How I did it: Couch to 5K is a pretty well known program.  Over a nine week period, it slowly builds up your endurance and fitness level until you can run a 5K or about 30 minutes (for me, the two don't go hand in hand haha. But I'm working on it).  The website where you can find the plan is http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml.  It was slightly challenging without being too strenuous. For weeks 1-7, I ran based on time.  For the last two weeks, I ran the whole 3.1 miles and didn't focus on time at all (usually longer than 30 minutes for me).   If I can do it, anyone can!

Lessons & tips: I think perseverance is key here.  There were some weeks when I was sick/ too busy/ on vacation etc. And for me, that was fine. I wasn't in a rush to make it in exactly 9 weeks.  The point is, even if there are setbacks, you need to keep with it.  Also, I went by time rather than distance, but it's your choice.  For time, I used a podcast and for distance I used Sparkpeople's fitness maps.

Resources: http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_maps_home.asp?ab=0&rt=  (this link helps you keep track of how many miles you are running)
Also, Suz's and Nicole Blum's podcasts were a big help to me.  You can google them.  Happy running!

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Aug 17, 11:15AM PDT | 0 comments | 3 cheers