So.....let me just start off by saying I HATE EXERCISE!!! I never stick with it long enough to "love" or "crave" it but I'm trying to become better. I recently have become unemployed and have been VERY stressed which has caused me to gain about 10 pounds. So, today I'm starting the 5-day pouch test in hopes for a reboot and just completed Week 1, Day 1 of the C25K program. Losing 50 pounds sure made a difference in that since the first time I tried it a few years ago. My chest didn't hurt when I did the jogging portions and I actually completed each interval. Later I plan to do my exercise ball exercises in attempt to strengthen my abs. So, for those of you that are runners.....I need tips on a good pair of running shoes and breathing method tips....it takes me almost the entire 90 second brisk walk portion to recover.

I love my Nikes, but I have read that Brooks are good running shoes. I would recommend a specialty store if you are serious about it and have then fit you with the best running shoe you can afford. Congrats to you!

For beginners, be sure to purchase your running shoes from a store that specializes in running, to get your feet and stride properly evaluated.....wearing the wrong shoes, however comfortable they may feel, can do more damage than good.....

I bought shoes on my own because they were popular, had cool colors, and felt good....they were also very expensive ($180) so the had to be good, right?

Every time I would run, I was getting pain in both hips...I thought it was old age....

Bottom line, I was evaluated, and sold shoes less than 1/2 the price, of the ones I thought were good... and never had hip pain again.....I could have done some serious permanent hip injuries!

Now that I know my needs, I can shop for running shoes and know how to read and understand the "specs" when they mention pronation, toe box, heel or toe striker, etc...

I went to the New Balance store in my town, I didn't realize I needed a 4x shoe but I' ve always had wide feet. They feel great and the people at the store were very knowledgeable.

I agree about getting your shoes from a store that specialiazes in running. I was running in shoes I bought myself,but ended up with inflammation of the hip that required several months of physiotherapy and meds before it finally resolved. After I was finally back on my feet, I went to a local running store and found out I needed a totally different shoe. Now I can walk without pain and I am also going to get back to running with the Couch to 5K program.

I just finished the c25k program and started on the bridge to 10k. Everyone is right, good shoes make a lot of difference. The brands that work for me, may not be the best brand for you. I actually went to Sun and Ski sports, they can do the running assessment there too. The thing that sold me on then, and idk if others do this as week, but if I'm unhappy with my shoes in the next 365 days and can take them back. This is a huge piece of mind, as good running shoes are NOT cheap.

Good luck to you. I haven't met that love to run yet, I actually still kind of hate it. But I do love the sense of accomplishment that I've gotten from being able to run a 5k. My goal is the disney half marathon next year!