Y’all… I’ve been bitten by the running bug.
If you told the Kimberly of 5 years ago, she would never believe you. But, dare I say it: I actually enjoy it? And with a simple reframe, I’ve come to love movement in all forms, and truly believe it’s a blessing to even move my body in this way.
And I’m not alone. Black women have been running it (literally and figuratively), forever, so it was about time I joined in on the movement, especially living in D.C., where there is a run club for every neighborhood.
So if you’re like me, and embarking on what they call the new “millennial midlife crisis,” i.e. the journey of becoming a runner (I personally have a goal of running a half marathon later in the year), welcome! But equally, if you’re overwhelmed by all of the options on the market — from running gear, to sneakers, to fueling options — I was like you a few months ago. And I’ve narrowed in on the essentials that will make the beginning (or wherever you are on your journey) of running a lot easier for you.
Ask any seasoned runner what shoe they’d recommend for a beginner, and chances are the Brooks Ghost comes up every single time. That perfect balance of cushion and responsiveness makes those first few miles feel a whole lot more manageable.
Available at Brooks Running
Recovery is just as important as the run itself, and the Ultrahuman Ring AIR makes it easy to stay on top of both. It tracks your sleep, stress, and recovery without the bulk of a traditional fitness watch. There’s no subscription fee standing between you and your data, either, which is a win.
Available at Ultrahuman
A good playlist can be the difference between a run you dread and one you actually look forward to, and the Sony Float Run headphones were made with exactly that in mind. Their open-ear design lets your music come through clearly while keeping you aware of your surroundings, whether that’s traffic, fellow runners, or just the sounds of the city.
Available at Amazon
Once your runs start getting longer, staying hydrated stops being optional, and this vest makes it effortless with a soft flask right at your fingertips. The ultra-lightweight mesh keeps airflow going so you’re not overheating, and the bounce-free fit adjusts to your body so it moves with you, not against you.
Available at Amazon
Creatine is one of the most researched supplements out there for supporting strength, endurance, and recovery, making it a smart addition to any new runner’s routine. The flavors taste yummy and its easy to mix into water or a smoothie, so it’s one of the simplest upgrades you can make.
Available at Cellucor
This one might not be the most glamorous addition to your running kit, but it is absolutely one of the most important. A quick swipe on any friction-prone areas before you head out is all it takes to keep things smooth and comfortable from mile one to the finish line.
Available at Amazon
