Hi all. My name is Michele, I'm 44 y/o, and live in Queensland, Australia. I am currently training for my first half marathon in May this year, with hopefully another in July, and one is September. 10 km is my longest race distance to date. I have done a few 3, 4 and 5 km races over the years. I first started running about 10 years ago, but have had 3 children in the last 7-8 years, and a joint-related injury, so I have been on-off running during that time, with no running goals in mind. I only started back again about 4 months ago, but I am keen. I've dropped some weight to get back to pre-baby shape, I've got a HM training plan, I'm getting up at 5am to run or strength train, I'm reading books on running, and I'm just starting to believe that I can do this. In fact, I'm even thinking I could train for a marathon next year!

I've seen a couple of people from my friends list on here, and I'm happy to accept friend requests from other runners!

Hi, i love to run...and up till now have used it mostly in training for other sports. I have rowed, played rugby, competed in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and currently box...the only thing that has remained consistent is running. Sooo this is the year i will compete in my first race...hopefully a half. I am both terrified and excited. Any tips/and or support is appreciated thank you! Glad to have this group as a resource

My name is Carey and I live in Aberdeen, Scotland. I'm 26 years old.

I have always been quite active but only started running on a regular basis around 18 months ago, first on the treadmill at my gym and then I moved outdoors.

To begin with I had no intention of doing any racing and actually didn't really enjoy running at first. I used to run short distances with my husband who was a lot faster than me and I could always tell he didn't particularly like waiting around on me It always felt like a struggle. I now run by myself which I prefer, especially since I can blast some music and just switch off.

In May 2012 I completed my first 10k which was part of a charity run with my work. I had a blast and loved the feeling of accomplishment afterwards.

After my first 10k I continued to run but have did not race again until March this year when I completed my first half marathon. Although I was delighted with my time (1:52:53)I found the HM experience quite difficult but have learnt some valuable lessons regarding fueling, hydration etc and already cannot wait to do another so I can be more prepared and improve on my time.

I have been on MFP for a while now but haven't really used the community features, I'm more interested in discussing running than anything else hence why I joined this group. Feel free to add me! I am also happy to discuss diet and other areas of fitness too.

Hello i'm JT. I have been running all of my life but have found out that now that I am older I am more competitive. I ran more than 2 dozen 5ks, in the last two years. Last year I ran two half marathons. I would love to add more running friends.

Hi, I'm Isabel!

Newbie at running as I just starting "liking" it around January. In the past, I've run because I HAD to, but not because I enjoyed it. After playing 16 years of soccer, I think all the running drills just turned me off to it. I signed up to do my first sprint triathlon a few months ago and have recently discovered that I am actually enjoying and looking forward to my runs. Currently, I can't even really say I'm a "long distance" runner as I average 2.5-3 miles 4-5x a week, but I do have the hopes to one day be able to run a half marathon. Just hear to learn from all you seasoned runners, especially once I start adding distance to my runs. I'm really quite at a loss for all the proper training and nutrition, and am really just seeking some support/mentoring once it gets to that.

Plus, I can always use more friends on MFP for motivation and accountability. Excited for the spring

Hi Everyone! I started running last January after quitting smoking (YAY!). I always hating running in the past, but now I'm signed up for my first half marathon in less than three weekk (EEK!!). My longest run so far is 12.6 miles, so I think my nervousness is all mental. I have definitely put in the miles, so I'm very excited to complete a half! Then, about three weeks later, I'm signed up to do a 25K. Who knows....maybe I will sign up for a full marathon come October! I have to say that I'm slightly obsessed with running now....I have been in a complete funk since I live in Michigan and it has been a very snowy winter ;(

Hope to pick all your brains for help along the way! I will definitely need to assess what went good and bad during my training and will be back asking for tips very shortly!

Hi everyone!

I'm Karen, I started running last September with the C25K programme. Was sidelined at the start of the year with PF but have gotten back running from start of March and am now on the road 4 days a week.

My 5K PB is 32:06 - aiming to get under 30mins in the next couple of weeks. I have four 10Ks planned for during the summer and a half marathon in October.

Hoping to do a few more HMs in 2015 and aim for a full marathon in 2016.

I really enjoy running and can't believe that this time last year I couldn't even power walk a mile, let alone run 6!

Hey
My name is Desmond.
I started running about a year ago.
A lot of running on the treadmill to loose wieght (-50lb so far).
Ran first 5k last thanksgiving round 30 min.
For the last several months I have moved my running outside, much more fun.
Working up to 25 - 30 miles per week.
Start running the outside loop in Central Park (6mi) just got it under 1 hour.

Myself and my wife just registered for our first half marathon in June.
Starting to train for that now.
Would like to try NYC Marathon this year, we'll see how the 1/2 goes first.

Hi!! I'm Heather from Hickory North Carolina. I've run 3 marathons; Boston was my 3rd. I am a school teacher and I am 38.