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The Basics

Glad I stroked your fire and have you going a little deeper into FatBoyRun.com.  Here let’s talk about FatBoyRun’s rules to running:

1. We are all cowards at the beginning, only the strong take the first step.
2. You are not going to be able to run 1 mile when you start, maybe not even 5ft, but YOU STARTED!
3. Each day is a race won when you finish.
4. Shoes- The most expensive part of running are these little boogers.  But I promised myself when I started, as you should, DO NOT CHEAT YOURSELF, on the shoes. However, cost does not equal comfort or performance. This is a rookie mistake and a costly one. I recommend a local running shoe shop, one that makes you feel comfortable and respects you. If a sales person doesn’t treat you with respect, or take the time to fit you, and then leave.  In my experiences I’ve been looked at by some shops as “really big boy you think you can run” and before that would send me back to the couch. However, I’ll tell you there is satisfaction in being in the Beer line after a race before them and saying hello!
   

   "The Runners High"

5. Clothes- Run what you’re comfortable in, not what looks good.  Let me tell you know, your going to sweat, get dusty when you run outside, and look like you worked it.  Clothes should fit, that’s all.
6. Running Outside? WATER, WATER, WATER, and more WATER. I can’t stress this enough, hydration is key to making yourself not vomit, get sick and hate your life.  There are several ways to carry water, Camel Packs, Hip Carriers, Hydration Fanny packs etc…. however if you’re a big boy like me, I hated things on my waist so I prefer the Nathan handheld water bottle it works good and doesn’t sit on my waist.
7. Don’t forget Sunscreen, hats, etc.. again what is comfortable.
8. Music- I need it, love it, etc… oh and it drowns out the guys who use to yell Run Fat Boy on Eagle road… but hey I don’t mind it if they run 26.2 miles with me, then I’ll let them call me what they want.
9. Training aps for Iphone, Ipod, etc… I used Couch to 5k there are several out there for you to use. I recommend it, while it doesn’t seem that running 30 seconds then walking 2 minutes on your first week will get you to running marathons, it does.  Look at me!
10. Check with your doctor, I’m not one, and you need to ensure you are ready for this journey, I think mentally you are, because, well you read down to number 10!

And the top rule of running, one that is more important than anything.  HAVE FUN this is your life!