Are you a beginner? (re: Running)

So my cousin is starting to run and asked me for some advise on how to get into it. I don't (by any means) concider myself an expert runner... but I do really enjoy doing and talking about it. There is plenty of literature on the internet for beginners, but here was my scoop to her:

"When running, I find that if you want to get better at it, then you should register (or plan to register) for an upcoming race. That way, you not only have something to work towards (increasing your stamina or distance), but you also know that you’re wasting your money if you back out on it :)I find that people either enjoy running or they hate it. If you’re a beginner, don’t confuse hurting with hating running. For example, when I started running 3 years ago, I couldn’t even go a quarter mile without having a lot of pain in my shins, sides..and not to mention not being able to breathe. But I still really enjoyed finding that the next week I could go a little further, and then a little further the week after.. and that’s what gave me pleasure. If I really hated it, I wouldn’t of stuck with it.

So I’d suggest that you work yourself up to a 5k. Register for a race and see how you do. I’m not a fast runner by any means..and have no ambition to work on my speed. I prefer to run the whole course slower and finish rather than running fast and then having to stop because I’m hurting. Don’t try to take on too much distance at first. Too much too soon is a recipe for disaster. Ramping mileage up very slowly is key and not getting injured is important (obviously) :) . I was able to run a longer distance after I bought my ipod. Sometimes listening to some good music is important to getting yoru mind off of how much your body is tired and getting you into a good pace. BUT, make sure you pay attention to how fast your running! Theres a lot of times that I’ll put on some good house music (with a faster beat), and I find myself sprinting and having to walk half way because I nearly killed myself. You may want to chose songs that make you feel energized but doesn’t have such a fast rhythm.

If you go to active.com.. you can browse upcoming races. They are so fun and you’ll find that you can run a little further purely on the adrenalin that you get from running with hundreds to thousands of people (in some cases). I hope this helps a little. I’m not really an expert on running or consider myself great at it. But I really enjoy spending the time outdoors and the exercise is great in making me feel good emotionally and physically. "

Perhaps this may help someone else?