Discover essential insider running tips from experienced runners! Learn how to prevent chafing, avoid prerace gut issues, pick the right shoes and more.

Published: September 21, 2026

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Whether you’re lacing up for the first time or you’ve worn through countless pairs of running shoes, the running world is a friendly place of trial and error. This community is known for trading tips and tricks to help others improve their game. What works for you may not work for someone else, while someone else’s inside scoop might just be the tip you’ve been looking for.

From brands of running shoes and athletic apparel to brands of gels and chews, runners discuss it all. They’re also remarkably candid about bodily functions and other realities of the sport. Bathroom habits, gut health, body odor … nothing is off the table.

We’re here today to cover some of those insider tips.

New running shirt? Nice! But check the material

Wear wicking materials when running. And launder well afterward to avoid odors.

Black, ingrown, or missing toenails? Two solutions here!

Be sure to keep up with those toenails: Cut short and straight across.

Try a larger shoe, by one-half to a full size up.

Nerves getting to you before race morning?

Try taking an Imodium after your morning bathroom routine.

Irritated skin areas?

Basic Vaseline (petroleum jelly) works wonders. Try putting some on your armpits, groin, between toes and any other areas prone to chafing.

Eating out the night before a race?

Keep it simple. Avoid the F’s — fat, fiber and fried foods.

Early to the starting line?

Bring a disposable cover-up for warmth, disposable water bottle and a small snack. You never want to start a race cold, wet, thirsty or hungry!

We hope these tips help you just as much as they’ve helped us. Remember, what works for some may not work for others, but what works for YOU is what’s important. Happy running!