Project: Fit

So I signed up for the 5K Run For Pasig River on November 8th.

I consider myself a novice runner, so I am preparing my body for the run. I’m not even dreaming of being among the top finishers. Duh. I’ve seen the pro-runners at the PIA run. They stride along effortlessly, like they were just being carried by the wind.

But I want to train, or at the very least prepare, for the race because I don’t want to injure or harm myself. Here are some great tips I gathered from the internet.

• Apparel:

1. Wear socks that are designed for running. Avoid 100% cotton socks because those will lead to blisters. (I remember one of Pacquiao’s earlier fights where he got blisters. He lost that one, didn’t he?) The best socks for running are made of polyester, acrylic or other synthetic materials.

2. Invest in a good pair of running shoes. It should be half to a full size bigger than your actual size, because feet swell while running. Remember also to wear the socks you intend to use when trying on a pair of shoes.

Running shoes should be light-weight and comfortable. Never buy a pair of shoes just a few days before the race as it takes about a week to break-in a new pair.

3. Wear spandex shorts to avoid chafing between the inner thighs (more aptly, sa singit!). If you prefer those roomy, airy running shorts though, make sure you wear spandex shorts underneath so the inner thighs don’t rub directly together.

4. Wear a comfortable top made of synthetic fabric such as Dri-Fit because they keep sweat away from the body. Avoid 100% cotton tops because they absorb sweat and could get really heavy while running. For women, invest in a good-quality sports  bra that offers support.

5. Wrist bands are optional, but I find them really handy for wiping off sweat. I wear sunblock when running outdoors, and sometimes sweat mixed with sunblock stings the eyes! Ouch. (Yeah, yeah, so much for the waterproof claim of some sunblocks…)

Coming up in Part 2: Physical and Nutritional Preps.