What kind of help can I expect from a store that specializes in running supplies?

[Kimberami]

I just want to get my money's worth, but I don't want to be a bother.

[Greg_M Graduate]

So long as you keep off the peak times I have always found specialist stores to be a joy (not just running but music, shoes, sweets etc) because they are fundamentally staffed by people who are into that particular activity and because they are they are generally pleased when someone else is.

You are also likely to get first hand experience views of products (some of my best records - sorry I am old I had records - I got because I was known in the shop and they suggested stuff for me that I would never have though of!) which can be invaluable. I sometimes ask what the member of staff that serves me runs in if I am undecided and want another opinion - at least you know they have used it for real.

I got scolded the first time I went to the Sweatshop (in a nice way!) and now buy everything from there

I don't think you'll be a bother just because you are interested in knowing more about their products it is why they are there and they are specialists because they are into it. So long as you fulfil your bit of the bargain and actually buy something from time to time

[runsusyrun Graduate]

I have been to the Sweatshop for gait analysis and the chap that did it was so friendly and helpful and encouraging without the sales-person-pushiness. I did buy trainers and he kept on reminding me that if I don't like them I could bring them back etc etc. Also wanted to know about my goals, invited me to their running group. All the staff seemed to really know their stuff and their products.

You won't be a bother but as Greg said try to avoid peak times.

[AliB1 Graduate]

I can echo the above I have always found sweatshop really helpful...depending in how busy it is you may have to wait to see someone but they genuinely want to help.

[SBG356 Graduate]

Hi Kimber, you wont have Sweatshop in the USA as its a UK based company but I'm sure all that Greg describes will be found in any specialist running shop you go to because, as he says, they love running and will be more than happy to share their experiences and offer useful advice to novice runners as they want you to love it too!!

Dont consider yourself to be a bother though; you are on your way to being a runner so have as much right to be there as a veteran runner. Happy shopping! Sue

[Greg_M Graduate]

sorry yes...."other retailers are available!"

[Kimberami]

Thanks so much, y'all. I'm not sure which running stores are available in my neck o' the woods, but I'm going to do some research.

BTW-the name Sweatshop makes me giggle.

[EnVadrouille]

I was a bit scared to go to that specialist shop, but I really wanted to invest in a good pair of trainers and get some advice from someone who knew the subject. Price wise, it was equivalent to high street shops, so I went!

The 2 guys in the shop were lovely, interested and gave me an assessment before selecting a couple of pairs of trainers that suited my body. It was interesting to know about the way my body functions when running and what to do to avoid injuries.

I'm interested about bare foot running, but as opinion varies it was good to hear the pros and cons (decided it is not for me just yet!)

Now, I might not buy everything from there, but for the essentials, I go there as I trust them.

They knew about the C5K program and gave me some encouragements.

Don't be scared, the worse that can happen to you after a visit to a specialist shop is to leave with a big bag and big bill, but the staff are here to help!