Well, I haven't "began" yet... but I would like some advice....
I have never been able to run... even as a kid... I get this crazy pain in my chest, and pain in my ribs, etc. Maybe I'm just not tough enough I dont know.
But I'd really like to be able to run... just to say "I'm going for a run." would be so cool!
I proabably should have posted under the "Exercise" forum, but I like the 20-somethings forum.
I can jog for a minute or so and then I have to walk and I feel like my heart is about to pound out of my chest.
Tips please?!?!

Thanks so much!

I am pretty new to the run world too...
but the most important thing I learned is to get good sneakers (very important) so you avoid getting injuries, what could prevent you from running for good.
Good luck!

Callie, I really know what you mean, I'm still a little vain about being able to say I'm a runner

Just run for the minute can, then walk, then run, then walk. That is just fine. You will gradually increase the ratio of running to walking. If you prefer structure, google the Couch to 5K program. But you should do fine without it too, if you're motivated. Just err on the side of caution. Our joints and ligaments and tendons take longer to adjust than our muscles and cardiovascular fitness do.

I think you will find this thread very helpful!

http://3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?t=170347

Good luck!

I started the C25k and I love it! I don't like their podcasts though, I just listen to my own music and watch the time or watch TV and check the time. I used to try and burn myself out cuz I couldn't do it- but this way I'm noticing my running is getting better!

And do NOT forget to stretch- it really helps to stretch out those legs beforehand and I agree to get good shoes, I use good shoes with good insoles- I got tendonitis from using bad shoes and now I'm very careful.

ya, as the others mentioned, C25K is awesome! i hated running and i am on week 6 now. come join us, we have a thread here in the 20something forum! look forward to hearing about your progress!

http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?t=167668

good shoes are essential, i paid around NZ$200 for mine and it has been well worth it. They have virtually no wear on them despite using them around three times a week for about a year, and not only will they help take care of your joints they make running a heck of a lot easier too.

When i started i could only run a tincy bit and it was hard. I would listen to music and run for one song then walk for two, run for one, walk for two, etc for as long as i could, usually about half an hour. I gradually built it up from there

Yes I agree good shoes!

Also, take it slow. Be sure you're running at a pace where you can still talk. If you're going to fast, you'll tire out way easily. That may help with the pain?

Thanks gals!!! Don't know when I'm gonna get to start... I had thought I might get up this morning, but I took a shower last night after hot yoga and didnt want to have to take another one this am. I know... excuses, excuses!!
I'll keep ya posted... thanks again for all of the great advice!
~Callie

Can anyone recommend some GREAT running shoes? I used to get shin splints in gymnastics because of the sprints. So a great pair of running shoes will be essential!

Unfortunately, that's completely an individual thing!

You'll want to go to a running store and get fitted by someone who knows a lot about what runners need in a shoe. They'll watch you run/walk, or even do some some fancy analysis of your foot shape, and figure out what you need in terms of size, width, stability, and padding. If you need help finding this type of store in your area, let us know, or PM me.

If you ask runners about what brand of shoes they like, you'll probably get a different answer from everyone! I've heard plenty of people who love Brooks, hate Brooks, love New Balance, hate New Balance, love Mizuno, hate Mizuno... etc. I think it's really just about what fits you best!

I think mine are mizuno, but mayness is right, its very individual! I went to a store that analysed my foot shape, where i put my weight when i run etc so they fit me up with something that was right for me. I also have weak ankles so i got some that would support me there too

WHOA! and I have no idea on a specific running store in my area. Can anyone help? I live in southeastern Minnesota.

Good shoes are essential, but one thing that was a turning point for me was breathing. No kidding, I went from only being able to run half a block to running a kilometer instantly and it's worked for me ever since. I breathe in for 3 steps and out for three steps, that's it. If you don't have great lung capacity you could start with two steps or go up to four steps if three isn't enough. It really works, the hard part is remembering to count while you're running, I swear, breath control is the only reason I can run a step! I don't count anymore since it comes naturally after doing it for so long. Now, if only I could become a gazelle instead of clydesdale, life would be great!

Maybe this will help me... went jogging/walking yesterday afternoon and this morning... I can jog for maybe 30-45 seconds and I feel like I'm about to die... so I go back to a walk and it takes a minute or so for my breath to not be labored anymore. Guess I'll just stay with it and try to jog in longer increments.
Thanks again for all of the advice!