Running & Athletics | Sports & Leisure Classifieds

The interest in healthy living has increased greatly in recent years. As a result, there are now a vast number of people who have become interested in athletics in general, and running in particular. The following seeks to provide guidelines for the purchase of track and field equipment.

BUYING RUNNING & ATHLETICS EQUIPMENT

RUNNING SHOES
Especially for the beginner, the choice of running shoe is of paramount importance. Investment of time and effort in seeking out the most appropriate footwear will ensure comfort and prevent injuries. Even if you have only a semi-serious interest in running, it is worth seeking out a coach at your local athletics club and getting them to perform a "running analysis" for you. In this way, it will be possible to determine your running style. A professional coach will be able to determine whether you overpronate (foot rolling inwards) or supinating (foot rolling outwards) as you run. Running shoes should be purchased at a specialist outlet. This may be a time-consuming process, as there should be numerous options to try. Shoes should be � to a full size bigger than your usual shoe size. Feet swell when running and a shoe that is toe small results in discomfort and bruised toes. Be certain to provide information that will assist in the selection of the correct shoe. This will include the type of running, frequency and the surfaces on which you run. Experiment in any shoes that are recommended (specialist outlets will have a treadmill for this purpose). Try out shoes for comfort, fit and function before purchase. Try out the new shoes buy running in them for a week or so. The development of blisters or discomfort indicates that the shoes may not be right for you. The majority of specialist outlets have tolerant exchange policies, allowing returns after a week or more. Running shoes need to be replaced roughly every 350 miles. However, there is no need to stick with the same retailer. Considerable savings can be made by buying the same item online.

If already a runner, take your current shoes with you when looking for replacements. The wear on your shoes will give any salesperson more insight into your running style. Make sure they measure your foot while you're standing up. If you use custom-fit insoles, remember that you need shoes that are roomy enough to accommodate your insoles. Take them with you. Avoid choosing shoes based on colour and / or style. Pretty shoes don't make you run any better! (not even Michael Johnson).

FOOTWEAR FOR OTHER EVENTS

Jumping / Pole Vault / Javelin
Jumping spikes are similar to sprinting spikes, but generally less oriented toward the toe, to allow for the last second corrections and hard landings that can be part of the jumping events. Javelin shoes far more closely resemble jumping spikes than any other type of shoe, due to the similar approach involved in javelin and long jump. Javelin shoes generally have higher ankles for more support when stopping and have soles designed for use with heel spikes, for added traction. Heel Spikes are vital to avoid slipping and to generate the thrust you need when planting your foot. Without spikes in the heel, you risk slipping, which can be very dangerous with momentum behind you, particularly in wet conditions. Some equipment stockists sell a heel clip, which you can attach to normal running spikes. This is an economical solution for those with a pair of running spikes.

Other Throwing Events
Dedicated throwing shoes for discus, shot and hammer are different from track footwear in that they have no spikes. Instead, these shoes have smooth rubber soles for better execution of the required spinning techniques. Some models have higher ankles for better support.

Along with the correct choice of footwear, the choice of equipment for a particular event is important.

CHOOSING A SHOT
Despite male opinions to the contrary, size matters. When choosing a shot, the size and weight of the shot will depend upon your sex. Men throw a 16lb shot, while women putt an 8lb shot. Shots are available in iron, steel and brass depending upon ability and personal preference.

CHOOSING A JAVELIN
For the novice thrower, local athletic clubs can provide an invaluable resource. The utilisation of a club's equipment saves on expense and enables a thrower to get a feel for the event.

When choosing a javelin, there are two major considerations:

1. The correct weight for your gender. The standard weight for women is 600g and for men is 800g.

2. International standards. The main concern here is centre of gravity. Some older models of javelin are not approved for competition. Always check the competition rules.

CHOOSING A DISCUS
Depending upon your sex, the overall weight of the discus changes. Men throw a 2kg discus, whereas women throw a 1kg discus. Discuses are manufactured in rubber, wood or composite plastic. Rubber discuses are usually reserved for beginners and practice. The wooden discus is the next level and the composite discus encompasses the most advanced level. More experienced throwers use a discus with a heavier rim. The total discus weight is not the only measurement that concerns a discus thrower. The weight of the rim affects the way the discus spins. Advanced throwers will transfer more power to the rim of the discus.