Mom of 4 Shares 10 Must Have Items for Beginner Runners

By: Britney Summers, Charm City Run Frederick Coach and Team Member

My name is Britney Summers. I’m a mom to 4 young boys. I started running after high school for exercise, at that time nothing more than 2-5 miles. It wasn’t until after my second child was born and during COVID that I started running long distances. I had found a moms running group and was inspired by all these other busy moms to run a half marathon (it had always been on my bucket list of things to complete). In the middle of my twin’s birth, I decided I would run my first marathon (and did less than a year later). Because of all the wonderful coaches I have had in my life, I decided I wanted to inspire others myself and started coaching.

I’m a very busy mom who also juggles working at Charm City Run, and these are my go to running items to get started and keep going!

1. Proper running shoes. Go to a local running store, like Charm City Run, and get fit for a running shoe. I had no idea there were different types of shoes for different purposes. And my feet grew with each pregnancy. 

2. A proper fitting sports bra that has NOT celebrated a birthday. AKA – not a pre kid sports bra. I prefer a sports bra with a phone pocket, mostly because I prefer to be hands free. 

3. Moisture wicking socks. Even if you start with one pair, they truly help to avoid blisters. Who has time for sore feet as a new runner and/or a mom. 

4. A good pair of running shorts or pants (depending on season). I can’t go without pockets in shorts/pants so that’s what I look for first. I LOVE rabbit apparel and would start with one great outfit. 

5. Sunglasses that don’t move while running. Nothing is more annoying than running and your sunglasses moving all around. I started running in Florida and it quickly became my mission to find a good one. Goodr sunglasses are now my go to! 

6. Headphones! Personally I love a good audiobook and to zone out before my day starts. Be safe of course and wear bone conducting headphones or leave one headphone out. Be aware of your surroundings. 

7. Water Bottle – I love my amphipod water bottle with a pocket – perfect for carrying keys and snacks. Any water bottle will do, just stay hydrated!

8. Join a local running group. I lacked the motivation to wake up early and didn’t feel safe running in the dark alone. I learned so much from my first running group and learned how to safely build distance. Running friends are the best friends! It was the best decision I ever made.

9. Reflective lights of some sort. Chances are you’ll be running early in the morning before the kids wake up. You can’t set a price on safety. 

10. A watch or app on your phone to track miles and improvement. I personally love Garmin watches, but I didn’t start with one. It becomes addictive seeing your progress