July 2011 -

Five Tips On How To Start Running

Go Slow: When most people have difficulty running, it is because they are going too fast. Even the pros run slow on many of their training days to avoid injury and to save their best running for races. You should go slow enough that you can carry on a conversation while running. If you can’t, you are going too fast. For new runners a 11:00-13:00 minute mile pace, or even slower, could be quite normal. If you want to keep track of your pace, check out the Garmin Forerunner 110 Review on our sister site, RunGadget.com. That GPS watch is particularly good for beginners. For a cheaper option, also take a look at our Nike Plus Pedometer Review.

Start With a Run/Walk Program: A new runner often cannot run very long, even at a slow pace, without feeling uncomfortable. Too much running, too fast, can also take a toll on the body and lead to injury. To work into running gradually, try a run walk schedule. At first, run 1 minute and walk 5 for 30 minutes, the next week run 2 minutes and walk 4. Keep increasing the run time until you are running for 30 minutes straight. Also look for a couch to 5k or similar program and register for a 5k fun run at the end of it to give yourself a goal.

Get the Right Gear: Running is even more difficult in the wrong gear. Go to a running store and get fitted for the correct shoes. Also avoid cotton and wear wicking fabric instead. Especially avoid cotton socks. For more, see the RunGadget Running Gear for Beginners article.

Recruit a Friend: Many find that running is much more pleasurable when done with a friend or in groups. But by talking to each other, you assure that you don’t go too fast, and the socialization is a great distraction from any difficulties that you might face from the exertion.

Don’t Give Up! Staring any new exercise program is difficult, but if you start slow and stick with the program, you can find yourself getting into shape fast.

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About the Author: Carleen Pruess Coulter

Fashions come and go faster than the post man, but one fashion that has been hanging around for a couple of years now is geek chic. The niche and underground style has continued to flourish with support from the media and evolution of what can be used to create the style. This is a short guide on what geek chic is if you don’t already know, and how to put the look together if you are interested in giving it a go! We will firstly cover the 6 elements of the look:

Geek glasses

The geek glasses are an integral part to the look, and the style of the frames has crept into mainstream fashion and there is a wide range of frames around that fall into the category. Geek glasses are known to have thick plastic frames and be slightly oversized. They can be worn with or without a prescription as the fashion is to have the glasses even if you don’t need them. Accessorise the glasses with a thick and chunky fringe that looks bold but at the same time retro and smart in appearance.

Geek Chic Glasses

Shirts & Cardigans

Geek chic has brought back lots of clothes and fashion that you thought were only cool for your grandma! Geek chic disciples wear neutral cardigans and shirts to add to their style. Many of the big high street retailers are selling cardigans and retro shirts now , so getting in on the trend is easier than ever.

Smart shoes

Smart leather shoes go well with this look if you are male or female. They can be worm with high rise socks if you are wearing the look with a skirt. Light brown leather is the colour of choice for a geek chicer. A scuffed or new look works, but you can find a nice pare of retro shoes in a thrift store for little money, so could be an affordable option for a new participant in the scene.

Leather bag

A leather bag can be added to a men’s look or can substitute a handbag for a woman. A brown leather bag is the quintessential accessory to the look and they are extremely practical. You can tie a scarf around the bag or pin on some badges if you want to personalise the look.

geek chic bag

The geek chic look has become a way of life as well as a fashion statement. The culture is huge with dedicated parties and club nights that exclusively cater for the style. The geek chic culture has drawn on inspiration from movies and films but now is shaping the genres.

Arguably the first band to promote the style as we know it was Wheatus who release Teenage dirtbag nearly 10 years ago. This song was accompanied by a film, aptly named, ‘Loser’. The style has sparked a wave of celebrities to champion the style, including band members from Bloc Party and women fashionistas such as Alexa Chung and Fearne Cotton championing the style.

How long will geek chic stay around for? Well it’s been a few years now and isn’t letting up, so now is the time to get in on the style and rock it like a pro!

About the author: Francesca is a fashion writer & celebrity blogger specialising in finding glasses online.