OK, so let’s talk about what you need (or need to think about) in order to get started with training for a marathon.
One of the best parts about running is that you don’t need much to get started! Set yourself up for success from the beginning by getting these things in place so that you are able to have the smoothest experience possible.
1.) Good Running Shoes
Now, you don’t need to go out and purchase $150 running shoes right off the bat. I’d recommend finding something that’s comfortable for you. I’ve had mixed experiences getting fitted in the past at expensive running stores. I ended up getting injured from a one mile run after an expensive, custom-fitted recommendation from one of those stores so I’m weary about those.
However, look for shoes labeled in the “running” section of a store. Typically they’ll have a thicker cushion than the shoes you’d wear to the gym. I have separate shoes for running and for the gym. That’s just my preference, but you can certainly wear your running shoes to the gym as well! Invest in a good pair of running shoes to avoid injuries down the road. Again, they don’t need to be $150. You can easily find good running shoes from a previous season for $70 or less.
I’ve used the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus for years and I love them. I have Ascis, Brooks, and many other brands. However, I swear by my Nikes.
Women’s Link: Women’s Recommended Nike Link
Men’s link: Men’s Recommended Nike Link
2.) Good Socks
The next step is to find good, protective socks. You should look for something that’s moisture-wicking to draw the sweat away from your feet. Also make sure they are a bit cushioned and have a lip in the heel area to protect your foot from blisters.
Again, you don’t need to buy anything too expensive, but I will say that the higher priced socks do truly make a difference. I’d recommend cushioned socks for training and getting a pair or two of nice socks for long runs and races. When I first started, I had 2 pairs of Nike socks that I just washed on repeat. Find something that’s comfortable, with cushioning, that doesn’t give you blisters.
One of my favorites just for everyday short runs is below:
One of my favorites strictly for long runs/racing (b/c they’re more expensive) is below:
3.) Proper Running Clothing
This is critical! I can’t tell you how many rashes, cuts, and blisters I’ve gotten from improper running gear!
A.) Sports Bra
(Sorry boys, skip this section) Ladies, you need a sports bra that has high support. You don’t want the girls bouncing around while you’re running. Not only is it extremely uncomfortable, I also don’t want to draw extra attention to myself and cause possible stretch marks. If you are uncomfortable running, you will stop running. Set yourself up to be successful.
These are good support and don’t dig in or give me rashes!
B.) Yoga pants
While shorts can be wonderful in the summertime to cool off, I still tend to wear more yoga pants than shorts. With shorts, I can sometimes get thigh chaffing and without the compression from yoga pants, I don’t feel as put together. I love yoga pants with a high waist, no pockets, and good compression. They need to not move AT ALL while I’m running. If they even come down just a smidge, making me have to pull them up, that’s a hard NO. I don’t want to be distracted from my run.
If I’m uncomfortable or focused on fixing my clothing, I’m more apt to stop my run and get discouraged. I SWEAR by the yoga pants below. I actually do not like the expensive brands as over time, they fade and become less stretchy. I actually refuse to wear my expensive leggings because I don’t feel as confident, I have to pull them up, they don’t have as much compression, and they ride up at the calves.
Fabletics are my favorite yoga pant for running! I get the powerhold and 7/8 length. I’m 5’9, 135 lbs, and wear a size small.
C.) Shorts
Always look for something with built in underwear. I know, it sounds uncomfortable. However, after you wear them (with your regular underwear underneath), it makes running so much more enjoyable. The shorts won’t ride up as much and will provide extra protection. Look for moisture-wicking shorts and if you can, high waisted shorts. These ones are some of my favorites!
D.) Racerback Tank Top
I like running with racerback tank tops best. It doesn’t matter if they are flowy or tight. I have a plethora of many different kids. I just find them to be most comfortable and the least distracting while I’m running.
E.) Headband
Put your hair back in a ponytail and put a headband on if you have long hair. This is critical to keep hair out of your face and keep you focused on your run. Again, if you have to move hair out of your face, you will be distracted. Get a cheap headband to wear. The ones I linked below are my favorite! Cheap, stay in place, and come in a package of many colors or you can choose a black/white package. You don’t need the expensive $25 ones from trendy stores. These will do the trick!
4.) Music
When I first started running, I NEEDED music to keep me going. I could never understand people that ran without music. Now, I often run without music. However, I always run faster and am more focused with music. Get an ipod or mp3 device you can run with. Try not to run while holding your phone. I’m guilty of this as well sometimes. However, if you’re holding your phone, you aren’t focused on your run. You’ve got something distracting you in your hand! I know it’s nice to have for pictures, music, phone calls, but this is YOUR time to disconnect from the world, to clear your mind, and to focus on your goals. An mp3 player that can clip onto your clothes is the most ideal device.
I’ve had mine for 8 years and I absolutely love it. Create your playlists and just dial in to your run. You can even choose a hype up running song to start each run with! For my first marathon, I trained every single day by starting my run with the song “More” by Usher. It pumped me up and got me motivated to go after it!!
5.) Running Watch
When I started running, apps didn’t exist to map runs on your phone. Now, that absolutely exists! However, since I recommend not running with your phone, I highly recommend getting a running watch. I’ve had my Garmin for 10 years and it is one of my favorite things. Mine is bulkier than what they make these days, but when I look at it, it feels nostalgic since we’ve been through a lot together over 10 years. (As silly as that sounds!) Now, they make much cheaper and smaller watches that do the same thing!
They will map and track your run, tell you how fast you’re going, how far you went, and can help with intervals, etc. They’re amazing for tracking progress, calories, pacing, and mileage! Pacing is EXTREMELY important! I’ll do a whole post on this, but make sure to get a watch that gives you REAL TIME pacing (not just minute or mile pacing).
I don’t think I could live without my Garmin! Luckily, running watches are much cheaper now and easier to get than when I started. My Garmin running watch was $395 and there were only a few to choose from back in 2011. Now, they’re everywhere and super inexpensive for what they are! I will say though, it’s been 10 years, and I still use mine every day! It is amazing!!
My 1st choice would be this Garmin Instinct:
Second choice, has touch screen and is more cost effective:
You don’t need a lot to start running. Set yourself up for success so that you can reach your goals as easily as possible!! =) I have another post on running items that make long runs much easier/more convenient, but are considered “non-essential” items like running belts, etc. You can access that post here.