Boyz- of course you can use me as a resource for running anytime! I have been running for years and have done (2) marathons, (1) half marathon and (2) oly distance triathlons. I am well versed in running
I will PM you my email address as I can't always get on this site, but my email goes right to my phone and I can check that any time.
On top of that, I would definitely start running NOW! I have been exercising through my whole journey and it has definitely helped with my inches lost and fat lost. My body is quite toned now that I have dropped the weight, and I attribute that to my continuing to exercise. "Couch to 5K" is an amazing program to get back started, and I have used it several times myself when I have taken time off from running and then started up again.
Pauley- I always run outside. My nickname for the treadmill is the "dreadmill". I cannot stand not going anywhere. However, I am fortunate enough to live in a place where I can run outside all year round very comfortably (SE FL). Running is, by far, the best "bang for your buck" when it comes to exercising and burning calories. It's why I love it so.
The fact that you are running 5.4 miles twice a week is very impressive for someone who just took up running 3 weeks ago! It took me months to be able to run 3 miles non-stop when I first started running. Heck, I just started building back up to 3 mi. not too long ago and I had to take walk breaks.
Are you training or aiming for anything in particular, or running purely for exercise? You are running about 15 miles a week, which is a great base. If you are running purely for exercise, I would try to run 3-4 miles, 4-5 days per week. Instead of doing (2) long runs and (2) short runs, it would be better to do 4-5 equal runs. If you are aiming for a particular distance, race or event, I would suggest something different.
How long does it take you to run the 5.4 miles? The 2 miles? I will definitely try to help you out as much as possible! I will also PM you my email.
Hope this helps!