Beginning to workout
 

I have had quite a sedentary lifestyle for about 3 years now and want to start working out, eventually running. Any suggestions on getting started?

I actually attended a freebie "walk to run" lecture given by a local trainer....

I didn't do it though, I kind of got stuck on the walk/run part but this woman claimed she started running in her early 40s and you should see her omg she looks like an athlete and she's pushing 50 now.

Anyhow she suggested a track because when you run on city streets, you have to stop so often. Or I guess if you live in a rural area, that would work too.

So, you map out a route depending on what you can walk for your fitness level. In my case I am comfy walking 2 miles briskly so, you start with that.

Then basically you just mix in some walk/run laps with the walking laps. You get to the point where your walking, walk/running/ walking. Then you just lengthen the running intervals until you are running the whole middle part and eventually the whole 2 miles.

She swears if you just get out there and drag yourself the 2 miles any which way -- within a year you'll be running most of it.

Walking and progressing to running is great... I started running at 47 and am now 52 and love and still run regularly 3 to 4 x/week... You need to start very gradually so that you don't injure yourself. Firstly with walking, then walking briskly then by doing walking/jogging intervals. The best program to start is the Couch to 5k running program.

Good luck and keep us posted on your progress...

When you're first starting out, establishing a consistent routine is very important -- carving out a time for exercise that works for you, finding an activity that you like and will stick with, and then just doing it at least 3 times per week. Once you establish your routine, you can build from there.

If running is your goal, then I concur with the others, that walk/jog intervals are the way to start. Over time, you'll find you can jog longer and walk less. Just don't try to start out running to fast -- that's the most common mistake that beginners make.

Good luck and have fun!!