Very Beginner Jogger/Runner (soreness, fat loss, gym, treadmill)

[the minx]

I have been researching this forum the last couple of weeks and gleaning bits of information here and there, but I don't see anything for beginner-beginners. Most of what I am finding is people who already have a base and just want to get faster/better.

I have no experience running whatsoever. I workout daily at the gym - treadmill, elliptical, and weights to tone. I'm getting bored with it though. I can hang out for an hour on the elliptical, but I'm finding that I'm spending less and less time on it, and the treadmill, just because there's nothing new about it. My workouts have suffered because of it and I can tell the difference.

I've thought about trying jogging. I like to workout outside and when I walk outside I never get bored because I can change my route for new scenery. I also have a dog that could use the extra exercise.

Does anyone have any recommendations as to how to start? I have seen some programs online, but I don't know what is better or why. And any things I might need to know for a beginner?

ThankYouVeryMuch!

[LovingSAT]

There are some free podcasts on itunes, one is couch to 5 and the other I forget. I have heard many many many success stories. Let me go see if I can find you the link.

BRB

[LovingSAT]

http://www.ullreys.com/robert/Podcasts/

[thepinksquid]

I would HIGHLY suggest following the Couch to 5k protocol for beginners. Just Google it.

[the minx]

Thank you both

[thepinksquid]

I love to run, and to me, it's more than exercise--it's part of who I am, and a cheap form of therapy.

If I had to give you one advice, it would be to not give up! At the beginning it may not be easy, and you may be "slow" but over time it's incredible how your body will just get better and better. After a while you'll find yourself running for 15-20 minutes not even thinking about running! Just letting your mind wander...it can kind of become a meditative state.

[LaoTzuMindFu]

Originally Posted by thepinksquid

I love to run, and to me, it's more than exercise--it's part of who I am, and a cheap form of therapy.

If I had to give you one advice, it would be to not give up! At the beginning it may not be easy, and you may be "slow" but over time it's incredible how your body will just get better and better. After a while you'll find yourself running for 15-20 minutes not even thinking about running! Just letting your mind wander...it can kind of become a meditative state.

I totally agree. Sometimes you get to the point where you feel like you're not even "there" when running.

OP, kinda hard to give advice without knowing where are currently as far as fitness is concerned. You say that you can do an hour on the elliptical so I am assuming that you are not really a complete beginner (unless you go veeerrrrryyyy slowly on the elliptical).

I wouldnt suggest taking your dog with you because that could be more of a hinderance to your running progress. Sure it would be fun (and good for the dog) but you dont want to have to train him/her to keep running and you dont want to have to stop for a few seconds to clean up after them. Im not sure where you are, but you should go to MapMyRun.com - Map your Run, Running Routes. Find Runs Anywhere. Join our Running Community of Runners. Run GPS, GPS, Running Social Network. Google Map Run, Calculate Calories, Online Pedometer, Distance, iPhone, and More. to see if there are any loops near you that you can start on. I find that a three mile loop works the best because 1) Scenery - you're not looking at the same ol boring thing(s) while you run. 2) Its easy to stop and walk and still mentally feel like you're making progress. 3) Also prevents you from just stopping and turning around since you may be already more than halfway.

Really try to stick with it. Once you start noticing your improvements in run time, distance and fat loss, you'll get addicted to it. Oh, I forgot - VERY IMPORTANT TO GET SOME GOOD RUNNING SHOES.

[ChessieMom]

Originally Posted by thepinksquid

I would HIGHLY suggest following the Couch to 5k protocol for beginners. Just Google it.

I second this.

Originally Posted by thepinksquid

I love to run, and to me, it's more than exercise--it's part of who I am, and a cheap form of therapy.

AND this!!!

Originally Posted by LaoTzuMindFu

VERY IMPORTANT TO GET SOME GOOD RUNNING SHOES.

And MOST of all, this!!!

[thepinksquid]

Originally Posted by LaoTzuMindFu

VERY IMPORTANT TO GET SOME GOOD RUNNING SHOES.

YES!

Also, find out whether you overpronate (turn your foot inward when running), underpronate (outward when running) or if you're neutral. This is usually related to if you have a flat, high or normal arch, respectively. Get shoes that correspond to what you are. This will help prevent injury and unnecessary soreness.

Google that, too, for more info.

[broadbill]

Originally Posted by thepinksquid

YES!

Also, find out whether you overpronate (turn your foot inward when running), underpronate (outward when running) or if you're neutral. This is usually related to if you have a flat, high or normal arch, respectively. Get shoes that correspond to what you are. This will help prevent injury and unnecessary soreness.

Google that, too, for more info.

...this means going to a reputable running store and have them analyze your gait. After that, they can put you in the best shoe for your stride. Sure, you could probably buy that shoe for a few bucks cheaper online, but this way you'll know you have the right shoe for the job!