HOW TO START RUN-COMMUTING
Beating the rush hour traffic and avoiding public transport are two very appealing reasons to start running to work, not to mention the money you’ll save and the health benefits. But with the thought of all the kit you might need to carry and getting dressed in the office it can be off-putting. So we’ve made it easy for you by putting together this ultimate guide to starting your run-commute from essential commuting kit to tips on staying safe.
What Running Kit do I Need to Run Commute With?
RUNNING SHOES
Like all running kit, the right running shoes are vital. If your commute is mostly on roads or pavements, you'll need a good pair of road running shoes for support and cushioning.
Get your gait analysed at your local Runners Need store for free and find the best running shoes for you. Using video technology to analyse how your feet respond to every step, our expert fitters can assess your biomechanics and running style to ensure you’re running in the perfect trainers.
RUNNING JACKET
Be prepared whatever the weather throws at you by wearing or packing a lightweight running jacket.
First and foremost, it should be sweat-wicking and breathable to keep you cool and comfortable. Then you can choose between water-resistant (showerproof) and waterproof depending on your needs.
Look out for features like high visibility and reflective detail.
BACKPACK
A lightweight running backpack is essential for running to and from work. A running specific backpack will minimise bounce and evenly spread the weight of your kit across your back for a more comfortable ride.
If you have little storage space at work look for a running backpack with around 20 litres; if you need less storage space, you can go for a smaller bag.
Tips for the Best Run-Commute
SCOPE OUT YOUR WORKPLACE
Know your workplace; are there showers? Are there places to hang wet running kit? Or plug in a hairdryer? If you have any colleagues that run or cycle in, ask them about their morning routines and how they store their activewear.
RUN HOME
If you can’t shower at work, don’t run to work, run home. Depending on the length of your journey, a one-way run-commute is enough to give you a good workout and then you can wash at home. You then don’t have to worry about your clothes being crumpled when you get to work.
Carry your day’s clothes home from the office in your backpack or take it home on your rest day.
RUN PART OF THE WAY
If your commute is too far try getting off the train or bus a few stops before yours and run the rest of the way.
CALCULATE YOUR TIME
Know how long it’ll take you to run to work, including your warm up and cool down. Factor in stretching and your showering time.
BE VISIBLE
Run-commuting often means early mornings or evenings when visibility is poor or you're running in low light conditions, so select outer layers that are bright, high visibility, and have reflective detail to stay safe
PICK SAVVY
Think about what you can leave in your locker, desk drawer, or changing rooms and what you need to bring in every day.
Belongings to leave at the office could be:
- Suit
- Smart shoes
- Underwear
- Loose change
- Deodorant
- Baby wipes
- Towel
You could try bringing spare clothes in on Monday and taking home worn clothes and towels on Friday.
PACK PLASTIC BAGS
Plastic bags will always come in handy; whether it's a carrier bag for your dirty laundry or a smaller sandwich bag to protect your phone from the rain on the run home.
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