Is anyone else completely scared of running but at the same time feeling like you should be running? I like walking but when I get going fast I get the urge to run but it scares me and I stop. For those who were walkers and are now runners how did you ease into it?

Thanks for the input!

There are plenty of great resources online and a couple of threads here. Check out this site: Couch to 5k - C25K Running Program or look for the threads here that mention "couch to 5k".

It is a 9 week programs but there is no rush. I have been at it for 17 weeks and am only up to week 3 :smile2:

After a lifetime of being a slug - I highly recommend the couch to 5k!

I was too big- too much moved in the wrong ways- I winded too quickly. None of that matters with the couch to 5k.

I decided to try the couch to 5k and ditched it the first night to run 3kms. I just didnt need to stop so I didnt.

I say 'run' but in truth it was what my husband fondly refers to as joggling. It was a very jiggly awkward stagger.

Bu the time I had band surgery, I was 37, I was fed up with getting fatter every year and feeling like frap and I was OVER worrying what anyone else thought of me doing that in public. I just did it.

Over time, I set myself goals by registering for races, so gradually increased distance.

I have lost about 110 pounds since surgery last May. I have had a couple of knee surgeries (sports related) so was afraid to run. I sent the first 5 months on the machines in the gym losing weight and building aerobics. I started running over the past few months to beat the boredom abd get over a hump that I was stuck at. I did a couple of things. First I loaded up a nannopod with music. Then I got a Nike Plus sensor, calibrated it and use it faithfully. This gives me the time I ran, distance and pace. I am now running 3 to 5 miles 4 to 5 days a week and then supplement with gym work.

I was really scared and I definitely struggled early. I think what everyone has to realize is that you have to go slow and like the diet, it takes time and you need patience. If you are someone who does not have a running background it takes a while and you have to be careful.

However, it definitely pay dividends and really is a mental boost to do. Make sure you have good shoes and good runing clothes, and take a day off between runs (or two) foe the first few months. Make sure you stretch well and properly. Ice as you need to.

The best thing you can do is start reading runners world. Although geared towards a different crowd, you can learn a lot.

Good luck, like the surgery make a commitment and support the decision and you will really enjoy the results.