Long-distance runners often begin training out of concern for their health, but many continue to run their whole lives if the wolf pack doesn’t stop chasing them. Equip yourself for extreme mileage with today’s Groupon: for $25, you get $50 worth of shoes, apparel, and accessories at Running Room in West Des Moines.

Running Room is a vast emporium of running shoes, apparel, and accessories, staffed entirely by experienced runners who know how best to advise toddling newcomers and svelte speedsters alike. Stylish, sturdy foot-sheaths for women and men range from $99.99 up to $199.99 and are sourced from brands such as Asics, Brooks, and Mizuno.

In addition to stocking brand-name apparel, Running Room sells its own line of apparel and accessories. The house brand's track star tank ($49.99) mixes style and utility into a flattering gumbo. Runners who moonlight as air guitarists can reduce wood-floor friction with a two-pack of Wrightsock double-layer crew socks, and outdoorsy types can opt for the poly stretch men's gloves ($24.99) to protect man-sized mitts from high winds.

REVIEWS

Though there aren't many available reviews for the Des Moines location of Running Room, six Yelpers give the Toronto location a five-star average. More than 10,200 Facebookers like Running Room.

• I also went to buy my running shoes there and was very impressed with the expertise of the staff. – Abby R., Toronto location, Yelp, 8/7/08
• The sales staff offers you the best evaluation of your step and matching running shoes to your foot. – Kat T., Toronto location, Yelp, 8/9/08