Having fantastic running resources is one of the best ways to be successful in your running journey. No matter what your goal as a runner, you’re going to need solid tools at your disposal to keep you going, healthy, strong, and motived. Let’s talk about my top five.
Your Local Running Store
Local running stores are one of the best resources in a runner’s arsenal. Not only do they stock up on shoes, apparel, fuel, and gear, but they are also a treasure trove of great running advice. Employees tend to have experience in the running world, and most local running stores provide a great custom fitting experience to get you in the right shoes and gear. Not only that, but your local running store probably hosts things like injury clinics, good form clinics, groups runs, and so much more.
Your Local Running Group
Having a group of like-minded people all participating in the same sport is one of the most invaluable running resources. Even if I don’t get to meet up with them outside of races, it’s always great to have a supportive community at the start and finish lines. Most running groups have a Facebook page or group chat to share victories, failures, ask questions, and get support, too. I think it’s amazing.
Your Local ParkRun
Slightly different than your running group, a local ParkRun is a fantastic training tool. This is a free, weekly, TIMED 5k, hosted in a public space, open to all. Maybe it’s people you run with, or maybe it’s all new faces. Regardless, this is a great way to put yourself to the test on a Saturday morning, in a supportive, safe, and low-pressure environment.
A Good Race Calendar
Having a good race calendar is absolutely vital to the cause. This is where you find the races you want to run, and keep tabs on your favorite events. You may refer to several calendars for local vs. farther away, but this is definitely one of those running resources you don’t want to be without!
A Great Training Journal
I find that one of my favorite running resources is a great training journal. It’s a place to document workouts, wins, and setbacks, and for me, it’s a healthy source of motivation.
What are your favorite running resources?
Welcome to Fit Five Friday, our linkup!
We’ve got FIVE incredible co-hosts, and we are ready to link up every Friday to share YOUR weekly fitness favorites! Join My First 5K and More, Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and Zenaida every Friday for Fit Five Friday! Who’s ready for some fun?
You know I am a big fan of running groups! I don’t know what I would do without my MRTT squad. They have become my best friends
The internet, my running coach and my running friends! There are so many great resources out there. My fave is to learn from the experience of friends.
I agree with all of these! I wonder if there’s a ParkRun near me? I haven’t heard of one, but I’m going to look into it.
Definitely a running store and running club.
And my blog and fellow bloggers.
I’ve thought about getting a writing journal but then realize that I would have to write in it. Then I also remember that that is why I have a blog too.
I live in a very small town and we did have a local running store but it didn’t stay in business for very long. When I lived in Virginia Beach I was part of a running club and I loved it. But now I just run by myself.
I hate to see that. Those local running stores are so awesome. Maybe you can start your own club!