All right, so maybe I'm biased. Distance running is one of the best sports out there. Ever. Since early cavemen chased herds of...whatever it was they chased. It rocks.

But now that that's off my chest.

I probably don't need to sell you on the idea anyway. You are reading this article, after all, so you're probably already interested. Or, maybe you're just browsing about, wondering if running is right for you.

It is.

Yeah, maybe I'm being biased again...but what's not to love? It's a sport that keeps you in fantastic shape, allows you to train at your own pace, and boasts a community of friendly, supportive runners always ready to run alongside a beginner. It's inherently very social, making it ideal for casual athletes.

So then, what do you need to get started? Well, that's the beauty of it.

Shoes.

Really, that's all that's necessary. Yes, the tech-shirts with wicking material and patent-pending heat management weaves are nice, and the tricked-out watches are nifty. But really, all you need is a nice pair of shoes and a good long trail.

What to look for in a pair of shoes? Well, certainly not looks. Never pick a pair of running shoes because they look cute. That would be a bad idea. Personally, I would suggest dropping by a running store. Sure, you'll be fine picking up a generic pair of Nike trainers at a generic sports store...but there's a lot to be said for talking with the experts.

For example: Pronation. Every person has a different gait, a different way of walking and, consequently, running. Some people "over-pronate," meaning their foot rolls too far towards the instep when they run. Some people "supinate," meaning their foot doesn't roll enough. In either case, a shoe expert at a good running store like Runner's World, Runner's Roost, Boulder Running Company, etc., will be able to analyze your personal gait and recommend a shoe type or insole to correct your personal pronation pattern. ("Personal pronation pattern." Now that's just fun to say. Personal pronation pattern...) This can help prevent injury, enhance performance, and all in all help you feel better as you run, and you won't get it from the generic Nike shoe.

Other than that, you're basically set. If you're feeling ambitious, you might also invest in the following handy (but not necessary) gear:

The aforementioned tech-shirts and watches, running socks with wicking (wicking: buzzword to mention to the folks at Runner's World to make

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