Whilst shoes can be relatively expensive, running is actually quite a low-cost sport to do and do well. It doesn’t stop on the road or trail though, you don’t need a gym membership at all to get stronger for running purposes.

 

Below is a list of the kit I recommend. There are other things you can buy but realistically you don’t need if you’re looking for items which don’t need much space of money.

 

Resistance bands – £10-20

You’ll need  1-2 medium bands and 1-2 strong bands, and around 1.5m in length (2m if you’re taller than 6ft). These can be used for core strength, technique drills, leg strength and overall conditioning of the body.

 

Loop or mini bands – £6-10

More for lower body strengthening by being placed around the feet, ankles or knees, these are great to add difficulty to small moves and for some lower body running drills like heel lifts.

 

Mat – £15

This isn’t 100% essential, but you’re more likely to do exercise if you’re comfortable which isn’t necessarily going to be the case if you’re lying on a hard floor.

 

Gym/exercise ball – £10-15

Brilliant for core strength, leg strength and balance improvements. It’s worth spending on the higher end to get a thicker ball which will give you more confidence using it.

 

Broom stick or rolling pin – £3

This can be used to mobilise the shoulders and chest, or as an alternative to a massage stick that works really well.

 

Foam roller – £10-15

Some areas need a good roll out to keep them working well and to save you a visit to your massage therapist or physio once in a while, although they can’t be replaced.

 

Hard rubber ball or massage ball – £6

Massage balls are a great investment at a low cost. A cheap alternative is a hard rubber dog ball, just go for something with a diameter of around 6cm or more to give you access to all muscles.

 

Balance pads or stability disk – £10-15

I have both to vary difficulty for my clients, but in honesty, for most people a pair of balance pads for around £10 will do all you need. They increase difficulty for a lot of exercises, and can be used just to stand on to improve strength of the foot and ankle muscles.

 

If you get these things, you’ll have all you need to improve your physical fitness, running technique and running specific strength.

Written by Kyle Brooks, Running Coach based in Norwich, Norfolk