It seems to me that a lot of the discussion is in the manner of "what programming language to teach first", and that here as with programming the main thing is

It seems to me that a lot of the discussion is in the manner of "what programming language to teach first", and that here as with programming the main thing is to start. I would boil down my advice to a couple of points. First, get good shoes. If you are a beginner, go to a store where the staff is gaunt. (I think of the Pacers stores in the Washington area.). You can count on them knowing something about running and shoes. Second, listen to your body. Don't try to run through an injury. If you are running in hot weather, be very aware of how you feel. Never hesitate to stop and walk back if something isn't right. Beyond that, I would quote Joshua Slocum (http://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/6317/pg6317.txt http://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/6317/pg6317.txt): "To young men contemplating a voyage I would say go." (And of course, I include young women.)