Running shoes

The most important piece of equipment to any runner is their running shoes. When starting out, it is crucial to find a good pair of shoes that fit well and stabilize the foot as you run. What you don't need is expensive gear that looks good but performs poorly.

Avoid general sports superstores, and instead find a specialist running shop. This will hopefully reduce your chances of being sold a pair of shoes totally unsuitable for your purpose. The cost should be a secondary concern to the function that best suits you're running style and aids in your foot's unique motion. Most people will read a magazine and pick the one that gets five stars. Yes, that shoe may be good, but there is a chance it won’t be suited to your particular style of running. Seek advice from a specialist running store that analyses how you run and therefore can recommend a shoe that is specific to your needs.

Running socks

To prevent blisters, try out some of the running specific socks. They are more expensive than standard cotton sports socks, but functionally achieve far better results.

Wearing sunglasses while running

There are three main concerns for a functional pair of glasses+:

• Comfort - a well-fitted pair that won't fall off easily or bounce around when the going gets rough.

• Ventilation - if the glasses fit too closely it makes it hard for the hot air between the lens and your face to clear, thus steaming up in cooler temperatures.

• Safety - avoid glass lenses, if you trip or have something hit you in the face the likelihood is that glass will smash, a polycarbonate or composite lens won't.

Another option worth thinking about is a polarising; a polarised lens cuts glare and offers superior vision in low light which will be paramount at dusk. What should be avoided is the heavy metal usually associated with high-street shopping.

Water bottles

Although it seems silly, a good water bottle can make a world of difference. Put aesthetics aside and pick one that is ergonomically sound (i.e. one that suits the size of your hand). The common one is the bottle shaped like a ring so you can hold it quite comfortably. If a greater amount of fluid is required you could consider a fuel belt (see below).

Heart rate monitors (HRMs)

Heart rate monitors are a good purchase for runners who want to keep on top of their program. Don't be fooled into thinking that just because it’s more expensive, it is better. Although that is true in terms of function, it's not necessary to pay extra if you’re not going to use those functions.

Fuel belt for running

The fuel belt is an innovative hydration system that replaces traditional water bottle carriers, providing athletes with a more technical and streamlined product. The fuel belt is made of a special knit elastic that flexes with the athlete's every movement. While the Velcro fastener allows for a customized fit, the fuel belt can be purchased in different shapes and sizes, the bottles are strategically positioned around the waist. Each flask is flat and curved to follow the natural shape of the body. Also if you’re going to carry a music system this is the place to put it.

Music

If you find boredom becoming an issue on those long runs you need a toy to keep you entertained. A small lightweight FM radio can be a good idea if your not particularly savvy with technology, but if you are running anywhere other than the city, you may struggle to get a good signal. Many runners these days opt for an iPod or other MP3 player on which you can generally stores thousands of your favourite songs - but don't spend more time choosing your tracks than you actually spend running.

Global positioning system (GPS) or pedometer

If you have the choice, a GPS is a must-have for any athlete who likes to know accurately where they are running. While a pedometer is all well and good, it only measures distance through stride length. As fatigue sets in, stride length usually changes, producing inaccurate readings. A GPS unit can pinpoint your location, plot out routes, calculate distances traveled, and provide altitude readings, current, maximum and average speed readings. Doing all this within an accuracy of 1m, it can even show you the way back home if you get lost on a run.