Two Essential Elements to Start Running

The first key to a beginner running program is regularity. To get healthy from running, you have to run consistently.  Three times a week is good for beginners; up to five times a week is probably the max for anyone other than a professional athlete.  Try to run at the same time each day.  That will help to reinforce the routine.

The second key to a solid schedule is variety.  There are two reasons for this.  The first is to keep things from getting boring.  Boring workouts = skipped workouts.  (Trust me, I know from experience.)  A varied workout is also a well-rounded workout.  You should mix in a bit of speed work (shorter runs at a faster pace) for anything from weight loss to better athletic performance.