Where The Rubber Meets The Road

The early runs are the toughest.   It makes it a lot easier when you have the right equipment.  A fully charged ipod, sunglasses and appropriate clothing (take the current temperature and add 20 degrees - that's what you should prepare for) are important, but nothing is more important than wearing proper shoes.

Before starting anything, go to a real shoe store and get fitted for a good pair of shoes - along the Front Range I like Running Wild in Highlands Ranch or Runner's Roost in Denver.  Don't worry about cost - paying $100 for a quality shoe is much better than the side effects of a bad shoe - shin splints, runner's knee, blisters and PAIN!

I've found a good pair of shoes will last about 6-9 months with normal use.  I try not to get into a new pair any less than a month before a major race - regardless of the fit, you will need a few miles of "break-in", and a race is no place to do that.