how to get started running?

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ByTheBeach
ByTheBeach Posts: 46
in Fitness and Exercise
I am thinking I'd like to start running 2-3 times a week.

Is the best way to start by walking a few mins and then running a few mins? What would you suggest I do to get started? I am thinking if I like it, it would be great for my heart and my body.

Thanks!

Replies

  • rjhorton73
    rjhorton73 Posts: 2
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    Search the internet for Couch to 5k - that sould be a good start!
  • Cmccracken1
    Cmccracken1 Posts: 326 Member
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    look up the couch to 5k program, it's a trainging guide with downloadable aps that will take you through every bit of it ensureing that you dont hurt yourself along the way.. there are several discussion threads on there about it... c25k
  • jrich1
    jrich1 Posts: 2,408 Member
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    Search the internet for Couch to 5k - that sould be a good start!

    this
  • Mindful_Trent
    Mindful_Trent Posts: 3,954 Member
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    Check out the C25K program - you can find apps on smartphones, or podcasts if you just use an MP3 player to tell you when to walk and when to jog/run.

    Intervals (running/walking) are definitely the way to go. I started with C25K last summer, now I'm gearing up to do a 10k this spring.

    http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml
  • sarahliftsUP
    sarahliftsUP Posts: 752 Member
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    I agree with starting Couch to 5k. It's a nine week program that starts you off running small increments to build up your endurance. I'm a graduate of the program.. I love running!
  • DeadZip2010
    DeadZip2010 Posts: 111 Member
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    start slow, jog as long as you can until you get winded, then walk until you catch our breath, then start the jogging again, soon you will not have to walk and later youll be able to pick up the speed and distance.
  • AggieCass09
    AggieCass09 Posts: 1,867 Member
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    Definitely get fitted for proper running shoes first and foremost, this will prevent injuries and shin splints later. Then just go out and start running, and stop when you are winded. Just keep starting and stopping until you don't have to stop anymore. Signing up for a 5k two or three months out is a good motivator and runnersworld.com has a smart coach that can help you develop a training plan for the race. Best of luck, running is great!
  • alliecore
    alliecore Posts: 446 Member
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    Search the internet for Couch to 5k - that sould be a good start!
    This is a great program. And yes, the best way to start is exactly what you said, walking -then running- then back to walking. C25K gives you a schedule to follow. Good luck!
  • LorinaLynn
    LorinaLynn Posts: 13,247 Member
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    Couch to 5k totally works. :smile: I'm a "graduate" of the program. I was never a runner, and I'll be doing my first real 5k in a few weeks.
  • backinthenines
    backinthenines Posts: 1,083 Member
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    I don't know if you have proper running shoes. You might not want to invest in any until you know whether you enjoy running or not but I think they're worth the investment. The best way to buy a suitable pair of running shoes (matching your foot mechanics and running style) is by going to a specialist running shop.

    From then on follow any run-walk beginners programme. Many people here like the "Couch to 5k" plans which are fine. Hal Higdon also does nice newbie plans (google him).

    General rule of thumb for newbies is:

    No running on consecutive days
    Stretch after a run
    Try to run on soft ground where you can
    Don't increase your distance by more than 10% a week

    Enjoy. :flowerforyou:
  • Midatojo
    Midatojo Posts: 1 Member
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    This is a good article that I found. Easy to follow especially if you are starting from ground zero.

    http://www.spryliving.com/articles/Her-Amazing-Race/

    Couch potato to 5K is also good.
  • piccolarj
    piccolarj Posts: 488 Member
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    The way I started was I would walk for a minute then run for 30 seconds then I got up walk 1 min and run 1 min and so on from there. Now I do it by distance. I will walk for .15 miles then I run for 1.5 miles. I'm trying to work up to running 3 miles without stopping.
  • emilillymom
    emilillymom Posts: 61
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    couch to 5k program is the best way to start.
  • Leannek74
    Leannek74 Posts: 374 Member
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    about.com has a great section about starting off running... check it out!
  • everyoung
    everyoung Posts: 67 Member
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    Start slow! Warm up with a walk for a few minutes and then fast walk, next is jogging and take off from there. It worked for me!
  • TiniTurtle
    TiniTurtle Posts: 595 Member
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    bump :o) with this warm weather coming, i want to check out all those websites... thanks for sharing!
  • Lula16
    Lula16 Posts: 628 Member
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    i do intervals (walking/jogging). for first few days i only walked for 20 mts. then i started intervals walking for 1 minute then jogging for 2. When i feel comfortable enough, then i will change it. Walking for 30 seconds and jogging for 2 1/2 mts. I am also trying to get to where i can jog straight without walking. good luck!

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