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If I Started Running Today, This Is What I’d Do & Buy!

2026-01-04 Sports
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Ben Parkes
Ben Parkes
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Description

If you enjoyed the video, please like, comment and subscribe! Thank you for watching! Save 10% site wide on training plans, hats, socks, shorts, technical & casual apparel - (Code - YOUTUBE10) https://benparkes.com Check out: 📈 Training Plans: https://benparkes.com/collections/training-plans 🧢 Running Hats: https://benparkes.com/collections/runninghats 🧦 Running Socks: https://benparkes.com/collections/socks 🩳 Running Shorts: https://benparkes.com/collections/running-shorts 👕 Running Tees / Singlets: https://benparkes.com/collections/running-apparel-collection 😀 FREE Beginner Plans: https://benparkes.com/collections/free-beginner-plans ⏰ Shop our Latest Arrivals: https://benparkes.com/collections/latest-arrivals Follow me here: Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/2310069 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benparkes Second channel https://www.youtube.com/@benparkesroadrunningreviews parkrun (free timed 5k events) - https://www.parkrun.org.uk/ 📱For support enquiries or business enquiries, please go to: https://www.benparkes.com and use the chat function. ⏰ Timecodes ⏰ 0:00 Intro 1:17 Essential kit 4:49 Training 6:26 Goals to aim for 7:56 Logging your progress 8:43 "Nice to haves" 12:22 Mindset About this video: Today we're going through all the essentials for new runners and everything you need to get started on your running journey this year. We'll go through the best shoes for beginners, what clothing to get plus the type of runs to do in those early days and goals to keep you motivated. This video is NOT sponsored. All products mentioned have been bought 100% by Ben and the channel. Our mission here is to help runners of all abilities improve and enjoy running to their full potential. Showcasing the best running tips and advice, while reviewing the latest gear and taking your round some of the best races in the world!

Top Comments (10)

@RK-MODE 2026-01-04

One of the mistakes I made when I was a new runner was I was trying to match the speed and distance of other runners, not knowing that it took them years to get where they are, so for new runners, don't worry about what everyone else is doing, do what feels good for you and this will also help to avoid injuries.

590 13 replies
@aylaamon3267 2026-01-04

I must add here: if you are a runner with breasts, BUY A GOOD SPORTS BRA. I don't mean the $20 from Old Navy (or the UK equivalent), I mean buy one from a running company at a running store. They, like shoes, are expensive for a reason. NOTHING with stop you on your running faster than chest/back pain if you do not have this absolutely essential item.

198 1 replies
@jameswebster5672 2026-01-05

There should be no rush to run a marathon. Master the shorter distances first. Get into condition. Half marathon is a much more enjoyable distance.

183 3 replies
@jkpiowa 2026-01-04

Don't forget, if all you have is a dream and a few bucks, all you really need are second hand running sneakers and the phone you already have.

124 2 replies
@simon_wolf_ 2026-01-04

Great video and as someone who was fat, unfit, over-50 and very self-conscious when I started running last April, see if you can get recommendations for shops to go to for running shoes. I was recommended my local Runners Need over a local dedicated running shop because the staff at the latter tended to be less receptive to people they felt weren’t runners (I’m being somewhat diplomatic!). Just remember that whether it is buying kit or doing your runs, you’re not being judged and if people shout or make stupid comments it’s coming from their own insecurities and inferiority complex. Just go and run and enjoy it!

75 3 replies
@paddingtonbear-uk4wh 2026-01-04

Big tip I have is to cycle and hike too. Changes it up

32
@planco 2026-01-04

Have to recommend Ben´s 5K Beginner running plan!!! It got me from couch in to this beautiful sport.

31
@alexwalker9649 2026-02-10

I found running 3km a few times a week for a couple of months slowly then pushing to 5km kept me injury free. Investing in a pair of running trainers after this point. Best cheap purchase were running socks to stop the rubbing. If you ever feel pain, revert to walking. If not feeling up for it, go for a walk. Just get out. Ignore times, listen to some tunes. Make it a habit.

30
@Luke-h5q-t3q 2026-01-08

Newbies to running: Ben Parkes is the real deal. Great advice, videos and gear. His training plans are excellent, never would I dreamed of running a half marathon until I took on one of Ben's plans. Stick around!

21
@Ben10_EDITZs 2026-01-04

Love the feel of this channel

6

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