Getting to know you

Hi people, welcome, so glad to have you here!

I used to be you, a little more than a year ago. I know what it's like not to run and to not even fathom how other people can run so far and so fast and so often. It took me 37 years and a lot of willpower to run my first 1 kilometer without stopping. (That's a little more than half a mile for you who aren't yet down with the kilometers. You will be, or use an on-line conversion tool.)

I still think and say that the first kilometer is the hardest. It's the hardest unit to master running and it's the hardest unit for every subsequent run. Don't let that stop you. Beat that kilometer.

First week, this is what you'll need:

The Nike+ equipment. The little pod and the thing that you put on your nano.

YOU DON'T NEED NIKE SHOES. Just put the little bean in one of those things you can buy online or in a sports store.

Make sure you have ok shoes.

Register your profile at Nike+.

This first week, I don't want you to run. I want you to get out and just walk for half an hour. Three times this week. Make room for it. I find it's easiest to get time in the morning, before work. I sometimes get up before the kids. The important thing is to find the time and get your self and others used to the fact that you now take a measly 30 minutes here and there to take care of yourself and enjoy the world and your body.

Your challenge will start next week, on Monday September 21.

Disclaimer:

I'm not a doctor or professional athlete. I'm a cheerleader, here to boast your motivation. To prevent injuries, it might be a great idea to see an orthopedist or at least go to a runner's store and have your pronation and stride checked before you get started.

Ps. I just completed my 1000th km. No joke. It might be you too in a year or two.