Boston running routes for starters?

jinny1313

Hi all!

I'm so not a runner but I really would like to start! I live in the city so looking for anyone who knows the best place to start running (slowly haha) that I won't have to dodge traffic or annoy anyone who is more experienced (aka running club routes... I've had some bad luck there ha). Thank you!!

lorrpb

Do you have access to a high school or college track? Is there a park nearby? I wouldn't worry about annoying other runners. Just keep to one side to let them pass by. I would encourage you to look at the c25k program for new runners.

scorpio516

Run along the Charles. Especially the Cambridge side. It's mostly protected, just got to use crosswalks at the bridges.

shilshilshil

I'll second the Charles. I live in Cambridge, and started running using C25K last year. Running along the river is lovely - nice views, minimal traffic lights, lots of other runners/bikers/walkers/dogs out. I also like that I can run on the dirt/grass instead of sidewalk (or uneven brick - the worst!), which seems to be gentler on my shins.

BruinsGal_91

Not sure whereabouts in Boston you are, but check out Mark Lowenstein's books. He covers the city and the burbs and there are some great runs of varying lengths. Enjoy.

https://www.amazon.com/Great-Runs-Brookline-Vicinity-Lowenstein/dp/0982248504/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1469536769&sr=8-2&keywords=mark+lowenstein

https://www.amazon.com/Great-Runs-Bostons-Burbs-Lowenstein/dp/0982248512/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1469536769&sr=8-3&keywords=mark+lowenstein

https://www.amazon.com/Great-Runs-Boston-Mark-Lowenstein/dp/0982248520/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1469536769&sr=8-5&keywords=mark+lowenstein

TavistockToad

why not join one of the running clubs?