View the Beginning Runner Help section of AskRunGuy.

Visit the Social and Fun Running section of AskRunGuy.

Ask fellow runners what local run store they would recommend, and why they prefer that store.

Additionally, visit the Running Equipment section of AskRunGuy to find a running store in your area.

Visit the Training and Nutrition section of AskRunGuy for tips on staying healthy while running. 

If you follow a recommended training plan, and research and pursue proper running form and increasing muscle strength, running can reduce the risk of harm or injury to joints and body parts. 

It is a good idea to discuss these questions with local running experts, a running specialist doctor or physical therapist. 

Visit the Training and Nutrition section of AskRunGuy for tips on staying healthy while running. 

If you follow a recommended training plan, and research and pursue proper running form and increasing muscle strength, running can reduce the risk of harm or injury to joints and body parts. 

It is a good idea to discuss these questions with local running experts, a running specialist doctor or physical therapist. 

Visit the Training and Nutrition section of AskRunGuy for tips on staying healthy while running. 

If you follow a recommended training plan, and research and pursue proper running form and increasing muscle strength, running can reduce the risk of harm or injury to joints and body parts. 

It is a good idea to discuss these questions with local running experts, a running specialist doctor or physical therapist. 

Yes! Running can be a good way to lose weight. BUT – weight loss from running is not automatic. 

It requires the burning of approximately 1,300 calories per pound of fat, and you burn about 100 calories per mile when running.  So, it can take a lot of miles to burn fat calories. 

A key is to have a goal to reduce weight gradually, and to focus on improved nutrition in diet before, during, and after running.  Starving oneself or intense calorie intake reduction generally isn’t effective.  Often, exercises such as weight training are more effective for weight loss because weight training results in a more constant calorie burn long after your workout is complete.   

Visit the Training and Nutrition section of AskRunGuy for more information on nutrition.

A proper running program has been proven to be excellent for improving heart and lung health, and even leading to longer life.

This New York Times article has more specific information about the long-term impact of running marathons on heart health. 

Running has also been proven to be helpful in reducing stress, leading to clear and relaxed thinking, and better mental health.

Visit the Benefits of Running section of AskRunGuy for more information on health benefits of running.

Running has been proven to be helpful in reducing stress, leading to clear and relaxed thinking, and better mental health.  

This VeryWell FIT article discusses the mental benefits of jogging.

Visit the Benefits of Running section of AskRunGuy for more information on health benefits of running.

Benefits can include:

• Physical: heart / health, weight loss, increased muscle
• Mental: relaxation, clarity of mind, idea generation
• Social: connection with existing friends, making new friends
• Ability to travel to races – a great way to see places and people around the world
• Motivational: opportunities to set, work toward, and achieve goals
• ….and many more outlined in this site.

This article from OrganicFacts  describes some important benefits of running.

Visit the Benefits of Running section of AskRunGuy for more information on overall benefits of running.

No! Many runners enjoy running without ever racing. They see it as a way to get exercise, relieve stress, socialize with friends, etc.  And these people are every bit the runners that racers are. 

However, I encourage runners to consider finding a race to compete in.  Competing in a race has a lot of benefits and can instill a sense of accomplishment and can be a great builder of comradery with fellow runners / racers.

Yes, generally running can improve heart health and mental health. And dedicated runners can generally be in better physical condition than non-runners. 

However, running alone, without consideration of a healthy diet, will not lead to overall health.  Runners should consider diet (food and fluid intake), strength training, and stretching to achieve overall benefits of running.

Amounts to run as a beginning runner will vary based on a person’s previous physical activity and physical condition.  Keys are to not start out running too many miles too early.  It is important to ramp up running activity gradually, and to run amounts that are sustainable over time.  Consider joining a run club in your area or view the beginning running plans on this site for more information on beginning running.