I'm looking for some tips or thoughts if there's anyone out there who runs to work.

Right now I can run 5.5 - 6km fairly easily. The distance from my home to work is just under 7 km. I think that with the occasional walk break I could definitely do this. I'm trying to find ways to squeeze in another run or two a week.

I usually run at lunch or on the weekends. I was debating trying to run before work but the time would be a bit tight. My husband suggested running to work (and then quickly changed his mind thinking that it would be too much) but I thought it was a great idea. The gym I go to is right beside my work so showering when I get there is not a problem.

What is a problem is what do I absolutely need to bring with me and how do I carry it?? If I planned it right I could leave clothes and shoes at work but what about the essentials...my work pass, some ID/money, cell phone etc.

Does anyone run with a pack on and what's the best, smallest thing out there for the absolute essentials.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks!

http://www.amphipod.com/145/145.html

Or http://www.amphipod.com/080/080.html , and clip the phone to your waistband.

I sometimes run to/from work, I try to leave as much as I can at work and then carry keys, phone and ipod either in my pockets or a bumbag. Sometimes it works out that I run home on days when I have to come back into town later in the evening so I can leave my things at the gym and pick my stuff up later. I tried running with a rucksack but found it bounced around quite a lot and chafed the side of my neck. I'd rather carry less stuff and plan ahead a bit more. (Or my new plan is to cycle instead, which I can do with a bag, and is easier to do two ways rather than just one way).

Thanks for the tips. I'll see if I can work it out and try it one day this week. I didn't want to wear a big backpack either. I can't imagine running with that bouncing the whole time. I think the smaller waist pack is the way to go.

Maria - thanks for the links but I don't know if they sell that brand here. Maybe I'll go see what the running room has available.