It is never too late to take care of yourself and begin your journey to being fit and active. Running is one of the best things you can do for your body. There is no need to get a gym membership, and you can also enjoy the wonders of being outdoors rather than working out on a treadmill.
However, it is always good to have some appropriate gear while engaging in any physical activity, and running is no different. You can check sites like Rational Runner to find the gear you’d need to be a good runner. They will help you carry on with your running routine with the least amount of discomfort and optimize the experience.
Hydration Gear
Staying hydrated is a must while you are out running, especially if it is a sweltering morning. As soon as you start running, your heart rate climbs up, and the increased physical activity will cause you to sweat, losing water and salt.
Depleted water levels will soon lower your energy, and you won’t be able to run for as long as you would have liked. You can use a hydration belt which is designed for holding water bottles or water pouches. If you are running for an event like a marathon, then a hydration vest would be best suited.
Compression Shorts
Compression shorts are great when you want to run for long without muscle cramps setting in. These shorts are designed to tightly wrap around your lower body and provide the thigh muscles with extra support. They keep the circulation going even when the muscles work overtime, preventing numbness or cramps from setting in when you stop. Those who are running for therapeutic purposes will significantly benefit from them.
Foam Rollers
Having a foam roller is like having your massager. Usually, there is a build-up of lactic acid in the muscles after running, which could cease up the muscles. With a foam roller, the muscles release this build-up. It hurts a little at first, followed by a rush of relief, especially if you have had a hard run. The ache in the muscles could be demotivating the next time you go for a run, but not anymore. This also prevents knee and joint problems, which are often a result of long and hard running.
Reflective Gear
This is more of a safety tool but comes in very handy if you live in a city and there are often vehicles rushing by when you go for a run. Runners and pedestrians being hit are not unheard of, and with reflective gear, you can go for a run safely, even if it is very early or late in the evening. You will be easily visible to the drivers, which will prevent collisions. You may opt for reflective vests, clothes, or bands to serve this purpose.
There are other gears as well, like ankle-supporting running shoes, breathable sportswear, and anti-chafing socks. Having at least a few of them in your wardrobe will make going out for a run both beneficial and enjoyable. Check out sites like Rational Runner for more of them.