1 / 12

It’s Marathon Season - Thanks to Uzo Aduba completing last week’s Boston Marathon, running races has been on many of our minds. And while not all of us are prepared to run 26 miles, we may be ready for our first 5K. Here are some tips on getting started. Are you down? — Kellee Terrell(Photo: Jerod Harris/Getty Images for Rock 'n' Roll Marathon Series)

2 / 12

What’s a 5K? - A 5K run is approximately 3.1 miles. If it sounds like a lot, don’t worry. For beginners this can be a great and doable challenge to step your fitness game up and to try something new. Plus, when you hit that finish line, it’s an amazing feeling of accomplishment. (Photo: JLP/Jose L. Pelaez/Corbis)

3 / 12

Start Slow - If you are new to running distances, clearly you have to start slow and build up over time. You have to find a 5K running schedule that you can follow to get you ready in time and to give your body enough time to adjust to running and build endurance. Try this plan for beginners.  (Photo: A. Green/Corbis)

4 / 12

Utilize Your Phone Apps - There are some amazing apps that can help you get in 5K-shape in no time. One of my favorites: From Couch to 5K. This nine-week plan has you running three days a week and slowly builds you up from intervals of walking and jogging to being able to run the entire 3.1 miles by the end.  (Photo: Dave and Les Jacobs/Kolostock/Blend Images/Corbis)

Photo By Photo: Dave and Les Jacobs/Kolostock/Blend Images/Corbis

5 / 12

Step Up Your Shoe Game - If you are serious about training, make sure that you have proper running shoes to protect your feet and shins. Let this Women’s Health Guide help you find the best shoes for you. (Photo: Image Source/Corbis)

6 / 12

Make Realistic Goals - If you have never run before, setting a goal of winning the race is great, but it may not be realistic. Don’t let your competitive side get the best of you. It’s all about getting across that line. (Photo: Ron Fehling/Corbis) 

7 / 12

Be Vocal About Your Training Goals - In order to stay on your training schedule, you have to let folks know that you are serious. Tell people in your life what you are doing so that they can help support you and not distract you from meeting your goals. (Photo: Mango Productions/Corbis)

8 / 12

Find Some Running Buddies - Finding a running partner can make all of the difference in your training. Or find a local Black Girls Run! group in your area here. (Photo: David Jakle/Corbis)

9 / 12

Find the Right Race - The awesome thing about 5Ks is that there are plenty of runs with themes to fit your needs. There are Zombie runs, breast cancer runs and even gospel runs. Learn more about finding a 5K in your area here.(Photo: Jordan Mansfield/Getty Images for Dulux)

10 / 12

Try Not to Be Nervous - It's finally the big day! Before you step out on the track, try not to be nervous. Remember why you are there and keep your mind clear and focused. Either way you have won!(Photo: JLP/Jose L. Pelaez/Corbis)

11 / 12

Be Proud of What You Have Accomplished - Whether you made your time or had to walk the last mile, you finally finished your first 5K! That is something to be incredibly proud of. (Photo: Hero Images Inc./Hero Images Inc./Corbis)

12 / 12

Keep at It - Strive to beat your time or even enroll in a race with more distance. Remember: Running is great for your heart and your stress level.(Photo: Kevin Kozicki/Image Source/Corbis)

Photo By Photo: Kevin Kozicki/Image Source/Corbis