Newbie Question: getting started, and walking?

[roadie gal]

You can do it!

I have a lousy knee, have since I was a kid (I"m 48 now). The key for me is good, cushioned shoes, with cushy insoles. As soon as your knee starts to hurt, replace them. It's worth the money.

One thought on training: Start with a run/walk plan. Run 2 minutes, walk a set amount, 1-5 minutes, then run 2 and walk, etc. Slowly, over weeks, increase your run/walk ratio. You'll be surprised how you can pick up the mileage. It also gives you a good idea of what your knee can take.

[KSH]

What would I tell you?

Hhhuuummm... 1st train for sprints, then work your way up from there.

As for your knee, I would really suggest you seeing a Dr. and making sure it's OK to start a full on training plan. Just a check out before starting down this crazy road, wouldn't help.

After the Dr. make sure you get some GOOD SHOES that are made for your stride/form/strike. Good running shoes are worth the money and money saved on Dr. bills because of injury.

Finally... I will tell you... you can do it. GOOD LUCK!!!!

[Starfish]

You guys are great! Thank you for the wisdom and encouragement. And for the community.

No one in my family is into endurance sports, and the friends I have in my small town area are all multiple Iron Man completers. It really helps to hear from folks who don't expect me to be tougher than I am.

[Starfish]

make sure you get some GOOD SHOES that are made for your stride/form/strike.

Do store people know this stuff? How do I find someone to trust on this?

[KSH]

Do store people know this stuff? How do I find someone to trust on this?

Proper running stores who specialize in selling running shoes will be able to fit you properly.

In Dallas we have Run On!, Luke's Locker, etc. Sports Authority does NOT fall into this category.

You might want to call around and ask. Also, get ready to drop around $100 for a pair of shoes.

[Offthegrid]

BTW, there are some really, really fast walkers out there (many former runners). I did a race with a lady who walked 12-minute miles. Don't think that just because you may not be able to run you can't do a tri.

[Starfish]

Don't think that just because you may not be able to run you can't do a tri.

OTG, thanks! I have to admit the whole fast-walk thing did not occur to me...I have never investigated speed walking techniques, but that makes a lot of sense. I SO appreciate this forum...sometimes I sure get stuck in my thinking-ruts!

Also, my competitive nature sure disappeared with my 20s and 30s. Now I just like to see what I can complete, and I find that motivating and relaxing. I care about the times of events mainly to make sure I can finish within the allotted times.