calling any runners.Do you have proper running gear?

[kittywise]

hello, I'm slogging my way through the couch potato-5k plan, currently on week 6 of 9. It's something I intend to keep doing.

I just wondered whether it was worth investing in running gear, tights, tops etc. Does it make a difference overall?

If it is worth my buying some? Or will old tracksuit bottoms and a t shirt suffice?
What brand is good? What sort of stuff should I get as I haven't a clue?!

And will it make me run like the bionic woman?

I find normal t shirts hold the swear [yuck}
You want some that wick it away - I got some in Aldi.
I wear running tights only because I dont like material flapping around my ankles when I run.
If you are comfy in what you wear though dont worry about it.
I find proper sports socks with a bit of arch support more comfy too and a good sports bra is a must!
Goodluck with your running!

Good shoes vital. Sports bra too. Anything else is entirey optional. Over the last year or so I have aquired some running tights and a really nice jacket thing - but they were a birthday presents.

MP3 player and in-ear ear plugs a very good investment too IMO.

Hi - the only things worth investing in are 1. trainers (go to a good running shop - some of the best offer gait analysis which they then use to gauge which style of trainers are best - stability, pronate, supinate foot style etc), 2. bra - depends on your bra size but again get this in a running shop and try it on!! Go for comfort and an iron hand under your assets or they'll look like you'ev shoved them out of a jet engine window before long!

1. Running socks - Hilli are good, but again get some in the shop and use the advice given. Online prices tend not to be vastly cheaper, although for trainers online (ebay or instance) once you know you're style, you can pick up some big bargains) Past that you can run in absolutely anything. My t shirts are a mix of rejected real life ones and 20 yr old ones.

Actually, if you're doing a 5k you should be fine in normal socks (although the fitted running ones are super comfy and approx £6 each) Good luck xx

P.P.S. - good trainers will make you feel more bionic (although it won;t make you look like Farrah unfortunately!!)
xc

Thanks

I do have trainers which I got from a running specialist shop ages ago but they do need replacing for sure !!

I've got no bust so not much support needed there!

So a fancy top isn't really needed?

Might get some tights when the weather gets warmer, go for some capri ones.

I think the essentials are:

• properly advised on trainers from a specialist running shop
• bust support (if flat chested, as I am, a cropped top does the trick nicely)
• wicking top
• in summertime, a hat and/or suncream, to avoid sunburn and glare.

Running socks are incredibly comfortable as they have two thin layers which help stop the rubbing which gives you blisters. But I wouldn't worry about it for a 5K. If you find yourself going up to half marathons then consider them. I do triathlons running 10K without any socks so they are definitely not essential. Just nice to have!