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So in my strive for healthy living and excercise, I thought I may give running a try, I have never done it, on the street nor the treadmill due to my clumsiness. Am I crazy to try this? What is the best way to get started? I browsed quickly at www.c25k.com at lunch, is this a good beginner program?
Give me all the tips you have!
In case it matters...On the weekends I will either be on the sea wall or the boardwalk early morning, during the week, who knows. I will not be in the gym or on a treadmill
Thanks!
David John 4.19.01
Jonathan Dean 4.5.08
Anna Capri 5.4.11
Re: running for dummies
I know a lot of people who used c25k successfully. I plan on trying it to get back into running after the kid is born. I know the iphone app allows you to use your own music and they just provide cues for when you should run/walk.
I ditto kross' suggestion of registering for a race. I found I am way more likely to keep up with my running if I know I've already paid for a race.
C25K is an excellent way to get into running.
I would suggest that you go to a running store to get fitted for sneakers. Other than that, there are not too many "supplies" needed to start running. Basic running shorts, sports bra, and tee do me fine for runs less than 5-6 miles in the summer.
Signing up for an actual 5k is a great way to stay motivated. Who knows, maybe you'll find someone you're friends with to sign up with you.
And if you have an iPhone, the Nike+ gps app is a great way to track your mileage during the actual run as well as afterwards. It's less than $5 in the app store.
Resident running expert here...! I think that it is awesome that you are looking to get into running. It has changed my life! I recommend that you start slow, and make a promise to yourself to stick with it. Pre-registering for a 5K is a great way to commit yourself to this. Given the heat and humidity that is so frequent in our area, I'd look for one in September.
I have not participated in the C25K programs, but I know a number of people who have had success with them and I think they work. I think the run/walk combination C25K promotes is a great way to get started and the program does not want you to overextend yourself. Start slow!
Get yourself fitted for a real pair of running shoes. Philadelphia Runner is a good spot in the city to check out shoes. Bring an old pair of sneakers, too, so they can look at the treads.
I'm no fan of the treadmill and I use it mostly in the winter (too dark) and when it is terrible rain. Running on the boardwalk can be good and bad. We do it on vacation every summer, but you spend a good portion of your time dodging cyclists that don't follow the different signs, and/or people just not paying attention.
Even though I run regularly, there are some days I really don't feel like running, but I force myself to get out there, even if it is for a few blocks. I always feel better afterwards.
Good luck! Let me know if you have any questions.
Thanks for the responses! I'm also going to get an armband for my iPod unless someone has anything else to recommend. I don't think shoving it in my sports bra will work well
As long as I can actually do it without dying I think I'll really enjoy the quiet me time. I found a c2k app that looks really helpful too
Not sure I'm ready to spend big bucks on custom running shoes just yet, any good brand recommendations to use for now while I am getting started?
Jonathan Dean 4.5.08
Anna Capri 5.4.11
First, DH did the C25K program and had success with it. He is not a runner at all but since he turned 30 this year, he wanted to make a change in his diet and health. He absolutely hates running but he followed the program exactly and has completed 4 5K's this spring so far. It can be done, just stick with it.
For the shoes, my good friend is a serious runner. Does marathons like nobody's business. I asked her about shoes for both DH and I and she said the Reebok Realflex are great shoes to start out with for running. She advised me to not go out and get fitted for expensive shoes just yet because we didn't want to make that kind of ($) commitment just yet. Running shoes, especially fitted ones, can be very expensive. She also advised me to stay away from Nike and New Balance running shoes, mainly for weight reasons.
About the Realflex... not sure what shoe size you are but I'm an 8 and I was able to save money and get a kid's size 6. A kid's size 6 is actually a womens size 8 and I was able to save about $40 on mine.
Jonathan Dean 4.5.08
Anna Capri 5.4.11