Becoming a Runner

Felicity: I am dual posting this here on on my regular blog, thus the broader scope of my language. But I do want your advice on this.

After reading my cousin's blog posts lately about my cousin's beginning running excursions it has rekindled my spark of a desire to become a runner. You, Felicity have become a runner. So has our friend Brooke. So have many many of my friends. And though I tried multiple times, including a few years ago, to run, I have never succesfully regularly done so. I keep wishing I could go to sleep and wake up as one of those people who can't sleep without putting in a 30-45 minute run, but alas Professor Harold Hill's revolutionary "think system" was, indeed, a scam, and my thinking has amounted to little more than me being an excellent walker, eliptical rider and cycler. But I think I'm ready to make a plunge. I'm at a time in my life where I want to run. I'm inspired by those around me. And best of all, my lifestyle right now allows me to make time to run (I'm super busy, but my life is more structured than it was during school which makes it easier to run). Plus its summer! And I love being outside. Plus it is easier to go for a run outside than it is to haul my but to the gym.

Unfortunately, I am still slightly scared of running (and scared I will fail, yet again, never to try once more). I need some help so I can relabel myself as a runner and get myself into shape.

How do I avoid shin splints?

How do I avoid those annoying pains in my side? These are one of the reasons I have hated running.

Does anyone know a good place online where I can track my running skills/times/progress?

What is the best system you can think of for becoming a runner? (I searched on google and came up with no fewer than 8 million results, lol). Please note you are advising someone who hated the 12 minute run in gym class and has still never come to appreciate it even when it isn't forced. Also note, however, that I do love the elliptical. I can push myself to do a good half our on that thing at a good pace, but I'd rather be outside.

Where can I get good running shoes, I hear this is critical?

What kind of music do you listen to on your ipod? What should I listen to on my ipod? I have some thoughts and they already make me smile.

Where can I go online to track out good running routes?

Do you want to run with me? Having running buddies can always helps.

Any other good tips? I'm counting on your wisdom.

Thanks!