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Weight Loss Exercise

Essential Running Gear for Beginners




When it comes to running gear, the single most important item you need is a good pair of running shoes. However, there are a few things you may also need in order to make running safer and more comfortable. Having these basic gear will help ensure that you’ll grow to love this form of aerobic exercise and be healthy and fit for the rest of your life.

Running Shoes

Every runner needs a decent pair of running shoes. If you have an old pair gathering dust at the back of your closet, ditch them and get yourself a new pair of running shoes, preferably from a specialty running store. The employees at the specialty store should be able to advise you on the best running shoes for your foot type and gait. The running shoes you choose should provide the cushioning and support you need to run comfortably and avoid injury.

Clothes

You need comfortable clothes for running. Choose a shirt made of wicking fabric such as DryFit, Thermax or CoolMax, to draw sweat away from your body. Cotton fabrics are not recommended because once they get wet, they’ll stay wet. Clothes that wick away sweat and moisture help prevent chafing.

Wear a comfortable pair of running shorts. If it’s cold out, you may want to wear sweatpants/tights. Cotton socks are not recommended as they hold moisture and leave your feet wet and cold. Instead, wear socks made of wicking material such as polyester. Women should wear a comfortable and supportive sports bra.

New runners have a tendency to overdress. When the temperature is above 55°F, all you have to wear is a pair of shorts and a shirt. Once your body has warmed up, it will feel 15-20 degrees warmer from your extra body heat. If it’s really cold, consider wearing a stocking cap and gloves.

Hydration Belt and Water Bottles

It’s important to stay hydrated, so if your run lasts more than 30 minutes and you have no access to water on your route, you’ll need to carry your own water or drink. A hydration belt and some water bottles can hold your fluids while keeping your hands free.

Running Watch

One piece of running gear that you will find useful is a running watch so you can keep track of how long you have been running. You can also use it to time your run/walk intervals. As you gain more running experience, you may soon want to buy a GPS watch or one with a heart rate monitor.

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Weight Loss Exercise

How to Choose the Best Running Shoes for You





There are a lot of  things to look at when looking for the best running shoes. Running puts a lot of stress on the feet and for this reason runners should choose a pair of running shoes that is comfortable and provides the best support for their feet. When choosing the best running shoes its important to keep in mind that there are different types of feet and different types of shoes. Some people over-pronate when running or walking while others under-pronate. There are people with high arches while others have flat feet. All of these things need to be considered when looking for shoes that will give you the cushioning and support that you need.

Best Running Shoes – Stability

If you are an over-pronator, the best running shoes for you are stability shoes. Over-pronation is when your ankle rolls inward too much when walking or running. It can strain your ankles and lead to injuries. Stability shoes provide extra support to prevent or minimize over-pronation. Among the best stability shoes are Nike Zoom Structure Triax 15, Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12, Mizuno Wave Inspire 8, and Asics GT-2170.

Best Running Shoes – Motion Control

Best Running Shoes

Best Running Shoes

Motion control shoes are stability shoes specially designed for severe overpronators. They have a special sole unit and upper construction that help lock your foot in position. Flat-footed runners will benefit from motion control running shoes like the Brooks Trance 10, Asics Evolution 6, and New Balance 1226.

 Best Running Shoes for Neutral Cushioning

Cushioned running shoes are designed for “efficient” runners, or runners with normal pronation as well as those with high arches and mild under-pronation or supination. This type of running shoe provides cushioning to distribute the body weight over the entire length and width of the feet. The midsole is typically soft and flexible, providing medium support under the arch. Neutral-cushioned shoes are usually lighter than other types of running shoes and are great for long distance runs.
Some of the best cushioned running shoes include Mizuno Wave Precision 12, New Balance The 890, and Asics GEL Nimbus 12.

Minimalist Running Shoes

Minimalist models represent the latest trend in running shoes. This type of running shoe is extremely lightweight (less than 10.5 ounces) and typically have a flat out-sole, no visible arch depression, and no mid-foot structure. A growing number of runners have embraced minimalist or barefoot running because it is said to improve your running form.

Among the most popular minimalist running shoes are Merrell Trail Glove Barefoot Running Shoes and Vibram Five Fingers.

Know Your Shoe Type

Keep in mind that the best running shoe is different for every person. Find out what type of running shoe is suitable for your feet. That is the best running shoes for you.