Just started running...any tips

The number one, most important thing to know - in my opinion - is go get a good pair of running shoes. Go to a store that specializes in running (NOT Target or Payless or anything like that) and have them fit you. They will look at your stride, your footfall and your arch and find the right pair. The wrong pair of shoes can lead to discomfort or - at worst - injuries where the right pair can really make the experience a lot more pleasant. Good luck and remember to have fun!!

Bump

DEFINITELY A GOOD PAIR OF SHOES!!!! I was running in some crappy ones I got from walmart and ended up with stress fractures, which will put you out for weeks!! Drink plenty of water and eat a good meal to give you the strength you need for you run.

I am just starting out as a runner, tonight i ran 0.75 miles straight, which is impressive for me, lol so intervals really work for me, jogging for a few minutes, then walking for a few minutes, but you seem to be able to cover some distance pretty well

just don't run two consecutive days. You risk injury!

I'm just curious - do all runners skip a day in between runs? I don't run every day, but I sometimes will run 2 days in a row, then take a day off. Should I change it to every other day or something?

Hey there! Running is indeed a great way to get into shape. I have been a "runner" for a few years (I have just recently gotten serious and am in training to do a half marathon soon). My first bit of advice is to set a quantifiable goal. The Couch to 5K (aka C25K) program seems to work for a lot of people here. Otherwise, no matter the distance you run, it will feel like you are not getting anywhere. Secondly, STRETCH! Both before and after your run. Minimum of 30 seconds per stretch. This will save you some serious pain down the road. Running is hard on your knees, shins, hips, back and neck. Sore knees and ankles can be lessened, even avoided, by a goodly amount of stretching. Lastly, know your body. There are some days, like you did today, where you can really push yourself and come out on top. There will be other days where your body is just not going to respond as well as you like. Don't get discouraged. This is natural. Just know the difference between "I need to push myself" and "I should slow down and maybe consider just a brisk walk" today. As far as good music, I enjoy heavy drum beat and bass lines (The Ramones, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Metallica). Anything that makes you happy will help you run.
If you have any other running questions, I will be happy to try and answer them. Good luck and have fun on your runs!

I hated running in highschool as well and then one day about 12 years ago I just started running. I ran around the block and thought I was going to have a heart attack! LOL!

Anyway, I just kept doing it and love it!! Especially the apres run, the endorphins and feeling of accomplishment are amazing.

To increase your distance, I would just run your distance, then walk, then try running a little bit further. Slowly you just add mileage. I wouldn't worry about increasing speed for awhile. Try to get to your goal - 5K, 10K whatever it is, and then worry about speed!

It's a great workout you can do anywhere, anytime -- “There are clubs you can't belong to, neighborhoods you can't live in, schools you can't get into, but the roads are always open." - Nike

just don't run two consecutive days. You risk injury!

I'm just curious - do all runners skip a day in between runs? I don't run every day, but I sometimes will run 2 days in a row, then take a day off. Should I change it to every other day or something?

Um, I don't know about this. I run about 5 or 6 miles every day.

You can run just about as much as I can so no tips here! I try to get in a lot of water to keep my muscles cooperating for me. I'm working on improving my 5k time, trying to increase how long I can run. I can run a mile in a decent time but after that, I can't run for another mile so I'm working on that. Good luck to you lady!

1. Good shoes
2. GREAT sports bra
3. Warm up
4. There is no such thing as running too slowly, work on distance first, then work on pace
5. Stretching afterwards
6. www.runningahead.com.au for all your running related questions - they are an amazing fountain of knowledge

Good luck, running is hard work but its so good.

Plenty of people run consecutive days without rest- and even more run twice a day. The important thing is that you need to work up to that point though. Right now you shouldn't be running more than 3x a week, and don't increase your mileage by more than 10% a week.

I would like to give you 5 pieces of advise (well Ok maybe a few more)

1. Train hard enough that you still enjoy it. Running can be a truly wonderful thing. I run because I enjoy it. People quit when they stop enjoying it whether that be from over training, improper training whatever.

2. Use common sense... Rome wasn't built in a day, you won't be able to run a marathon in a day either. Enjoy what each day gives you. Rule of thumb is to never exceed the previous weeks distance by more than 10%.

3. Concentrate on form rather than speed or endurance. Form is very helpful in making running pleasant. It prevents injuries which will keep you from speed or endurance.

4. Don't cheep out, get properly equipped. If you are planning on running in shoes, make sure they are the right ones. Go to a running store and have them assess your running style or gait. Every mile that you run results in your feet slamming into the pavement at up to 12 times your body weight per square inch (source: Born to Run by Christopher McDougall). Proper shoes make your running more enjoyable and prevents injuries. Ditto on clothing... it is so much more comfy to run in tech type clothing which wicks moisture away from the skin (as opposed to cotton which over time will chaff) A great investment.

5. Set reasonable goals for yourself. Don't feel that you can or have to go out and run a full marathon 9 months after you start running (only complete fools do that... oh wait... I did that... and paid the price with shin splints, it band issues, tendinitis etc). You might start with signing up for a 5K, 10-12 weeks down the road as a goal. Set multiple goals to help keep you in line.

Bonus Tips

6. Its easy to stay on track if you join a running group... Places like Running Room, Fleet Feet etc all have clinics to Learn to Run. When you have a scheduled time to run, and a plan in place, it really helps you to keep going. The coaching of most is thes clinics is usually perfect for beginners.

7. Listen to your body... if you feel a sharp pain... stop running and assess it. I know to many people who have pushed thru injuries and ended up sidelined for months. Don't be afraid to take a day or two off to allow for some healing.

8. R-I-C-E is not just for serious injuries... it can help you heal faster in terms of minor strains and stiff muscles.

9, The correct order of a workout is warmup -> Dynamic Stretching -> Running -> Cool Down -> Static stretching. Most importantly is to stretch after the workout. You would be amazed at how well it helps recover from a run.

Finally... Enjoy. When you patiently build up endurance and follow many of the little rules, you don't suffer. Running becomes a very fun sport... especially in the company of others.

Good Luck!

Happy Running!