Shoes -- In this regard, it helps to go to a store that deals primarily with running equipment or that has an experienced runner as their salesperson. In Arcadia, we generally recommend Chick's Sporting Goods or The Athlete's Foot. These both have salespeople who can help you make a good decision based on size, width, running style, and type of running (training, general running, and competition). We handed out discount cards to Chick's at the beginning of the season. Four things you should you pay attention to when buying a new shoe:

1. A good shoe fit will usually feel the best on your feet.
2. It helps to buy a good shoe. You don't have to get the most expensive one, but sometimes a cheap shoe causes more problems than it is worth. Remember, your feet take the most abuse in running, so if there was a time to be a little less thrifty, this is that time. Running shoes that are on sale generally are on sale because they aren't selling and they don't sell because most runner's don't feel that they work well for them. With shoes, you offen get what you pay for.
3. Make sure you have some room at the tip of your shoe. A good rule that the space should be the width of your thumb. This allows some room for growth and any foot swelling from a hard run. You will also be doing the toenails a big favor, too.
4. Designate a pair for your training and one for other activities. Your training shoes are going to get run through fast enough without using them for other things. If you're lucky, you'll get 300 to 500 miles worth of running before they're shot.

Clothing -- It is not necessary to purchase clothing for meets. Uniforms are checked out to the athletes. For practice, t-shirts and shorts are fine. Clean, dry socks are important for prevention of blisters, fungus, and other foot ailments that can occur. Athletes also have sweat top and bottoms checked out to them for the colder weather that typically arrives mid October. All of this should be returned at the end of the season.

Watches -- These are good for runners to be able to see how they are pacing themselves either during practice or during a meet. You can get one that performs all the necessary functions for 10 to 15 dollars