Tonight, I upped my game somewhat significantly and in fact unexpectedly — jumping from six minutes of running without stopping (and dying) to nine minutes without stopping (and dying). I attribute this in part to the inclusion of music, which got me amped up to keep running.
So, some questions for you Humans Who Run (yes, I’m prejudiced against robots, shut up):
a) What music do you listen to when you’re running?
b) I got a pair of Nike running shoes new (though on clearance) — though some folks say it’s worth investing in a real shoe. Like, ones actually designed to fit my wide-ass shovel-feet. Anybody got any suggestions for where to go to get that? Or any advice at all, re: shoes? SHOULD I RUN IN FLIP-FLOPS? DO THE COOL KIDS RUN IN CROCS? Are roller skates considered cheating?
c) Apps. What apps do you use for running? To track, to motivate, to whatever. Also, what appetizers do you like to eat while running? I am partial to gooey mozzarella sticks!
d) Dumb flailing monkey question — I’m running with headphones on and sweet jesus the headphone cords are trying to fucking kill me when I go. At a distance I must look like I’m jogging through a spider’s web — playing cat’s cradle with my headphone cable is not exactly energizing. This time I wrapped it around the phone and just… well, held the damn thing while I played music, but it’s not ideal.
THOSE ARE MY QUESTIONS, RUNNERS OF THE PLAIN.
Please provide me succor in these hard times or the tribe will burn me at the pyre.
Brian White says:
On headphones, I have heard good things about these two bluetooth deals:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004BHCSQC/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=15PFF21UMTGNB&coliid=I39UN5MHOVHG2G
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B007MC6WGK/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=15PFF21UMTGNB&coliid=I275T9K6S5Z3VR
August 22, 2013 — 8:53 PM
Andrea Phillips says:
I am a big fan of Dance Dance revolution music to run with. Or at least… you know… electronic dance music. But then, I like it all the time, so!
August 22, 2013 — 8:53 PM
D. W. Coventry (@DWCoventry) says:
a) I prefer “angry music” since it usually matches my mood on the trail
b) You need to buy a good shoe and replace them every 6 months. Find a sports rep (or even a doctor) who can do a real assessment on your foot – mass market shoes are notoriously shaped for the “average” foot that no one actually has, and a crappy shoe will lead to knee-pain, shin splints and all sorts of nastiness that will grossly outweigh the savings of a Wal-Mart shoe
c) Runastic is a great all-purpose app. Couch to 5K is great for getting started (and has other version for preparing any given distance, but my wife absolutely loves the 5K version and she just started running this year). Zombies, Run! is fun for training intervals.
d) Invest in a decent armband. Preferably one that is waterproof if you plan on breaking a sweat.
August 22, 2013 — 8:55 PM
Reay Jespersen says:
As a possible solution for your headphone cord strangulation, you may want to run the cord up under your shirt instead of having it loose outside. That should contain it to only the bit that needs to stick out at your neck. Alternately, you can get arm bands to strap on things like your phone, so you may be able to do the loopy windy bit with it there, as well.
August 22, 2013 — 8:58 PM
Scott Curts says:
a) Anything I’m in the mood for.
b) Asics are my standard
c) Don’t use apps. I’m just happy to get 2-3miles daily in my hood.
d) Jaybird Bluetooth (http://www.jaybirdgear.com/)
Best of luck in your run!
August 22, 2013 — 8:58 PM
gingernutninja says:
@babelfishwars here.
a) fast beat crap. Dance. Prodigy. Belinda Carlisle (yes, shurrup) A few tunes that will surprise me (odd/silly but short). Chuck it on shuffle. There is (apparently) an ideal speed … but I just listen to stuff I can match my feet to when I get too tired to keep up the pace.
b) Don’t get swayed onto ‘bare foot shoes’. Or do. But the science is mixed. Good shoes make a difference, but what is good depends on the running religion of the adviser. There are links arguing whatever you want. http://www.sportsscientists.com/2013/05/a-minimalismbarefoot-fad-and.html?m=1
But yeah – I would go with what feels comfy to run in.
c) I’m data crazy. I like knowing I’ve improved. If I don’t hear my pace read out every minute, I slow down. I use Runkeeper. I also like being distracted – as I like having run. I don’t like running. So: I also use ZombiesRun (there are apps with similar names, I mean the one by Six To Start). And music.
d) I have an arm band. And short headphone things. They come with an extension. Will see if I can find. But will bet that while I’ve written this, other people have posted suggestions.
August 22, 2013 — 8:59 PM
RCSEMMA says:
OK, so again, I only run occasionally as cross training, but I do lots and lots and lots of similar cardio, so I can answer a few of those questions.
A) I’m all about techno and electro-pop. I find that songs which have “hooks” that are too big make me speed up too much at inopportune moments and tire myself out. There is a handy feature on your itunes that allows you to select when a song stops and starts, too, (and it syncs that way to your ipod) so if you want to cut out the slow into/extro of a song you can do that and it’ll keep you going without pauses between songs. Big help.
B) Find your local running store and ask their advice. My only real suggestion is to not be persuaded into getting minimalist shoes. They’re a huge trend right now (I personally love them – I know that some of my friends even run barefoot when we’re on an indoor track), but they’ll definitely be a huge shock to your system if you aren’t used to running.
C) No idea here!
D) Armbands to help hold your ipod/phone/miniature-phonograph. There are also types of headphones that are marketed to runners – they have shorter cords and stay in your ear more easily.
Keep crushing it! Good luck with double digits and watch our for those blisters!
August 22, 2013 — 8:59 PM
kanmuri says:
1. I listen to pop music, very upbeat. Basically, music that never plays in the house. Rihanna, Beyonce, Justin Timberlake. It keeps me going.
2. Try going to a place like the running room, or whatever equivalent you have in the states. They will check how you walk and advise you on the best shoes (pronation, supination, all that jazz).
3. I used micoach from adidas. I have it set on UK male voice, so I look forward to hearing him telling me when I’ve completed part of my work out, how many km etc. I’ve heard of run zombie run but never tried it.
4. I have an arm band for my phone and a little clip for my headphone, so I don’t look like I’m whipping myself in the face while running.
Hope that helps!
August 22, 2013 — 8:59 PM
Peter Fries says:
a) Electronica (Daft Punk, Crystal Method, Chemical Bros), Hip Hop (Roots, Outkast, Beastie Boys), awful Top 40s Pop (my secret shame), podcasts (i.e. Breaking Bad Insider, various comedians)
b) Shoe choice is overrated, mostly: http://lifehacker.com/whats-the-difference-between-all-these-running-shoes-476458686
c) I’ve use Runkeeper (the free version), which you can track via GPS during your run, or afterwards by actually plotting out your run on a map and entering self-reported data (you’ll have to time yourself).
d) Get a longer cord or else use one of those shoulder bands to tie your phone to one upper arm?
August 22, 2013 — 8:59 PM
Simon Stafford says:
If this running this is going to become a habit, I’d suggest you get your gait analysed so that if you do buy some sweet-ass running kicks you get the right ones for loping style
August 22, 2013 — 9:00 PM
terribleminds says:
Wait if I have my gait analyzed WILL A ROBOT BE INVOLVED?
goddamn robots
August 22, 2013 — 9:14 PM
Kameron Hurley says:
Another voice saying you need to download the Zombies, Run app. Basically, you’re part of a story where you’re running from zombies, interspersed with music from your music library. It can be programmed for 30 min or 60 min and once the “episode” is over, it plays a “zombie radio station” of your music, interspersed with commentary, so you can go as long as you like. Lauren Beukes recc’d it, and it’s brilliant. It’s pretty much the only thing that gets me jogging.
August 22, 2013 — 9:00 PM
Alan Baxter says:
a) Mostly heavy metal, but nothing *too* fast.
b) Definitely invest in the best shoes you can afford. The personal trainer in me can’t emphasise this enough.
c) I use an arm wallet thing and run the headphone cord up the sleeve, into the shirt and out the neck hole.
August 22, 2013 — 9:00 PM
Valerie Geary says:
Welcome to the insanity that is running and god speed! mapmyrun.com is a pretty good site for tracking mileage and pace and whatnot…pretty sure they have an app too. As for the chord, I run with an armband, which is nice for keeping my hands free, but I still fight the damn thing every single run…I’ve given up now. Instead, I just pretend I’m in some sort of demented snakepocolypse movie.
August 22, 2013 — 9:01 PM
M Ptacek says:
There are music lists that are searchable by BPM, and other lists that correspond BPM with run pace. Those are probably a good place to start.
I am a slow runner that does a lot of treadmill sessions, so the Nike + works great for me regarding tracking and metrics. I did own a pair of Nike shoes that had the pocket for the sensor under the insole, but have since switched to Sauconys, and so have a tiny pouch (Marware) that wraps around my laces to hold it. Works great.
August 22, 2013 — 9:02 PM
Steve Hall says:
I will second Runtastic.
I’m not a runner; I’m a walker (I’m also 61, overweight but working hard–and successfully–on fixing that), but when I started getting serious about this fitness gig, I went to a runners’ shop (in fact, the name of it IS “The Runner Shop”). They watched we walk, fitted me in a 9-1/2 4E Brooks Addiction 9, and it’s the most comfortable workout shoe I’ve worn since my first pair of Nike’s, over 35 years ago (for you kids, those were the original waffle-soled shoes).
ANYWAY . . . hie thee to a real runner’s shop, where real runners are . . . uh . . . running the place. Tell ’em what you want, they’ll ask you the right questions (might even have a treadmill so they can watch what you REALLY do when you run), and they’ll get you into a shoe that works. Not only that, you should be able to get out of there for $120 or less. Your feet will thank you.
August 22, 2013 — 9:02 PM
MaryAnn says:
I use something like this, (mine is rather old, but it has a little spindle type thingie to wrap the cord around so it stays out of my way: http://www.amazon.com/Belkin-Dual-Fit-Armband-iPod-Classic/dp/B002S0O7LI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1377219613&sr=8-2&keywords=ipod+holder+for+running
Good luck and hang in there!
August 22, 2013 — 9:03 PM
tonia says:
Dub step is *great* music for running. I run longer and faster listening to it vs pop. Another bonus: I feel like I’m the best runner EVER…even with my super-slow 5 mph pace.
Shoes are a must for me. I have an old lady knee and the shoes keep me from hurting after every run. Mine are Mizuno.
I love Zombies Run for an app. I also like Google Tracks because it helps me see what my pace is, how my pace changes with elevation and all kinds of geeky data.
I use an arm band to hold my phone, but also look like I’m running through a spider web. I’ve seen running “belts” (really a band of fabric) that look interesting, but haven’t tried them.
August 22, 2013 — 9:03 PM
gingernutninja says:
@babelfishwars part two. I use these headphones: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000WOIG8C/ref=wms_ohs_product?ie=UTF8&psc=1 as without the extension they are just long enough to go to an armband. But you have to like in-ear buds, and find a size that don’t fall out.
Armband – depends on your phone size.
August 22, 2013 — 9:04 PM
gingernutninja says:
Final thought … and I love my asics (shoes) – but get them fitted.
August 22, 2013 — 9:05 PM
Kelly Stiles says:
A) Dubstep and Tarja Turunen. The dubstep has a very good running beat. I just like Tarja.
B) You NEED running shoes. I went through TWO pairs of walmart shoes in a month. They disintegrated. I tried holding them together with duck tape. It didn’t work. Also, flip flops and crocks give you blisters. Ask me how I know. And I don’t roller skate because I have issues with balance. Still working on roller blading for distance, though.
C) No app, I keep track with a set course (that I know the distance of) and a watch. It’s all I really need.
D) I encountered this when I started running. Try running the headphone cord inside your shirt. Then you can put your phone in your pocket.
August 22, 2013 — 9:05 PM
Gus says:
I listen to electronica while running, and stick your cord down the back of your shirt. If you get one of those armband things, you can still tuck the cord inside your clothing.
August 22, 2013 — 9:05 PM
Andrea Stanet says:
I think you have to try different kinds of music and see what fits your cadence, style, etc. I like Pink, some hip hop (usually old school), some Pop. I even like the soundtrack for Lemonade Mouth (because Disney is just that insidious). In terms of shoes, I’d recommend finding a store where the staff is knowledgeable about running shoes and can fit you with the right ones. The first pair I had were just cheap generic sneakers and I lost a whole season because I got tendonitis in my achilles. Invest in shoes enough to avoid injury. Apps: I like Zombies, Run!, Couch to 5K, and Strava for distance tracking. Wires: I have the same problem unless I clip my player on my waistband. There are headphones that loop around the back of your neck instead of hanging in front. That might help too. These are the ones I use: http://www.amazon.com/Philips-SHS3701-27-Headphones-Interchangeable/dp/B000QS5MM2/ref=sr_1_7?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1377219924&sr=1-7&keywords=headphones
Good luck!
August 22, 2013 — 9:06 PM
MB Partlow says:
1. Music. Whatever makes me happy. “Kick My Butt” by Those Darn Accordians is especially fine. The only music on my ipod, which I use for walking and running, is all upbeat and makes me either want to smile or kick somebody’s ass.
2. I read some practical advice that said until you’re running 30 minutes at a time, a few times a week, just wear whatever sneakers are comfortable. I like advice that doesn’t ask me to spend hundreds of dollars on shoes. When you DO buy running shoes, go to a running store first. After you find a brand/design you like, order online to save moolah.
3. I have a Nike doodad and it scares the crap out of me every time the voice comes over my ipod headphones. The first time Lance Armstrong’s voice said, “You just set a new personal best for the mile,” I almost crapped in my running shorts. I don’t like my tech talking to me. Especially not when I’m sweaty and wheezing.
4. I had an arm band, didn’t like it. I just clip the ipod to my waistband or stick it in my pocket. As for the cord, I bring the earphones to my ears from the back of my head instead of from the front. So extra cord was jouncing around my back. Now I just tuck a bit of the cord under the strap of my sports bra, where it crosses my shoulder, and the cords no longer bother me. Sorry, I know that’s not much help.
August 22, 2013 — 9:07 PM
Rebe says:
Way to go on the running! It’s a great way to clear your thoughts & have time for yourself.
1. Music – I love 80s rock (Dr. Feelgood is great) and some of Pink’s songs. I also check out the bestsellers on Amazon for suggestions. Rammstein (spelling?) might be fun too.
2. Definitely get fitted for shoes at a running store. It makes a huge difference! I got tendonitis from cheap shoes. They’ll be expensive, but once you know what fits you can buy them online.
3. Couch to 5K is great for beginners. I used it & now I’m running half marathons.
4. I bought a cheapo armband that holds my phone at walmart. I shove the cords down the back of my shirt & that helps. I used to have some Bluetooth earbuds that were awesome, so that might be worth checking out if the cords really bug you.
August 22, 2013 — 9:10 PM
Andrea says:
Check out jog.fm !!! You can search music based on how fast you’re running and find songs that will line up with your beats per minute. Your feet strike the ground in time with each song, and it’s very motivating! It can also help you run faster…just find your current BPM and up it a tad at a time. It’s AWESOME. Let me know if you like it!
August 22, 2013 — 9:11 PM
Jacquelyn says:
Anything with a strong, simple beat, music-wise, will help coordinate your breath and foot strikes.
I actually use Keen hiking shoes to run; awesome support, great traction, and WATERPROOF.
Ditto on Runtastic, but don’t waste your money on the paid version, you’ll get everything you need in the free one.
Re: headphone cords: I bundle mine up and jam them in my cleavage, but I somehow think this tip is unlikely to be helpful to you? Definitely up under the shirt though.
Unsolicited tip: take your dog(s). I started running 3x a week in March. Now I run seven days a week, not necessarily because I want to, but because I can’t handle the sad, sad eyes when I try to tell my boys we are not going fast today.
August 22, 2013 — 9:12 PM
Nikki Howard (@MiznikkiNikki) says:
a)I listen to that Dub step crap my son got interested in. Everyone who is anyone has had their music remixed with beats and crazy static-electricity sounds. The Black Eyed Peas is pretty good also.
b) Nike is the BEST shoe Period (see me pimping you, Nike? Good.) I got that Os-Good, Shin-Shin (you say it twice real fast when it hurts and you’re outta breath), arthritis in my knee, AND heel-spurs. The Pod doc said Nike, and we’ve had a love/hate relationship every since. I love how they cradle my foot and stylishly look down and trod over lesser shoes, but the price tag and I don’t agree on anything. I got some Nike Free and it feels like you’re walking on air.
c) I don’t use an app. I do have a pedometer from Target that is hella accurate.
d) LOL. That just happened to me today and I have an armband! I swing my arms while running and I yanked it out of my ear (hard), fumbled to replace it cuz the song was motivational, slid back a little on the mill, glanced around and pretended like nothing happened.
I noticed one of the guys ran the earphone cord up his shirt-sleeve. Will have to try that next time 🙂
Good Luck,
Nikki~
August 22, 2013 — 9:16 PM
Eric Perrenoud (@EricPerrenoud) says:
To get sized up for a shoe I’d recommend going to a full on running specialty store vs. a big box sports store. Bring the shoes you just bought and ask them if they’ll do a stride analysis for you. Basically you just jog or walk in the store and they look at your natural form. How your heel is hitting the ground, how much you pop off the ball of your foot, etc. and can recommend something based off that. Hell, if you want to get weird with it record yourself running by a camera and see if you can figure it out.
Mozzarella sticks aren’t bad for colder weather runs, but at this time of year I’d recommend some type of frozen flavor ice in the plastic tubes. Ice cream can lead to cramping, but some gelato might do the trick too.
August 22, 2013 — 9:17 PM
ryanvoid says:
Trip-hop is where it’s at to help keep your heart rate even. I used to run to thrash metal, but if you already feel like your body’s gonna collapse and crap out, Slayer’s not really great for your equilibrium. Massive Attack and Daughter Darling are particularly great for workouts.
August 22, 2013 — 9:20 PM
Naomi Manuell says:
Chuck,
a) When I started running, I’d always run to angry white man music (hardcore, metal). Then I switched to stoner rock (sleepy white man music). I don’t think it really matters. My husband is a waaay better runner than me and he likes gay anthems and Katy Perry, so there you go… It’s great to do without music sometimes: just listen to the sound of your breathing and how your feet hit the ground. These things have a lovely music all of their own. So do birds.
b) shoes unfortunately very important. occasionally, I’ll buy cheap crap and then when i get back to wearing decent shoes i really notice the difference.I have wide ass shovel feet, too, and for a while I found instep reinforcements useful, help re-align your knees. Some wankers out there are running barefoot. Don’t even consider this until you are insanely, fire breathingly fit.
c)Apps? Map my Run is not bad, uses GPS and tells you how far/fast you;ve run. Lots of running programs out there to start you off slowly. consistency is the key. Food? Bananas a bit before a big run are great. Drink enough water if you’re thirsty and when you get back from a run try and have some protein-y type food,
d) Armband, then loop the wires from ears, down your shirt and out through the arm. Wires on these things too damn long. Armbands are badass.
August 22, 2013 — 9:20 PM
Natalie Maddalena says:
As a couple of other people have said, the ‘Zombies, Run!’ app is great and should be to your taste.
But aside from that, can I just say how much I hate you? I ran consistently every second day for 4 weeks. I got up to 90 seconds. You stroll out the door a couple of times and suddenly you with your God-like calves can do 9 minutes and not die? You make me sick. Do you have a jet pack in your beard or something?
August 22, 2013 — 9:21 PM
Tom Dullemond says:
Best bluetooth sports headset is: http://www.jaybirdgear.com/bluebuds-x-bluetooth-headphones/
Water (read: filthy mansweat) resistant and solid sound quality. Expensive but worth the investment imo.
August 22, 2013 — 9:24 PM
jrblackwell says:
I am not one of those runners for whom running is the fabulous sensation of flying and brings happy joy to all my parts. I am the kind of runner for whom every step is an effort and progress is agony. It has some wonderful rewards to it, but by the dread Shoggoth, it’s a painful hobby.
a) I like intense, epic sounding music, the kind that makes me feel like I’m in a movie about a superheroic robot that needs to save the world through enduring terrible pain. Right now I like to listen to Kanye West’s “Power” and Ru Paul’s “Champion”, among other things.
b) I used to run with a Nike flex, which I really liked for the treadmill, but now that I’m running more outside, I like something a little sturdier with more bounce to it, and more padding.
c) I join the chorus recommending Zombies, Run! It’s a great piece of fiction and it kept me on the road when I started running. Knowing that I could only hear the next bit when I was running around had me coming back. Also, apparently Atwood makes an appearance in the second season (I need to get that)
d) I use a armband, but I still get some headphones flail. Also, I have to really freakin’ latch my armband down because when I thunder my hippo body down the street it shakes the armband loose so I sometimes need to pull it so tight that I get a bruise. My painful hobby never stops with it’s gifts.
August 22, 2013 — 9:25 PM
terribleminds says:
Ooooh Kanye West’s POWER. Yeah. Yes. Also, what’s that other West song? MONSTER?
And yes, Margaret had mentioned that she was in Zombies, Run, which is so insanely delightful I cannot even parse it.
— c.
August 22, 2013 — 9:29 PM
Katy Mann says:
Hi. I echo the above comments about running shoes. Go to a running store. They will watch you walk. Some will even put you on a treadmill. Out here, we have a store called “Run With Us.” They are great.
If you succumb to the temptation to wear your running shoes all the time (because good running shoes will just feel that great) be prepared to buy new ones often. Maybe even every three months. The shoes are the one thing you can’t cheat on.
Be wary about running with earphones. You can’t really be aware of what’s going on around you, including dogs that might be chasing you, and traffic. Really, learn to run without them. You’ll find it clears the mind.
On indoor tracks (gyms, etc.) use the earphones.
Good luck!
August 22, 2013 — 9:25 PM
terribleminds says:
I do worry about that, re: running with headphones, but damn if I didn’t run further and faster tonight because I had headphones in and music blasting.
August 22, 2013 — 9:27 PM
McKickin' says:
You’ve quickly got to the heart of the most annoying thing about running: the fucking chord. I’ve tried the holders and the pouches and the what-nots. The winner for me is the humble pocket/chord-up-the-shirt combo. Followed closely by the ‘carry that sucker in your hand’ option.
August 22, 2013 — 9:26 PM
Brandi says:
Zombies run is a great app that rewards the runner with storytelling and music. Worth the purchase
August 22, 2013 — 9:26 PM
Bob Bois says:
Chuck – dump the running bug and get yourself a bike. You’ll get in better shape and you won’t injure yourself. I used to run but my joints always hurt (I’m 52 so those joints have some wear and tear). So I got on a bike and lost more weight than I ever lost running. FWIW
August 22, 2013 — 9:28 PM
terribleminds says:
@Bob,
Not trying to be a dick, but, y’know, I’m excited about running, not biking. My last post about running just a few days ago talked about running versus biking.
It’s like, if I wrote a post asking for great Mac software, someone writing in and telling me to ditch the Mac and get a PC.
For now, I’m running. I have a bike. But I’m running. That may change in the future, and when it does, I’ll be sure to talk biking. I appreciate the sentiment, I do — but, y’know, let me have this. 🙂
— c.
August 22, 2013 — 9:31 PM
Bob Bois says:
Run away, Chuck.
August 22, 2013 — 9:50 PM
thesexiestwriter says:
christopher mcdougal, born to run, is one of the more enjoyable reads of my 2012…and i’m not a runner. Well, let me rephrase that. I’m not a willing runner. I hate it. That book inspired me to run for the sheer joy of running which lasted a little while. Fascinating read and a great take on what running shoes that try to correct everything. The author began his journey trying to figure out why he was having so many running injuries and ended up in Mexico practically chasing ghosts. Can answer your questions better than i ever could
August 22, 2013 — 9:36 PM
thesexiestwriter says:
oh yea, music. If i really need to be pushed i listen to pantera and megadeth. If i’m just runnin a spell i prefer something like Frank Zappa.
August 22, 2013 — 9:37 PM
Cat York says:
Find your beat and hit repeat, Wendig!
(I use ear buds and hold my phone in one hand.)
August 22, 2013 — 9:38 PM
Bryan Chapel says:
As far as music, anything with a driving beat keeps me going.
Shoewise, I love my Brooks Ghosts. They make pavement feel like I’m running on carpet. You really should go to a good running store that has employees trained to watch you walk/run and identify your individual footfall and arch situation. Shoes make all the difference. I went from what I thought was a good Adidas running shoe to Brooks for the first time, and my shin splints and lower back aches disappeared. Shoes are definitely a smart investment. If you don’t hurt, you’re more likely to enjoy it and keep going.
I like Runkeeper for its features, workout customizations, and its music player integration. I think it also integrates with third party things like Fitbit and various heart rate monitors, though I don’t use them so I’m not sure how well they work.
A good armband is a must, and if you’re really having cord issues, consider a Bluetooth set of headphones. There are some good ones out there for around $40 or so. Personally I like any headphones that have controls for changing volume and tracks.
Keep at it Chuck!
August 22, 2013 — 9:39 PM
jwivJosh Hall says:
I’ll just preface this by the usual disclaimer of “I’m not a runner” which I suppose is mostly a lie, but runners are like 7 foot tall gazelles lightly leaping effortlessly over the miles, and that’s not even close to how my sub Tom Cruise height and extra 20 lbs approach this.
a) When I was training for my first 5K, I wore shoes and listened to music. I got tired of having to fight the armband and earbuds, so eventually started running without the music. Never regretted it.
b) As for shoes . . . that’s religion to runners. People are insane over them.
Basically, starting out – get checked out for something – you’re going to want to go one of two ways. Either go minimal and let your calves and feet basically build up, or get a running shoe of some sort. Cross-trainers and cheaply made shoes are just going to eff up your IT Band/Lower Back/Shins/something and unless you want to be on a first name basis with your physical therapist (mine is named Tom!) and the torture device that is the foam roller, you’ll want to approach with care.
For back story – I was determined to be a neutral gait runner and after trying on various shoes, I went with a set of Brooks Defyance. I went through a few years of these as I built from up 5K’s to half marathon distances. After my first two half-marathons resulted in about a month of physical therapy due to various IT Band and calf strain issues, I basically had a bit of breakdown at the concept of having to rebuild my long run distance (again), and was desperate. I was not however desperate enough to drop 100 bucks on toe shoes (that’s just crazy) and basically because I was cheap, ordered a set of huaraches (aka, flip-flops with a back strap) from Xeroshoes (as seen on Shark Tank, but I did it before it was cool damnit!).
I fell in love with them, and used those and a set of Newtons (aka overpriced crazy lug nut shoes) to train and eventually run a 3rd half in (without injury! huzzah!). Since then, I’ve shelved the Newtons and gone exclusively with the Xero’s for both a half and a ten-miler and have been using them to train for a full in October.
c) Things not to do – drink the better part of a pot of coffee before running. Like seriously, don’t do that. It’s embarrassing how long it took me to figure that one out, and the numbers of hours in a bathroom I could have avoided. Other than that, for anything under 10 miles, it’s just water and maybe half a banana or some toast and jam.
d) That’s why I ditched the phone as soon as I could after finishing Couch to 5K. Those cords are a pain in the ass, and I’d like almost fall into a comfortable rhythm when a bud would pop out or I’d get tangled up in the cords or the armband would slip or whatever.
August 22, 2013 — 9:39 PM
mattaui says:
I listen to lots of uplifting trance/electronica with the occasional bit of alt rock or other random song if I decide it’s a particularly good running song. It’s ultimately a pretty personal preference from what I’ve found – some people listen to stuff I’d never listen to, but whatever gets you going.
I’d never run in anything other than a pair of really good shoes, but I actually wear Columbia trail shoes. Again, it’s not about the expense or the marketed purpose of the shoe but how the shoe feels on your foot. These happen to be great for me, but I’ve got big wide feet, so a lot of running shoes always felt narrow and scrunched my toes.
As far as the headphone tangle thing, I’m right there with you on that. See, I’ve tried an armband but I’m absolutely terrible about needing to control what songs I’m listening to, or at least cycling around, and I found that it’s best for me to just run with my phone in my hand so I can mess with it. Of course that means I’ve got to watch where I’m flailing my cord (isn’t that always the case?) and make sure I don’t faceplant and crush whatever I’m carrying (like I’ve done a few times over the years).
It’s good that you’re going with time rather than distance at first – it’s all about building stamina and habit rather than distance at the start, especially if you’ve never really spent much time running before. Even if you just run, walk, run, walk over the course of say half an hour you’re on your way to building up good habits.
August 22, 2013 — 9:41 PM
mark matthews says:
So many answers already. But… I think I got some cred here. But first of all, know this: “Running is an experiment of one” meaning what works for one often does not work for others.
a) Dorky inspiring music. Rocky soundtracks. Something pumping. And know that it may not match your regular tastes. I listen to songs running I would otherwise never listen to. “Greased Lighten” is a fun song, for example
b) Good shoes help, and when they go on your feet you should want to run and go “awwwwwww”. Yes, a bit orgasmic. In some ways, the runner doesn’t choose the shoe, but the shoe chooses the runner. There should be a specialized running store near you.
C: I have used runkeeper as an ap and it’s great, but, when it doesn’t work, it just adds more stress. Use it if you want one, but app free might be the way to reduce another barrier.
D: Put the cord inside your shirt. I attach the ipod to my waist, run the cord up my shirt, and then out the top of my shirt to connect to my ears. Otherwise, I end up getting it tangled in my arm and ripping it out.
Lastly, your questions just prove the point of my latest blog post: Runners need their own personal running therapist to discuss all these many issues. Keep it up!
August 22, 2013 — 9:41 PM
chbenito says:
I’ve been running for a few years and teaching myself as I go. I’ve learned a few things from listening to the anecdotes of fellow beginners and asking questions of a ex-co-worker who runs ultra marathons.
1. I don’t listen to music. I’ve heard that it can help with motivation, but it also makes it harder to set a steady cadence. Unless the tempo is the same from song to song, then you’ll find yourself speeding up and slowing down. A consistent gait is a good thing.
2. Shoes are tricky, but I would suggest investigating minimalist shoes. I run in Fivefingers and I love them. Most of the other runners I know use some kind of minimalist shoe that mimics the feel of running barefoot. If you do decide to go that route, then do some research into the bio-mechanics. Running barefoot is very different from the heel striking gait that regular running shoes encourage. Read ‘Born to Run.’
3. I use the Nike+ app for my tracking, but I’ve heard good things about Map My Run for people who want training programs. Either one can be made to sync with Fitbit.
4. I used to use an armband, but eventually I found that it rubbed my arm raw as I ran longer distances. I switched to using a running belt that fits snugly under my shirt. It has room for my phone and I rarely notice it when I am running.
The biggest thing that I have learned about running is that you should listen to what your body tells you. Discomfort is part of the equation when you work hard, but pain shouldn’t be. Take your time and build slowly. It took me a whole summer before I could run a mile without stopping.
August 22, 2013 — 9:41 PM
chbenito says:
I should also mention that I too have wide feet. One of the big joys of wearing Fivefingers for me has been that my feet don’t ever feel constricted. I have had to build up my foot and leg strength, but that only has benefits. Not only do I run in them, but I wear them for my regular walking around town and my hiking and backpacking. Just another couple cents.
August 22, 2013 — 9:47 PM
Tracie Stewart says:
(A) Music – metal and rap. AC/DC is particularly good during those moments when you’re either going to break through ‘must quit now’ or break a sweat and hit the lung-friendly runner’s high. Bassnectar, The Roots, Rob Zombie. Dial it up and save the pop crap for the midnight ice cream binge. Oh, and google 180 bpm running songs. You’ll get huge lists of suggested music and can make your own playlist.
(B) Shoes – If your feet are that wide, check out New Balance. That brand has a bigass toe box that will keep your feet from transforming into talons. You should buzz up to Austin while in San Antonio for WorldCon. We have a gazillion running stores and some kind of daily road race in this town – plenty of healthy types committed to happy running feet.
(C) Apps – I’m going for time, not distance, and music is my motivator. I have a playlist on my phone and a stopwatch. That’s all I need and I don’t want an app or a robot voice interrupting my tunes.
(D) The Cord – Can’t help you. I waddle. It’s not pretty. Or fast. Therefore, things do not flail about as much as someone with your running ‘style’. I can’t give up my music or I’d never make it off the couch. Therefore, an occasional thwack with the cord or my phone crashing to the ground is all part of my ungraceful loping.
August 22, 2013 — 9:45 PM
Kait Nolan says:
Good shoes and good INSOLES are imperative. They’ll save your feet and your knees. I’m a huge fan of Superfeet insoles.
I like to run to movie and video game scores–chase music and fight music. My current fave is the score to Army of Two. But I also had a mix of other stuff, including big epic swells of stuff from LOTR. There’s nothing like hitting the upside of a big hill with orcs on your ass, man! Although, warning, you may feel compelled to yell “GANDALF!”
August 22, 2013 — 9:45 PM
steve christopher says:
Take up racketball.
August 22, 2013 — 9:47 PM
Brennan says:
At 36 years old, I just started running a couple of years ago (moved to Austin, got weirdly competitive with the people running with baby strollers on the trail, began running just to prove I could be as fast as that. A lot of them still pass me. )
a) Music – I have Spotify premium, and can play anything when I want, so I just started listening to the stuff I like, and everytime something fast paced that I felt like I wouldn’t hate hearing on the trail I started dumping in a playlist. When I run, I just put that playlist on random and go. Its a pretty random selection, but I find a lot of Arcade Fire and OK Go does pretty well if you’re into that kind of thing.
b) Not sure where you live, but its probably worth going to one of the specialty running stores and getting something that fits well there. The research is, though, that shoes that are supposed to correct for over- or under-pronation actually tend to cause more injury. The army, which knows something about having to buy lots of rugged footwear, ran a randomized study, and found that shoes that supposed corrected one way or another led to more strains, sprains, and overuse injuries. So don’t let them do their bullshit stride analysis to sell you a more expensive pair of shoes.
c) Apps – they all have their pluses, minuses. I like RunKeeper for tracking my pace/distance, and I tried out a couple of others, all pretty much did what I wanted. Nothing really made a huge difference. Don’t live or die by their GPS tracking of your distance/speed – they almost all have a pretty good margin of error. Use it to get a sense of how fast you’re going or whether you’re improving over time.
d) Armband that I drop my smartphone into. It made a huge difference not to be carrying the phone in one hand or trying to get it to stay in my pocket without catching on every stray branch. Running stride improves significantly if your balance isn’t being thrown off by one hand flailing around trying to deal with the cord.
August 22, 2013 — 9:50 PM
Rebecca Douglass says:
A) I prefer books over music. Story does more to distract me from pain than music does. Besides,you can listen to books with only one earphone, which allows one ear to listen for homicidal manics in SUVs.
B) Find a store that specializes in running shoes and get a proper gait analysis and fit. Then replace shoes about every to 200-500 miles (depends on the shoes and your weight and running style).
C) I have no idea. I’ve been working out regularly since before the invention of all this stuff. Way before. I track my workouts with pen and paper.
D) You’ll get more used to it. I use actual headphones because I can’t make a earbud stay in my ear short of using superglue. The cord runs down my back, tucks into the top of my shorts to hold it in place, then runs around to my pocket where the world’s tiniest MP3 resides.
There you go. Totally simple. Whatever you do, don’t give up!
August 22, 2013 — 9:54 PM
cinnabari says:
We have Roadrunner Sports out here. No giant robots, but they do have MACHINES. And this blue-spotted Dalmation mascot. I don’t get it.
Eh. The kind of shoe depends on the kind of foot that you have, and on your gait. Do you pronate? Supinate? Do your heels sprout wings like Hermes? If that last, then yeah, you can probably make due with sandals. Shoes vary by brand in their cut and shape, and sometimes even that changes by season. Usually the rule is go a half-size larger for your running shoes than for normal.
Music totally varies. Death metal, playlist for Current Project, crap I love and am too ashamed to listen to where the spouse might hear…usually loud, if I run on a treadmill. Sweet nothing if I run outside.
August 22, 2013 — 9:56 PM