Starting running

[MissMarpling]

Originally posted this on sport before finding this thread. Am very keen to start running-never done it before. Consider myself reasonably fit -7 minute workout most days and lots of walking. Advice already is good shoes and bra. But how much should I spend on shoes and what type and where do I go where I won't feel like a numpty.. Don't want to spend too much in case I don't like it. Nearest city is Cambridge

Add socks to that list

My personal view is that for beginners it is not necessary to wear anything other than a comfortable pair of relatively cheap trainers. I ran in a pair of Nike shoes from the Next catalogue for ages, before getting more serious about running and going to a specialist shop. If you find you love it then you can get your gait analysed and invest in a more expensive pair. I am in London and went to Runner's Need.

As for bras I have a drawer full of Shock Absorber bras which I find very comfortable (34C), but I imagine other brands are better for bigger/smaller.

Good luck - I hope you love it!

Thank you. I hope I do

Now fully equipped and ready to venture out as soon as it gets dark!

How did you get on?

It was great! I loved it. Covered 3.4 Kms walking and running. Ran much more than I thought I would. But think I might have been running too fast. And don't know what to do with my arms.

Sounds like you had a great time!
Arms - aim to keep elbows at 90 degree bend. Have them swing back-and-forth to drive your legs, making sure they don't cross over your body.... but am sure your fine just as you are.

Brilliant! Really glad you enjoyed it.

Did second run yesterday.seemed a bit harder after day at work but ran more and walked less. Arms better if I don't think about them. But really enjoying it.

Can recommend Advance Performance at Gusto Mills, Huntingdon Road for shoes. They will do gait analysis, and ask how far you plan to run per week, and proportion of trail and road (pavement). John Lewis do Shock Absorber bras.

Investment can be a good incentive to keep going! As can an app like MapMyRun.