I think I'll try running

[staceysue]

It's going to be a while before I can afford to get my bike fixed, I think. We have a lot of expenses right now. So - I guess I'm going to have to do something else for fitness. I tried running a few times this year. I tore my plantaris muscle the first time, but it's healed now.

I'm actually kind of excited about it. I wonder how long it will be before I can run a mile without stopping. Once I can run a mile - how long will it be before I can run 5 miles? I would be so proud of myself if I ran 5 miles without stopping. I would be absolutely bursting with pride.

If I dedicated as much time to running as I do to cycling, I'd probably get in better shape than I'm in now, right? Running is so much harder . . . .

Any words of wisdom for a beginner?

[Bike Chick]

Lace up your shoes and start.

I'm just a beginner too but if I can do it, you can do it. I would suggest finding a beginner 5k plan and following it. There are many on the internet (runnersworld.com, halhigdon.com, fitnessmagazine.com are just a few). You will go through sore muscles as you progress but stick with it. As you get into the program, look for some area 5k runs and set that as a goal to work toward and sign up.

I know there are a lot of experienced runners on here that can give you loads of advice. They have helped and encouraged me along the way as they will you. Good luck and have fun!

[Jones]

stretch.

[danadear]

Couch to 5k program. Great program.

[e.e.cummings]

Walk/run! Ditto for the above. Motivate yourself by finding some 1, 3 or 5 k local runs, I have seen many in my office motivated by those type of events.

[zoom-zoom]

Couch to 5k program. Great program.

Yep, yep, yep. That's how I got started over 5800 miles ago.

[abejita]

Me too! I am in my 5th week of the couch to 5k program. I started running hoping it would help me go uphill on my bike without coughing up a lung.

[zoom-zoom]

stretch.

The jury is still out on this. I had far more niggling injuries when I stretched on a regular basis (and I'm far from alone on this). Now I NEVER stretch pre-run and only just a little bit post-run, if at all. Whatever you do, don't stretch prior to warm-up. Easy jog for at least 10-15 minutes before stretching.