yay, more running questions

I"ve looked at the couch-potato to 5k run, and it really doesn't seem to suit me. either it seem far to easy or it jumps to too hard. I usely run about 2 miles(one mile walk then the other mile). where can i fine a running plan that can suit my needs more, and let me run farther?

I found a really good plan in the June 2008 issue of FITNESS Rx - For Women!

So you know you have the right one, there is a photo of Kim Kardashian (can't stand her) on the cover and the article is on pages 106-108.  It's a buildup to doing a half marathon (13 miles).  It actually is written for those using a treadmill, but I will be doing mine outside.  There are 2 segments detailed so that no matter your running abilities, you will be able to jump into this one where ever it feels right.  If you can already run for 2 miles at a time (I cannot), you start out with the 2nd 12-week segment.  If you need to build up to the 2 straight miles (that's me), you start with the 1st 4-week segment.  I can currently do a half walk/half run 2 mile distance so I'm going to begin on week 3's instructions starting next week.

Try to find the mag and I'm sure it will work for you!  This is my new goal. To run a half marathon...without dieing that is...and I'm very excited that it is going to propel me through this plateau I've hit. (Down 40 pounds to 158 since the beginning of year.)  Coincidentally, the mag has loads of good info so it is worth the money.  If you are into fitness mags, Oxygen is my most favorite. Good luck!

-S

Go to

http://www.halhigdon.com/

He has some training programs on there

You can also try runnersworld.com. You just type in your race time (or your running time), the number of miles you want to run a week, and whether you just want to maintain or improve, etc and it'll provide a customized running schedule.

Also, don't forget that many people find the beginning stages of the Couch to 5K program to be too easy, but it really does help. The ultimate goal is to be able to run 5K without stopping, and in order to build up to that, you must gradually work your joints (knees and ankles) as well as your muscles up to the point where they can withstand the pressure. So while it might seem too easy, in fact what you are doing is building a base of strength on which to be able to run better.

Secondly, once you get to the parts in the program where you feel it jumps to "too hard," if you've been doing to program all along, you will be surprised at what you will be able to accomplish. That base of strength will really carry you to longer and faster running. Eventually you will be able to run faster and farther, all thanks to the training.

Remember, running is a life-long goal, not something that has an end date. You have your whole life to run long distances, it's okay to start off easy.