New runner tips?

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Does anyone have tips for someone beginning to run? I started running last week and quickly realized that I needed new shoes, so I bought those. This weekend I also bought running socks and a cell phone wrist band. My ankles are pretty swollen so I haven't been able to run in about three days. I walked a mile yesterday morning. I am doing something similar to the couch to 5k regiment. Anyone have any tips as I continue this running experiment?

Slow down. Biggest mistake new runners make is trying to go too fast and becoming discouraged when they get tired or injured quickly. Your joints and muscles need time to adjust to the demands you're putting on them before you can concern yourself with speed.

Proper running shoes, and watch out pounding pavement. I don't run anymore, but gave myself wicked shin splints once.

Plan out a couple of good routes.

Have rest days.

Do shorter distances on the days in between the longer distances.

Stretch, drink enough water and eat well.

Look after your knees.

Get a bike.

As above, and, as I see you are a woman, get a good sports bra.

Isn't it awfully hard to run with a bike?

How old are you?

If you're in your 20's, you should try to keep your heart rate under 150 or so when running.

I am 25.

How many runs did you do in how many days until your ankles were too swollen to go again?

I never got the Couch to 5K phenomenon as when I first started running I just went out and within an hour later I'd run 4.5 miles. But one thing I did initially was overdo it, and two months later pulled my hamstrings a bit. It wasn't the worst injury but it was an injury, hindering my day-to-day walking. It's advisable to only do a few runs a week to start with I think, and to boost your total distance run by 10% maximum week-on-week.

Good one on buying new shoes, make sure you do so on the advice of staff at the running shop too, and ever-so-slightly too big is better than ever-so-slightly too small for shoes. Wear good fabrics too (as/when you can afford) as a cotton shirt's never great.

Most of all, congratulations! I took up running three years ago and finding enjoyment in exercise is one of the best things I've ever done.

Just thought I would update the post in case anyone wants to know that I am fairly certain I have Peroneal Tendonitis in both my ankles/ feet. I have not run/ exercised in over a week. I have been staying off my feet but am having difficulty keeping them elevated. I also take an anti-inflammatory to keep the swelling down and they seem to be getting better.

All the best with getting that sorted. If it's not too much of a cost for you and you haven't already, visit your GP/book a physio.

I had that last year :/ v annoying and painful. It's hard to keep them elevated but do it as much as you can, and put ice on them (I used frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel) and rest as much as you can. When you're starting to run, go slowly and alternate with walking until it's more comfortable. And don't run every day at first!

Like one has stated above me SLOW DOWN and make sure you are hydrated.

OP you're suffering what most new runners go through - doing too much too soon and perhaps too fast. This inevitably results in an injury soon after.

Keep your milage conservative for several months until you build up a base.
Always have a rest day between runs.
When upping your milage use the 10% rule mentioned, and every 6 weeks have an easy week with only shorter runs.
Remember that your body gets stronger and heals the damage from running when resting - don't overdo it!

Sorry to hear about the injury!
If you decide to run again, here are some more tips:

Slowly build up your mileage.
Walk when you need to, don't overdo.
Maybe take along a MP3 player, I enjoy running much more with music.
Don't get discouraged when you have a bad running day. They happen.
Drink water and rest enough; do some muscle stretch exercises.
Perhaps you can sign up for a running competition, it's very motivational.