Sheryl — I use the Garmin ForeRunner 201. They have a new version now and I think it's similiar if not better. The ForeRunner uses GPS technology to track your distance and speed. Obviously, if you run in an area that has lots of tree coverage or any sort of man-made objects blocking out a chunk of the sky, the thing's not going to work — it needs a 'clear view' of the sky in order for the tracking to do it's thang! Anyway, there are alternatives to this watch (Nike+iPod system, etc.) and of course, there's the old skool way: counting yer steps or timing yourself around a track, but I think the watch route is easier ^_^
OJ — put on a pair of shoes and run. That's how you get started. LOL! But seriously, I sent you a pretty long reply. Just email or summat if you have additional questions.
Rest of the world — get into running, STAT! Look at my two friends getting into running. Hehehe… Here's a fun race that one can begin training for… and it's only 5 miles!
-R
