[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!