running reading

I've been reading more in "The Non-Runner's Marathon Guide for Women", listening to the Two Gomers podcast, and generally reflecting on everything I've read about running over the years. Now, I love reading, so I don't mind having read a lot of the same things over and over and over, but in case you don't like to read, I thought I'd distill it all down into some a simple list of do's and don't bothers.

DO:

• Buy your running shoes from a good LRS (Local Running Store) - they will fit you, give you great advice, and talk you down when are completely freaked out about something running related. They also keep your shoe size, make and model in their computer so that you don't accidentally run in a size 10 when you are really a 10.5. Speaking of said computer, trust it and not your memory when it comes to what size, make and model you wear so that you don't accidentally run in a size 10 for 4 months when you are really a size 10.5.
  
• Buy your socks at the same time you buy your shoes. There is a magic that happens when your shoes and socks love each other. The only way to know that your shoes and socks are (most likely) to love each other is to try them on at the same time (at the LRS) and go for a little test jog. Your LRS will let you do this.
• Spend the money on "bottoms" with chafe-free seams. You can decide if you like shorts, capris, tights, or whatever. They will be more than you want to spend. The good thing about not walk/running every day is that you have time to give them a quick rinse when you get home and let them air dry before you need them again. They will also last a really long time. (I have a biking skort that has lasted 3 years and hundreds of hours.)
• Keep your eyes on Champion.com for their semi-annual bra sales. Not only are they great sports bras, but who doesn't love a sale?
• Ice, stretch and rest. I know that I have to ice after each workout and stretch at least once a day. I also know that my body needs 2 rest days a week. Find your sweet spot in these regards and keep your body happy.
• Ask! There always people in real life and online that have been there, done that and will be happy to tell you what worked for them.
  

DON'T BOTHER:

• Spending a lot of money on your tops. Target and the sale rack or other discount sites will do. You just want wicking fabrics.
• Getting a pedicure. You actually need to build UP your callouses so that you don't blister. If your heels are so rough they are tearing your sheets, then just get one of those foot files to keep in your shower.
• Worrying about your speed, pace, training program, or other preferences compared to anyone but yourself. That's the beauty of walk/running - for most of us we will never be competing with anyone - so the only person whose opinion really matters is you.
• Buying a lot of running books. Read them from the library first and then only buy the ones you know you'll want to re-read.
• Coming out of the gate too fast. As the queen of just about every over-use injury, I can tell you that it's not worth the time on the sofa. Take your time.

So, I think that's about it - years worth of reading, listening and doing, condensed and put out there for your consideration.

PS- Happy New Year!