[eeyore]

Originally Posted by welshcameraman

Running is a great way of increasing your fitness, you can do in anywhere and apart from quality running shoes, you don't need any special kit.

As for shoes, go to a specialist running shop. They should have a treadmill and be able to asses your style, and sell you suitable shoes. Running shoes nowadays are complicated and constructed for different gaits, and you don't for instance, want a shoe that is meant for a pronator if you have a neutral style.

As for starting up.... A small amount often is better than trying to do one big run once a week. I would go out and try to do a mile or maybe two, three or four times a week and build up slowly, but just see how your body copes.If there is a running club in your area, go down and join in.They will be a friendly lot, and will welcome you with open arms, even if you are not Sebastian Coe.

what he said - in addition i'd suggest having a look at "running" magazine - they have it in most major libraries if you dont want to buy it - plus its worth getting hold of a copy of "the runners handbook" by bob glover