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Want to know what to look for in a pair of running shoes, or how to prepare for your first 10k – or even what underwear offers the best support? Running experts Kieran Alger and Sarah Marsh are online to answer your questions. Post yours below the line now
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BadAtCrosswords asks: Do you listen to anything while you run? If so, do you have any recommendations for headphones/earphones?
Sarah: I am a 1990s kid so I love running to Eminem or something that can motivate me with lyrics!
Kieran: My running playlists lurch from cheesy house music to The Greatest Showman soundtrack. I love the new Shokz OpenFit Air. They’re lightweight, clip on, open-ear style headphones that let you hear some of the world around, won’t drop out your ears and have a good battery life. If you prefer in-ear style buds, the Beats Powerbeats Fit are also excellent.
Kieran: The first 15 minutes of every run is always the worst. So I never judge a run based on how I feel. I just tell myself that if I still hate it after 15 minutes, it’s ok to go home, happy that you tried. I also think it’s ok to be bored. In fact, in a world of hyper connected, always on, boredom is a muscle we need to flex more often. I also love turning those early moments into a little challenge, adventure or giving yourself a reward. Run until you’ve seen 15 red cars, arrange to meet a friend 15 minutes away, on a brand new route or to a lovely cafe.
Sarah: I’d suggest trying to run with a friend. I used to run with a neighbour and we spent the whole time chatting/ gossipping/ laughing – it was a great way to catch up. Either that or find a juicy true crime podcast (if that’s your jam). Another option is to make the run functional, so if you need to get to another part of London then run instead of getting on the tube. It’s going to be just as boring (if not more) sitting down underground – and then you know your run has a specific purpose.