Hey there inmate1972. First..I apologize for my LATE response...I just noticed I had a comment on my Runner's Notes blog. I HATE our blogging software -- sometimes it tell us it has a comment, sometimes it doesn't.

ANYWAY...it is insane to run. We're all crazy...you'll see that runners are the weirdest motley group of people ever -- we've got doctors, lawyers, iron workers, journalists, black, white, old, young, skinny, fat -- all among our ranks.

There are some great beginner running books -- and some tailored to women. I can't reccomend any off the top of my head because it's been forever since I browsed the running section at Borders, but...anything by Runners World (magazine) could be a trusted source of solid info.

Runner's World has a great Web site, too. There, they have a section just for beginning runners and they have lots of great blogs, too. You can sign up for their e-mail newsletter which has lots of great articles too (though, I notice that some of them are Runners World magazine articles repurposed for the web).

I've attached a PDF of a handout I gave out at some of the runner's clinics (if any readers want this, email me). It has a beginning runners schedule. Depending on your current fitness level, you can start by walking (every runner starts out walking...then tries running to a telephone pole, then a mailbox, etc.). If you're already fit...just pick a week and jump right into the running.

Two things:
1. You need good running shoes -- it's a must have (and the only must-have, really). Running in cross-trainers or walking shoes or regular sneakers will take a toll on the body (especially the knees and shins). Try the Erie Sports Store or Dicks --ask specifically for running shoes (or check out the new specialty running store in Meadville, called Achilles). You can expect to pay up to $80.

2. Don't run full out. Just jog slowly...to a certain point. Then, walk...then jog...then walk. At no point should you be gasping for breath.

Consider going to an area running event -- if not participating, go to watch -- it's inspirational -- you'll see all kinds of people out there doing something good for their bodies and you'll be inspired to join them. Events now are few and far between, but the Erie Runners Club had at least one race a month -- schedule is at www.erie-runnersclub.org.

Feel free to email me with any questions -- I cherish the opportunity to turn another person into a runner. It's such a great stress reliever and it burns more calories per mile than anything else (more bang for your buck).

P.S. I'm assuming your a woman -- and, if so, you should consider aiming to walk/run the Her Times women's 5K in October -- the 11th

Heather C.
Runner's Notes