How You Can Become a Great Runner (Part 1) - Shoes, Goals & Miles

You Don't Have to be a Natural Runner

I was never a natural runner. Some people run on a daily basis for "fun." I, on the other hand, run very rarely. I've always preferred reading books, discussing intellectual topics, playing video games, watching television, or sitting and having a beer. I don't enjoy running.

It might surprise you, then, that I was an All-Conference, All-Region, and All-State (Honorable Mention) runner in high school. You wouldn't expect me to have run a mile in less than 5 minutes, and 5 km (3.1 miles) in 17 minutes 42 seconds. I wouldn't be the person you'd predict to win an invitational over 100 other runners. However, I did accomplish all these things, thanks to smart training. Compared to most sports, running rewards training and effort more than natural talent. No matter who you are, I'm confident you too can become a great runner.

Shoes

Your training should start at the shoe store. You're going to rack up a lot of miles on those shoes, so you want some good ones. Go to the most athletic store you can find and get the most comfy running shoes you can find. You don't want cross trainers; you need running shoes. Running shoes are lighter than cross trainers and will have more effective padding.

Clothing

Once you have your shoes, you'll be ready to run! You shouldn't do it naked though, so put on some clothing. I suggest shorts, socks, warmup pants (sweat pants are fine), and a t-shirt (women, don't forget your sports bra). You can add on clothing to that if the weather is cold. Don't bulk up too much though. You'll generate plenty of heat while running.

Planning