Start running/How to prepare for 5k

go to coolrunnings.com They have an awsome couch 2 5k program to get you going.

Look up the c25k program (www.coolrunnings.com)

Go to a running store and get fitted. It's the only way you'll come away with the right shoe for you!

go to coolrunnings.com They have an awsome couch 2 5k program to get you going.

I am starting this myself! I'm excited!

Hi. I began running in January. I started with Couch to 5k aka C25k. Cool Running has the 9 week program online but there are various apps you can use on your Apple or Android phone. It's a 9 week walk/run program that gradually gets you to the point where you can run a half hour without stopping. I did my first 5k about 6-7 weeks into the program but ran my first full a month or so after. Very rewarding program. Good luck!

BTW the phone apps prompt you when to run and walk. You can play your music at the same time but still hear the prompts. I used Run Double.

Check out Couch to 5k (C25k). It has a good run/walk program that will help you ease into it.

Also, the best running shoes differ for everybody. Find out whether you are a neutral runner or if you overpronate or underpronate. There are some good guides out there if you google for it.

I also recently bought some shoes from a major fitness chain and was able to exchange them because they didn't feel right after I ran in them for a couple of weeks. Message me if you want to know the store.

C25K is a wonderful program. I started it at 250lbs+ and now run 3-4 miles 3 days per week. I'm going to be doing my first 5K in October. As far as shoes, you would be wise to go to a running store and get properly fitted. The proper shoes make all the difference. Good luck!

I gotta give props to the Couch to 5K program. I'm almost done with it and I LOVE IT!!!

I went to a reputable running shoe store and had them scrutinize my gait to recommend the best shoe. I only wear Saucony now.

What worked for me was the couch to 5k plan. You can google it and it eases you into running. Also, I went to a running shoe store to get fitted for proper shoes. Everyone is different so they would be able to help you find the right kind of shoe. I started running on my old cheap shoes and started having foot pain. So I invested in a good pair with good arch support. I do still have some foot pain though the good shoes lessen it and allow me to add running to my workouts about once a week. But, I was able to go from no running at all to completing a 5k in the time schedule the couch to 5k plan had me on. I've done 3 total 5ks and have gotten faster with each one.

I would recommend you go to a local running store and get your feet and gait analyzed. They will let you know what type of shoe works best for you and this analysis should be free. I had issues with shin splints until I got analyzed and found out I overpronate and needed a mod stability running shoe. I have run over 400 miles this year and I have yet to have issues since getting this done.

I swear by Asics Gel Keyano 18. Suppose to good also if you are a bit heavier.

Yep - c25k took me from being a total non-runner to being able to run the 5k distance in 9 weeks. I used a free app called c25kFREE by Zen Labs - worked great & allowed me to play my music through the program.

Good shoes, always do the walking warm up & cool down, and I found it helpful to do some good stretching after each session. I made it through with no injuries, no shin splints, nothing.

Once you get started, register for a 5k race that's about 9 weeks out so you have a goal to keep you going.

I started out not being able to run for 10 seconds. Couch to 5K changed everything for me!! I am now training for a 10K and run 12-15 miles a week. BEST PROGRAM EVER.

I just posted a blog about all that.

http://www.myfitnesspal.com/blog/dsjohndrow/view/surviving-the-long-run-398961

we are training for a 3k and while we have ran/walked, we have never run a race. It's actually Saturday.

I started by just getting up to the 3k distance, every day I added a little more distance until I reached the distance. Once I had the distance then I slowly started adding speed.

I've also heard running hills will help you train for a run. It'll help you go a little faster on the flat

Hello!

I am a pretty good runner but no where near what I would like to be. I finished a 5K a few months ago in 35 min but I was like going to pass out after! I am trying to improve my time and also try and run the whole way.

What I would do is invest in a nice running watch and give yourself around 3 months before the actual 5K.

What I am doing is running for 4 min walking for 2 min for 30 total minutes. As that gets easier I will increase my time running and decrease my time walking. I would recomend doing thus but go slow!

Maybe start running for 1 min walking for 2? Do that 6 days a week for a week or two and than run for 1 min walk for 1 min. Than run for 2 walk for 1.5 min. Kinda just go by what your body is telling you.

I would check out coach to 5K, it is a running plan that is realyl great for startes to start running 5K!

go to coolrunnings.com They have an awsome couch 2 5k program to get you going.

Agreed 110%. Cool Runnings is amazing.

Also, check out a store like The Running Room for shoes. They will do an assessment of your running style and the way your feet hit the ground in order to get you the best possible shoes for your personal needs. Not sure what kinds of stores you have available but anywhere that does this kind of assessment is tops for me.