by Nathan Perkins

Created on: May 29, 2007   Last Updated: February 29, 2008

Training for any length of race is an excellent way to keep a person focused on the task of getting in shape. It will present a goal for your training. A 5k is a good starting place.

Good Goals:
A 5k is a good goal. Start with good goals. There are many possible goals related to running; you may want running to become a lifestyle, you may just want to run a 5k. Goals are what keep a runner on the task.

Good Shoes:
Good shoes are very important. Shoes that are worn out can allow shock in your joins and to your muscles that will lead to injuries over time. Buying new running shoes often is wise. Use you slightly worn running shoes for other things but when the shock is gone don't use them for training. This principle applies to shoes no matter how much they cost. Running branded shoes may last a little longer but they will ware out also.

There are some amazing shoes out there at outrageous prices. If you are in the market for something expensive get a pair of shoes that are branded for runners. If you are not here are some things to look for in a shoe.

People have different postures. There are some people whose feet automatically turn in. When they role an ankle it will role towards the inside. This person will need a shoe with a slight lift or additional support on the inside.

A person whose foot turns outward tends to role their ankle outward. Extra support on the outer edge will be helpful to that person.

If you roll or twist your ankle easily you may want to try a cross training shoe that provides a wider base. These are also great for those who train on gravel or surfaces that fail to be predictable.

You will want to make sure that the shoes that you train with are very much like the shoe that you will be racing with. I also like to run with my racing shoes a few times before the race. I like them to be slightly broken in. I also like to try them out to know that there are no surprises. Even the best made shoes can have tight spots that will rub your foot wrong. You don't want to find out in the middle of a race that your shoe is going to rub your foot wrong.

Be aware that a slight difference in the support in your shoe may cause your ankle to tip without warning. If you run with your racing shoe you will want to do so with caution. We all have heard the stories about a person who twisted their ankle just days before their race.

Good plans:
Your running plan is what will bring you to your goal. If your goal is to run your 5k in a certain amount of time then your plan

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