Running Gear for Beginners (Running Belts and More)

Running is a healthy way to get into shape. It improves not only different body parts, but it also lifts your mood. It improves health, strengthens the lungs and immune system, and more.

Running is the easiest and cheapest form of exercise to keep an active body.

But before going out for a run, equip yourself with proper sports apparel: a waterproof running belt, running shoes, and more.

You can just go out and run, but it’s much nicer with proper gear.

This article lists some important running essentials that you need.

1) Running Belt

An armband usually comes to mind when you think about how to carry your phone with you. But the armband hinders hand movement. So how to run with your phone without an armband?

A running belt is a very convenient way to bring your valuables while you run. It is an excellent protection to keep them safe and dry.

Even when it’s filled with your stuff, it stays lightweight and compact. It secures a tight fit around your waist to avoid it to bounce or slip down.

There are various manufacturers of running belts in stores today.

The Pakrat Running Belt is not 100% waterproof, but it dries quickly. It has a breathable premium fabric that feels cool while you run. It offers protection to your valuables through its foldable security flap. It doesn’t bounce or slip while you’re on the go.

The Fitness Path Hydration Belt is made of waterproof, tear-resistant neoprene material. It is durable enough to hold your things but stays lightweight so it doesn’t hinder your performance.

It comes with two BPA-free water bottles and pockets for your valuables. It secures around your waist with its Velcro nylon strap. It can be durable for any kind of outdoor activity.

2) Running Shoes

There are thousands of running shoes around the world. Most of them are marketed as running shoes, but do they have the qualities of a real pair of running shoes?

Choosing the right running shoes is based solely on each individual’s feet and sprinting style.

Pronation, as they call it, is the natural movement of the body specifically on how the feet inwardly for the even shock distribution upon landing. Identifying your pronation helps you identify the right shoes.

You might get obsessed with the latest shoes from popular shoe companies. Yes, they are sturdy and made of high quality, but are they the kinds of shoes that suit your feet?

Always go for the comfort and protection that a pair of shoes can provide your feet. Not all feet are the same, so buy shoes only because they suit your feet and sprinting style.

In relation to the fact above, it is important to fit running shoes before buying. You need to test the comfort and protection. You can even do a test run in some shoe stores on a treadmill.

The average life of a running shoe is 300 to 500 miles. Runners tend not to replace them often enough and end up using the old ones even if the shock absorption has decreased.

3) Fluid

When you run, hydration is important. Drink too little, and you are dehydrated. Drink too much, and you might get into hyponatremia.

Dehydration happens when the body does not have enough water. It causes abnormal functioning of the body, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and more. Symptoms are dark yellow urine, thirst, muscle cramp, etc.

You can easily avoid dehydration when you are a runner. Drink water before, during, and after the run. Luckily, you can conveniently bring water while you are on the go.

Hydration belts are built with water bottle holders and pockets for small valuables. They are similar to a waterproof waist pack, only with the provision of water bottles.

4) Technical Fabric Running Clothes

These kinds of clothes provide comfort while you run. Whether it’s a hot day or a cold one, technical fabric exercise clothes will make you feel comfortable and dry.

Examples are DryFit, Thermax, Thinsulate, silk, polypropylene, and other fast-drying materials. Do not wear cotton because it easily gets wet and stays wet.

5) Running Watch

To time your run or lapse, a running watch can help. There are also advanced models that come with pace and heart rate trackers, GPS trackers, and more.

They come in different styles and features. They are a bit pricey; the more features it has, the more expensive it is.

The Bottom Line

Jogging is one of the easiest ways to stay fit and healthy. Equip yourself with the proper gear to keep you comfortable and sufficient.

Examples of running essentials are a waterproof running belt for your valuables, a hydration belt to keep you hydrated, technical fabric running clothes to keep you comfy and dry, and more.