tips for a begginer

hi my name deshinae`

im 16 and im a junior in high school. this year i plan on joining the cross country team and hopefully track also.

im only 5ft 1in and at the moment i weight 160. my main reason for running is to loose weight and become healthy and fit for the rest of my life.

i have never done any running prior.

i need as many tips and advice to help me get started the right way?

Well I am by no means an expert but here is my advice anyway...

1. Make sure you start out by building up muscles - do some squats, lunges,ect..  to build up leg muscles.  You should keep doing this strength training at least once a week once you start running too, but it is particularly important at the beginning and even before you start. 
2. Start off slow and easy and build up.  One of the biggest mistakes beginning runners make is starting off too fast. You want to push yourself, but you also want it to be enjoyable.
3. Also, it is okay when you start to take frequent walk breaks, in fact it is encouraged.  Then, over time you want to try to make these breaks less frequently and shorter in duration.  In the beginning - listen to your body!
4. Make sure you stretch well after you run!!! This is huge.
5. And of course, make sure you are well hydrated.
6. Also, make sure you are taking at least 1-2 rest days a week to give your muscles a chance to recover. 
7. Make sure you get good running shoes.

In terms of training, my high school cross country coach would have us do at least one distance, one speed (intervals), and one hill and/or strength day a week, with other various other runs thrown in the mix. 

Good Luck and hopefully running will become something you come to enjoy:)

thank you so much for the advice!