Beginning to Run

A few weeks ago my sister ran a marathon, I believe, in under four hours. To me, that's incredible. I never run. I prefer long walks- things that are low-intensity and low-impact. I don't mind spending an extra 30 minutes. But, I don't have the time. I've let too many days slip by without any exercise. So two weeks ago, I felt inspired by my sister to start running. So, I went out and did a five minute walking warm-up, and then started to jog. Humiliating. Two minutes was all I could push myself to do. The cause: a combination of boredom and being plain ol' unfit. A marathon seems far, far out of reach. However, this week I've been able to push myself to five minutes, with the help of some music. I think there is improvement. This week I will try and maintain a consistent five minute run. The goal right now is to be able to run a 5K. Some advice I've received is to jog slowly, and to open my chest when running to allow for easier breathing. Any other advice you can give? Walking and running outside are great ways to get moving for free. You don't need a gym. But, perhaps you can keep a watch on you. You can also use walking as your method of commuting for errands, particularly if you are in a dense area, or close to your grocery store.


For breakfast: $1.28
Eggs (2 for ~40 cents)
Half a mango (60 cents)
One slice of whole wheat bread (8 cents)
1 Tbsp of PB (10 cents)
1 Tbsp Jelly (10 cents)

Lunch: $1
Whole-wheat pasta (1 serving for 20 cents)
Cheese (1/4 cup for 25 cents)
Tomato sauce (half can for 35 cents)
Leftover veggies ? (20 cents?)

Snack: $1.87
Other Mango Half (60 cents)
Yogurt (67 cents)
Milk 1 cup (~60 cents)

Dinner: $.65
Black Beans (cooked from dry using 90 minute no soak method, 2 servings)- 25 cents
Rice (one cup)- maybe 20 cents?
One egg- 20 cents

Multi-vitamin, Fish Oil, Cranberry Pill: $.30

Calories- 1480
Cost-$5.2
I know many families get by on less than this. This is not bad for my personal budget, but I will try to improve. Might anyone have suggestions?