Any tips on starting running?

[Neeko]

Hi. Not sure if this is in the right place so trying here and in the weight-loss section, but due to DH's working hours I find it hard to fit in scheduled exercise and would like to give running a try.
Does anyone have any tips about how to start, kit etc? I'm also a bit worried about whether my pelvic floor is up for the job after two children so any tips there would also be appreciated.
TIA

Basket - yes, you can google and download various Couch to 5k programmes from t'internet and load onto an MP3. They have music and a voice telling you to start/stop running, and if you're lucky, a bit of motivational chat too. There is an NHS one, but the grandaddy of Couch to 5K is probably Robert Ullrey. There are of course phone apps where you add your own music, but the MP3 approach works well too.

The most motivational thing for me was actually joining a MN Couch to 5k thread and posting about my runs - when I felt like stopping I would be thinking "but I can't disappoint my pals on MN, must keep going".

Congratulations on getting started!! That's a great step forward - don't worry if you can't manage as long/far next time, just get out that door. Tell yourself you're only going for 10 minutes - you'll find that once you're out there you end up doing more!

Me and dc are starting tomorrow! Half hearted start already but need a program so will look the couch to 5k up.

Kids v keen, too young to go on their own so no excuse!

great to read this as been thinking about trying it for ages.
Couch to 5k app sounds exactly what I need.
Good luck all!!

Went out for second attempt last night and found it quite a bit easier. The fact that it was a beautiful night weather-wise really helped and running looking at the beautiful coastline probably didn't hurt either .
Thanks again to everyone for all the tips and good luck to all of you who are starting out, like me.

i have been running now for about 10 weeks-ish. I really wish I had made a note of when I started I think it was just before Easter. I have only just got proper running shoes from a running shop last week. They couldnt check my gait as the equipment wasn't working, but they did sell me the trainers which they thought would be right for me. I wanted to make sure I was going to take it up properly before spending soo much money. The initial outlay can be expensive, but once its got, its got. There are no monthly fees, but I certainly wouldn't tell anyone running is free because its not IMO.

I started off on the couch to 5K too, but after a few weeks I also joined a running club. They had a beginners group starting up so started with them. I now have a route mapped out (4.1 miles according to map my run) which I am timing myself to do. I dont know how long I run for non-stop so I just walk/run it. One of the coaches at my running club said to me it doesn't matter if you need to walk for a bit you can always start running again. If you keep running you will eventually stop, whereas if you walk for a bit you are still going.

Another tip I would give anyone is to check out parkrun which is an organised free timed 5K that usually happens on sat mornings. Once you are running for a while you can use that to check your progress.

I always find the first 10/15 minutes hard and often decide Im going to take a short route, but once Im past that stage I can stay out walking/running for ages. I was out an hour on Sunday.

Remember to build it up gradually and slowly, there is no race. If you try too much too soon you risk injuries.

Repost in Sports & Exercise - several C25K threads there.

thread update: Ran my first 6k race yesterday. Managed it in 39 mins and I'm really happy with that.

Thanks for all the advice/support on here.