Sometimes I feel bad. Like I let you all down. Remember when I said I was going to run a marathon? And I asked you all to sign up to run with me? I know you understand why that isn’t happening, but I still feel bad sometimes. I’m sorry. I know you understand, but I’m still sorry.

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I am running 2 half-marathons this fall. One the Sunday before my 33rd birthday and one the Sunday after. I’m hoping to see some of you (Hi Carly!) at the 5K along with the Marshall Marathon (where Nate and I are running the half). I got a very exciting tweet from Lorrie yesterday.

Running resources? How much fun!

Learning to Run

First things first, I learned to run using the Couch to 5K Program (often referred to as C25K). I love it. I credit it for being the program that I worked to change my life. It is scary, especially Week 5. I think I worked the program up to Week 5 about a dozen times before I finished it. But when I finished Week 5, I knew I could absolutely accomplish anything. I used the C25K app on my iPhone for ease. It tells you when to run and when to walk and plays overtop of whatever music you are listening to. I love it. I know there have been many updates since I used it a year ago, so I can only imagine what it does now. There is also a fan page on facebook that may be a cool place to chat, problem solve, and celebrate.

I also used to spend a lot of time browsing the discussion forums on Cool Running. There is so much knowledge floating around on those boards. Answers to so many questions, and even some questions I didn’t even know I had. Such a wealth of information, support, and humor.

Gear

Choosing running shoes is a very important part of the equation. (I actually think I need new ones. Did you just hear my debit card groan? I did.) If you don’t live in an area where you have a running store close by, or you’re just self-conscious to go into a running store, there are several good resources for finding shoes that are best for you. Most online shoe stores list type of shoe in the description and some shoes even put it on the box in actual shoe stores. (And here is the Runner’s World review of new shoes. How fun is this?) Nike’s Shoe Finder is pretty cool too.

(I’m currently searching for these in person.)

Although I am not gifted in all things technology, I love charts and graphs. I started out with a Nike+ and used it for six months or so. When I got more serious about running, I decided I needed a Garmin. And I LOVE Sheldon Cooper the Garmin. (Named after my favorite tv character of the moment…because they both spit out information at me that I don’t exactly understand. But it sounds fun.) Nathan and I actually share the Garmin, since we run a different times a lot. I really like my Garmin.

I know I should talk about running clothes, socks, etc. But that can get overwhelming. I have a few bras and socks and one tech shirt. They all came from Dick’s. Nothing exciting. I buy on clearance. I’ve also found a lot of running clothes on clearance at TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and the like. But I still run in some drawstring pants from Target and tank tops from Old Navy. You don’t have to buy running clothes. But a good bra is important. And socks in the winter to keep your feet dry. But we’re not there yet.

Encouragement/Accountability

As I’m sure you all know, blogging about my running has been the absolute key to my success. The support I’ve gotten here is amazing. You all kept me running.

I also adore DailyMile.com. It’s kinda like baby-facebook to record your workouts. I love seeing what other people are doing and what races they have on their calendar. Friend me!

My absolute musts: plan, shoes, community.

Things that make me excited to run: Garmin, running skirts, charts and graphs.

So get out there and run! Keep us updated! Anyone have anything I forgot?

***In the environment of full disclosure, I have no affiliation with any of the products/producers/websites/etc linked above. I just like things. I’m just a girl who buys things I like with my money. That is all.***