Improving your fitness is a common resolution for the new year, but if you're a beginner to running, working out or going to the gym, it can be hard to know where to start and what gear to get. As someone who hadn't ran since cross country at school, I set a goal for 2024 to complete 10k and as we enter 2025 I can finally say I conquered it.
The journey to 10k didn't happen overnight, and I found myself learning what equipment and clothing worked best for me to achieve that goal over the last year. From items I hadn't even thought about until I started running, to the headphones and trainers that helped me cross the finish line, I've highlighted my top four things I recommend for anyone wanting to get into running.
Running techniques and styles are different for each individual and what helped me might not be to your preference, however, it's a great place to start. If you want to start running but find it daunting or feel like you’re not good enough, I’m proof that a beginner runner starting from square one can do it.
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Adidas Supernova Rise Running Shoes
I've run using a range of different running trainers from New Balance to Nike, but my overall favourite is the Nite Jogger style from Adidas. The exact model I have are discontinued, however these Supernova Rise Running Shoes are very similar. Now on sale for £84.40 down from £131, you can get them in half sizes ranging from 3.5 to 10.5.
I believe I run better if I'm wearing a pair of trainers that I feel good in and I love the design and style of the Supernova. Aesthetics aside, customers say that these trainers are 'comfortable and supportive'. One person wrote: "After years of marathon training, I am getting back into daily running. 20 years ago, I used SuperNova Cushion. This shoe is just as great if not better."
Another said: "They were used for running a 5k this past weekend and my feet felt like they were on a cloud the whole time." I will say that a white soled trainer are prone to getting muddy, especially if you run in a park - if you want to avoid this the Adidas Runfalcon 5 Running Shoes for £50 might be better suited.
Reflective Running Waist Belt
I started out running on a treadmill at the gym but it soon dawned on me that when running outside, I'd need a way to hold essentials such as my house keys and phone. You can buy running vests (like this £25.99 one from Amazon). However, I wanted something a bit more discreet and for under a tenner.
This BILIONE Reflective Running Waist Belt is £8.59 on Amazon and comes in four colours - black, navy, light blue or pink. It might look small, but it's almost Tardis-like in that it easily holds my phone, headphone case, cards, keys and even a water bottle. I even used it on holiday as a bum-bag when out and about.
It feels comfortable around your waist and can be tightened or loosened to fit. Some reviews say that it 'stretches' a bit over time due to the elastic but I've been using it for at least six months and haven't found that to be a problem.
Gymshark Ruched Sports Bra
I didn't realise how bad my old sports bras were (or how important they are to wear when running) until I invested in the Gymshark Ruched Sports Bra. It's £28 and it has truly transformed my training experience.
The sports bra is described as 'medium support' but I find it is perfect for running. It has an adjustable cross-over back strap and the ruching on the front is really flattering. Available in sizes XXS to XXL, it's ideal for a wide range of chest sizes, but I found sizing down the best method if you want to feel extra secure.
There are seven colours to choose from, including navy, black and plum, and you can remove the padding if you desire. With other sports bras, the padding has moved around after washing which can be really annoying - but not with the Gymshark Ruched Sports Bra. I do wish it came in some brighter or pastel shades, especially for the summer months. Lulu Lemon has some lovely options such as the £38 Energy Bra Medium Support stocked in cobalt blue and pink.
Tala DayFlex Wrap High Waisted Cycling Shorts
At £42 for a pair of cycling shorts, Tala sportswear is definitely more of an investment but after a year worth of use and no signs of wear and tear, I would say they are 100% worth it. Available in sizes 2XS to 4XL, the DayFlex cycling shorts feel incredibly soft to the touch and create an almost seamless look.
The thick crossover waist is a really flattering feature, and for me, the shorts are the perfect length - they also don't ride up when running, so you don't have to worry about constantly adjusting them. They have a secret pocket at the back which is useful for carrying a tissue, but as there is no zip, I don't find it helpful to carry keys. For a cheaper alternative, the Uniqlo Ultra Stretch AIRism Active Shorts are £19.90