how would a new runner get started?

[Mitchy1nge]

I feel especially stupid asking this but someone who hasn't ever done any running but is pretty fit in general (v physically demanding job looking after other people's horses!) has asked if I'd go out with them and help them start running - should I suggest a C25K type thing, and do they work even if your phone has no network connection, or just see how far she can run already and have walking breaks until we cover the distance (2-3 miles)

it is quite hard work running over the terrain she has in mind, even walking, so I don't know whether that should be pointed out, but she wants to run with her dog I think and our fields are perfect

I'd download the podcasts for C25k from the NHS website (then it doesn't matter if her phone has connection or not) and do that. It'll be important that she develops lateral stability in her legs for the rough terrain, so working up through the timing will help

thanks cmot, will try that, people speak highly of it on here

she might find it really easy, in which case I suppose we could skip ahead

feel irrationally worried about putting her off!

It worked for me, and as I'd been running round with ds and his pony, I did skip ahead - better to go a bit slower than being too ambitious and getting injured though.

Does she have a harness for the dog, or does she intend to let them run free?

no dogs are on leads, no, it's great for them and there's no public right of access or way

I've used a harness on mine and bungee/waist thing on me at times so we can go a bit further, where there are roads nearby and even people and it works so much better than I expected, considering he's a typical springer who covers every inch of ground on either side - some other instinct seems to kick in and make him run in a straight line with me when we're attached

I've pretty much stopped running there myself though because too much strain on my elderly and unhappy achilles so will see how she finds it if she can use a lead then there are flatter, easier options on public footpaths and trails