually specialize in matching runners to the best shoes for them. Barefoot running has become a popular movement for distance runners, however, it is not advisable for beginning runners to run barefoot. Barefoot running is a very specialized way of running that needs to be entered into very carefully and gradually to avoid serious, and sometimes permanent, injury.
2. Sports Bra. Obviously, if you are a guy you can skip on down to number three. However, for women a good sports bra that fits correctly is incredibly important for a good running experience. My favorite sports bra that I have tried is the Nike High Impact sports bra. A good sports bra should fit very snugly in order to provide the much needed support from the constant stress of running. Another good sports bra that I have come across is the one made by Essential Bodywear (myessentialbodywear.com). The main difference is that this bra has hook and eye closure in the front so it is much easier to take off after a long run than bras you have to pull over your head. (I've nearly pulled muscles that way.)
3. Clothes. If you are going to be running long distances, avoid cotton like the plague. Cotton fabric absorbs moisture, and causes major chafing. It is most important to make sure that your socks, underwear, and bra are not made out of cotton. As these are the articles of clothing that would cause the most painful chafing and be extremely soggy and wet with sweat. Not a pleasant experience, believe me. My favorite article of running clothing I have are my Nike Road Race shorts. They have built in briefs and are just very comfortable and flattering. I also have a pair of Adidas capris tights that I'm very fond of. The second best way to avoid chafing is to make sure that your clothing fits snugly without being too tight. If clothes are too loose, they move around more which can cause more uncomfortable rubbing. I also have a growing collection of long sleeve tech shirts that I've gotten from participating in races, which always put me in a good mood when I wear them out on runs.

That's it! Those are the only three things that you really need to become a runner. However, there are some things that I really love to have when I go running and also some things that I would really like to have.

I have and use almost all the time:

1. iPod and armband: Which would not be complete without my Skullcandy ear buds. These are the most comfortable ear buds I have ever had, and the first ones that I actually can wear for long periods of time.
2. Wrist Stopwatch: It looks like a dorky calculator watch, but I think that some days I would be lost without it.
3. Support insoles: During my second pregnancy, the ligaments in my feet stretched out and caused my arches to flatten out. I now have major foot pain if I don't wear insoles 80% of the time.

Things I really, really want:

1. Garmin GPS Watch: We live out in the middle of nowhere so when I go for training runs I always have to either drive them first to figure out how far I'm going, or just guess by my times how far I've gone. I would love to have a GPS so that I always know how far I've gone and my pace.
2. CamelBak backpack: I really want this so that I don't have to carry a water bottle with me on those really long runs. I have looked into hydration belts as well, but I just don't think I would like the bounce around my waist, and I've heard that the backpacks don't slosh too much. Plus, you have a straw right there, no pulling out and putting back in water bottles.
3. More clothes and shoes: Like I said, you don't need very many things to take up running, but I'm a girl that can't ever turn down clothes or shoes even just to work out in.