I want to start jogging but...

[skunkworks]

Ratamahatta, good luck. Your story mirrors mine very closely: last year I was 24 and an 8-year, half-a-pack a day smoker. I quit, started taking Commit nicotine lozenges, and started jogging. First time out I was wheezing after 3/4 mile; after a month, I ran a marathon in under 5 hours. I haven't had a cig since 2/23/06. If you really push yourself and stay dedicated to health and physical fitness, you will surprise yourself.

[Rootabager]

What are the best shoes for a 200 pound guy that is running alot? I try to change my shoes often but I am not sure what is the best kind of shoe. I usually just get nike shoes with the air in the back that are on sale.

[skunkworks]

Rootabager, your weight is less of a concern than your gait and running profile. Do you overpronate? Do you have flat feet? How bad is each? These sorts of questions are why it's best to find a running store that can analyze these things to find the best shoes for you. The other nice thing is that these stores should have a 30-day return policy if the shoe doesn't work out for you; that's not possible if you buy blindly from some internet store.

[Ratamahatta]

Alright, thanks everyone. I think I have to make a plan and compare my results in one month time.