The best magazine
•Getting Started: Running Shoes & Running Clinics in Vancouver
One of the best things about running is that it doesn't require a lot of gear; a good pair of running shoes is the only real necessity. About.com's Running Guide has a great piece on how to find the right running shoes; you can also ask locals who run for their shopping recommendations.
In Vancouver, there are several specialty running stores that can fit you for the perfect running shoe. Each of these stores also hosts running clinics, which are great ways to get started if you're fairly new to the sport or are starting again after a hiatus. The Vancouver Park Board--e.g., your local community centre--also has running lessons and classes.
- The Right Shoe - 1601 West 4th Ave in Kitsilano
- Lady Sport - 3545 W. 4th Ave in Kitsilano
- Forerunners - 3502 West 4th Ave in Kitsilano & 980 Marine Drive in North Vancouver
- Distance Run Wear - 4800 Main Street, near Queen Elizabeth Park / Riley Park
- The Running Room - multiple locations throughout the Lower Mainland, including five stores in Vancouver
- The Runners' Den - 239 Newport Drive, Port Moody
Know the shoe you want and want the best price? Take a budget shopping trip to the U.S. / Washington.
•Where to Run: Scenic Routes, Running Tracks & Maps
When it comes to running in Vancouver, you can do it anywhere: to and from work, in your own neighbourhood, in a park, or alongside some of the city's breathtaking scenery.
•Vancouver Races & Running Events
Training for a specific event is a great way to get into running in Vancouver. Vancouver--and the Lower Mainland--hosts over 100 running events every year.
The most famous Vancouver running events are the BMO Vancouver Marathon (a qualifier for the Boston Marathon) in May and the Vancouver Sun Run in April, which is Canada's largest community 10k run. Both the BMO Marathon and the Sun Run host training clinics in early spring, which is another great way to get fit and meet other local runners.
Of course, there are also lots of fun runs and 5k runs, too. For a fairly comprehensive list of Vancouver running events throughout the year, check out BC Race Review.
Source: ...