Have you run previously?

Hey Deb...good for you! I'm glad to hear that you're making strides (pun intended) to get started in your running lifestyle.

I'm going to assume that you're not running currently, which means you aren't used to any sort of "mileage". My advice to you is to simply take things slowly. This is for many reasons...

1)Keep it fun. If you press yourself too much, you'll dread going out the next time and be more likely to stop all together.

2)Slowly advance in distance. Maybe the first day, just walk a mile and whenever you feel the urge, run a bit. Then, the next time, do the same but advance the running distance just a little. This is what I call the "baby steps" approach. Don't worry, though...you'll get where you want to go soon enough. The main idea is to simply keep adding distance, no matter how small the increments.

3)Listen to your body. If you can't breathe, slow down. If your feet hurt, try different shoes. This will be a learning process, but a very rewarding one to be sure.

Good luck, Deb. Like most of us, you may not be the fastest runner in the world and you're definitely not the slowest, so just get out there and have fun! You'll be glad you did!

You are correct, I'm not yet running. Baby steps is fine by me. I know I can't just lace up and take off. I'm really just tired of being indoors for all my exercise. Time for a change seems to be my mantra right now...:)

coolrunning.com is a great source!

I started running about seven years ago to drop some weight and it worked quickly, but I was very dedicated to it. It was my quiet time alone to think about things during a very stressful time. I did start out walking/running first, but you will find it won't take long to build up. Of course, don't run at the hottest time of day. I found that New Balance shoes worked best for me, but that is such an individual thing.

I don't run long distances or anything- just 2-4 miles a few times a week, but I am hooked on it even though there are days when I'm not very motivated. I think starting out running on flat areas would be best and working up to more inclines. Are you in a neighborhood or near a park where you could enjoy some scenery? That always kept me going. Be safe wherever you run and good luck to you!

Congratulations! Running is a great stress reliver on top of being excellent exercise. Since you're not a runner, I would recommend the Couch to 5k running program. It's 9 weeks in length and takes a person from literally sitting on a couch to running a 5k! Here is a link: http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml the key, as with anything, is have fun!

oh --- one more thing --- go to an actually running store (not those athletic superstores) and have them fit you for a pair of running shoes. They will watch you walk/run and make recommendations on your gait. This is critical! I've seen several people sidelined because of injuries caused by shoes that didn't fit properly.

Thanks, Kacie, for the help! I do live near an elementary school with a very nice track, and playground for my kids. I'm starting there tonite, and Monday nite one of my girlfriends is joining. Tuesday we have a third joining us. We hope to get a flock by the end of the week! LOL! But seriously, I feel the need to pound the pavement. I think it will be therapeutic, as well as relieve some of the "frustration" I'm experiencing of late...