So I'm doing it. I'm running in the 5K for the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Race for the cure in Phoenix, AZ on October 10th, 2010 (10/10/10)

I've never done a 5 K before in my life. Any suggestions or tips from someone who has?

I do run at the Gym 3-4 times a week. I walk for 10 minutes then I run at 4.8 miles per hour for 30 minutes and I walk again for 5 minutes to cool down. So I think that means I run for about 2.5 - 3miles straight. I've never really run outside before? My hubby says it is very different from a trendmill which makes me a little nervous.

Thanks!

I have not but my friend and I are working on one- I suggest going around your neighborhood a few times to really feel the difference- it is very different because the terrain isn't the same smooth treadmill.

Argh! I wrote a whole long post and thought I hit submit, but I guess it never showed up! (wrote it last week!).

Anyway, here's what I said more or less:

A Komen run is a great first 5K b/c it will probably be mostly women and it's just a very supportive environment. I've done the one here in DC which is something like 65,000 participants. Mostly walkers, but still many, many runners.

Definitely try to get some road work in before, just to get a feel for it. Running on the road may technically be harder, but I like it SO much better because it is SO much more interesting!!!

On race day, try to get there ahead of time so you don't feel rushed, and be sure to hydrate well the day before (especially if it's still hot there).

I think you have enough time that if you add a minute to each training run between now and then, you'll be able to run the whole thing. And if you don't - no big deal. The most important part is that you got out there and did your first 5K!

Let us know how it goes! And apologies for the late reply.