To ask for advice in running equipment?

[PerverseConverse]

I don't do running. My body objects. Things wobble. I have a bad back (in spasm) and dodgy knees (cysts) but I have half a stone to shift and free time now my LO is at nursery. I walk 30 miles a week on average so not idle but my body is used to that level of activity and I need to step up a pace or two. There's a woodland park with a big circular path 2 minutes from school and on the way back home so thought I could run the circuit in addition to the 2.5 mile round walk to school.
I need some new trainers but have narrow feet so not sure what to get. I usually wear sketchers every day but they wear so quickly.
Also what do I wear?? My belly wobbles when I run so hoping there's something that will hold it in place somewhat

I don't want to spend loads in case I really can't do it due to my back and knees but want to try.

I'll be running alone as no friends and prefer to be going on my own terms iyswim.

Hi PC. I would really recommend the Couch to 5K programme. There are various versions in the App Store. I did the NHS Choices one. It will motivate you whilst ensuring you build up time and distance safely.

Trainers wise, could you buy some cheapish running shoes you can always just use for general walking? Sports Direct is probably your friend here. As for clothing start noticing what others are wearing and whether you would like to wear similar. Running tights are great and TK Maxx and H&M have reasonably priced ones you could try. No harm in just wearing ordinary joggers though if you prefer. Running tops are good for keeping you dry by wicking away moisture but you could always start with just an ordinary T-shirt. Saying that, as long as you buy clothing you can wear for other activities, you wouldn't be wasting money. Good luck!

I'd go to a sports shop that does gait analysis to make sure you have correctly fitting trainers suited to the way your feet hit the ground. If you have neutral ie your feet don't roll to either side, you can get trainers pretty much anywhere but if they roll, you will need supporting trainers otherwise you could injure yourself

Absolutely get the couch to 5k app, it’s amazing!

It is worth getting shoes fitted properly from a running shop - they will advise you on what shoes are best.

You will want running leggings but they don’t need to be expensive - you can get them from most supermarkets. Go for high waisted and elastic. Then a sports bra and a lightweight long sleeved top. No point spending lots on those until you know if running is for you though! Just get cheap supermarket or primark ones.

Second pp to have gait analysis and correct running shoes, they are a life changer. Mine are the most comfy shoes I own. Primark do excellent gym/running gear with extra support panels. I’m looking to get back into running in the new year. Good luck!

I agree. Properly fitted shoes are a must. Once you know what kind you need there are online sites which do end of line shows at a discount, so don’t need to be pricey. I find these days good running tights which come up over my belly stop the worst of the wobble and a decent sports bra. After that you’re all set.

I like my garmin as it means I can track my own progress. Am very slow so not setting records, but it’s motivating to see your progress against yourself.

For the first few weeks of C25K I don't think you need to buy anything tbh - it ends up as just a way of delaying getting started imo.

The only thing you really need is a sports bra - and again at this stage a supermarket one is fine (I did my first half marathon in a Tescos one and I'm a 30ff).

Don't worry about wobbling otherwise - a pair of normal leggings, a hoodie and your Sketchers will work until you decide that you want to buy more.

Yes to getting good trainers fitted in specialised shop. Some people do this then buy them in cheaper shop. Sometimes you can get a bargain especially with big brands who change style and colour annually so an old style is discounted.

Running clothes should be bought cheaply, TK Max or other discount stores are affordable. You will go through them quickly because they get washed a lot and sweat builds up. People have different warmth needs so decide this yourself. Even in the coldest weather I don’t do much heavier than a long sleeved t shirt. But a friend dresses for artic conditions.

To avoid injury, follow the C5k. However slow running on flat ground can overdevelop certain muscles at the expense of others. This is the injury risk. Sprinting and hill runs, actually hill sprints work best, can help to counteract these problems. As will resistance exercises aimed at glutes and core development. Find quick routines to do at home on YouTube.

Nb Exercise is great for fitness, health and toning. To lose weight you should manage your diet.

When I first started c25k I just had a pair of leggings big hoodie cheap sports bra and £10 trainers. Did me quite happily to 5k. Now training for half marathon and spend a bit more on clothing but I still buy £30 sports direct trainers i tend to run them into the ground so don't want to spend a lot and I'm very comfortable with no injuries so haven't bothered with expensive ones.

Apps are of more use in the beginning. C25k, Strava, podcasts/music

I really don’t think running is the sport for you OP. People often try running, get injured and go off exercise altogether. I think you’re very likely to injure yourself.

Could you maybe start with a lower-impact activity? Using a cross-trainer, swimming... even weight training (if done correctly) or classes?

If you have a bad back and knee then running is not a good idea. Try this.

Some thoughts on shoes:

www.telegraph.co.uk/men/active/11243944/Are-expensive-running-trainers-a-waste-of-money.html

If you've got dodgy knees, definitely get your gait analysed! You'll save yourself a lot of pain with the right shoe.

This time of year, a sports bra, long sleeved running top & running tights is sufficient - the Karrimor ones from Sports Direct are fine to start out.

My ears get sore in cold weather so I have a cheap cotton buff from blacks, and also thin running gloves from sports direct. You can still use these even if you don't want to carry on running so worth considering.

Finally, a Fitbit or some kind of activity monitor. Obviously not essential, but I'm the kind of person who responds well to goals and rewards, and it will be useful for logging general activity away from running too.

I hope you enjoy it, I love running and new runners are my favourite - it takes some determination and courage to get started and I'm full if admiration for people starting out.

How much can this spend on running trainers?

There's a very good sale in at Runners Need at the moment, and the staff at mine are really friendly , know their stuff and make good recommendations.

A good bra is definitely worth it.

Any exercise clothes will be fine - though you might want to get a breathable lightweight jacket (try cycling and running depts of Decathlon. Which also sells very good inexpensive running tights which should hold you in (as requested). Compression tights squeeze you in even more, but you probably won't need/want to splash out on those until addicted.

Cripes, I'm not going to be running running. More of a jog I guess. I already walk at a fast pace but need to take it up a notch. I'll be doing it on a "proper" path used for the local park run. It's flat and even. Lots of other runners and dog walkers about and I walk through on my way home so isn't a major effort in my part which will keep me motivated.

Alternatively I'll get my bike out and just need a cycle helmet.

Cycling would be great to start with OP! Much better for your joints.

I'm going to get a cycle helmet before the dc go back to school, some leggings as don't possess any (heavy legs ) and some new trainers as mine are in need of replacing.
I like the idea of a gentle jog around the park path followed by a walk home. Then maybe get my bike out twice a week whilst LO is at nursery. So two jogs a week and two bike rides. I live next to a 12 mile cycle path so is easy to do and can build up the distance. I'm a single mum and sahm at the moment so want to make use of my free time before I go back to work in the next year.

I got my bike out today and did 8 miles my bum is a little sore but otherwise it felt great!