Hi "New Girl" - agree with Jan, although I've never read the book, I know that type of book can be very helpful.
Here's my top 10 list -
Get a good pair of running shoes - go to a real running store (not just a department store that sells Nikes) and have the running store salesperson fit you for a pair of running shoes that works with your 'style' / gait or whatever you call it. Buying a good pair of shoes is worth every penny because you are protecting yourself from injury, especially (in my case) shin splints.
Along with your good pair of shoes, get decent socks - I like ones that are a bit more cushiony. When I run on trails (and through creeks) I use thinner ones that dry quicker.
Get on Runners world.com and read some of the articles written for newbies/beginning runners - they are very helpful. There's a huge variety of topics that address injury prevention, stretching, diet, short distance, long distance... etc etc.
Don't be afraid to mix running with walking! I see so many runners post things like "Today I ran 2 miles and I really tried to do it all without walking." There's nothing at all wrong with walk/run/walk/run etc etc. This is true for beginners and also those who have been at it a while. You can build up to more running than walking and, in many distances, all running and no walking, but I know many that run marathon distances where they employ a run / walk method to get through the whole thing. I guess I'm just trying to say that there's nothing wrong with walking in the midst of your running! It's probably better (IMO) to go out and run, then walk some then run / walk etc than to beat yourself up running then having to walk the rest of the way, dead tired.
Make sure you drink plenty of water or Gatorade, Powerade or something like that. I always carry a belt thing with a bottle of water or Gatorade, even if I'm running a short run.
If you are in a city, check to see if they have a Road Runners club.. I think there are listings under Road Runners club of America. Many times there are local chapters that have training programs for beginners and you shoot for a goal race, like a 5k.
Realize that you most likely won't get the 'runner's high at the beginning, that may or may not come later. You will feel better once you complete a work out. I run a lot, and hardly get that runner's high. Also, it's going to feel tough until you're warmed up. When I take off to run, I usually feel like a slug for the first mile.
And, this may be a TMI girl thing, but I always wear these tight short things underneath my running shorts. I hate it when my thighs rub together and chafe and if you run and mix all that with sweat, it really hurts.
That's my top 10 list.. I have no idea how many things I listed (did I hit 10?) ! The most important advice, IMO, is to get good shoes.
Keep us posted!
Keri
