Fitness coach Tony Williams shares his secrets on running in the Northwest. Photo by Michael Hanson

Expert: Tony Williams

Field of study: Improving runners’ techniques at his coaching company, Always Running Personal Conditioning Center

On running in the rain: When the weather gets bad, a lot of people put on tights, which retain water and make you wet and cold. My best trick for running in the rain is to wear shorts and cover my legs with an oil-based lotion like Vaseline. The water beads off instead of clinging to clothing, and your legs stay warm.

How to buy the right shoes: First, find a good store with a knowledgeable staff, and make sure they’ll let you run in the shoe—indoors and out—before you buy. Better yet, ask the staff to watch your running gait in a particular sneaker and advise you on whether that style works for you. In Seattle, I send people to Super Jock ‘n Jill (7210 E. Greenlake Dr. N.; 206/522-7711).

Best marathon for first-timers: Portland Marathon (Oct. 4; $90 entry fee), hands-down. It’s every October, and the organization is top-notch—they have a good course, good scenery, and (usually) good weather.

Always Running Personal Conditioning Center offers customized programs on beautiful trails. Photo courtesy of http://alwaysrunning.com