Your Couch to 5K Starter Pack

So you want to train for a 5K but haven’t laced up a pair of sneakers in a while? Don’t sweat getting started! We’ve put together a Couch to 5K runner starter pack that’s perfect for beginners.

Our running for beginners schedule starts slowly and helps build stamina to get you in the whole “running a 5K” groove. With a little perseverance and the right gear, you can crush your goals and effortlessly glide across that 5K finish line!

Wondering what to wear on a run? Hibbett | City Gear’s wide variety of running shoes and men’s and women’s apparel and accessories are best in class, making them perfect components to your Couch to 5K running starter pack.

Run in the Right Sneakers

Start your runner pack from the ground up with the right shoes since the first things that hit the pavement (or treadmill) are your feet.

• Men: Hibbett | City Gear carries a varied collection of men’s running shoes from brands like Nike, New Balance and Hoka. Brooks men’s running shoes are some of the most iconic runners’ shoes. These sneakers offer just the right balance of softness and responsiveness to get you going. Hoka running shoes for men provide optimal cushioning to get even the least seasoned of runners logging miles in no time.
• Women: Fashion meets function in our stock of women’s running shoes. Get in shape and look fab while you work out in sneakers that complement your personal style and pack a powerful punch in the training arena. Fit yourself in lightweight women’s Hoka running shoes, which feature engineered mesh uppers, supportive heel counters and molded sock liners. Or lace up a pair of adidas running shoes for the trail, track or road.

Before you buy, check out our list of features that make up a great running shoe.

Make Sure Your Socks Rock

Sneakers tend to get all the love, but socks deserve some recognition, too. A pair that includes a tighter midfoot weave adds crucial arch support while you train for your 5K. Socks with a blend of materials can keep your feet cool and dry in your sneakers.

We’re huge fans of the low-profile, unisex socks with moisture-wicking capabilities from brands like Nike, Brooks, adidas and Under Armour.

Dress for Success

Premium running apparel in your 5K starter pack will help you look and feel the part. Whether you prefer fitted or looser clothing, make sure you select shorts and a shirt designed to keep you cool, comfortable and dry mile after mile.

• Men: Choose a pair of running pants or shorts fabricated with a blend of sweat-wicking materials. Polyester Nike running shorts feature Nike Dri-FIT tech and side panels for improved airflow.
• Women: Look for shorts that feature a comfy blend of flexible, supportive polyester-Spandex material for full range of motion while you run. You will also need a good sports bra, made specifically for high-impact activities such as running. Select a sports bra with molded cups for an encapsulated fit, sweat-wicking tech and a racerback style that allows for unrestricted movement.

Gear Up with Running Accessories

If you plan to run midday or in the early afternoon, invest in a pair of well-fitting, sunglasses and a hat to protect your face. A fitness tracker watch is also great for seasoned and beginning runners to track progress and mileage. And, perhaps most important for your runner starter pack: hydration. We recommend a hydration belt or waist pack to carry your water easily.

Get in the Groove with a Couch to 5K Routine

Once you’re suited up and ready to go, get to training with a Couch to 5K training app!

• Download a Couch to 5K app from the App Store or on Google Play to track your runs with the aid of a virtual coach.
• A Couch to 5K plan runs for nine weeks and gradually builds from a combination of walking and running to running 3.1 miles (or 5K).
• Perform each workout two to three times a week for 20 to 30 minutes.
• Workouts include warmup and cool-down periods, along with intervals of walking and running.

A Day 1 schedule could look something like this:

• 5 minutes of walking to warm up
• 1 minute of jogging
• 1.5 minutes of walking
• Repeat the jogging/walking combo
• 5-minute cooldown

Now that you know what to wear on a run, start putting together your Hibbett | City Gear-curated Couch to 5K runner starter pack today and visit us online or in-store at your local Hibbett Sports or City Gear location.