Many MR readers are veteran runners, but not all. Karrie Alexander, new to the sport, brings a perspective that, we hope, welcomes all and reminds those of us who have run for years how joyous (and sometimes daunting) it was to start. -Ed.

So you've made the decision to start running. Congratulations! The sport is a great way to improve your health and quality of life.

It can also be a great way to boost your ego. You should see other people's reactions when I tell them I'm a runner. They're often awe- struck.

Admittedly, running isn't the easiest thing in the world to do, but it's not the hardest. Almost anyone at any age, weight or fitness level can take up running (with doctor's permission, of course).

One of my favorite things about running is that it's cheap. When you start, I suggest that you run in shoes you already have and wear comfortable clothes you already own.

Until you get a feel for your running style, there is little point spending upwards of $300 on high-tech running shoes, clothes and gear. Two caveats: Don't wear cotton next to your skin: it soaks up sweat, doesn't let your skin breathe and feels uncomfortable. Try polyester blends (right down to your socks) instead. Also, unless you are on a treadmill, wear a watch; it is easy, outdoors, to lose track of time and miles.

Michigan's frigid winters and humid summers can be a challenge, but you can join a health center, buy a treadmill or plan around what the weather brings us.

Since I prefer the great outdoors, here are some of my favorite running places:

* Near my house: I know the area and can always plan an easy way to get home in case I get injured or just plain tired.

* Shelby Township's Stony Creek Metropark (www.metroparks.com/ parks/pk_stony_creek.php) offers a paved six-mile path that is beautiful, open year-round and runner-friendly. Each mile is marked and there are rangers driving around in case you get injured.

* The City of Royal Oak is pedestrian-friendly, easy to learn and has interesting neighborhoods. If you run with a friend, you'll find lots of places to eat and drink afterwards.

* Bald Mountain Recreation Area, near Lake Orion, has hills to run, which builds speed and stamina. It is not accessible during hunting season.

* Milford's Kensington Metropark (http://www.metroparks.com/parks/ pk_kensington.php) is similar to Stony Creek, but offers an eight-mile path.

Once you are comfortable with your attire and where you are going, you face the most-difficult task of all: getting out the door. When you hit the pavement, treadmill or track, set the time (not mileage) you're going to run.

If you truly are a beginner, I'd suggest 10 to 15 minutes. Here are ways to tackle your very-first run.

1. Walk two minutes, run two minutes; repeat till done.

2. Run two minutes, walk two minutes; repeat till done.

3. Run two minutes, walk four minutes, run two minutes, walk till done.

4. Run five minutes, walk five minutes.

You get the idea: alternate running and walking in a pattern that makes you feel exercised, not exhausted. If you can run farther, go ahead. If you need to cut it short, that's fine too.

What's important is you come home from your first run feeling like, "That was great. I can't wait to do it again!"

If you haven't run in a year or more, you aren't going to go straight out and run 10 hard miles. But with time and training, who knows what you might achieve? MR