Of course, as with anything else, there are add-ons. Do you need a hat? Or sunglasses? A watch, mp3 player, GPS or heart-rate monitor? Walk into any running store or sporting goods shop and you may think, "Yes!" to all of the above.
And in the stunning array of running gear marketed toward women (especially moms!), it can be easy to lose your way and find yourself wondering if you really need those $200 running socks spun with anti-fatigue gold thread. I'm making that up, but it's not too far off from some of the stuff you might find out there. But not everyone can be so spendy when it comes to running gear, probably especially not if you're a running mama on a tight family budget.
I was reminded of all this when I was out gear shopping the other night with another mama who recently became a born-again runner after having her third child. She was doing her couch-to-5K training in old exercise clothes, though they weren't ideal. I could totally relate, having done the same sort of thing when I resumed running postbaby. (Can you say plugged ducts from ill-fitting sports bras? Ouch. That's a whole 'nother story.) Some of us moms are, if nothing else, extremely practical and maybe a little minimal about getting stuff for ourselves. But taking good care of a family means taking good care of yourself, and that includes regular exercise and the proper tools to do it!
My friend's gear and clothing search made me think about what a running mama truly needs and how it can get overwhelming to decide, particularly for new runners or born-again runners. I'll tackle the subject for each stage of mommyhood, starting here with the basics. Future posts will take a look at dressing and gearing up for running while pregnant, immediately postpartum and with the kids.
At the very least, a running mama needs:
- Comfortable shorts/pants/capris: Find some that flex with you (form-fitting or not), wick sweat and have soft, flat seams that won't chafe you. Comfort is key. Waistband pockets are convenient for small items like a house key, ID, small phone or emergency money.
- Properly fitting sports bra: This is so essential! Nothing stops a run faster than painful bouncing. Measure yourself properly or go to a lingerie store to have it done. Some running stores may also offer sports bra fittings. Do a serious bounce test! In general, compression bras, which you pull over your head like a tank top, are great for small-to-average busts. Encapsulation bras, with cups and (usually) adjustable straps and closures, are best for larger chests.
- Well-fitting shoes: Unless you're going barefoot, go to your local running store to get fitted for proper running shoes. Or you can read up on how to get the right fit on your own. Ill-fitting or worn-out shoes can be a source of pain and even injury for some folks. Oh, and don't forget sweat-wicking socks.
- Comfortable tank/tee/long-sleeve shirt: Again, choose synthetic, breathable fabric and designs with soft, flat seams. If you're going for a tank with a built-in bra, do a vigorous bounce test. Many built-in bras don't support well without the help of another bra, and layering can be uncomfortable. Make sure any top you buy is long enough so it doesn't creep up and turn into a half-top while you're running.
© 2011 GUF
