Just joined but no idea where to begin!

Hi. I'm new to the site and more than a little daunted by the sheer number of threads and posts. Can anyone recommend some useful/interesting discussions I can start with?

For the record, I'm relatively new to running. I started in February with the aim of getting fitter and losing weight. So far, I'm 2 stone lighter (another 1 to lose) and I managed a 12.5k last week. I've got my eye on a 10 miler in the New Year, and a half marathon shortly afterwards. I recently ran a 10k and scraped in under the hour (but only by a few seconds).

I'm looking for motivation, training tips, possibly a running buddy (Swansea area), and to learn from others' experiences. But where do I start?

Thanks in advance.

WS

Hi there

I also started in Feb, same aims - keep fit and lost weight (well, not lose, but stop piling on) and now up to 10k runs 2-3 times a week. I agree the forum is daunting, since many threads have now turned into conversations between groups of friends. However, I read, take in, and reply when I can think of anything useful to say. I still have more questions than answers though, but find the advice here pretty genuine and robust!

xC

HI

Yes, it can be a bit daunting... particularly when it feels like everyone is speaking a different language.

But most of us a very friendly and love welcoming the newbies. The thread "Just started running, come say Hi" is for folk who just started running this year.

I'm on "just a little bit further - 2011". Most of us have been running for a year or two, but you would be most welcome. 

I'm a solo runner, in that I don't have a trainning buddy or belong to a club and the support I get on this forum is invaluable. 

Anyway, hope you find your thread. Don't be afraid just to jump in.

Thanks, both, that's helpful. Will keep an eye out for you in the forums.

Taking a deep breath and ready to dive in...