Running-a great freedom (Running)

Member Name: beachlou

Product:	Running
Date:	01/08/09 (7 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Relatively cheap to start up, freedom

Disadvantages: The weather

I was a self-confessed couch potato not so long ago until I decided to do something about it. I wanted to get fit and though running would be a good way to start achieving this. It's a relatively cheap exercise, with no constraints (apart from your own fitness).

I invested in a good pair of trainers. It's worth getting your 'step' checked out before purchasing because it makes a difference. Many good quality sport shops would do this, especially smaller, independent stores. I bought mine for about £50 (I was lucky, they were on sale). Next, get some sportswear. I run in simple black ¾ length leggings (a fiver from Matalan), but I did invest in a Nike Dry Fit t-shirt, which really helps keep me cool. Then I was off.

My first hurdle was trying to develop a programme that I would stick to. If I just went for a 15 minute run, I would've killed myself and wouldn't have stuck to it. So, on my iPod I bought an app called 'couch to 5k', which is a 3-a-week programme, starting really slowly and builds up from there. It goes on for 9 weeks and at the end, you should be able to run a 5k without too many problems. Day 1 is a 60 second jog, followed by a 90 second walk-perfect for me. I start each run with a 5 minute walk and a 5 minute cool down. One more tip-never, ever forget to stretch afterwards-this is a must if you don't want pain in the morning.

I love the freedom running gives you, I go everywhere and anywhere on my runs and love that it's at my own pace-I'm in competition with no-one, except maybe myself. I feel a lot fitter already (it's only been 3 weeks). Go on, give it a try! The only downside is when I can't go for a run because of the wonderful, rainy weather we've been having! Though that shouldn't stop you going, I'm just a bit of a wimp.

Summary: A great exercise to feel free