I want to start running, but...

I quit smoking 6 weeks ago, and I started Couch to 5k 3 weeks ago (tomorrow is the last run of week 3.) I can now run for minutes without dying, then I alternate to walking for a few minutes. I was always convinced I would NEVER be a runner, and now I'm working on it.

You can get audio files, apps, or plain old paper print outs of how to do it.

In regards to the having bouncy boobs so you can't run....I used to feel the same way but since then I have gotten properly fitted for a sports bra. Stores like Intimacy and Nordstroms can get your exact size and help you find the brand that can hold the girls in and you won't even think twice about that issue. Currently, I use Panache brand 34F and I can do any exercise. I hope this helps. I initially started running by signing up for an official run about 3-4 months down the road and joining a beginner running group. Groups like Team in Training allows you to sign up for little races along the process, with a big race (usually 1/2 marathon or full) at the end of the running journey. They also have walkers too I believe. They train you and do it along side of you. The best part is that there were all levels of runners, including people who have never run before in their lives! Good luck!

http://www.runnersworld.co.uk/beginners/get-started-schedules/30.html

In regards to the having bouncy boobs so you can't run....I used to feel the same way but since then I have gotten properly fitted for a sports bra. Stores like Intimacy and Nordstroms can get your exact size and help you find the brand that can hold the girls in and you won't even think twice about that issue. Currently, I use Panache brand 34F and I can do any exercise. I hope this helps. I initially started running by signing up for an official run about 3-4 months down the road and joining a beginner running group. Groups like Team in Training allows you to sign up for little races along the process, with a big race (usually 1/2 marathon or full) at the end of the running journey. They also have walkers too I believe. They train you and do it along side of you. The best part is that there were all levels of runners, including people who have never run before in their lives! Good luck!

I LOVE Panache bras - I'd been quite happy with previous sports bras til I tried the Panache one (properly fitted) and noticed the difference IMMEDIATELY.

I am on week 2 of the C25K and I'm loving it! I've never been a runner and just turned 50 years old. I am doing it on a treadmill at a moderate walk 3mph and jog 4mph. Once I've gone through it once I'm planning on repeating it at a faster actual running pace. I tonwas afraid I wouldn't be able to run, but so far so good

The BIGGEST mistake new runners make is starting out doing too much too soon and that's why you see sooooo many people recommending a program like C25K (myself included). So, here are my suggestions:

1) Go to a shoe store that specializes in sports shoes and get fitted for a good pair of running shoes.
2) Get a seriously good sports bra. There is nothing worse than boob jiggle when you're trying to focus on your running.
3) Do your research on C25K and start running... Don't worry about your pace. Just run and follow the guidelines.
4) Sign up for a 5K. Nothing is more motivating than a deadline. If you know that you have to be in fit and ready running form by a specific date... you're more likely to do it. I would recommend something about 2 months out from when you start C25K.

^ This is perfect, succinct advice. I would also add, don't overthink it. Yes, get fitted for the right shoes and yes, start slower than you think you need to (C25K, as everyone else has said, is great), but frankly I would not spend a ton of time worrying about how you're breathing or trying to correct your foot strike or any of the 100000 other nuances you will find people obsessing over if you spend much time on running forums. As long as you're not overdoing it and you aren't running in the wrong shoes (and assuming you're not running like Phoebe from Friends), most of that stuff will sort itself out naturally as your body gets more used to running, IMO.

I dont like running cuz my boobs bounce too much!!

lol, they make sports bras, ya know. I started running while overweight and still nursing a baby!

It's true! There are some great sports bras out there. I'm pretty large chested and I love running!!

I quit smoking 6 weeks ago, and I started Couch to 5k 3 weeks ago (tomorrow is the last run of week 3.) I can now run for minutes without dying, then I alternate to walking for a few minutes. I was always convinced I would NEVER be a runner, and now I'm working on it.

You can get audio files, apps, or plain old paper print outs of how to do it.

Congratulations on quitting smoking!!

I dont like running cuz my boobs bounce too much!!

Under Armour has a sports bra with your name all over it
(actually, it's their name, but I digress...)

I agree with the whole Couch to 5K. It was a ton of fun to do and it really helped me get into running again. The other thing that really helped was a pair of CW-X compression tights. I noticed that my knees and ankles didn't hurt when I wore the tights. They're a little pricey but absolutely worth the purchase. Sometimes you can find them on Amazon.

ok, if the running room gave you grief or was snobby, I'd see if there's another running store near you. Fleet Feet, Elite runners and walkers, and any number of little independent running shoe stores are in your area - it depends how far you're willing to go. I even found a running shoe store for someone in the middle of Nowhere, PA (it helped that I also live and know people in that area), but a running shoe store experience should be AWESOME. It should never be uncomfortable, and you should never be put down. As a new runner, this is their opportunity to turn you into a regular customer by wooing you not only into running but into their store. If they screw up and can't see that, don't spend your money there. But do get a proper gait analysis and proper shoes. I'd see if there's a local running club, and see if someone there can't recommend a store (or a person at a store - often the sales person can make a world of difference).

That being said, you can do the first few weeks of a C25K in any pair of shoes, as long as they're not ancient or the wrong size, with relatively few issues. We're not talking ultra marathons or breaking land-speed records here. Just moving a little faster for a little farther than you're used to.

You can do this.

On C25K, though I've been distance running since I was 12, I've spent my fair share of weeks, months, maybe even up to a whole year "resting". I use C25K to come back, every time. Right now I'm recovering from a broken foot - though I'm still biking and swimming during recovery, to come back to running marathons, I'll be starting with a C25K. It's a great way of pacing yourself through the initial stages of seeing improvement every day, while giving you the time and focus to pay attention to the signals your body is telling you. "I need new/different shoes", "I need core work", "I need stretching", "I need more liquids", "I need more calories", "I need more protein", all these messages are easier for me to hear when I'm moving forward in a measured, graduated manner.

I can't recommend the c25k app enough. Also, Zombies, Run! has a c25k training app too.

I love the Zombies run app. I use it to run too!

I just started C25K again-I started in late summer last year but didn't stick to it-I ran 2 or 3 times and then used the weather as an excuse not to continue.

My best recommendation to a new runner (that I assume is also overweight like I am) is to buy a good sports compression bra, compression shorts to wear under whatever you are going to run in, good running shoes as others have said but the best advice-put deoderant between your "cheeks"!!! I know it sounds funny but after my first run-I felt great! I jumped in the shower, the water hit and I almost died! LOL A friend that runs told me she took running classes and that an avid runner gave her that tip-put it wherever your skin will rub together.

Enjoy your journey! I've just started up again last week with my 8 year old son-we are doing a Color Run 5K in May so gotta get it done! Snow or no snow!