Myth - To become a runner you need to spend lots of money on specialized running gear. What I like about running is that you can get by with minimal gear. Though you may not need much gear to take up running, the gear that you choose will make all the difference to your run. Lets take a look at the gear you do need and the gear that you should stay away from in order to enjoy your running experience.

The Right Pair of Shoes

Running shoes will be your most essential purchase. Comfort is of the utmost concern, so it is crucial that you know your foot type and sizing. Running shoes also need to be durable enough to stand the test of time and wear. What you don't need are shoes that are adorned with eye catching details and other gadgets.

Recycle your old runners, they will not provide the support needed and could cause injuries. The shoes you buy must be able to support your feet well and should also suit your particular style of walking and running. This is especially true for beginners because their feet will not be accustomed to such harsh treatment, and need all the protection that they can get.

Choosing Comfortable Running Apparel

You need to be able to move easy and feel comfortable during your run Just as your shoes are important your apparel is also important. New runners quite often make the mistake of wearing too much and becoming uncomfortable and overheated during their run. This is a good way to ruin your whole run experience.

What Not to Wear During a Run

Most of us have plenty of cotton T-shirts as part of our wardrobe. While cotton is a good material to wear against your skin, you should also realize that the very fact that makes them so good, also makes them a bad choice. They absorb all your sweat, becoming stiff and will eventually start chaffing. Sleeveless t-shirts also aren't always the best choice for runners to wear either as they may cause underarm chafing. If choosing sleevelss, test the waters first on a shorter run Wearing light, specialized running garments is what you should do.

Running Clothes For Every Season

When you choose clothes for running, make sure that you have different ones for different seasons. While light airy materials will be good for summer, they are really not adequate during winter. Stopping running simply because the season has changed or because it is too hot, cold, or rainy is not good. You should make sure that you continue to run, but just take adequate precautions with regards to clothing.

Just because it's winter doesn't necessarily mean you should wear heavy garments. Wearing several layers of lighter running apparel is a better choice. It's easy to remove a layer if you get too warm during your run. You can continue to wear your summer running clothes inside, but wear a couple of other light clothes on top too. Stay away from heavy garments like sweatshirts as when you warm up, you will become very hot and sweaty.