Uh-oh, stuff incoming!

[Gthants]

I've just done Week 6, run 1 (first disappointing run as I did not feel stretched at all, it was just ... easy.) I started C25K in my hiking shoes with normal joggers and a work out top from when I used to do pilates. I waited until after Week 3 before deciding this was a "thing" and ordering some running shoes. I spent money on ME. Not a thing I normally do. I consoled myself with the thought it wasn't really on me, but on my health, which is, of course, an entirely separate entity.

Proper foot-kit definitely makes a difference! Then yesterday in our local charity shop I came across a running outer layer (pictured), clearly unused (or virtually so). £4. Bargain! This somehow seems more serious than the pumps because I don't need this layer now. This maybe for the autumn, when C25K will be over. But I see this as a statement, a marker for the future. This is me saying (or maybe whispering, gently) "I will still be running in the autumn."

We are seeing friends later today; a visit that often includes a trip to TKMAXX. I am starting to see trousers that are actually comfortable to run in in my future. And running shorts for the summer. Running STUFF!

Is this normal? Am I being excessively extravagant? Is this an early late-life crisis?!

Happy Sunday. Enjoy your runs today.

[Stentrunner Graduate]

oh yes. One of the side-effects of C25k, renewed self-esteem. You’re starting to feel good about yourself. Well done!

[Gthants in reply to Stentrunner]

THANKS!

[Jools2020 Graduate]

Perfectly normal. Over the coming weeks you will discover all manner of things that you must have! You’ve got the running bug now ………..

[Gthants in reply to Jools2020]

If high street banks were still a thing I could call in to see the manager to arrange a running overdraft ...

[Instructor57 Graduate]

Not sure how to say this but ...... There really is NO cure 😁😉

That top was a good find for £4 !

I have a similar one but with a full zip on the front !

Great for early morning runs when it's not quite light , good viz and moisture wicking fabric 👍

[Gthants in reply to Instructor57]

TKMaxx didn't work out for me so there are now sports shops in my future ...

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate]

Buying run kit is one of the best bits of being a runner!! I’ve got a bargain karrimor run jacket that was £4 in the sale. It’s lovely to find a bargain!

[SueAppleRun Graduate]

Not extravagant at all, you will need that top and shoes are the most important thing, a pair of running shorts will see you through many summers too

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Running gear... is essential and the finding of it is as much a part of the programme as the runs... Bargains are to be found and treasured... end of years sales, last year's colours... and the best bit....?

You deserve it... you are worth it, you absolutely need the right gear to keep healthy

[backintime Graduate]

I am absolutely not allowed in Decathlon on my own so bad for my wallet! Enjoy your you time

[Gthants in reply to backintime]

I am distance "try-before-I-buying" on Amazon. Am not going in person (yet?) as I too might be in trouble!

[backintime Graduate in reply to Gthants]

I am a Decathlon addict I think - I go in there and start thinking I should buy stuff that I didn't even know about before I went in there - all my running kit comes from there, it fits my budget and my kit has been washed and washed and still lasts

[Gthants in reply to backintime]

There's one nearby. Really nearby. That's where I might look if I need an outer waterproof top for running in autumn/winter...

[Jackapoodle Graduate]

Running socks! Actual socks for running!! I remember very clearly the day I discovered this 😲 I now spend ridiculous amounts of time browsing through sock sales 🙈Good luck with your running, sounds like you're making great progress 😊

[Run46 Graduate in reply to Jackapoodle]

And they really make a difference...my left foot arch was particularly grateful for the change to wearing actual running socks 😊

[Gthants]

Yes! My socks came before the pumps and are nicely padded and make a big difference. They seem so trivial that I forgot to mention, but they're your literal foundation.