[johnstylet]

I am also just starting to run.Cool running is good , but i like a beggining to run site that has a very simple program.First week walk 9 min. run 1 min. repeat 3 times.2nd week walk 8 min. run 2 min. repeat 3 times for a 30 min. total and so on until you are running the entire 30 min.I am currently on the running 5 walking 5 part.Also do this 3 times a week and rest in between day's.Good luck!

[Lolita Palmer]

Hi evryday!!! I too am trying to get back into running. I ran a little in highschool and first year of college but not anymore. Patty C gave me a little advice on my post but here is the website she recommended to me. ITs really neat, and I really think it will help me build up to where I can actually run again. Good luck!!!


http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml

[iuopyra]

Ok,, I have to admit that I am NOT a runner. But I have always wanted to be. See, when I was younger I walked and ran everywhere I went. I have always been especially active. Then as I got older, my exercise drifted to more formatted things like weight lifting, swimming, aerobics and the myriad of other things that I do and love...

However, running is always in the back of my mind as something that I wish I could do. See, several years ago, I enlisted in the Naval reserves. In preparation for bootcamp, I was running everyday. I didn't realize the importance of shoes,, and considering I have "weird" feet, I did an incredible amount of damage. By the time my training and bootcamp was over, the damage was so severe that not only did I have shin splints, but also had/have stress fractures. It took me a very long time to rehabilitate, even to a point of walking... which I can proudly report that I have completely overcome,, as my journals have depicted in excess of 5-7 miles per night (on top of daily)... but still every time I try to incorporate running into my walk,, I end up in pain and have to take a day or so off..

I also fractured my ankle last Christmas in a kickboxing match,, and had to go through therapy for that,, and some days I wake up and for no reason, it hurts like heck,, but if I stretch it out real good and just watch it and sometimes wrap it,, it will be ok by the next morning..

So,,, you dear guru runners... TEACH ME HOW TO RUN!!!!! I know some stretches specifically for my problem,, but am always interested in the possibility of new info,,, and I do have "good" shoes now,, as I have learned that with extra high arches,, and extra high insteps,, and having little bity feet,, there is not much actual "foot" on the ground,, so I have to have good shoes AND the proper ortho inserts.. So,, as far as that goes, I am prepared at your command!!!

Give me the inside info,, and I will be indebted to you!! he he

[enactolaelant]

Your experience in some "basic training" indicates that you have delicate legs. You need to find some supportive running shoes and try to run off or pavement. Natural turf would be best for you. Even better would be the firm wet sand of low tide along the ocean. I remember in basic that we ran in combat boots, diving boots, barefoot, and sometimes we even got to wear sneakers. It didn't seem to matter then; but now I need those better shoes too. I hope to run again myself once I'm light enough.

I would recommend that you continue walking for a while until your ankle is completely stable. I totally wrecked mine four years ago and it was only this year that it really stabilized; over three years of healing up. Excess pounding on that ankle could prevent proper long-term healing.

When you do start to run, start slowly and at a distance that does not cause you any leg pain. Then slowly build up speed and distance to your "norm" over time. I would recommend against getting into comparing times with advanced runners and trying to keep up [I think I know you a little now.. haha]. I think the beauty of running is the aerobic benefits, and the meditative state that we can achieve in longer duration, at whatever speed is best for the individual.

Now if you want to make me feel really good, get yourself some size 10, steel-toed construction boots. Lace'em up really tight and run without socks, only on cement sidewalks. Then after two months I'll challenge you to a race. I'm going to start my training right away!

Good Luck!

[Evoncalabbalo]

Definately check out that link. It's for the couch to 5k training program on the site. The rest of the site has all kinds of info, from shoes, clothes, etc. They also have a very active message board for even more advice.

It also helps to get your shoes from a reputable running store. Everyone's feet are different, so just being a good shoe is not enough. It sounds like you went thru that already, tho. You should also track mileage on your shoes. Most running shoes are good for 300-500 miles.

I've had lots of problems with my feet, too. I really should see a specialist and see if I could use an orthotic for my right foot. It's had everything from calf strains to heel spurs.

Good luck, and keep us posted