How to Start a Running Program

New In June Challenge #2 – Start jogging

My husband came home from work a few weeks ago and announced that he was going to train for a half marathon. My response was “How? You don’t run?” He seemed serious so I figured I’d join him. My husband isn’t one to do things in half-measures (love you honey) but I am, so I opted to commit to running a more couch-potato friendly 5K.

Here’s what you need to start running:

-A program.  My husband was in need of running shoes so we spent a week power walking. Once he had his shoes and was ready to go we started using the Couch to 5K program. C25K is a program designed to turn couch potatoes into 5K runners in about 8 weeks through an increasingly difficult switch between walking and running. Hubby is on track but I’ve decided to take 12 weeks, to take it extra slow because I am THAT out-of-shape and have asthma (no excuses!)

-Good shoes. Look for shoes designed for the type of running you’ll be doing and your foot shape. You’ll probably have to replace your shoes in a few months so look for something supportive but not too expensive to replace. After shopping around at 5 stores hubby found his pair at Wal-Mart for $25, I bought mine at Ross for $24.

-A supportive bra. Ladies, I cannot stress this enough. Your legs and butt are going to be sore enough, you don’t need the girls aching too. Guys, the hubby doesn’t want to talk about it but…uh…you need “SUPPORT” too.

-C25K app or stopwatch. Following the program is easier when you have an app on your smartphone, but you can accomplish the same thing with a stopwatch. The first week involves walking for 5 minutes, running 60 seconds/walking 90 seconds for a total of 20 minutes, and walking for 5 minutes. I use the C25K Free app on my Android.

-Some tunes. Ok, technically you don’t NEED music but it will make your workout easier to handle. Let’s face it, starting an exercise program when you’re used to sitting at the computer is tough, I say you do whatever you can to make it more pleasurable. Before I start running I start one of my music apps in the background. I usually use Play Music by Google, but I also have a jogging station on Slacker Radio.

-A couple of safe, mapped route and a jogging buddy. A jogging buddy is a necessity for me because we jog after 9pm (it’s too hot earlier!) and I jog without my glasses and need someone to keep me from running into mailboxes (seriously.) Having several mapped, well-lit routes will give you variety and a small measure of safety.

-A goal. My husband will be running in the Disney World Half Marathon in January, I have recruited some friends to team up to run the Orlando Color Run 5K in December. You don’t have to run a race, set a goal that works for you and go for it! No excuses!!