When I started running, I didn’t buy shoes specifically for running. I just used the shoe I had. I think they were cross-trainers. Then when my feet began to hurt after a couple of months, I realized that maybe I needed some shoes that were a bit newer.
You can start running in most athletic shoes, although eventually, you should get shoes specifically meant for running. When using athletic shoes, it’s best to run short distances, choose ones that your feet are used to, use ones that bend fairly well, and avoid old ones.
If you are just beginning running and you’re not an athlete, you might want to do what I did and eventually get shoes that have plenty of cushioning. Then you will likely have a much better experience when running overtime. Yet, I think there are advantages to getting started with the shoe you have right now. I’ll explain why.
Running In Regular Shoes
You don’t need to have running shoes to get started running. The most crucial part to get started is to start. Creating a habit is a fundamental goal for those who want to incorporate running into their life.
If you have a pair of athletic shoes, most of these will work to start creating a running habit. In addition, you’re regular walking, trainers, crossfit, sneakers, or tennis shoes can work to get started.
You want to take it easy when you first start out, so you don’t injure yourself. For example, when I started running, I would run a bit and walk a bit. If you haven’t even walked for long distances in the shoes you plan to run in, do that first.
As you walk/run in the shoes that you have, you will start to discover how capable those shoes are for you.
Each person is different. Your feet and legs have different levels of strength that may or may not work well with the regular shoes you are using to start running. Even choosing running shoes you’ll find shoes that work better for you than other running shoes.
It’s best to start out slow and establish a routine if you want to make running a long-term goal. Just getting out every day to walk and run a bit will help you get started and help you figure out how well your shoes are supporting your feet.
How To Get Started Running in Regular Shoes
There are several steps I would take to start running in regular shoes.
- First, I would walk for 30 minutes in the shoes I planned to running in. I would do this several times in a week. Then, if my feet and legs felt comfortable I would know these shoes are likely good enough to support my feet and legs while running.
- Second, I would let my feet get used to the shoes. I would start out running just a bit and walking most of the time. This helps my feet get used to the shoes and adjust to them if needed.
- Third, I would make sure I enjoyed my time. In order to make running a habit we need to feel good about the experience and make it positive. Keeping to a regular schedule and just not making it hard or overwhelming will help you establish a consistent habit.
- Fourth, I would check my shoes and see how they are holding up. Are my knees or feet hurting? Do the shoes have cracks in the soles or midsole? These can be signs that you should use other shoes.
- Last, I would continue my pattern of creating positive running experiences, and plan to get new running shoes in the future.
Reason To Start Running In Regular Shoes
When I started my journey with running, I didn’t want to spend money on shoes that I might rarely use. I was afraid I would run for a week and then stop running until my next new year’s resolution. However, there may be some good reasons to just start out with the shoe you have. Here are 5 reasons why you might want to.
- To Create A Habit – You’re not running a marathon, you just want to get started establishing a health routine. You don’t need running shoes to create the habit of getting out to run. Even if you only go for 5 minutes a day, once you establish that pattern, running will be easier and easier to do.
- Your Broke – If you want to save money or don’t have any, then regular athletic shoes can work when running. Just getting outside and doing something physcial is a great stress reliever and as long as your feet and legs feel fine you can save some money by running in the shoes you have already.
- Your Not Running Far – Many althletic shoes can cushion well but some are too rigid. If you are running short distances such as run/walking then these shoe can work fine. Longer distances may cause feet to hurt.
- What Your Feet Are Used To – If you have comfortable gym shoes that you love, do you need running shoes as well? Getting started running in shoe your feet have already gotten used to give you the likely advantage of less risk of injury from running in a shoe your foot is not used to.
- Run Ready Shoes – If you do some research on the shoes you already have you my find a pair that is made to incorportate running. Some sneakers, crossfit, training, tennis shoes, and even some walking shoe are runnable shoes.
Not all shoes are so great for running. Instead, look for a pair of shoes that has similar attributes to most running shoes, such as having soft cushioning, being lightweight, flexible, and having a good grip.
When To Buy Running Shoes
Running to establish a healthy lifestyle is a great goal that anyone can work toward. It doesn’t have to be hard, and you don’t need to wear shoes specifically for running. However, getting started is the most important part, and creating a sustainable routine is key.
If you are starting to run by training for a 5k or other event and will be ramping up your running routine quite quickly, then it’s time to seriously consider buying running shoes, even if you have to borrow some money.
Running shoes usually can provide comfort and support for long distances and repeated foot strikes that other shoes may not offer. They bend at the right place, help with forward momentum, and normally have enough cushion for beginners to get through long periods of running they are not used to.
You may be able to find an affordable running shoe to start off your journey with. Last year’s models and older new shoes are often on sale and also have great reviews. I went to Runrepeat.com to find some good sales on the last two pairs of running shoes that I purchased.
I recommend a soft cushioning running shoe when first starting off so you can have a good experience with your run. As you become more serious you can buy lighter and expensive running shoes that may have better features.
Conclusion
To start running tomorrow, find a pair of shoes you already have that are the best for running and start with those. Have fun and make it a positive experience.
Find new and interesting places to run if you can and when you’re ready to make running a bigger part of your life then you can invest in a good pair of running shoes to help protect your joints and help you run longer distances.
Where will your running journey take you?
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