13 Sep Running 101: Apparel tips to improve your run

Whether you’re running on a treadmill or outside, little things can add up to big deals over the long haul. For instance, a skewed running form or the wrong type of shoes can add up to injury over many miles, or lack of motivation can cause an early exit when it doesn’t have to.
In order to get the most out of your training, Running 101 this week will take a look at different areas of the sport that will help serious runners. Today, we offer apparel tips:
1. Don’t skimp on the shoes! Nothing is more important for runners than being in a good pair of shoes. Running puts a good deal of stress on the feet, but if you go to a specialty fitness store and get a top-of-the-line pair of running shoes it will make a big difference.
2. Look into shoe insoles aka inserts. Many common foot issues such as flat feet or high arches can be compensated for by getting the proper shoe inserts. Again, talk to a specialty fitness store.
3. Invest in some running clothes, such as moisture wicking shorts and shirts and running pants or light running jackets. You’re putting the time in and looking and feeling good will help motivate you. They’ll also be a little more comfortable than normal exercise clothes.
4. Look for closeout sales or end of season sales for clothing or shoes. You’ll be surprised the great deals out there.
5. Wear spandex shorts to avoid chaffing.
6. Moisture wicking socks are the best way to care for your feet and much better than cotton socks for avoiding blisters.

At Home Fitness consultant Aaron Dorksen’s blog deals with a variety of fitness topics, ranging from workout tips, motivational ideas and feature stories on how exercise impacts people’s lives. E-mail him with comments, questions or ideas for future blogs at aaron@athomefitness.com