Kitting out

The right kit can help you avoid injuries, getting sore and make you happy. The only trouble is that there is so much kit to choose from it’s easy to spend a small fortune before you’ve even started to train.

Try not to cut corners on the essential kit – it’s a false economy and may lead to injuries or you feeling miserable.

Top tips for kiting out include:

• Whichever activity you’re taking part in, you want to ensure you have enough sports bra – whatever your bust size. Crop-top styles suite smaller women, whereas women with a fuller bust may find a conventional style more comfortable.

  If your budget is tight, don’t cut corners on the essential items.
• Keep your kit light – especially if you’re going to have to carry it.
• Choose wicking materials. Wicking is the technical term for material that draws moisture away from your body, helping you keep dry and snug.
• Have lots of ‘layers’ of clothing – you can then take things off or put more layers on as the temperature changes. It’s harder to control your temperature if you’ve only got one really warm top and nothing else.
• Go to specialist shops and ask their advice. (See below.)
• Try things out before buying (see below).
• Talk to others – people in the club or gym. Or even your more active work colleagues.
• Work out what suits you.

Cycling

• Food and mood are closely linked. If you’re going abroad for a week and are going to be cycling or trekking for long distances it a great thing to have some edible treats. If you can make it a high-energy food as well (flapjacks or jelly beans, for example) you’ll score a double whammy – cheering yourself up and boosting your body’s flagging energy levels.

  Bike in good working order (breaks, gears and tyres) that has been set up for your body size and shape.
• Cycling shorts that offer good padding (different cut for men and women).
• Comfortable saddle.
• Helmet that meets BSI standards.

Running

• Proper running trainers that provide support appropriate to your running gait.
• Technical running socks (not cotton).

Trekking

• Comfortable and supportive walking boots.
• Technical walking socks to keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters.

Shopping tips

Buy at specialist shops: If you’re looking for running kit for example, go to a specialist running store – don’t go to your usual high street fashion outlet, as they won’t be able to give you right advice or kit. Staff in specialist stores are often enthusiasts themselves – they’ll usually take time to offer you the right advice and help you decide which kit is best for you.

Modern sports wear is designed to move moisture – sweat or rain – away from your skin. The action is called ‘wicking’. It’s really important as it can help you remain dry and comfortable.

Don’t be put off by terminology: If you’re in doubt about something, ask. You need to be sure that the kit is right for you – after all you’re the one who is going to be using it for hour after hour.

Try before buying: make sure you can try things on and go for a walk/run/cycle either on the store’s treadmill or outside on the street. You have to be sure that it fits you – if the shop isn’t too keen on this, go somewhere else.

Buying shoes: whether you’re buying running shoes, trekking boots or cycle shoes, try them in the afternoon wearing the socks you are going to be using. In the afternoon your feet will be bigger and hotter – closer to what they are going to be like during training or on the event.

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