I want to learn to be a runner!

ratkaj

walking is the best exercise. Compared to running, you will burn the same amount of calories when you walk.

I'm sorry but your statement is very deceiving. You should do your research before saying blanket statements like this. See artical attached:
http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-242-304-311-8402-0,00.html

"In fact, I had read years ago that fast walking burns more calories than running at the same speed. Now was the time to test this hypothesis. Wearing a heart-rate monitor, I ran on a treadmill for two minutes at 3.0 mph (20 minutes per mile), and at 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, and 5.5 mph (10:55 per mile). After a 10-minute rest to allow my heart rate to return to normal, I repeated the same thing walking. Here's my running vs. walking heart rate at the end of each two-minute stint: 3.0 (99/81), 3.5 (104/85), 4.0 (109/94), 4.5 (114/107), 5.0 (120/126), 5.5 (122/145). My conclusion: Running is harder than walking at paces slower than 12-minutes-per-mile. At faster paces, walking is harder than running."

Qarol

Only run because you want to and because you love it. If you THINK you should run because you should for any other reason don't do it

That was my reaction. Runners run b/c they love it. It would be wonderful if I loved to run. It's a relatively cheap way to get great exercise. But I hate it.

mikethom

In Canada there is a chain called "Running Room" they are a great organization, they all offer running and walking classes, many geared to prepare you for an upcoming event. Check out their website http://www.runningroom.com/hm/

The owner John Stanton has a wonderful success story (http://www.runningroom.com/hm/inside.php?id=3035), and is a great public speaker. He has written several good books on Running and Walking (http://www.runningroom.com/hm/inside.php?id=2579).

I like how the staff are very friendly and for those of us who are not elite runners (or even walkers :-) they are friendly and encouraging. In addition to their classes they also have walking and running clubs that just go out together. They have a great sense of community, sponsoring local events and encouraging a healthier lifestyle.

Shani262

Everyone on here has been so wonderful! I cant wait to start week 2 of c25k. I am signed up for a couple 5k's that i do every year but maybe i can finally run one. Thanks again everyone for your motivation!

wackynunu

I started running in my 30s. I have had knee issues since I was a teenager so I never thought I could be a "runner". I run 3 times a week now for about an hour with 1 minute walking intervals every 10 to 20 minutes.

3 tips:

Weight train.
Run SLOW to start.
Do a C25K program that works runing into your walking and builds up gradually.

A knee brace might help also, but I haven't had luck finding one that provides enough support without cutting off my circulation.