I still consider myself a newbie runner. I have only been running since the summer, and it's still not easy for me. But fortunately, I'm still enjoying it and have learned a few things along the way that I wanted to share. This post is for other new runners or anyone who is interested in starting a running program. Of course, everyone's journey will be different, and what works for me may not work for you. But I hope it helps, even if just a little! If you have anything to add to the list (which is in no particular order), let me know!
Set a goal - My goal was to run a 5K race. I had no idea how much fun a race would be, and how much sense of pride would come from completing one! (My other goal was weight loss, but more on that later.)
Find a training program - I used the Couch to 5K Program, and highly recommend it. But there are tons of programs out there. I found it so much easier to keep going if I had a set training schedule to stick to each week.
Don't be intimidated - This is a biggie for me. There will always be better, faster runners out there no matter your ability. We all share the same road. I've let myself get intimidated before, and it can really be discouraging. So keep this in mind, and try not to let these seasoned runners intimidate you.
Get a heart monitor - Even though I don't have one of these yet, I really want to get one. I think a heart rate monitor helps so that you know when you can exert yourself a little more or if you need to slow down.
It's ok to stop and walk - When I first started, I felt like if I had to stop and walk it was a "run fail." It's perfectly fine to stop and take a break. Even the best runners have to stop and walk sometimes. The key is to start back running as soon as you feel like you can.
Slow is ok - Something I have to remind myself of all the time. Slow is ok! If it takes you 15 minutes to run a mile - so what? YOU RAN A MILE! Congrats! That is something to be proud of. Speed takes time; I am learning this as I go. My goal is to eventually be able to run a 10 minute mile. That's going to be a while ha!
Running is for overweight people too - I say this because A) I used to think only fit people ran and B) I was scared to run outside for fear of what people would think. Have you seen those people on the Biggest Loser? Anyone can run. Just put your ear buds in your ear and zone everyone out.
Read Up - Cool Running has tons of amazing articles with advice for new runners. The Couch to 5K Program also has a facebook page, and I soak up their articles like a sponge. Great online support too from other runners.
http://www.coolrunning.com/Say no to cotton - Once you start running any distances over 2 miles you really need some good running shirts and shorts/pants. Materials that absorb sweat and prevent chaffing. They tend to be more expensive, but well worth it. Trust me on this one! Also, the first time I ran in the rain, my cotton Capri's felt like they weighed 50 pounds.
Invest in good shoes - This is pretty obvious, but get some good running shoes. It makes ALL the difference in the world.
Sign up for a race - Regardless of your running goals, running a race is a great way to keep you motivated. I signed up for 2 races during the holidays because I knew otherwise my slack ass would find every excuse in the book not to run!
Black Toenail Syndrome - Haven't heard about this? If you are a new runner, prepare yourself. I would have said this wouldn't happen to me, but it did. I woke up one morning and my 3rd toenail was completely black and eventually fell off. It's gross, but just use it as an excuse to get a pedi! Woot!
Music - When I first started running, I picked the fastest tunes I could find. But I soon found that it affected (effected? Sorry I can never remember which) my pace and I would run too fast and get burnt out. Now I find myself choosing music that varies, some slow, so fast, some in between. Just depends. I try to match my pace better now. I still have those fast songs that I can FF to if I want to try to go faster. Or if I'm trying to keep a slow and steady pace, I have some slower more mellow tunes. Just mix it up, whatever works. It's different for everyone.
Crappy days will happen - I have had a few days where I headed out for a run and burned out within 5 minutes. My body just wasn't feeling it. These days will make you feel like a big fat failure. But it's amazing how much difference a day can make. The next day I usually can rock it. Just listen to your body, and if you are having a bad day (physically or mentally) this can affect your run. And it's ok.
Start slow but push yourself - On the Couch to 5K program, I have heard some people say to take as long as you want to progress to each week. I have mixed feelings about this. True, if you really are struggling with say Week 5 to the point where you can barely finish, then yes. I would take an extra day or 2 before progressing. But otherwise, I say push yourself. You'll be amazed at what your body can do, even when you sometimes think otherwise. And the feeling of pride that comes from completing each week is such a great feeling.
Weight Loss - Running is no different than any other cardio program. Calories in, calories out. I have not lost that much weight since I started running, but I believe that I did not always properly try to watch my calorie intake like I should have. I have however lost some inches. Just keep this in mind if your goal includes weight loss.
Weight Training - An area I have not done well in, and perhaps would have helped with weight loss! I highly recommend a weight training program to accompany running! Have heard many runners say they do Yoga also. This is something I'd like to start doing.
Running Partner - If you can, get a partner! I really enjoyed the month or two that my friend M was able to run with me on the weekends. We motivated each other and both ran our 1st 5K together. But most of the time I ran by myself. Sometimes it can be lonely and it's difficult to motivate yourself. But I have found that I like running alone too. You can run at your own pace, and no depending on others for anything.
Stretching - I truly believe the reason I have been so lucky and not had any injuries (knock on wood) is because I take an enormous amount of time stretching before and after. This is not negotiable for me. I don't care what the experts say about only stretching after; I do both. Listen to your body, and do what you think is best for you. I will do another post later on which stretches I do. Also, you have to find a balance between pushing yourself and knowing your bodies limits. Many runners are very competitive and I believe push too hard, therefore injuring themselves. But sometimes, even through all the best efforts to avoid injury, it may happen. Important: Take time to heal.
Running outside vs. Treadmill - In my opinion, running outside is harder. The terrain is uneven, wind resistance, no belt to keep you moving at the same speed and incline at all times. I was shocked at how different it was when I first started running outside. If you are trying to transition to outdoor running, up your incline to .5 or 1 on the treadmill.
Reevaluate - If after a few months you find yourself not progressing or not enjoying running, then maybe running isn't for you. The key is to find what you like to do! So far, even though it's not always easy, I love to run. It mellows me out, and gives me an outlet.
Any of you runners, new or seasoned, have any additional advice?

Me with M after finishing our first 5K back in October. Holla! ;)