advice from runners

[swel304]

anyone who runs have any advice for a guy who has never run for fitness? how often/ how far should I be running? every day or every other day? I have a 1/4 mile track near my house. I can make a half mile without stopping but am cramping to much to keep running after that (yes i am streching first). If i take a short break every time around I can keep running for up to about 1-1.5 miles total. Is that best until my legs get stronger or should I just walk when I cant run anymore and not take any breaks? anyone know any good web resource to teach a newb the finer points of running for fitness?

[TexasOutlaw]

Start out slow. My doctor tells me walking is as good as running. Try increasing after a week or so to a mile. If it's too much back off a little on distance (don't stop though).

You may have to push yourself a little. The first time I ran 2 miles as an adult, I threw up. First time I ran 5 miles, I almost passed out. But, I was pushing my body beyond its limits.

Honestly time keeps me from exercising, but I still manage 2 miles about 3 times a week. Oh and I don't do track running, I just measured out a part of town that is about 2 miles and run/walk that.

If you're cramping continues, eat half a banana afterwards, or just take potassium pills. They help with cramping. I cramp after long rounds at times still.

[swel304]

I did pick up some potassium pills. Unfortunately I live in a place where there is no such thing as flat ground. Im actually considering getting a treadmill so I dont have excuses like weather to keep me off when I should be running.