Boise runners know what a treasure our Foothills trails and Greenbelt are, but people outside the running community might not know that we live in one of the best running cities. And the autumn months of the year might be the best time of the year to start running.
Boise Run Club member Chandler Underwood joined the City Cast Boise podcast right in time for spring. I’m also a lifelong runner, so I added to his tips in case you're putting on some shoes and hitting the trails for the first time.
If you compare [Boise] to any other running mecca in the country, it’s right on par with those.
Chandler Underwood, Boise Run Club
Motivation & Mentality for Beginners
Many of us have unfond memories of running laps in P.E. classes, where having to run in a poorly ventilated gym with our peers might have been the unbearable cherry on top of the agonies of adolescence. But Underwood offered some words of encouragement to reframe running as an adult.
“First and foremost, I would say be kind to yourself,” Underwood said. “I don’t think there’s any certain pace or distance that you should be running when you’re starting out.”
Everyone worries about being slower than someone else. Finding a community or starting a running group among your friends can help.
“It might be cliche to say, but [the run club] has become my third place, where I’m meeting with my friends every single Tuesday at 6:30 at the same spot, and it creates a sense of routine,” Underwood said. “As far as newbies to the city, I think it’s a great way to learn about the city, about things going on, and meet people.”
Practical Tips & Places to Start
The adage goes that running is for everyone, you just need a pair of shoes. I would add that you need the right pair of shoes, maybe the right pair of socks, and definitely the right bra if you need one. Luckily, local running stores have the resources to help you find what you need — Bandanna Running and Walking and Shu’s Idaho Running Company are great places to start.
Once you're ready to pick your first run, you’ll find Boise has everything you could ask for. The Greenbelt is our city’s shining gem, and it’s a perfect, flat, uninterrupted path for runners. If you want a gravel road, you can find them at any trailhead but especially Fort Boise. When you want a trail, we have those in spades too.
It’s that variety that Underwood says puts Boise in contention for one of the best running cities in America.
If you’re on the fence, Underwood has the route for what he calls the perfect beginner’s run.
