I’ve been incorporating running (slowly) into my fitness routine and one thing has become glaringly clear. My size (6’5” 275 lbs) brings a noticeable amount of discomfort when pounding the pavement. Shin splints are not uncommon for the first couple of weeks. Knees and back get sore and tight for days. The feet don’t have near enough padding for the hundreds of footfalls in just a mile or so jog. But that’s the curse of being my size and 38 years old. The body just hurts a little more. However, there are lots of options to make the run more bearable, and even enjoyable. As physical fitness would be paramount in a survival scenario, I’m trying my best to get into better shape. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not in terrible shape. But my conditioning could certainly be better. Below is a general breakdown of “gear” I have found to aid in this fitness progression. Keep in mind, I’m no pro or a doctor or anything like that. This is just what I’ve learned from my own experiences.
First, get good shoes designed for running. There is a local shop that I go to that is run by avid runners. Those folks have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to different shoes built for different terrain, feet, and runner’s builds. The shoes may cost a little more, but like the old adage says, “Buy once, cry once”. And trust me, if you buy a cheap pair of shoes and go for a run, you may very well end up teary-eyed. You also will likely not continue the fitness journey and not make the much-needed progress. And, of course, you could always go to the store, get the info, and then find the desired shoes online and order them cheaper. The was I see it though, you’re not just paying for the shoe, you’re paying for the assistance and knowledge of the “running shoe professional” that’s helping you out. Shoes will be the largest single expense and for good reason. Your shoes are doing the most work out of all the rest of your equipment.
Along the same lines as shoes are socks. In my experience, socks don’t have the same need for running as shoes. However, socks can wear out quickly from the friction in the shoes. Again, a quality pair of socks is going to be more expensive but will also last longer. So, are they really more expensive if you have to buy them less often?
Next, is the rest of the clothing. I like the polyester blend stuff (Under Armour, Nike Dry-Fit, etc). No particular brand, just quality gear that serves an intended purpose. The lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts, shorts, and underwear help keep you cooler, dryer, and they weigh next to nothing. The fabrics also don’t seem to cause the chafing that comes from cotton. That chafing (burning, stinging, sometimes bleeding) can get bad; groin, nipples, armpits, it all sucks.
As for the rest of the gear, it’s really optional. I wear an Apple watch which is great for tracking fitness data, as well as quite a few other nice-to-haves. A hat is just about a must-have for my bald head. Sunburns suck and hats help. Sunglasses are a big plus. Bright sunlight for extended periods of time gives me headaches, as I’m sure it does for most people. Sunglasses can range from very cheap to very expensive. Find what works for you. Earbuds/headphones/whatever are a plus. Having something to listen to can really aid in not getting stuck counting the minutes of the workout. The provided distraction from the discomfort allows me to go further before I start second-guessing my need to run.
From there, I suggest you start slow. Go for walks. Slowly incorporate short jogs. Gradually build up to longer runs. Whatever you do, get started. Finding out you’re in much worse shape than you realized is better done now than when the time comes that you need that conditioning to work for you. Trust me, I know. Working as a police officer, you run into all sorts of people that will test your physical capabilities.
Physical fitness is also good for mental health, as well as physical health. (Again, I’m no doctor. Ask your own MD and I’m sure they will tell you the same.) With all the benefits that fitness brings, why wouldn’t you start improving yours?
Don’t just prepare, prepare to thrive.
