Beginner Runner

Author: Debbie Voiles

The ultimate podcast for anyone ready to start running, build consistency, and cross the finish line of their first 5K. The goal? To help you become a confident runner and discover the joy of running. Whether you are completely new to the sport or returning after a long break, this show is your virtual running coach and your guide to fitness, adventure, and fun. If you've ever wondered: How do I breathe correctly? Why am I so out of breath? How often should I run? Is it okay to walk? What if I'm slow? Where do I start? Do I need special shoes? What is proper running form? you're in the right place. Coach Debbie Voiles provides practical running tips for beginners that take the guesswork out of getting started. You'll learn how to find an easy running pace and understand how to approach running for weight loss. You'll discover the starting point that's right for you, how to build consistency, and how to prevent running injuries like shin splints and knee pain. Most importantly, you'll create the daily running habit and start to thrive in the running community, looking forward to every run. Whether your goal is to finish your first 5K, get healthier, or simply discover something you love doing, Beginner Runner is here to help you become a runner.
Be a guest on this podcast

Language: en

Genres: Fitness, Health & Fitness, Running, Sports

Contact email: Get it

Feed URL: Get it

iTunes ID: Get it

Get all podcast data

Listen Now...

58: How to Buy Running Shoes, a Beginner Runner's Guide
Episode 58
Tuesday, 27 October, 2026

Shopping for your first running shoes shouldn't feel harder than your first run. In this episode, Coach Deb breaks down the choices so you can walk into a running store feeling informed, prepared, and confident. She explains the terminology, considerations, her preferences, and helps you focus on what matters most, finding the shoes that are right for you, for your gait, for the surfaces you'll be running on, and your feet. Where to shop: Learn why Debbie recommends running specialty stores for personalized help, a broader selection, and connections, i.e., building a relationship with the local specialty running shoe store. How to narrow your options: Women's vs men's, trail vs road, zero drop vs higher drop, cushioning, toebox size, and more. Running shoe terminology made simple: Understand the upper, toebox, insole, midsole, and outsole, plus stack height and heel-to-toe drop. Coach Deb also explains the importance of allowing the toes to splay and how that comes into play when selecting the best model. Deb recommends the Gasparilla Distance Classic, specifically the 5K Walk, February 20th and the walker friendly 8K the next day. $5 off discount codes for each race are RUNTAMPA5 and RUNTAMPA8. Then, she encourages anyone in the area to register for her own December holiday race, the gnome-themed Run Tampa Tinsel Run on December 12th.·