SFTC Discussion Forum

I have always wanted to be a runner. I would see runners on the streets and think to myself, "wow. I wish I could do that" . My 8 yr old daughter has taken up running and wants me to run with her. What a perfect way for us to spend time together and do something good for both of us. HOWEVER, I am really having a hard time with it. How far should I run each day? How long should it take me to run a mile? Should I work on speed or distance first? How many days a week should I be running? If the weather is bad and I run on a treadmill is that just as good as running outside? ( I prefer outside ) My schedule is more chaotic than most since my job is not a normal 9-5 job and I have a 5 yr old that is really too big to be in a stroller but not big enough to run with us.
I am new to this and seem to find conflicting information. I am not overweight, but I am out of shape. So when I say new, I really mean new.
ANY advice or tips would be greatly appreciated!

Hi mcmom,
Here is some basic advice to start with:

Start slow. If you haven't been physically active, get your physicians go ahead before you begin. Start out walking and gradually work your way up to slow jogging. Increase your mileage slowly to prevent injury. There are several "couch to 5k" (C25k) programs available on the internet. Runners World magazine and Cool Running are two websites for a start.

Shoes Go to a specialty running store and get fitted for the proper shoes. Being in the correct shoe will also help you avoid injury. There are two very good specialty running stores locally who can do a gait analysis and fit you with the right shoe for you.

When you visit your local running store, ask them about any beginner programs or running groups that may be based out of their stores.

The local running community has a lot of great people who are more then happy to offer advice and encouragement once you get out there. Good luck and have fun!

In addition to the great advice in the previous reply, I'd add don't even ask questions yet like "how fast should I run a mile" or "should I focus on speed or distance?". Those things will become important in time, but right now the thing to do is to focus on fitness and just learning to run. Don't try to run too far or too fast too soon, or you'll soon be an injured runner. Build your endurance up slowly following a beginning running program. And remember everyone's body responds differently to starting to run. If you get into a program, be flexible and listen to your body. If you are feeling unusually tired, sore, etc, take an day off from running. Consider a walk instead of a run. If you enjoy running and stay healthy, it won't be long until time, distance, etc become important, but for now just enjoy it!

Thanks so much for the advice! Any help is greatly appreciated!