OK, so I want to start running...

I've been walking and I although I was never a runner I feel like I have to move!

So whats involved? I mean, do I just lace up my sneaks, put on my jog bra, and hit the pavement?

Anything I should know?

I got a book on running by 'Runner's World' it has a pretty good schedule to start you out .

Here is the website:

http://www.runnersworld.com

Straight from the website:

Here's the official Runner's World beginning-running program. It will get you to 20 minutes of easy running in just 10 weeks. Remember: You must repeat the basic workout three to four times per week.
If you're starting from a low fitness level, we recommend you begin with several weeks of walking for 20 to 30 minutes at a time before attempting Week 1. Also, if you have not exercised for a long time, are overweight, or have existing or family health problems, see your physician before you begin this program.

Week Run Walk Repeat Total Time
1 1 min 2 min 7x 21 min
2 1 min 1 min 10x 20 min
3 2 min 1 min 7x 21 min
4 3 min 1 min 5x 20 min
5 4 min 1 min 4x 20 min
6 6 min 1 min 3x 21 min
7 9 min 1 min 2x 20 min
8 12 min 1 min Then run 7 min 20 min
9 15 min 1 min Then run 4 min 20 min
10 20 min Leap for joy 20 min

Note: Always warm up for your workout with a couple minutes of walking and/or slow jogging, and cool down afterward with the same. If you cannot reach 20 minutes of continuous running, try to run 8 or 9 minutes, walk 1 or 2 minutes, and repeat. When you succeed at reaching the 20-minute goal-and you will-gradually increase your distance to whatever level you choose.

be patient and start slowly. Find a comfortable pace and to run/walk intervals. Run until you feel tired, walk until you recover, repeat. If you find a good pace, you will be surprised how far you can go. Also, keep your face/jaw loose, as well as your hands and arms. use your arms to help swing your pace.

Make it enjoyable, and just like any exercise, if you feel low on energy, do a light workout, so that you never feel it's a chore, make it fun and ajust according to the day you are having. once you start, your'll be surprised that you might get more into it than you planned or thought you could.

Thanks ladies!

I run alot and have been doing it for a long time...but there are definitely times when I fall off (like winter...)

so to motivate myself...I will sign up for a 10K or half-marathon...but starting out there are tons of 5Ks...

also I have a friend who runs pretty much the same pace as me...so we have a great time doing races together...so if you can find someone willing to do it with you...it makes the time go by...

get a good pair of new balance running shoes
cross trainers do not support your feet well when you run

I agree with tammy about not getting cross-trainers...big no-no...but as for the brand - it will differ with each person depending on their arch and running style...

I can only use Nikes (or I will get shin splints) but I know others who need new balance or reebok...etc...if you go to ta running store (like Super runner in hunt village) they have people that are big time runners that can help you on your way