Runners... how do you carry your stuff?

[EdenFromTheEast]

Hi, I want to take up running. Just wondering how you transport your water bottle, keys and phone? Thanks.

Also, recommendations for running trainers would be appreciated. Thanks again.

Good luck @EdenFromTheEast , hope you enjoy the shopping and the running! 😊

Thanks @Fizbosshoes ! There’s a lot going on right now in my life and I really need this ❤️.

Posting to say that if you do feel like you need water for a short run, that’s absolutely ok too! I take a bottle with me even if I’m just going for 20 minutes because I sweat a lot and get really dehydrated.

@EdenFromTheEast

This is a nice straightforward programme which gets you to running for 35 minutes in 8 or 9 weeks. (It’s called couch to 5k but actually the runs are measured in time not distance.) When you finish it there’s another similar app that takes you to 10k.

Or there’s an NHS couch to 5k app which lots of people like, you can choose your ‘coach’ from people like Jo Whiley and Sarah Millican. I used both apps but preferred this one because the coaching got on my nerves a bit, I like listening to other stuff when running and the interruptions used to annoy me.

https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/couch-to-5k-runner/id448357306?ppid=e5d0a260-8a8c-4f79-b92a-6a5080677256

@EdenFromTheEast
This is the NHS one

https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/nhs-couch-to-5k/id1082307672

I have a flip belt for phone and keys and on a long run I carry a runners water bottle

I have a free train running vest that I use in the summer, my current running shorts have a pocket though so put my phone in there. In the winter I have a running gilet and phone goes in the pocket. I hold my water bottles when running, i use a hydration back pack for long runs

Trainers fitted at a Runners Need/Up and Running/local running shop. Get some specialist socks too, massively reduces chance of blisters.

SweatyBetty Power shorts or leggings, phone pocket down your leg, zip pocket for keys on the back. We have a “runner” key that lives on a hook so we don’t end up carrying bunches.

Underwear- anything that’s comfortable but think about the movement angle… chaffing from lace is not something you need. 5 back of bog standard plain elastic briefs/seam free from M&S does the job for me.

Sports bra - THAT FITS!!!! I see so many women running with everything jiggling around and for me that would be so painful. Also can chafe if not correctly fitted.

Cap/Hats etc- your choice.

Sunglasses- Goodr is the “cool” brand at all my local races, the brighter the better! And only £30, they never slip.

Don’t forget SPF or you might find yourself with some cracking tan lines from lengthy time outside!

Don’t expect too much of yourself too soon and celebrate all your milestones (first km, mile, 5km, first time running 30min non stop etc!)

@EdenFromTheEast as mentioned above... l used the NHS C25K. There is also a facebook group for it which l found helpful.

This app has pre and post stretches. I've been running 4yrs now and l still use them

I know a lot of people really rate these leggings. I have a pair and they are ok but imo definitely not worth the price (even on sale). I’ve lots of different brands of leggings and these I wouldn’t repurchase.

Yeah, I'm also not really into the SBs. I prefer M&S Goodmove, but my favourite leggings and shorts are from Voxy and they do running shorts.

I don’t run these days, but when I did, I tied a key to my shoelaces, and didn’t take anything else.

I have a bum bag too that I wear around my waist. Not all my leggings have a phone pocket.

My question is about when I need to carry more things. Sometimes I go elsewhere afterwards or stop to do food shopping. Yes, I know these things aren't really ideal, but they suit me. At the moment I use either a backpack that moves around a bit or a cross body bag. Running bags are all too small for what I need so I wonder if someone can recommend a cheap-ish hiking bag that would be more stable.

I would go to decathlon at Surrey Quays ahead of Westfield. Their running stuff is practical and reasonably priced. If you are running in London parks, quite a few have water fountains which can save you carrying water.

I have a waist belt but I only use it on exception. Buy running pants with a side pocket and back zip pocket. Phone in side and keys in back. Don’t need water, if you do just carry it

Also - check your local parkrun. It’s a great supportive community.

Thanks so much, just had a look and there's one every Saturday at my local park at 9am! They also go for a coffee afterwards at the local cafe. Gonna register now. Thanks so much for the suggestion.

On water, generally it's better if you have the water in you in advance rather than carrying it. I find early in the morning, I might not have the chance, or very hot/ very cold weather can be drying, and a small bottle for a mouth-wetting can be nice for comfort. I've got 150ml bottles from Decathlon that are good for this. It's 10k+ that more is useful for drinking as you run.

I need a waistbelt (or pack for long distances) as my phone is too big for pockets. It's also good to avoid uneven loading. Not such an issue at C25k stage, but long term it can cause issues from assymetric form.

Sweaty Betty leggings have a pocket for a phone and a small pocket for a key on the waistband.

One of the best pairs of capris I have (because most leggings are too long!) are from Lidl

On that note - Lidl sometimes have running kit in and it's not too bad for the price

Get one of those little bumbags that hold a water bottle on the side and put your phone and keys in that. My son does marathon running and swears by Hoka running trainers.

I am going for my first run in a minute. I bought new trainers yesterday and some leggings so I'm all set. Feeling a bit scared that (a) I can't actually run; and (b) that I can run, but look like a twat whilst doing so.

In my mind I’m sprinting and look all athletic however the reality is more of a shuffle. I give no sh**s. I’m just grateful I’m able to run as some people can’t for health reasons etc. I’m an advocate for parkrun - it’s a great start to the weekend and literally anyone can do it.

Don’t worry about what you look like. Honestly, no one cares.

when I see an anxiously new runner I’m just pleased they’re out giving it a go.

also running is hard at first. Don’t get disillusioned if you struggle, it’s normal and gets easier with practice. Following a plan like couch to 5k really helps you build up the stamina to keep going.

good luck!

I'm back! I really enjoyed it, actually. I probably did a bit more walking than running, but I did it.

Thanks for all your support and suggestions. I'm gonna keep it up and am registered for Park Run on Saturday.

Thanks again.