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Reputation: 27

Book/website recommendation for someone who wants to learn to run?

Friends:
I would like to be a person who runs for exercise for all the normal reasons (cheap, outside etc) but I am self-conscious/anxious about trying to do it for real because I know I won't be able to do a lot when I first start. I am easily discouraged and intimidated by people who are better than me at things I want to do. Can you suggest a book or website that could give me realistic goals and tips? Thank you!

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5 Answers

  • David_library_small
    Reputation: 639

    I would wholeheartedly suggest John Bingham's books, The Courage to StartRunning for Mortals and Marathoning for Mortals. John is known by his running nickname, "The Penguin," (with the motto "Waddle on!") and his approach is geared very much to the person you describe yourself to be. He really knows his stuff, and writes for runners and walkers at all stages about running from where you are, not getting injured, not overdoing it, and finding and celebrating the kind of runner or walker you are.

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  • Avatar_default
    Reputation: 239

    A lot of people have been using the Couch to 5K free program:

    http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml

    They also have a Facebook page where they post useful links and people report their status or look for encouragement.

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  • Dscf6268_for_web_small
    Reputation: 342

    I've heard good things about this free program at Green Lake. You should also get fitted for a pair of shoes; I've had great luck at Sound Sports downtown. A store like that might also give you leads on coaching. Good luck!

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  • Photo_on_2011-05-23_at_16
    Reputation: 718
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  • 6521205-0-large_small
    Reputation: 1345

    You should read Born to Run. It's not going to teach you how to run but you will learn a lot about running and be endlessly entertained in the process.

    http://www.amazon.com/Born-Run-Hidden-Superathletes-Greatest/dp/0307266303

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