Running advice needed (for a novice)

Try a couch to 5k program. You can find smart phone apps for it or instructions on the web. I think it is probably the easiest and safest way to start running.

I have Zombies,Run! 5k training on my phone and the first 3 workouts look like this:

10 min Walking
1 min walk
15 sec slow run
Repeat 1 min walk and 15 second run 10 times
10 min free walk/run

First things first; get good running shoes. Especially if you have something like a chronic back problem, you need the right running shoes to give the support. Yes, it's an investment, but it will help you along in the long term. And get the shoes from a store, where they film you running and find something you can try out, and where they take the time.

Then, for your question: how to start? Start slowly, and build it up. I had great success on a schedule with different mp3s with different intervals (e.g. slow run, faster run, walk) because it is so easy - just put the training on and go. But you have things like couch to 5 k (c25k) for free I think, and you could use the schedule that it gives you. And take your time building it up - your lung condition improves much faster than your body adjusts the muscles for running, so in the beginning it is easy to feel like you could go further, only to injure yourself.

Lastly, and most importantly, do what feels right!! And have fun!! Running is a great way to get your exercise in I am sure you will be super proud of your accomplishments!!

An interesting spin might be to consider a pool if you have access to one. You can actually run laps in a pool and it may be a gentler way of getting your back into the groove and additional pounding that it is going to take with the running while strengthening the rest of the muscles. The stronger the running muscles are when you start perhaps the less impact your back will feel once you get on the road. I also sit on an exercise ball at work which strengthens my core considerably which has helped to alleviate my back pains. They are not the same that you are experiencing, but it is a different approach for you to consider. Good luck.

When I was younger I could run miles but now after 3kids and bulging disc L4 L5 when I run I feel nerve pinching on my sciatic disc after my runs. It is painful and hard for me to shift sides when lying down. I myself have come to the point the pain is unbearable and I am now biking. Biking replaces the urge of running for me and the pool run sounds theraputic to me. I think I will try that. Listen to your body and go from there. Good luck and good health.

I am a big fan of the Galloway Run/Walk/Run technique. You alternate running and walking for short intervals. You can get an app for your smart phone where it walks you thru couch to your first 5k. It's an 8 week program that works great. I started with it back on 4/30/12 and weighed 306lbs. When I finished I moved onto the 10k and then the half app. The apps kept me injury free and helped me go from morbidly obese to a sub 2:00 half marathon finish weighing 115 pounds less in under 8 months.

couch to 5k was my gateway into caring about fitness. I worked up to running a half marathon after doing it amd then a year after that a full marathon.