Running essentials

[TVPfit]

Hi, I'm about to embark on my first ever phys since doing a Park Run 2 years ago. Other than the obvious good trainers and appropriate clothes, can anyone recommend anything else I may need?

Like do people just hold their phones in their hand to use the app? Or is it best to get a phone holder thingy and specific headphones?

Also, I'm type 1 diabetic and when I did the Park Run 2 years ago, I realised I really should get a little backpack or something to carry glucose and my glucose meter etc.

I was thinking of a really small camel pack.

Does anyone have any other (maybe tried and tested?) suggestions?

Thank you.

[damienair Graduate]

I bought a waist belt for around €10 around 2 years ago from Sports Direct. It’s still going strong. I use it to hold my phone when I’m listening to music or Podcasts. It’s also great for holding my car key and barcode when I’m doing a Parkrun. It was not expensive and does its job well.

In this weather a hat, light running jacket and light pair of gloves.

I also bought a Garmin GPS running watch from eBay , it was under €20 and works perfectly. No need to spend a fortune when you can pick a Garmin Forerunner 25 or 35 up for a bargain. A running watch is easier to use than an app and can be linked to an app like Strava.

[TVPfit in reply to damienair]

Thanks Damien. I already have a Fitbit. And whilst the waistband sounds great, I have an insulin pump which is worn on a waistband. So I think it may end up rather uncomfortable to wear a second.

I've just seen a decent arm one on Amazon though that should fit my essentials in.

[Coolcookingteacher Graduate]

Have you seen runners flip belts or flip pouches? Quite cheap on eBay and might be of use. I use my jacket top pocket for phone, side pocket for inhaler but back to bum bag in better weather...

[GoogleMe Graduate]

Keep it simple (even the 'good trainers and appropriate clothes' are not essential) You are right that the priority is something to put your phone in (tripping is not unknown) and probably earphones - ones you can just put in one ear for safety. I put my phone in my dog kit bag and have it talk out loud these days.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

I would not recommend holding your phone in your hands. That can lead to assymetries and aching shoulder muscles.........hands need to be unclenched.

Gloves and a buff are essential at this time of year.

Have you read this guide to buying shoes healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[TVPfit in reply to IannodaTruffe]

I have indeed read it, and bookmarked it.

I will be holding off from buying a expensive trainers until I establish if running is something I can continue to do (diagnosed with M.E, but have applied for a more physical job so I can avoid fluorescent lights and computer screens like in current job, which give me horrendous headaches and fatigue).

But I need to pass the bleep test.

So whilst I'm hopeful I can continue to run, I can't invest a massive amount currently.

I have until 1st April to get fit enough to do the fitness test.

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

Welcome... a belt may be best for the glucose and meter, and they’re easier to put your phone in during the warm up than a back pack and even an arm band thingy.

The only other thing you need to bring is yourself to the start line every couple of days and you’ll have everything you need to complete this plan. Enjoy your journey.

[Beachcomber66 Graduate]

My running shorts have a zip pocket in the back of the waist band which is perfect for my phone. Keys and inhaler go in my jacket pocket in cold weather; job done.

[buzzards Graduate]

Decathlon have phone holders for different phone sizes and a very small backpack. I can recommend both.