Your First 5k... Where to begin

So you decided to run your first 5k, awesome! We, the running community welcome you with open arms!

1. Sign up for a 5k Race- it will hold you accountable and they fill up fast
2. You now have a goal, so get organized: find a solid training plan that works. There are sites like mapmyrun.com that others have already ran and scouted out for you, check it out. Look for high traffic areas to stay away from
3. Buy the right shoes, go to a specialty store not the large giant. The specialty stores and the running companies have a personal relationship. They invite and the running stores set up for their employees to have tours and training at their location. Personally, I would love to tour Brooks or Asics.. So leave it to the experts to steer you in the right direction. Take you old shoes, and make sure you have an hour to spare.
4. 10% rule: Too Much Too Soon is a rule of thumb runners have lived by and sworn upon for decades. Listen to the veterans, they know when enough is enough. They been through the injuries for you, don't try to reinvent a wheel that has been operating since the dawn of time
5. Reward yourself and don't get bored with your training regime. Learn the training regime, research it then ask a running coach or a friend you trust that has proven results what they do to cross-train.Reward yourself with a massage, never reward yourself with food!
6. Find a friend with the same training pace. You will find wonderful people at running groups, check your local specialty running shop and see what's around
7. Always enjoy yourself with running. Running is an addiction, healthy addictions are the place the to be. Get your family involved, friends and co-workers.

If we want to change our environment, it starts with us.
Happy Running!