best way to start running?

On the spectrum from "beginner" to "runner", and I am definitely much closer to beginner! But I also say check out the C25K. I am just starting week 4, though I've had the program for a long time. I stopped this when I started weight training, but I'm gradually adding it in as a supplement. I loved it because I didn't have to worry about timing myself, etc. I just ran when it dinged and walked when it dinged and did my best. I felt like the first few weeks were GREAT in easing you in (I literally had never ran a mile before in my life). But then I felt the jump between weeks 3 and 4 was a bit much and I wasn't quite able to finish week 4, day 1. I had to start walking... but no matter what I think it is a great starting place, whether you like it or not.

I'm going to be the unpopular vote here, but I say just get up and go. Run as much as you can, walk when you absolutely have to, then start running when you can. Do this for either a set amount of time (maybe 10 or 15 minutes to start?) or a set path (down to the stop sign and back, whatever works for your situation). Tomorrow, do the same thing. And the day after and so forth.

This is what I did. The first day, I probably walked more than I ran. Within a week and a half, I was running the whole distance (about a mile and a half) with no breaks - not easily or quickly, but I did it . As long as you push yourself each run, you will see great improvements quickly.

Put one foot in front of the other

And tie your shoes... trust me thats number 1 to running

I've never used C25K but I do recommend just getting out there and moving. I started by doing a lot of walking and gradually added short running intervals. I recommend a GPS app for your droid or iphone. Personally I think endomondo is the best one out there. The important thing is to get moving and go a little bit farther or a little bit faster each time. This morning I logged 9 miles doing intervals of walking and running. You'll be amazed at your progress if you just keep after it.

Another vote for c25k here. I did my first c25k session Feb 28th and ran my first 5k without walking on May 28th. I'm 35 years old and have NEVER run in my life, even in school I was excused from running because of severe asthma.

I have tried the "get out and run as far as you are comfortable with" thing and it left me with knee injuries every time I tried it. c25k worked really well for me and I can now run up to 4 miles...working on training for a 10k in November.

I started with C25K last April. I could barely run the 30 seconds, so I made my first week all 30 second runs and 2 minute walks. By the time I got to week 3, and after talking to my marathon-running sister, I decided to go with Jeff Galloway's run/walk approach. I now run 3 minutes and walk for 1 minute, although some days I run longer or shorter depending on how far I'm running and how I'm feeling. I can keep up the same pace (6+ MPH run/3.5 MPH walk) for an entire half marathon.

Honestly, the best way to start running is to just get out there and do it. Don't be afraid of it. You can leave worrying about running shoes until you're running for more than a few minutes at a time. That is, unless you're having joint, foot or shin pains. If that's happening, the time is now.

The advice I've given to many new runners:

1. Only run every other day, especially at first. Running every day leads to injury. Your body needs a chance to recover from this new, high impact activity. Don't do other high impact exercises on the days between, either. You want be able to keep on running so avoiding injury is the number one priority.

2. Don't run on concrete. It's too hard and will probably give you shin splints over time. Run on asphalt, a running track, or dirt, if possible.

3. Run slowly. Someone else mentioned being able to talk while running. If you're huffing and puffing, you're trying to go too fast. Right now you should focus on your endurance and distance. Later on you can work on your speed.

4. Have fun!

I personally don't like the "run until you're tired" philosophy. I've talked to too many runners who are afraid to take walk intervals for fear of not wanting to start to run again! I tell them that if you take walk breaks before you really need them that you'll actually WANT to start running again because you're restored some energy during that short break. During half marathons I'm usually passing people who have run the whole race during the last few miles. Many of them are still "running" but at such a slow pace they might as well be walking! To me, that just seems a little silly because it's a huge waste of energy to run at slow paces. Run fast, walk fast and your average time will be about the same.

Try LoLo Beatburn Treadmill app (can also use outside) or 0 to 5k! Love BOTH apps.

C25K is the best way to start

Just lace the shoes up and go!!
I started alternating between walking/jogging and still am but I can do 3 miles in 30mins and for a non-runner..I think that's pretty darn good

I started walking on the treadmill a little over a year ago for 15 minutes and thought I would die of exhaustion. I kept at it everyday until I was walking 3.5 miles at 3.5 MPH for an hour. In Jan I started "running". I used interval training similiar to C25K at my own pace. I would walk for 4.5 min and then run 30 sec at 4.5 MPH. Slowly I increased the running to 1 min ,then 2 min etc. and upped the speed and distance. 8 months later I now run 5-7 miles a day,not stopping at 6-7 MPH. IMO the key is an everyday approach.
Good running shoes are also important!!!! At first I didn't want to put out the money, but now I know it really makes a difference. I am flat footed and I wear Asics foundation for flat feet. ($99). I also treated my self to good sports bras and outfits that make me feel good.