I want to start running, but...

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!

I agree about the couch to 5k programs, they are perfect for people starting out. I also recommend going to a running shoe store and having one of their experts fit you for a pair of shoes. A good bra is key too. I have had a ton of issues with chafing and blisters as well. Body glide is great for that and powder in the socks helps too, especially when it is hot outside. Most importantly, I have found the success to running is to go at your pace.

I was given the advice when starting to run until I needed to walk and then walk until I could run again.

I am a terrible runner, no athletic grace or talent, slow pace, the whole nine, but I went from zero to running 18 miles last september before for personal reasons I had to back out of the marathon I had registered for.I am thinking about doing it again though.

Running is one of those great exercises that you can do with a friend or alone with some good tunes. AND it gets easier the more you do it! Once you pass through the initial aches from using new muscles, etc. I found myself needing to do it, and the races are fun.

I wish you the best, dont ever be afraid to try something new, you never know what you will enjoy until you give it a try! Good Luck!