mp3 workouts for new runners?

[bostonwendy]

I am looking for MP3 workouts to lead me through my attempts at running - preferably something for beginners that starts with walking and incorporates jogging intervals in order to build up my endurance. I have heard about cardiocoach and itrain. From their websites it looks like these are really geared toward folks using cardio machines where you can adjust the incline, resistance, etc. Am I wrong about cardiocoach or itrain? Are there others out there? Any recommendations for someone who wants to try running are greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
Wendy

 

[peanut1129]

Hi Wendy,
I'm not sure what kind of mp3 player you are using, but if you have an iPod there is a great program on iTunes for new runners. It is basically a podcast that a guy made using the Cool Runnings Couch to 5K program. It features intervals of walking and running that progress over 9 weeks. It is free to download them. He has used sort of techno music and you may not like that(my DH hates it) but he does the timing of the intervals for you so it makes it really easy. Instead of trying to time yourself and walk for 90 seconds, then jog for 60, etc. he does it all for you. You just follow his coaching. I followed this and really liked it.

 

[bostonwendy]

Hi Jennifer, thanks so much for the reply. Unforunately, I am not using an ipod but a sandisk mp3 player. I checked out the cool runnings site and the couch to 5k program looks like exactly what I need! I don't know much about this ipod technology - is there a way to share with others once you have downloaded it by changing the format of the audio for non-ipod users. I really am hoping to find this for my mp3 because I think timing myself for the different intervals will just not work for me - I need the music and the trainer to boss me around!

Thanks,
Wendy

 

[andtckrtoo]

I believe MP3 is MP3 so the iTunes workout should work with your MP3. Sounds like a great program for you! And feel free to say hi at the "Cheetahs" check in - we have runners from beginners to marathon runners and are a very supportive group. Good luck in your ventures!

 

[bostonwendy]

ok, so I tried downloading couch to 5k week one from robert ullrey's website. It says it is an M4a file... what is this, exactly? I am not familiar with this and was not able to open it using windows media, which is what I use to put stuff on my mp3.

Wendy