Tips for running outside?
FitFabFlirty92
Posts: 384 Member
I'm doing the Couch to 5k program, and so far I have always used the treadmill at my college gym because I can go no matter what the weather is like and it's safe (I live in NY, so running in a park at night isn't very smart, lol). But I know there will be days, like this weekend, where I will have to run outside because I couldn't make it to the gym three days in a given week. I have ZERO experience doing this, so I need tips.
Where do you keep your keys when you're running? Do you feel weird exercising in public, and if so, how do you get over that? Any tips would be greatly appreciated!
Where do you keep your keys when you're running? Do you feel weird exercising in public, and if so, how do you get over that? Any tips would be greatly appreciated!
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Replies
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Yes, when I started I was embarrassed to be running out in public (my treadmill was in my basement LOL). But since you're running at the gym now, it really shouldn't be different from a 'public' stand point.
Keys: My running shorts and tights all have a pocket on them to put a key in. Its small so I can only fit ONE key LOL. I drive to a park to run, so I just put my car key in there and the rest of my keys are locked in the car.
I stick mostly to asphalt running/biking paths in my park. I have run cross country before (on grass, dirt, sand, mud, etc) and that's fun too. Just watch your footing so you don't twist an ankle.
There's really not a lot to it, especially at a 5K distance. You don't need to carry water or food. So I just strap on my phone, start my music and GPS apps, and go! I absolutely hate running indoors now though :-(0 -
I only run outside. My keys are on a keychain on y refuel pack to jingle and keep coyotes at bay. I love to run outside.0
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I prefer outdoor running! Running inside just doesnt do it for me. I've been running for two years and at this point I just slap in my earbuds, crank some really great music and go
Most of the people I see on the path are regulars with thier dogs or fellow runners and we all smile and nod as we go by, others I pay no attention to at all. I find that running is also my "meditation" time so I tend to get into a zone and appreciate my surroundings without too much thought aside from how good I feel. I think once you start outdoor running you will find it addictive, take care though because pavement running and treadmill running do feel different and you may end up a little more sore afterward. 0 -
I only run from home so having a key isn't a problem but you can always put one key in your sock or most of my running pants have a tiny pocket. You can also get a little belt for running that has a small zipper pocket for a key, ID and a chapstick.
Don't be surprised when you go outside that it's way harder than on the treadmill. If you haven't run outside you'll be shocked at how much more effort it takes to push yourself along rather than have the belt doing the work for you.0 -
I only run outside. Just relax and have fun. If you are on a paved trail, you don't have to watch your footing too much. I have heard that you should keep your head up (ie. don't watch your feet).
On another note, if you are not running on the treadmill at a slight incline, I have heard that treadmill running is slightly easier than outside. So get plenty of outside practice before your 5k. 0 -
Before I started running I used to be ashamed and be embarassed when i first went out. Now, i don't even think of it, in the same way when I wasn't running i didn't think anything of the runners that went past me. Quite simply, the worlds eyes are not on you. Relax and enjoy it.0
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I've only been running outside on couch to 5k and I'm finding myself figuring out these same questions!
Here's a question I have: All my music is on my ipod, so I put that in the arm strap for when I run and listen to the Couch to 5k app as well. Sometimes I feel like I should bring my phone as well just in case I get hurt or god forbid something happens to me. I like to think my neighborhood is safe but it isn't totally unheard of for young girls being abducted or runners being attacked. I still run around the same two blocks very close to my house so I feel I could always try to run home if a creep approached me. But I would like to go further..I don't want my big bulky phone bouncing around in my pocket banging against my thigh when I run though..I know I could put all my music and the app on my phone, and just bring that with me instead of the ipod, but I don't know..what do you guys do?0 -
I only started faithfully running this year. I prefer outdoor running for the amazing scenery and feeling like I am running to get somewhere. When I run, I always run eith my Ipod and sunglasses. Sunglasses make me feel as if no one can see when I am in pain from pushing myself further! :-) I now love to run and try to get out and do it every other day! Good luck to you!0
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car key gets tied to my sneaker (i unlace the top lace, slip the key on and retie). phone stuffed in sports bra. for me the biggest hurdle was running in my neighborhood. i've never felt uncomfortable running the trails at the state park or sports complex but there was something about letting my neighbors see me run that bothered me. one sunday morning (early) i took a deep breath and headed out. after about a mile into it i relaxed and focused on what i was doing. i did pass a few neighbors and they waved and said encouraging words which made me feel amazing.0
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I've only been running outside on couch to 5k and I'm finding myself figuring out these same questions!
Here's a question I have: All my music is on my ipod, so I put that in the arm strap for when I run and listen to the Couch to 5k app as well. Sometimes I feel like I should bring my phone as well just in case I get hurt or god forbid something happens to me. I like to think my neighborhood is safe but it isn't totally unheard of for young girls being abducted or runners being attacked. I still run around the same two blocks very close to my house so I feel I could always try to run home if a creep approached me. But I would like to go further..I don't want my big bulky phone bouncing around in my pocket banging against my thigh when I run though..I know I could put all my music and the app on my phone, and just bring that with me instead of the ipod, but I don't know..what do you guys do?
My music and apps are on my phone and it goes on my arm. If you don't want to do that, try a Spibelt?0 -
Dreadmill is brutal, running outside is glorious. Try it once and you'll never be a hamster again.0
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I was embarrassed about running outside at first, because of feeling like such a slow poke. Now it doesn't bother me so much. It is kind of motivating to see the same people out there each morning, who are also running. If they can do it, then so can I.
I keep a single door key in the pocket of my shorts. I've been thinking about getting a Road ID, in case of an accident or emergency, but haven't done so yet.0 -
I run outside exclusively.
I have a running belt ( http://www.spibelt.com but I've seen cheaper at 5Below or Marshalls ) that I keep my phone in, and have a spare house key on a carabiner clip that I snap on the belt. The few times I drove somewhere to run, I only took my car key, and left the rest locked in my car. (Not in plain sight, obviously.)
Sometimes people honk or yell "Run, Forrest!" when I'm out running, but I don't give a damn. I don't know them, they don't know me, we only see each other for a fraction of a second, so why should they matter at all?0 -
^^ this. And if you're worried about something happening to you, roadid.I prefer outdoor running! Running inside just doesnt do it for me. I've been running for two years and at this point I just slap in my earbuds, crank some really great music and go Most of the people I see on the path are regulars with thier dogs or fellow runners and we all smile and nod as we go by, others I pay no attention to at all. I find that running is also my "meditation" time so I tend to get into a zone and appreciate my surroundings without too much thought aside from how good I feel. I think once you start outdoor running you will find it addictive, take care though because pavement running and treadmill running do feel different and you may end up a little more sore afterward.
http://www.roadid.com/c/RoadID
I just got the interactive version. It's $20 and comes with a 1 year membership. Each year thereafter is $9.99. Pretty cheap investment.0 -
I was running outside. I found it much easier but when it got to hot out I invested into a good ifit treadmill and at that point is I tore a high hamstring tendon. I never went to the doc thinking it was something else and I would just get better. After a month I tried to get back into exercise with pain but refused to quit.......long story short I damanged the tendon and over a year later I am still dealing with this injury including falling down from weakness, having cortozone shots not helping. Now I have to go back to the doctors to see what is next. I was told I cannot use a treadmill anymore so I sold my beaufiful treadmill
Don't push to hard on a treadmill0 -
I've only been running outside on couch to 5k and I'm finding myself figuring out these same questions!
Here's a question I have: All my music is on my ipod, so I put that in the arm strap for when I run and listen to the Couch to 5k app as well. Sometimes I feel like I should bring my phone as well just in case I get hurt or god forbid something happens to me. I like to think my neighborhood is safe but it isn't totally unheard of for young girls being abducted or runners being attacked. I still run around the same two blocks very close to my house so I feel I could always try to run home if a creep approached me. But I would like to go further..I don't want my big bulky phone bouncing around in my pocket banging against my thigh when I run though..I know I could put all my music and the app on my phone, and just bring that with me instead of the ipod, but I don't know..what do you guys do?
I use my phone. Its not much bigger than my ipod and I feel I need it with me in case of emergency.0 -
Running outside doesn't make me feel weird because I'm in "public" any more than running on a treadmill would make me feel weird. I do run in an area that is frequented by other runners, though. It never feels weird.
Keys either go in a small key pocket in my running shorts, I also have a SPI (small personal items) belt in case I'm wearing a pair that doesn't have pockets. I also have a keychain that makes it easy to remove my house or car key so it takes up less space. I love the SPI belt especially if I need to have my phone with me.
I started C25K on a treadmill, will never go back to it unless all of outside happens to be on fire.0 -
I started out indoors on a treadmill doing C25k. One session outside shocked me how much harder it was so I completed the C25k indoors with the treadmill on an incline which seemed (to me anyway!) to make transitioning outside easier. Key goes in the teeny tiny pocket of my shorts/tights or in my gloves if its really cold. I dont tend to bother with music or phone or anything like that - Ive got a GPS watch that I use for pace/distance and I quite like the company of my own thoughts as I'm running. Plus I tend to run in a rather built up area with quite heavy traffic and its always handy for me to be able to hear whats going on around me! Now I find I dread running the treadmill on days that weather extremes force me indoors.0
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I'm also from nyc - so i might be the only one on here who prefers running indoors! I'm training now and did most of my training on the treadmill to avoid sketchy people at night and traffic lights for when i want to track my time. I recently started to run outside by the east river to get a feel for the pavement in preparation of race day. I put a light zip up jacket on that I could easily take off and tie around my wait if i got hot, i had my iphone in an armband, and i slipped my key into the back of the arm band. I've tried putting my key in my shoe and I personally found it really uncomfortable. Hope this helps! Good luck!0
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I only run outside. My keys are on a keychain on y refuel pack to jingle and keep coyotes at bay. I love to run outside.
Coyotes? Now thats motivation!0 -
There must be TONS of running groups in NYC. FInd one, join it, and run with them.0
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I'm doing the Couch to 5k program, and so far I have always used the treadmill at my college gym because I can go no matter what the weather is like and it's safe (I live in NY, so running in a park at night isn't very smart, lol). But I know there will be days, like this weekend, where I will have to run outside because I couldn't make it to the gym three days in a given week. I have ZERO experience doing this, so I need tips.
Where do you keep your keys when you're running? Do you feel weird exercising in public, and if so, how do you get over that? Any tips would be greatly appreciated!
I only run outside because in Florida you can run outside all year round. Most of my shorts/pants have pockets or a key pouch, so I put my house or car key there.
Like the gym, most people who are outside are active people and will respect you for what you are doing. Just be smart as to where/when you run. You may even want to tell you S.O./roommate your route for safety reasons.
It's harder to run outside because of the terrain and because the road below you is not moving, so don't be shocked if your pace is a little slower than normal. Your body will have to get used to paying attention to uneven surfaces, rocks, etc.
As the weather gets cooler dress in layers. Light outer jackets are a must for cold runs... they usually have pockets, too! I love Old Navy's outer activewear.
You are going to love running outside! And congrats on the C25K!!!0 -
I prefer outdoor running! Running inside just doesnt do it for me. I've been running for two years and at this point I just slap in my earbuds, crank some really great music and go Most of the people I see on the path are regulars with thier dogs or fellow runners and we all smile and nod as we go by, others I pay no attention to at all. I find that running is also my "meditation" time so I tend to get into a zone and appreciate my surroundings without too much thought aside from how good I feel. I think once you start outdoor running you will find it addictive, take care though because pavement running and treadmill running do feel different and you may end up a little more sore afterward.
However if the OP is concerned about safety I would not recommend wearing headphones. When I run at night I run without music; I am aware of my surroundings 100%, focused.0 -
ID, key(s), phone/mp3, small snack all fit nicely in my waist belt. I used the crap outta the one my hubby bought me @ Walmart last year so I bought a fancier one at the marathon expo last month. For 5k distances, you don't need to worry about snack or water. I have dhydration belt I use for my over 8 mile runs that has an even bigger storage section plus holsters for 2 small water bottles. Also a gift from my hubby!
As for feeling awkward out doors. . .The fear of what my neighbors would think of me (or rather what I looked like) kept me from running at home for awhile. On trails, other runners just mentally applaud your effort, but snarky neighbors peering out from behind curtains. . . that worried me. Then I realized. . .ain't none of them out here moving their backsides. And, they need to just as much as I do. So I quit worrying about them and started focussing on how much I - LOVE - RUNNING!!!!
Get out there and have fun. NYC???? Be prepared for cold gusty weather this weekend! Dress in layers!!0 -
As for feeling awkward out doors. . .The fear of what my neighbors would think of me (or rather what I looked like) kept me from running at home for awhile. On trails, other runners just mentally applaud your effort, but snarky neighbors peering out from behind curtains. . . that worried me. Then I realized. . .ain't none of them out here moving their backsides. And, they need to just as much as I do. So I quit worrying about them and started focussing on how much I - LOVE - RUNNING!!!!
Exactly!
Before I started running, you know what I thought of people I saw running on the side of the road?
"Damn, I wish I could do that."0 -
Just take off the one key you need (house key or car key) and tie it in your shoe lace. You can put your phone or ipod on an arm band for music, but may I also suggest that you try running without headphones sometimes? As a begginer it can sometimes be advantageous to hear your breathing and steps hitting the pavement. Plus it can be nice to take in the outside world or find a nice tranquil park to run in. One more tip, if you're going to run on concrete and never have before, take it easy as your legs won't be accustomed to it (expect it to be a bit harder than the treadmill).
To me, running on a treadmill just feels like exercise. Running outside feels like recreation.0 -
I prefer outdoor running! Running inside just doesnt do it for me. I've been running for two years and at this point I just slap in my earbuds, crank some really great music and go Most of the people I see on the path are regulars with thier dogs or fellow runners and we all smile and nod as we go by, others I pay no attention to at all. I find that running is also my "meditation" time so I tend to get into a zone and appreciate my surroundings without too much thought aside from how good I feel. I think once you start outdoor running you will find it addictive, take care though because pavement running and treadmill running do feel different and you may end up a little more sore afterward.
THIS ^0 -
Sounds like you plan on running on pavement/concrete. I only run outdoors on dirt trails because running on hard surfaces causes injuries for me. The only time I run on hard surfaces is on race day. In the past, training on hard surfaces has led to injuries that kept out of races, so I save the rough stuff for the big event. It's worked well for me so far - no major injuries since. Running outdoors is better than treadmill in my opinion. Treadmill running is boring and it always seems harder - maybe that's just my perception, but it is a fact that my pace is faster and I can go much further outdoors. I think you would enjoy it, but take it easy to start, since your body won't be used to the hard surfaces. I don't know anything about running outdoors at night, but watch your step! :flowerforyou:0
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I initially started running on the treadmill too then moved to trails (where no one could see me) and now I just run ... everything. It's a big adjustment to go from a treadmill to well, anything else. Honestly I found outside running easier it's nice to be able to SEE the distance you're running. I only run on roads or sidewalks once a week (usually) I try to run on a high school track most of the time (for my knees sake) it's oddly no different for me than running on a treadmill but it does make my joints feel better and I do fartleks (speed play/ interval running) on the track.
I hated being seen, at first, even wrote a thingy about it - http://leilaface.blogspot.com/2012/05/ill-never-be-that-person.html
How I carry my keys and phone? I dress in layers. The outer layer begin a zip up hoodie with pockets. I put everything in my pockets and then strip down that layer and tie it around my waist. I can still listen to my music, keep my GPS going and hear my keys jingle jangling without having an uncomfortable key in a oddly placed microscopic pocket or a fanny pack (which I am too lazy to buy). Sure I have a sweater tied around my waist but it also hides my ghetto booty.0 -
I put my shoelace through the keyhole on my key (only bring the one I need to get back in the door) and then tie my shoes.
I try to run inside because it's easier on my knees/shins but outside I try to stick to grass/dirt...anything but pavement. It's less shock but you do have to make sure you're on even ground to keep from hurting yourself.
I use an arm band (TuneBand silicone case/strap from Amazon) to hold my phone but I probably wouldn't listen to headphones if you're in a not as safe area.0
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