Frequently Asked Questions for Beginner Runners

Find out why walking during runs and races is a smart strategy.

Many runners are confused about when is the best time to stretch. Find out if you should stretch before or after your warm-up.

Some runners assume they shouldn't eat before running, but you actually should eat before a run to make sure you have enough fuel for your run. Find out when and what to eat before running.

Side stitches, especially on the left side, are a common and annoying problem for runners, especially beginners. Learn how to prevent and get rid of side stitches.

It's normal to feel out of breath when you're first starting to run. Here's how to avoid that heavy breathing when you're beginning to run.

I've lost a couple of pounds, but I want to speed up my weight loss progress. Will running help me lose weight?

Many new runners struggle at first and wonder when running gets easier. Find out how beginner runners can make running easier, more comfortable and enjoyable.

Many runners are not sure what pace they should run. Find out how to know if you're running the right pace.

How do you know how far you're running outside? Get the answer.

If you're new to running, you may be wondering: What should I wear when running? Get advice on basic running clothing.

The best time of day to run is a long-standing debate among runners and exercise experts. Find out if it's better to run in the morning, afternoon or evening.

The idea that you'll get cramps from drinking water while running is a common belief. Find out if it's true.

Get tips on where to run, how to know how far you're running, and the best surfaces for running.

Is treadmill running really easier? Get the answer here.

Many beginner runners wonder if they're breathing properly when running. Here's what to do.

There are some questions that runners, even experienced ones, consider to be real stumpers. Here are answers to some of the running questions that leave runners scratching their heads.

Are rest days for runners really necessary? Get the answer.

It's very common for runners to experience some aches and pains, especially if you're training for a long-distance event. Learn how to know when you can continue running and when you should stop.

Why do my feet go numb when I'm running? Get the answer.

Find out where you should land on your feet when running.

What if I miss a day of training? Should I make up the run? Get the answer.

Many new runners wonder if they should run every day or take some days off. Get the answer here.

You may have heard that dairy products can cause cramping during runs. Find out if it's OK to consume dairy products before a run.

Sometimes an illness, an injury, or a hectic schedule forces us to take a break from running. Here's how you can handle a running break.

Many people like to listen to music when running, but there are several disadvantages to running with headphones. Find out why you should think twice before putting on those headphones.

Some runners have too much up and down movement when they run. Find out how to run without bouncing up and down too much.

It's important to choose the right running socks for comfort and performance. Here's what you should look for when buying running socks.

Wondering how long it might take you to run a 5K? Find out how you can estimate your 5K time.

Running in old or worn-out shoes is one of the most common causes of running injuries. Get advice on when you should replace your running shoes.

Should you run the day before a race? Get the answer.

If you're new to running, you may not know what runners are talking about when they refer to their PR (Personal Record) or Personal Best (PB). Find out what this road racing term means.

What's the best way to measure your run/walk intervals? Get the answer.

Can you run in races you haven't registered for? Find out why this isn't a good idea.

If you're new to running, you may not know what runners are talking about when they refer to their chip times. Find out what this road racing term means.

Should beginner runners try to first work on speed or distance? Get the answer.

Is a red face during or after running a sign that something is wrong? Get the answer.

Can I burn fat by running? Get the answer.

Uphill running is challenging, but it's actually downhill running that can get runners into trouble. Hit the downhill too fast and hard, and you'll pay for it later in the race. Here are some tips on downhill running.

Find out how you can run a faster race by "running the tangents."

Is it better to run by time or distance? Get the answer.

Is it OK to have a cup of coffee before a run? Get the answer.

I finished the "3 Weeks to 30 Minutes Running" email program. What running program should I do next?

Is it normal to feel some pain during a run? Get the answer and find out what to do when you do experience pain while you're running.

Fear of being seen running in public keeps a lot of people from getting started with running. Here's how to get over feeling self-conscious when you're running outside or on a treadmill at the gym.

It's normal to go through periods of not feeling motivated to run. Here's how to beat the running blahs.

Do you have to run for a certain amount of time to achieve a runner's high? Get the answer.

Is there a difference between running and jogging? Get the answer.

What is the best surface or terrain for running? Find out if it's best to run on roads, sidewalks, grass or trails.

Wondering how long it might take to run a 10K? Here's how to predict your 10K time.

Wondering if you can run a 5K? Find out how.

Beginner runners usually wonder how to dress for running. Here's advice on what to wear when running.