The ice is finally melted on the bike path near our house which means it’s time for spring running. For the past 3 years while we went through infertility and treatments I felt like my fitness was on a yo-yo. I would get in shape only to have to stop running. It would happen again and again. Now I feel like the stars are aligned and I am ready to start training again for a 5 or 6K. So what do you need if you are looking to start running this spring?
1. Watch
Whether you want a lower tech option like astopwatch and timer or something more savvy with a GPS like an apple watch (on my wishlist!), you need something to time yourself. I like to use it to time my pace, do intervals, or time my overall run to see improvements. I love with running you really are your own competitor!
Black athletic tee-c/o Zaful | Pink hoodie-c/o Zaful | Leggings-c/o Zaful | Shoes (exact, save, splurge)
2. A headband
Because springtime weather is notoriously fickle, I normally have an athletic headband to help keep flyaways away from my face. Athletic headbands are the best because they are nonslip. If it’s a colder day, I wear a fleece headband instead.
3. Layers
Some days you may only need a lightweight tee like the black dry fit one I am wearing. Other days a long sleeve top or lightweight jacket are needed. Layers are important, especially for distance run. You want to make sure you are comfortable and warm enough throughout the run. In springtime, I normally wear leggings, and a long sleeve dry fit top that I can tie around my waist if needed. The pink one from Zaful that I am wearing is perfect and only $10! It has thumb holes which helps keep your hands warmer on those windy days, too.
Black athletic tee-c/o Zaful | Pink hoodie-c/o Zaful | Leggings-c/o Zaful | Shoes (exact, save, splurge)
4. An armband
If you are the type of person who loves to listen to music, a podcast, or a book while working out, an armband is necessary. Personally I can’t stand having my iphone in a jacket pocket banging against my side when I run. It’s much easier to have it strapped onto my arm. Listening to music helps me keep my mind of things if I am running for a long time and it helps me keep my pace up if the music has a fast beat.
5. Sunglasses
All too often we run as the sun rises or sun sets to either start or end our day with a run. That means for a good part of the run we are running into the glare of the sun. Not fun. A pair of lightweight, polarized sports sunglasses will stay in place and ensure you aren’t squinting throughout your run. They also help protect your eyes from UV rays.
6. Good socks
You may think that any ankle socks are fine, but after running 7 marathons I will tell you differently. Good running socks have arch support, wick away sweat, and feel good on your feet. Your feet are carrying you for miles and absorbing most of the shock from each step. The least you can do is invest in some good running socks. I have a few pairs of Wigwam running socks and they are amazing!
Black athletic tee-c/o Zaful | Pink hoodie-c/o Zaful | Leggings-c/o Zaful | Shoes (exact, save, splurge)
Hopefully these running essentials get you ready for a springtime 5K!
Last week’s most popular post wasVirginia from More to Mrs. E. I love her white, olive, and leopard combo!
linking up with Style Sessions, Walking in Memphis in High Heels and Fashion Canvas, Style with a Smile, Turning Heads Tuesday, Sandy a la Mode, Spread the Kindness, What I wore, Oh Hey Girl, Color and Grace, Jersey Girl Texan Heart, Style Perspectives, Midweek Inspo,GYPO, Style on the Daily
