I could tell you I have been running for 31.5 years--over 64,900 miles pretty much injury free and competed in over 400 races from 1 mile to 100K--but I won't.

I could tell you that when I started seriously running at age 32--after 10+ years of cigarette smoking--I would go out and run as fast as I could--as far as I could. Which wasn't very fast or very far. That worked for several days until I could hardly walk--but I won't.

I could tell you that an experienced runner told me if I slowed down and ran and walked at an EZ pace that I may get to like running--but I won't.

I could tell you by adding plain walking--not power walking--that I found I became a stronger runner. But I won't.

I could tell you at age 64, I am running more miles per week:55-60 than I have in over 20 years--by slowing down even more and building a stronger Maximum Aerobic Function ( See Basebuilding thread In Basic Training Forum--be sure to read the FAQ's)--which included walking--but I won't.

I could tell you that I plan on running a faster marathon than I did in my first marathon 30 years ago in December--well, I just did tell you.

My point: I have found simple walking to be very beneficial--even after all the years and all the miles. The folks I have coached over the years know it is OK to walk--to start off EZ--then back off. If you are just starting--the more walking you do early on will help you down the road. Slog a little--that is slow jog some--walk some --maybe skip some. Make it fun. Set goals for years from now not just a 5K 2 months from now.

I apologize if my posts in the Newbie Section are somewhat redundant. Always advising folks to slow down and enjoy the journey. My purpose is to try to get more lifetime runners. Not flashes in the pan who end up back on the couch because of injury/burnout. Thanks for letting me get on the soap box. Nick